Libya's "important" decision, which was announced late Friday, "comes as part of serious Arab efforts to make the Middle East a WMD-free zone," Mussa told reporters.

"It is important, during this period, that the international community put pressure on Israel to sign the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty," Mussa said.

Israel has never confirmed or denied having nuclear weapons, but the United States has classified it as an atomic power since 1969.

Experts say Israel has at least 200 nuclear warheads.

"It is not logical to make an exception for Israel while other countries are called on to eliminate WMDs," said Mussa.

The surprise Libyan announcement followed nine months of secret negotiations with the United States and Britain.

Mussa was speaking before leaving for Kuwait where he will participate in the annual Gulf Cooperation Council summit taking place Sunday and Monday.

WAR.WIRE