NEW : Some opposition fighters retreated amid tough resistance . The rebels have been fighting for more than a year to oust Gadhafi and his regime. Tripoli 's infrastructure has suffered little damage , the disruption of the water supply has been largely alleviated , supplies of fuel and electricity are improving , schools are slated to reopen September 17 , and there has been no general breakdown of public order , said Martin , who had earlier briefed the Security Council after his return from five days in Libya . ` The deadline expired yesterday when they fired at our forces '' Gadhafi loyalists clash with fighters in Bani Walid , a military commander says . Fighting also is reported outside the Gadhafi stronghold of Sirte , a commander says .
NEW : Some opposition fighters retreated amid tough resistance . The rebels have been fighting for more than a year to oust Gadhafi and his regime. The deadline expired yesterday when they fired at our forces '' Gadhafi loyalists clash with fighters in Bani Walid , a military commander says . Fighting also is reported outside the Gadhafi stronghold of Sirte , a commander says .