Libya: Rebels advance to Sirte; Obama urges for support

Tripoli, Mar 29: Following the continuous air-strikes by coalition forces headed by NATO, the Libyan rebel forces fighting against the government have reached 30 kilometers near to Sirte, the hometown of Muammar Gaddafi.

Media reported that the anti-government protesters are on their way to capture government stronghold places and the capital city, Tripoli. The air-strikes by NATO force that crushed Gadhafi's air force, armour and troops helped the rebels to recapture all the territory they lost the past week.

Amid the blasts and air-stikes in Sirte, localities reported that the city is still under the control of Gaddafi's army. Troops were roaming throughout the city, which is known as the second capital of the country.

Mean while, US President Barack Obama said on Monday, Mar 28 that the Libya's democratic transition would be difficult. He added that America had a "responsibility" to intervene to prevent civilian massacres in Libya. He urged the International community to support the democratic transition in Libya.

"Even after Gaddafi does leave power, forty years of tyranny has left Libya fractured and without strong civil institutions. The transition to a legitimate government that is responsive to the Libyan people will be a difficult task," Obama said.

Any how, a rebel leader said that future of Libya will be decided by Libyans itself.

"We all agree on one thing that, we will accept initiatives coming from London, Italy, or Germany only on one condition, which is ending Gaddafi's rule and getting rid of him and his children. Also, we insist our state is to be established according to our vision and according to the principles and objectives of the revolution of Feb 17th. No one can impose on us what to do after Gaddafi." said Abdul Hafez Ghoga, Spokesman of Libyan Interim Transitional National Council.

OneIndia News