Libyan forces make key Benghazi gains

Residents of Benghazi area celebrate their return as fierce clashes result in hardliners' stronghold being freed.

Libya has had rival administrations since 2014 when the recognised government fled Tripoli after a militia alliance advanced

Forces loyal to Libya's internationally recognised government have seized a key central neighbourhood of Benghazi from militia groups, the military said. Special forces on Tuesday retook the Benghazi area of Lithi, which had been a stronghold for armed groups including the Islamic State of Syria and the Levant (ISIL) group, after days of fierce clashes.

Fadel al-Hassi of Libya's special forces said the neighbourhood was "totally liberated".

Residents celebrated alongside loyalist fighters in streets retaken from fighters, flashing victory signs next to the bombed-out shells of buildings