Strikes push back Gaddafi's troops

Libyan rebels clinched their hold on the east of the country and seized back a key city today after decisive international airstrikes sent Muammar Gaddafi’s forces into retreat, shedding their uniforms and ammunition as they fled.

Ajdabiya’s initial loss to Gaddafi may have ultimately been what saved the rebels from imminent defeat, propelling the US and its allies to swiftly pull together the air campaign now crippling his army.