Libyan forces advance against Islamic State in Sirte - spokesman

Fighters from forces aligned with Libya's new unity government clear the Zaafran area in Sirte, June 11, 2016. REUTERS/Stringer

TRIPOLI (Reuters) - Forces aligned with Libya's unity government said they had made significant gains in residential districts of Sirte on Tuesday as they battle to oust Islamic State from its coastal stronghold.

Rida Issa, a spokesman for the government-backed brigades, said they were securing the "700" neighbourhood, just south of central Sirte, and had also made ground to the west of the city centre. Sixteen brigade members had been killed and 60 wounded in Tuesday's fighting, Issa said.