Obama Approves The Use of Unmanned Aircraft in Libya

Gaddafi has made little use of his aircraft since the international no-fly zone was enforced, meaning the effectiveness of the allied air mission was limited.

The drones allow commanders to target the tanks and other artillery the government forces have been using to push back against the rebels.

The Predators are flown remotely, usually from the Creech Air Force base just outside Las Vegas.

The US action came as rebel troops claimed the capture of the Wazin border crossing with Tunisia following fighting outside the desert town of Nalut, about 140 miles southwest of Tripoli.