Libyan forces strike back at rebels

Al Jazeera: Opposition fighters ask for help to fend off fierce counterattacks by Gaddafi loyalists aiming to retake lost towns. 08 Mar 2011 09:07 GMT

Opposition fighters in Libya have been fending off fierce attacks by forces loyal to Muammar Gaddafi, amid reports of a rising death toll. Gaddafi supporters moved eastward on Tuesday in an effort to push the rebels back and recapture fallen towns, with reports emerging that they have taken the central Libyan town of Bin Jawad. The loyalists have moved on to the oil port of Ras Lanuf, which they had been bombarding with air raids. Several people were reported to have been killed in battles a day earlier, including a family trying to flee the fighting. There has also been fierce fighting in the eastern city of Misurata, located between the capital, Tripoli, and Gaddafi's hometown Sirte, with reports of at least 18 people killed.  On Sunday, rebels were filmed celebrating their victory over Gaddafi's forces there, but it was short-lived as fighting ensued on Monday, with rebels saying they feared Gaddafi forces were regrouping for further attacks. Valerie Amos, UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief co-ordinator, said in a statement that the Benghazi Red Crescent reported that Misurata was under attack by government forces again. "Humanitarian organisations need urgent access now,'' she said. "People are injured and dying and need help immediately." Witnesses also told Al Jazeera that Az-Zawiyah, west of Tripoli, was under heavy attack by government forces. Meanwhile, Libyan state television has denied reports that Gaddafi tried to strike a deal with the rebels that would have seen him step down. Gaddafi reportedly sent a representative to make a proposal to the opposition's so-called "National Council" based in Benghazi. It is said he wanted guarantees for his and his family's safety and immunity from prosecution. READ MORE at Al Jazeera Source: http://english.aljazeera.net