Obama: Gadhafi regime coming to an end

President Obama on Monday said Moammar Gadhafi’s Libyan regime is coming to an end. 

In an audio statement recorded at Martha’s Vineyard, Obama said regime forces still pose a threat and that the situation on the ground in Libya remains fluid. 

“But this much is clear, the Gadhafi regime is coming to an end and the future of Libya is in the hands of its people,” Obama said.

The audio recording represented Obama’s most detailed comments on the situation in Libya since it became clear Sunday that rebels were on the verge of taking over the country after months of warfare. Anti-Gadhafi forces were helped in large part by a six-month NATO air campaign that was supported by Obama. 

On Monday, Obama promised to support transition efforts, too, and called for the Transitional National Council to be inclusive in setting up a new, democratic government. He also said Gadhafi should formally give up his power to prevent further bloodshed amid reports of firing in the capital city of Tripoli.

“Although it’s clear that Gadhafi’s rule is over, he still has the opportunity to reduce further bloodshed by explicitly relinquishing power to the people for Libya and calling for those forces that continue to fight to lay down their arms for the sake of Libya,” Obama said. 

“As we move forward from this pivotal phase, the opposition should continue to take steps to bring about a transition that is peaceful, inclusive and just.”

Obama said he had directed U.S. forces to deal with the “humanitarian impact” of the end of Gadhafi’s regime.

“The United States will be a friend and a partner,” Obama continued. “We will join with allies and partners to continue the work of safeguarding the people of Libya as remaining parts of regime elements menace the country. I’ve directed my team to be in close contact with NATO as well as other nations to determine other steps that we can take to deal with the humanitarian impact. We’re working to ensure that critical supplies reach those in need, particularly those who’ve been wounded.”

Obama also said Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had talked with her counterparts from the nations in the coalition charged with protecting Libyan civilians from Gadhafi’s regime.

“For many months the [Transitional National Council (TNC)] has been working with the international community to prepare for a post-Gadhafi Libya. As those efforts proceed our diplomats will work with the TNC to ensure that the institutions of the Libyan state are protected,” Obama said. “Above all we will call for an inclusive transition that leads to a democratic Libya.”

Obama’s comments came as rebel Libyan forces overtook pro-Gadhafi troops and continue to seize control of Libya’s capital, Tripoli. As his regime topples, Gadhafi has not been located, but Pentagon officials say that he is probably hiding somewhere in Tripoli.

Watch Obama below.