Libya updates: Rebels approach Tripoli, Thousands dead, Obama speaks up (kind of)

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Libyan rebels have taken control of more Libyan cities and are approaching Tripoli. Thousands are said to be dead. US, Britain and Turkey are evacuating their citizens by boat. 

Meanwhile, Al-Qaeda's North Africa branch published a statement in support of the Libyan uprising: "(We) will do whatever we can to help you, because your fight is the fight of every Muslim who loves Allah and His Messenger."

Obama spoke Wednesday night for the first time against the violence in Libya, threatening international sanctions (scary! wait, has that seriously not happened already?)

The United States also strongly supports the universal rights of the Libyan people. That includes the rights of peaceful assembly, free speech, and the ability of the Libyan people to determine their own destiny. These are human rights. They are not negotiable. They must be respected in every country. And they cannot be denied through violence or suppression. Like all governments, the Libyan government has a responsibility to refrain from violence, to allow humanitarian assistance to reach those in need, and to respect the rights of its people. It must be held accountable for its failure to meet those responsibilities, and face the cost of continued violations of human rights.

Let's hope the US takes the same stance on human rights towards Iran, Hamas, the Muslim Brotherhood and radical Islam in all its forms worldwide.