By Maha Suliman.
Benghazi, 8 November 2014:
Heavy clashes were reported across Benghazi last night and into this morning as . . .[restrict]military forces and their supporters battled with brigades aligned with the Benghazi Revolutionaries Shura Council (BRSC).
Some of the worst fighting has been reported in the south west Benghazi district of Gwarsha, a longtime Islamist stronghold. Further clashes of greater intensity are expected in the city as military forces push to the west where forces loyal to BRSC are more ensconced and have more local support.
At the end of last month the Libyan National Army (LNA) was able to force Ansar Al-Sharia into retreat from one of its largest and best-manned check points at the entrance to Gwarsha. Ansar has, however, reportedly returned to the position in force. Mohammed Al-Hejazi, a spokesman for the LNA, told the Libya Herald that while operations were ongoing in Gwarsha it was impossible to say whether or not any gains had been made.
Clashes also took place last night in the Benghazi’s central Sabri district. LNA forces there have been battling over the past week to gain access to Benghazi’s seaport. Hejazi said Ansar Al-Sharia forces in Sabri had taken up positions in and around the area’s abandoned Omar Khayyam hotel. He said the army expected to have pushed the Islamist forces from the hotel before nightfall.
Heavy fighting has also continued in Bel Awn and Garyounis. In Garyounis, Saiqa Special Forces 21 Battalion, aligned with the LNA battled with BRSC brigades. The clashes were characterised by exchanges of artillery and antiaircraft fire.
During the fighting in Bel Awn one resident Saad Al-Barki was killed in his home after it was struck by a rocket propelled grenade.
Airstirkes have also been reported by residents in Sabri and Garyounis.
Follow Maha Suliman on Twitter: @Mahasye
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