The Hill News

President Obama on Monday warned Libyan political leaders to pick a side as violence in the country worsened.

Obama, in remarks with visiting Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, said he wanted “to send a very clear message” to those around Moammar Gadhafi.

“It is their choice to make how they operate moving forward, and they will be held accountable for whatever violence continues to take place there,” Obama said.

{mosads}The president’s tough words come as Obama and his administration cautiously weigh further steps, including military action, in the country.

Obama on Monday greenlighted an additional $15 million in emergency funds for humanitarian assistance, and the North Atlantic Council of NATO â€" meeting daily this week â€" is still considering other military options. Obama has made it clear he will not pursue military intervention unilaterally.

The council did agree Monday to increase surveillance flights in Libya from 10 to 24 hours a day, according to an Associated Press story circulated by the White House.

White House press secretary Jay Carney continued to insist Monday that “all options are on the table,” but he acknowledged that “ground troops is not at the top of the list at this point.”

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