The Obama administration has announced plans to send $25 million in aid to the Libyan rebels as part of a broadening international effort to help the fighters in their campaign against Libyan leader Col. Muammar Gaddafi. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the money would be provided for so-called “non-lethal aid.”

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton: “Now, some of the items are medical supplies, uniforms, boots, tents, personal protective gear, radios, Halal meals. There are no new purchases. This is not a blank check. But this action is consistent with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1973, which among other actions authorized member states to take all necessary measures to protect civilians and civilian-populated areas.”