Thousands of troops loyal to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi advanced on the rebel-held western city of Misrata on Wednesday, shelling it from three sides in attacks that killed at least 12 rebels, a rebel spokesman said.
There was no immediate comment from Gaddafi’s government.
“Misrata is under heavy shelling … Gaddafi forces are shelling Misrata from three sides: east, west and south,” rebel spokesman Hassan al-Misrati told Reuters from inside the town.
“He has sent thousands of troops from all sides and they are trying to enter the city. They are still outside, though.”