He said the Government troops had used heavy guns, tanks and mortars to stop the rebel advance.
Throughout the rebel advance, there were attempts by the international community to negotiate a settlement.
There was no musket fire from either side, and the rebel advance collapsed.
Diplomats concede they do not have a full picture of rebel advances.
The second Libyan rebel advance didn't last very long.
Many international aid agencies' stores were looted during the rebel advance on the capital.
The Libyan government responded to the successful rebel advance with missile attacks.
At the moment, it includes air support for a rebel advance toward Sirt.
Damascus residents described an atmosphere of tension and fear for any more rebel advances.
All over the world the rebel advances slowed and stopped, confronted by an evil too great for their simple tactics.