Libyan Rebels Plan Counter-offensive

Libyan rebels set up roadblocks along the highway to the coastal town of Sirte.

They're aiming to capture the birthplace of leader Muammar Gaddafi, dealing government forces a major blow by seizing an important military base.

A rebel leader told Reuters Sirte had already fallen into anti-government fighter hands. But a Reuters correspondent refuted that report, adding that pro-government forces in the city were preparing for their own battle.

The rebels are banking on less resistance after a series of airstrikes in the west of the country. The Western coalition's strategic bombings have allowed them to take back many of the oil hubs in the east, including Ras Lanuf, despite having less firepower.

But things could get tougher for the ramshackle rebel forces soon. Fuel shortages in Benghazi are forcing drivers to wait in long queues at the few gas stations that still have fuel.

Some worry that the hard-won momentum could come to an end after five weeks of fighting. But most rebels believe they will have enough fuel to take their fight to Gadaffi's doorstep.

[Unidentified Libyan Driver]:

"There will be enough fuel for them to go from where they are right now in Sirte to him in Bab el Aziziya. I am going to send him this message: stay in Bab el Aziziya. We will come to you Gaddafi."

The Western coalition has been under fire as of late from critics questioning its support of rebel forces.

And Libya accuses NATO of killing its people as part of a plot to humiliate and weaken the country.