Islamic State started expanding into Libya in 2014 as the political turmoil and conflict in the country worsened. It took full control of Sirte last year, but has struggled to retain territory or win support elsewhere in Libya. The brigades have advanced more swiftly than many expected, though their progress has been hampered by suicide bombers, mines and snipers. Tripoli, June 11 (Reuters): Forces aligned with Libya's unity government said on Friday they had taken control of the port of Sirte, making further gains in Islamic State's North African stronghold. Western powers see it as the best bet for trying to unite Libya's political and armed factions against Islamic State and for restoring some stability to the oil-rich North African country.

Source: The Telegraph June 10, 2016 22:52 UTC