Misrata shelled as threats have no impact

LIBYAN government troops pounded the besieged rebel-held city of Misrata, undeterred by Western threats to step up military action against Muammar Gaddafi’s forces.

Mortar fire killed at least three rebels and wounded 17 in attacks on Tripoli Street, rebel spokesmen said. Fierce fighting erupted later in the day, with heavy machine gun fire resounding through the streets and the whole area overshadowed by a big plume of black smoke.

Amid streets carpeted with debris, rebels and loyalists are fighting a ferocious battle, often at close quarters.