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    September 24, 2011

Libyan Provisional Fighters Attack Gadhafi's Hometown

   VOA News
   A member of the forces loyal to Libya's interim rulers flashes the
   victory sign as he prepares for an assault on Muammar Gaddafi's
   hometown Sirte September 24, 2011. Photo: Reuters
   A member of the forces loyal to Libya's interim rulers flashes the
   victory sign as he prepares for an assault on Muammar Gaddafi's
   hometown Sirte September 24, 2011.

   Libya's provisional government fighters backed by NATO warplanes have
   fought their way into former leader Moammar Gadhafi's hometown of
   Sirte.
   National Transitional Council fighters faced stiff resistance from
   snipers and other pro-Gadhafi forces.
   Local authorities said at least two NTC fighters were killed and more
   than 20 wounded in intense battles.
   NATO said its forces hit a number of pro-Gadhafi targets in Sirte in
   order to protect civilians from Gadhafi loyalists inside the town. NATO
   said that "among the reports emerging from Sirte are executions,
   hostage-taking, and the calculated targeting of individuals, families,
   and communities within the city."
   The provisional fighters were also battling in Bani Walid, a desert
   town that is one of Gadhafi's few remaining strongholds.
   Meanwhile, NTC chairman Mustafa Abdel Jalil promised to announce a new
   interim government in the coming week. He commented in Benghazi, where
   the NTC has been meeting to discuss a new government.
   Jalil said membership in the provisional government is a right
   guaranteed to all Libyans.
   Earlier, an NTC spokesman said the government would include 22
   ministers and a deputy prime minister.

   Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.

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