Saturday, March 05, 2011

Rebels 'Beat Back Libyan Troops'

BBC: Rebels in Libya say they have repelled an attempt by government forces to retake the key city of Zawiya, just 50km (30 miles) west of Tripoli.

Following heavy fighting on Saturday morning, government forces were pushed out of the city centre, though recent reports suggest they have regrouped and may be preparing for a fresh assault.

The number of casualties is unclear.

Meanwhile, rebels fighting Col Muammar Gaddafi have taken control of the port of Ras Lanuf to the east of Tripoli.

Observers say the overall balance of power is difficult to assess as the struggle for control over Libya continues.

In Tripoli, there is an air of growing confidence among regime loyalists as their control appears to be consolidated in Tripoli and other central areas, our correspondent there says.

But elsewhere, correspondents say rebel forces have an enormous determination to overthrow his regime. Gaddafi troops 'flee' >>> | Saturday, March 05, 2011