Rebels Want a Peaceful Agreement

Libyan rebels continued on Tuesday to maintain their positions close to former leader Muammar Qaddafi’s stronghold in Bani Walid. The National Transitional Council still hopes they can come to a peaceful agreement with the delegates of the desert town.

The NTC tried to negotiate on Monday with tribal leaders loyal to Qaddafi and requested they surrender and lay down their arms to prevent any more bloodshed.

"Nothing clear yet, but we are optimistic about ending this standoff peacefully. The people will surrender because we are all brothers, and those who did commit crimes will be handed over," the rebel fighter Mohammed Ganeyyah said.

However, they warn that the town's refusal to surrender will lead to another round of fighting.

As rebels gather around Sitre, Sabha and Bani Walid the last three pockets controlled by Qaddafi forces, NATO planes prepare to fly over the areas.

Meanwhile in the country’s capital, Tripoli, residents are relieved to have their water supply restored after damage to underground wells.

"Life is normal and the water is back. As you can see water is running and electricity is available and the situation is somewhat stable," said Mohamamd Bouzini, a Tripoli resident.

Although the water supply may be a temporary relief residents celebrated.

"We have water, this is great. We want to thank those who helped in making water available," said a 64-year-old woman named Safia.

Libya is facing a shortage of water due to the drought and depleted resources.

Water-laden ships have been sent to Libya by several international aid organizations to ease the scarcity of water.