TRIPOLI, Libya — Libyan warplanes are launching airstrikes and engaging in heavy ground battles with a rebel force advancing west toward the capital Tripoli along the country's Mediterranean coastline.
Associated Press reporters at the scene said forces loyal to Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi retook the town of Bin Jawad, about 110 miles (160 kilometers) east of Gadhafi's stronghold city of Sirte. The reporters witnessed airstrikes on the rebel forces and heavy fighting on the ground.
The rebels have been moving west toward Tripoli, and gaining ground over the past few days. They captured the key oil port of Ras Lanouf on Saturday and by Sunday they were moving toward Sirte, which could prove to be a decisive battleground.