NATO planes foil attack on Misrata port

NATO planes pounded Muammar Gaddafi’s forces attacking the rebel-held city of Misrata, destroying armour advancing on the port that is the besieged city’s sole lifeline.

The battle for Misrata has become the focal point of the uprising against the Libyan leader’s regime. The near-constant shelling of the city by government troops over the past two months has spurred calls for more forceful international intervention.

“NATO forces moved quickly to break up a force advancing on Misrata port,” said a spokesperson.