Libyan rebels are in full-blown retreat as Gaddafi’s forces use their superior firepower and military know-how to make gains along the country’s east coast. The towns of Nawfaliyah, Bin Jawad and Ras Lanuf fell in quick succession. Government troops Wednesday also fired tank shells and had skirmishes with rebels in the city of Misrata, the only big rebel stronghold left in the west of the country, killing more than a dozen people. With no help from NATO airstrikes, the poorly organized rebel forces have been in full retreat eastward along coastal highways over the past two days. The Libyan army outflanked rebel forces, which lack training, disciplne and leadership. |