Libya: Misratah Fighting Rages Despite Claims - 24th Apr 2011

Besieged Misratah has continued to be bombarded by rockets and automatic weapons, despite claims Colonel Muammar Gaddafi's army had fled the Libyan city.

While rebels claim they have retaken 80% of the coastal town, which is hemmed in on three sides by Gaddafi forces, hostilities continue, according to Sky's Alex Crawford, who is reporting from Misratah.

"Whatever they claim the shelling goes on, despite the claims," Crawford said.

The country's deputy foreign minister had said the army suspended operations against rebels but not left the city as the regime negotiated with local tribes for a peaceful solution

"The armed forces have not withdrawn from Misratah," Khaled Kaim said.

"They have simply suspended their operations. The tribes are determined to solve the problem within 48 hours... We believe that this battle will be settled peacefully and not militarily."

Libyan expert Adel Darwish believes the next phase of fighting will involve more skirmishes between rebels and government forces, making it harder for Nato to assist with combat air support. Read More