EU partners appear divided on France's formal recognition of Libyan opposition

Following the massive earthquake and tsunami in Japan and after consultation with the Israeli Foreign Ministry and with emissaries from the Chabad organization in Japan, the ZAKA International Rescue Unit will send a team of trained volunteers from Israel  on Saturday evening (after the conclusion of the Sabbath) to help in search and rescue efforts in Japan.

Thousands evacuated from area around nuclear plant; China, U.S. offer support to Japan; Japan PM asks politicians to 'save the country' following 8.9 magnitude quake that triggered a10-meter tsunami.

Witnesses reported government forces aboard ships and tanks entering Ras Lanuf Friday morning; Libyan rebels have pulled back their last main checkpoint in the eastern city.

As EU leaders are set to discuss the situation in Libya on Friday in Brussels, Britain and Germany have urged the EU to issue a joint declaration stating that member countries will not cooperate with disgraced Libyan leader Moammar Kaddafi and urging him to step down.

US President Barack Obama nominated top White House aide Daniel Shapiro as ambassador to Israel.

Official from French President's office says France will send ambassador to Benghazi and receive Libyan envoy in Paris; announcement follows meet between Sarkozy and officials from Libyan National Council.

Portuguese daily quotes diplomatic source saying that Libya leadership would accept start to negotiation process, after the source met with Gadhafi envoy in Lisbon.

Strategic city of Ras Lanuf comes under heavy shelling by government forces, with reports of deaths and injuries.

Threat from the Libyan leader comes as tanks of pro-Gadhafi forces close in on rebel-held square of Zawiyah, near Tripoli; residents say tanks, snipers are everywhere.