TRIPOLI, Libya — NATO said yesterday that it has begun ramping up its airstrikes on military targets in the western part of Libya, where rebel forces have claimed advances through territory still largely under Moammar Khadafy’s control.
Khadafy’s regime is determined to stand firm against opposition fighters moving toward the capital, Tripoli. The rebels have largely solidified control over the eastern third of Libya.
NATO’s latest comments suggest the alliance is hoping to tip the balance further in the rebels’ favor despite threats by Khadafy to carry out attacks in Europe unless the airstrikes stop.
The coalition said it has destroyed more than 50 military targets in the west this week. It says it is targeting government forces in cities and along “major lines of communication.”