In Libya, forces loyal to Col. Muammar Gaddafi have retaken the final line of defense protecting the rebel capital of Benghazi. Hundreds of packed cars fled Ajdabiya as pro-Gaddafi forces pounded the city with tanks, heavy artillery and air strikes. The city is strategically critical, as it allows highway access that would permit Gaddafi’s troops to encircle and overrun Benghazi.