“The United States has a proud history of standing alongside those who stand up for their own freedom. This month, as Moammar Gaddafi’s forces massed outside the rebel-held city of Benghazi, Libya and prepared to inflict further atrocities on the Libyan people, we acted to stop this deadly advance. Our men and women in uniform have performed bravely and with unwavering commitment to liberty.

“As the president said, we did not act alone, but with a broad and determined group of international allies. The responsibility of securing a no-fly zone over Libya as set out by the UN Security Council resolution has been shared by that coalition, which includes several Arab partners. The burden will also be shared going forward, as America’s role changes and we turn this mission over to NATO on Wednesday. America and its allies stand alongside the Libyan people as they determine their future. While I support the president’s decision not to commit ground troops to this mission, I share the President’s determination to see this tyrant removed from power.

“Going forward, Congress will continue to monitor the situation in Libya, carrying out our Constitutional oversight responsibilities. We are watching closely and earnestly encouraging this progress toward real change in Libya and throughout the Middle East.”

“The agreement among all 28 member nations of NATO to take command over enforcement of the no-fly zone over Libya is a clear sign of progress in our efforts to halt Moammar Qaddafi’s brutal campaign to slaughter his own people. I am pleased to see the coalition’s mission progressing according to the plan outlined by President Obama. Our military, in concert with our allies, has been successful in destroying Libya’s air-defense capabilities and establishing a secure no-fly zone. Because President Obama assembled a broad international coalition that includes Arab nations, we are able to turn over enforcement of the no-fly zone to our allies even as we continue to pursue a broad range of military, diplomatic and economic actions aimed at ending Qaddafi’s reign completely. NATO’s direction of continuing air operations will be joined by sustained international efforts to isolate and oust this brutal dictator.

“As this effort moves forward, I look forward to continued consultation from President Obama and his administration in accordance with Congress’ Constitutional role.”