Muammar Gaddafi and other members of his family face UN sanctions [GALLO/GETTY]

The United Nations Security Council has unanimously imposed "biting sanctions" on Muammar Gaddafi, the Libyan leader, and four of the most influential members of his immediate family.

Resolution 1970 included a travel ban and asset freeze on the following Libyan figures:

[GALLO/GETTY]

Muammar Gaddafi, the Libyan leader, took power in 1969 in a bloodless coup. In recent days, Gaddafi has lost control of much of the country as protesters have fought against security forces that remain loyal to him. Many members of his regime - including diplomats, military personnel and members of government - have defected.

[Reuters]

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, Muammar Gaddafi's second-oldest son, has been accused of inciting violence. He is the second most visible face of the Libyan regime.

Saif al-Islam was, until he played a key role in the regime's attempts to suppress the protest movement, viewed as a potential ally by many in the West, who considered him the most inclined to reform and open the country.

[EPA]

Saadi Gaddafi, the leader's third son, is being targeted for his role as the commander of the country's special forces, which have been cracking down on the protesters.

As well as playing a supportive role in his father's government, the leader's third son has also been captain of the Libyan football team. He played for Italy's Perugia club, until he tested positive for performance-inducing steroids after just one match.

Khamis Gaddafi,  heads the Khamis Brigade, an army special forces brigade that is equipped with sophisticated weaponry.

[Libyan TV]

Aisha Gaddafi is the leader's only daughter. Few days ago, she denied fleeing the countryon Libyan state television.

Aisha is a lawyer and was a member of Saddam Hussein's defence team in 2004. The UN dropped her as a goodwill ambassador this week.