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Summary Libyan rebels are battling for control of the road leading to the heartland of government loyalists
Libyan rebels are battling for control of the road leading to the heartland of government loyalists. The rebel army has been moving rapidly westwards, but came under heavy attack on the approach to Muammar Gaddafis birthplace of Sirte.The Libyan rebels set up road blocks along the highway to the coastal town of Sirte. They are aiming to capture the birthplace of leader Muammar Gaddafi, dealing government forces a major blow by seizing an important military base. The rebels are banking on less resistance after a series of airstrikes in the west of the country. The Western coalitions strategic bombings have allowed them to take back many of the oil hubs in the east, including Ras Lanuf, despite having less firepower. But things could get tougher for the ramshackle rebel forces soon. Fuel shortages in Benghazi are forcing drivers to wait in long queues at the few gas stations that still have fuel. Some worry that the hard-won momentum could come to an end after five weeks of fighting. But most rebels believe they will have enough fuel to take their fight to Gadaffis doorstep.
