Libyan Rebels Capture Key Towns

Libyan rebels claimed Sunday they were trying to cut off two key supply routes to Moammar Gadhafi's stronghold in Tripoli after capturing more towns in the west of the country. The rebels also claimed that they have advanced into two strategic towns controlling access to the capital, Tripoli.

Rebel field commander Adel al-Zintani told CNN that his forces were "clearing the city of Gadhafi forces. There are minor clashes going on inside al-Zawiya," adding, "The situation is under control, but it will take some time to clear."

After the successful capture, the rebel forces raised their red, green and black flag over the central market. However, gunshots and explosions were heard in the town. Eyewitnesses observed that pro-Gadhafi gunmen were involved in the shooting.

The rebels spokesman told that their army is working on a plan to completely cut exit routes for Gadhafi and his forces. The key supplies have also been cut in the west and the south - which will compel the Gadhafi forces to either fight or surrender.

Meanwhile, the Gadhafi forces are also reported to be fighting back in the rebels-captured areas. But, the rebel forces are confident that this time the Gadhafi army will not be able to recapture or hurt the rebel occupation.

"There was an attack yesterday on Zawiya from the south, but we stopped it," Musa Ibrahim said.

"Today as well, a few hours ago, there was another attack on Zawiya. Greetings to the people of Zawiya, and the volunteers in Zawiya, who helped the armed people (Libyan military) and stop this attack courageously," he added.

The next few days are expected to be very crucial for the rebel forces; the fight in Zawiya region has already started. Although the attacks' intensity is not very severe, which is good for rebels, more is expected to happen in the coming few days. Currently, the Gadhafi forces fully control the post on the border with Tunisia.

Col. Jumma Ibrahim, a rebels spokesman in the western mountains, said his fighters were moving closer to blocking major supply routes to Tripoli from the south and the west. The routes are critical for moving food, fuel and weapons over land to the capital. The rebels, after five months into the Libyan war, have earned a lot of international support and appreciation.