Originally Posted by right-track

I'd say this was already a done deal.
The west would rather have Gaddafi in power as opposed to an unpredictable rebel government.
Unpredictable in the sense that there would be no guarantee of reaching an agreement concerning Libyan oil.
I'd say what we are witnessing with regards to a no fly zone over Libya is a classic case of political heel dragging from all concerned.
Britain and France pretend to press for a motion, while Germany and Russia strongly oppose the proposal. While the main players, the U.S., make noises about "accountability".
In the meantime, Gaddafi's forces roll up the rebels as far as and including Bengazi.
Lot's of people die, Gaddafi remains in power, the civilised world is outraged and we get the oil.
Normal service is resumed...job done!