Challenge to 'illegal war' in Libya

A CONGRESSIONAL showdown over Libya awaits US President Barack Obama, as critics seek to capitalise on his failure to sell American military involvement to a war-weary public.

Republican leaders met yesterday to discuss moves to rebuke the president, for not seeking Congressional approval for the intervention, or to push through a bill that would prevent the further funding of US military engagement in Libya.

A vote in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives could come as early as this week. A recent Fox News poll found 58 per cent of Americans opposed involvement in Libya, with 30 per cent in favour.