Libya rebels prepare for offensive

Hundreds of armed anti-government forces backed by military defectors who control the city closest to the capital Tripoli today prepared to repel an expected offensive by forces loyal to Muammar Gaddafi surrounding Zawiya.

Two prominent US senators said Washington should recognise and arm a provisional government in rebel-held areas of eastern Libya and impose a no-fly zone over the area - enforced by US warplanes - to stop attacks by the regime.