Intense fighting in Qaddafi's hometown of Sirte
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 14 October 2011 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Intense fighting in Qaddafi's hometown of Sirte, 14 October 2011, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/4eaaa7fb23.html [accessed 5 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
October 14, 2011
Smoke rises from the center of Sirte amid heavy fighting in the coastal city.
Heavy fighting has broken out in the coastal city of Sirte between troops loyal to Libya's interim government and the forces of fugitive leader Muammar Qaddafi.
Live television footage on October 14 showed thick plumes of black smoke rising in the sky, amid the noise of continuous gunfire.
Fighters backing the new Transitional National Council reportedly took over more areas in Sirte, where fighting has been going on for weeks.
For about a week, commanders have been saying that "liberating the city is on the horizon."
Sirte, Qaddafi's hometown, is one of two main strongholds still under the control of forces loyal to the ousted leader, along with the desert town of Bani Walid.
Anti-Qaddafi forces said they are also preparing a major final offensive to capture Bani Walid.
compiled from agency reports
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
