(VOVworld) - Libya's eastern oil port Es Sider, the country's biggest, has been closed due to nearby fighting between forces representing Libya’s competing governments.

Libya's eastern oil port Es Sider has been closed due to nearby fighting (Photo: Reuters)

Air strikes by forces loyal to Libya's recognized government hit targets near the port, aiming to stop the advance of troops of the rival administration in Tripoli who are seeking to take control of the strategic port. A force allied to the self-proclaimed government in Tripoli gathered at the gates of the terminal. Three years after the ouster of Muammar Gaddafi, Libya is struggling with escalating violence and political deadlock.