Libyan Rebels Claim Attack on Tripoli

Thousands celebrated in Benghazi as rebels claim they attacked the country's capital in a joint operation with NATO.

Libya’s rebels announced late Saturday that they launched their first attack on Tripoli, the country's capital and largest city. Though their claims have been not yet been verified, opposition fighters say they began their attack (known as “Operation Mermaid”) in conjunction with NATO forces on the 20th day of Ramadan, the 1387th anniversary of the Muslim capture of Mecca. The announcement came hours after rebels captured the nearby city of Zawiya following a week of battle. Gadhafi appeared on television in a live phone message to denounce the rebels as “vermin” who are turning Libyans into Palestinians. Libyan government officials have denied the attack on their capital and urged those loyal to their dictator to keep fighting.