Interim government forces in Libya claim to have penetrated the loyalist stronghold of Sirte. Forces loyal to Col. Muammar Gaddafi reportedly have a large stockpile of weapons and ammunition and have vowed to fiercely defend the deposed leader’s hometown. The fighting has raised concerns over civilian casualties. In a statement, the International Committee of the Red Cross said the city’s main hospital was party destroyed, calling the situation there “very chaotic and distressing.” In Belgium, a NATO spokesperson called on the National Transitional Council to show restraint during the push to seize the town.

Oana Lungescu: “As fighting is coming to an end in many areas, it must do so in a way that respects the calls from the international community and the National Transitional Council to show restraint and avoid reprisals and revenge. We expect the new Libya to be founded on reconciliation and human rights, on democracy and the rule of law. And the National Transitional Council has a great responsibility for a smooth and peaceful transition to democracy.”