Brussels, Belgium (CNN) -- As NATO prepares to take over the Libya mission, alliance officials said Friday they are considering a broader role that goes beyond enforcement of a no-fly zone. After days of acrimonious discussion, NATO officials hailed their decision to take command as swift and historic and vowed a "seamless" transition of leadership from the United States to NATO, which could happen as early as Sunday. "In the course of a single week NATO allies have launched both the arms embargo and the no-fly zone operations," said NATO spokeswoman Oana Lungescu. "This is a clear demonstration of the allies commitment to fulfill their obligations under the U.N. mandate and to show their resolve to do what it takes to protect the people of Libya."
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NATO is assuming command of the Libya mission
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It is considering whether to go beyond enforcement of the no-fly zone
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At issue is whether the alliance will assume the role of protecting civilians on the ground
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NATO and U.S. officials say discussions are ongoing to bring the entire mission under @placeholder control.