Endgame in Libya? Rebels Claim Progress

Libyan rebels have made progress in isolating Tripoli from the rest of the country, a crucial step towards victory while Gaddafi's forces continue to fall back under pressure. The revolution, which began six months ago, has been painfully slow for the opposition forces, despite NATO support as Gaddafi clings to power in the bitter struggle. 

LOS ANGELES (Catholic Online) - The rebel military command issued an announcement early today explaining that, "The scouting teams of the revolutionaries reached the outskirts of Al-Heisha after expelling Gaddafi forces." Al-Heisha is about 150 miles from Tripoli and at a vital crossroads that link Tripoli with Sirte, an oil-rich basin still under loyalist control. Seizing the town is a key step towards isolating Tripoli and cutting off a vital supply line for the loyalists. 

Rebels also announced other gains, reporting that they had seized two towns near Tripoli that sit astride supply lines feeding the loyalists. Rebels clam that Gaddafi is now isolated, but these claims have been refuted by government spokesman, Moussa Ibrahim on state television. "There are still armed gangs inside the city [Gharyan]. We are able to drive them out," he said.

Meanwhile, shelling by pro-Gadafi forces continued Wednesday and several civilians were wounded.  

Although the rebels are making progress, the long duration and ferocity of the fighting has reportedly forced both sides to the table for talks. On the Tunisian island resort of Djerba, talks between rebels and government officials have been ongoing. The UN has sent an envoy to join the talks. If successful, the conflict that has turned out to be one of the deadliest in the wave of revolution that has engulfed the Arab world, could be brought to an end. However, Gaddafi's spokesman has dismissed any word of talks as propaganda against Gaddafi. "The leader is here in Libya, fighting for the freedom of our nation. He will not leave Libya," Ibrahim said. 

Regardless of rebel progress and the rumors of talks, Gaddafi remains defiant in the face of all opposition. His forces launched a scud missile against rebels on Sunday, the first use of such a weapon in the conflict. Its use represents an escalation of force, and underscores his determination to remain in power. 

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