Middle East
Libya conflict Rebels fight for key towns near Tripoli
Libyan rebels have advanced into two strategic towns controlling access to the capital, Tripoli, from the west and the south. Fighting was reported in both Zawiya, just 50km (30 miles) west of Tripoli, and Gharyan, 80km to the south. If the towns fall to the rebels, they would have Tripoli surrounded by land, with Nato blocking sea access.