Libya: Gaddafi base Tripoli tense before Friday prayers

Watch: The rebels intend to move on as soon as they can

Continue reading the main story

Mid-East Unrest

• Libya revolt Live
• Tripoli simmers
• Key maps
• Do rebels have staying power?

Embattled Libyan ruler Col Muammar Gaddafi's stronghold in the capital Tripoli is tense ahead of possible demonstrations later.

The opposition has called for protests when worshippers emerge from mosques in the city after Friday noon prayers.
Fresh air strikes have been launched on rebel-held territory in the east of the country.
The revolt, which broke out in mid-February to end Col Gaddafi's 41-year rule, has shown signs of stalemate.
'Arrests' There are unconfirmed reports overnight of mosques having been closed, arrests and the internet being shut down.

Gaddafi posters are distributed among a crowd watching a burning fuel truck in Tripoli

Gaddafi loyalists have set up two checkpoints on the main highway leading to the centre of Tripoli and are searching cars, reports AP news agency.
The authorities meanwhile blocked foreign journalists from leaving the main media hotel in Tripoli to report on any protests after Friday prayers.
A government spokesman said correspondents were being kept in the hotel for their own protection in case of violence from "al-Qaeda elements".Read More