In a coordinated attack on Saturday, Libyan rebel forces swept into Tripoli and overran the city, encountering only pockets of resistance from forces still loyal to the Gaddafi regime. In addition to taking the city amidst fighting that saw some of the highest casualty rates of the conflict, rebel forces also captured two of Gaddafi's sons, reinforcing the opinion that the regime is in its final hours. Despite two recorded messages from Gaddafi that aired on state broadcast networks as the assault on Tripoli was unfolding, the whereabouts of the dictator are unknown at this time.
Some have speculated that he may have fled the country with help from friends in countries that have benefited from Libyan oil and resources over the years. But at this point, there is no indication or specific evidence that Gaddafi is no longer in Libya. And while rebel forces appear to have garnered the support of most civilians still living in Tripoli, many analysts are still concerned about the prospect for retaliatory violence against civilians who may have been forced to support the Gaddafi regime in fighting the rebels.
There are also concerns about the stability of the rebel leadership and what the realistic prospects might be for creating a new government to replace a deposed Gaddafi regime. Any revolution of this magnitude will justifiably leave great doubts as to what might follow, especially with the presence of extreme elements in the region. But the first step toward progress is already being taken, with the removal of Gaddafi from power.
Brief celebrations have already erupted in Tripoli, including on Green Square, the site of many of Gaddafi's recent public addresses. The gatherings are still unsafe, however, with sniper fire, tank activity and other unrest still present throughout the city.
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