Philadelphia-area Libyans worry about those back home

The White House says Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi has lost the confidence of his people following brutal attacks by his supporters on the protesters demanding he step down. A spokesman for President Barack Obama said Friday the U.S. will implement sanctions against Libya.

Libyans living in the United States continue to stay glued to social media sites for information on the events back home.

Amin Elarbi, who now lives in King of Prussia, grew up in Libya. He said his family in the town of Benghazi is safe because that area is under the control of the opposition. But he worries about friends and family in Tripoli, where Gadhafi still maintains control.

Elarbi said he has spoken out against the Gadhafi regime for decades. But watching the events unfold is bittersweet.

“That on one side, we have to pay the price. That we have to get rid of this dictator once and forever,” said Elarbi. “And second one. that when you see your younger countrymen killed, it hurts.”

Elarbi said Friday he thinks Gadhafi’s days are numbered.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is urging the Security Council to take “concrete action” to protect civilians in Libya. Any delay will mean more loss of life, he warned.

The secretary-general intends to travel to Washington Monday to discuss the Libyan crisis with Obama.