No military solution to Libya conflict: UN

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon called on all parties to exercise extreme caution in their actions, in order to minimise any further loss of civilian life.“A ceasefire that is linked to a political process which would meet the aspirations of the Libyan people is the only viable means to achieving peace and security in Libya, he stated.An uprising which began in Libya in mid-February against Muammar Gaddafis 40-year rule has already claimed thousands of lives, with Gaddafis troops maintaining their combat capabilities despite NATO airstrikes against them.Hundreds of thousands of people have left the country since February.An international military operation to protect civilians in Libya began March 19 following a UN resolution and has been extended until September.