Libya declared a ceasefire inthe country to protect civilians and comply with a United Nations resolution passedovernight, Libyan Foreign Minister Moussa Koussa said on Friday.
"We decided on an immediate ceasefire and on an immediate stop to all military operations," he told reporters.
"(Libya) takes great interest in protecting civilians," he said, adding that the country would also protect all foreigners and foreign assets in Libya.
Libyan rebels. End in sight? (Photo: Reuters)
Prime Minister David Cameron said Friday Britain will send Typhoon and Tornado fighter jets to airbases "in the coming hours" to prevent Gaddafi's forces from mounting air strikes against anti-government rebels.
The Libyan government closed its airspace to all traffic Friday, according to Europe's air traffic control agency, Eurocontrol.
NATO member Turkey called for an immediate ceasefire on Friday and said it opposed foreign military intervention in the conflict.
The Turkish prime minister's office said in a statement the UN's decision was binding on all countries, but said a peaceful solution to the conflict should be found.
The UN Security Council voted on Thursday to authorize a no-fly zone over Libya and "all necessary measures" - code for military action - to protect civilians against leader Muammar Gaddafi's forces.