A new rocket attack has begun in the city of Misrata, according to a rebel spokesman in a phone conversation with Reuters. Known only as Ali, the spokesman told the news agency that the bombardment started on Monday morning and was continuing before the phone line went dead.

Grad rockets are being fired by Muammar Gaddafi-loyal forces in the city, although the intensity of the fire fight is not yet known. It is the latest in a string of rocket attacks by pro-Gaddafi forces, with yesterday seeing clashes in Ajdabiya yesterday. The city, previously inhabited by 140,000 residents, has seen numerous bouts of violent conflict and power has changed hands numerous times.

While the rocket and mortar attacks were in commence, Gaddafi himself was in Tripoli meeting with members of the AU (African Union) in an effort to negotiate conflict resolution. Announcement of a cease fire is expected, and it is hoped that humanitarian aid will have greater access to troubled zones of Libya.

Reported by Sam Doving.

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