Libya forces launch new counteroffensive on rebels

Tripoli, Libya: Witnesses said pro-Gaddafi's forces opened a new front in the offensive against the opposition, pounding the city of insurgents the city near the capital with mortars and artillery.

Misrata, 120 miles east of the capital Tripoli, is one of the two cities in the western part of Libya, who have fallen into the hands of the opposition.

Witnesses say the fire started around 11:30 am Sunday and the rebels fought back with rocket-propelled grenades and antiaircraft guns. Residents say the fire almost completely stopped shortly after noon and there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

Residents spoke on condition of anonymity because they feared reprisals.