Unconfirmed reports from Libyan state television have reported that NATO warships fired shells into the city of Misrata today, damaging a Red Crescent building in the mostly rebel-held town.

The number of casualties was unclear. The strike was apparently an accident, as NATO confirmed that warships fired on Libyan government ground troops in the city earlier in the day.

The Red Crescent has been largely responsible for the distribution of food and medical aid in Misrata during a siege of the city by regime forces. UN has intermittently delivered food aid via sea route into the city, but has said lately that the fighting has kept the aid out.

NATO forces have been hitting Libya with air strikes and naval shelling since March. The forces loyal to Moammar Gadhafi control most of the West of the nation, while rebels hold the East, with a capital city in Benghazi.

Last 5 posts by Jason Ditz

• No Deal: US Restarted Pakistan Drone Strikes Despite Objections - February 22nd, 2012
• Syrian National Council Demands Foreign Invasion - February 22nd, 2012
• State Dept.: Pakistani Taliban 'Not Welcome' at Truce Talks - February 22nd, 2012
• Israeli FM: Our Decision to Attack Iran None of US, Russia's Business - February 22nd, 2012
• Hunger Strike Ends, but Adnan's Detention Without Charges Doesn't - February 22nd, 2012