Fighting intensifies in Key Libyan towns

Heavy fighting continues between revolutionaries and troops loyal to embattled Libyan ruler Muammar Gaddafi in both the east and west of the country.

Revolutionaries have tried to push further toward Zlitan — one of three towns separating the opposition-held city of Misratah from the capital Tripoli.

Six opposition fighters have reportedly been killed and dozens more have been injured in heavy fighting near Misratah.

According to reports, in Zawiyah, which is located near Tripoli, 100 pro-regime troops and 15 revolutionaries were killed in heavy battles.

The opposition sources also claim that a high-ranking Gaddafi commander was badly wounded in the fighting.

In the east, the revolutionaries’ offensive to retake the oil-rich town of Brega has been repelled by government troops.

Four opposition fighters were also reportedly killed in fighting there.

Reports say violence is now spreading to Sabha, south of the capital, which had been spared from the violence that has been raging on for months now.

Libya has been the scene of fierce fighting between pro-Gaddafi troops and Revolutionary forces since mid-February.

Revolutionary forces want an end to Gaddafi’s decades-long rule.

The US and NATO have unleashed a punishing, UN-mandated offensive against the beleaguered Libyan ruler Gaddafi to pressure him into relinquishing power.

However, NATO airstrikes have killed scores of civilians as well as revolutionaries.