(Author: Libyan Gazette Editorial Staff)
Forces loyal to the UN-backed unity government (GNA) in Tripoli said they are nearing the end to their fight against ISIS in Sirte. As of yesterday, one of three districts that were controlled by ISIS was liberated by Libyan forces said a security official on Wednesday.
Colonel Ismail Shukri, head of the GNA’s intelligence in Misrata said that a neighbourhood known as District 2 was liberated and that Libyan troops hope to liberate District 1 and 3 in the coming days.
“Now there is ongoing fighting in one part of District 1. Districts 1 and 3 are both residential areas adjacent to each other and we will soon advance on them,” said Shukri.
“There are about 150 to 200 terrorists still in these districts,” he added. “There is no room for them to escape. They will fight until the last bullet. They had an opportunity to escape earlier but now they are surrounded.”
Since August 1, Libyan forces have been receiving military assistance from the US in the form of airstrikes targeting ISIS positions in Sirte.