Colonel Gaddafi has issued another message of defiance, calling the overthrow of his regime a “charade, which can only take place thanks to the air-raids, which will not last forever”.
Broadcast on the Syrian-based Arrai channel, the former leader’s vitriol came as forces for the National Transitional Council (NTC) gained ground in Sabha, Gaddafi birthplace, on Tuesday.
"Our flags are waving there over the airport and other parts of Sabha," said Ahmed Bani, a military spokesman for the NTC told AP.
The advance in Sabha follows airstrikes confirmed by Nato, which are believed to have targeted air missile facilities.
In Sirte and Bani Walid, fighting continues, with forces still loyal to the deposed dictator meeting rebel advances with heavy weapons and artillery.
Gaddafi’s message, the first from the deposed tyrant in several weeks, continued:
“The political system in Libya is a system based on the power of the people... and it is impossible that this system be removed.”
Meanwhile, humanitarian groups have voice concern for the residents of the towns beleaguered by conflict.
Outside Sirte, resident Ibrahim Ramadan told Sky News: "There's no electricity, no phone coverage. Nothing."