The rebels have had a reprieve. The last-minute intervention of an international coalition has degraded Muammar Gaddafi’s air capabilities and tanks — perhaps rescuing the opposition capital of Benghazi from imminent recapture by the regime. However, it is still unclear just how well and how quickly the rebels will be able to take advantage of a more level playing field. The rebels seem no more organized or better armed. The only audible advantage is the roar of allied jet fighters in the sky above.
There is still nervousness among the rebels about how securely their hold is on Benghazi. At rebel checkpoints leading into the city, men warned that Gaddafi’s snipers were still hiding in the hundreds of unfinished apartment blocks built by a Chinese company. The buildings form a vacant, gray mini-city at the edge of Benghazi’s southwest entrance. Late on Sunday, explosions shook the city; and at least one 20-minute firefight erupted, making it clear to residents that the much feared government cells allegedly lurking within the rebel capital may still be preparing to strike.
