Libyan rebel forces gained ground against ruler Moammar Gadhafi's forces Saturday after a massive offensive in the western town of Bir Al-Ghanam. Hundreds of opposition members joined in the battle, which lasted several hours. Grad rockets and gunfire were exchanged from both sides, and rebels took on Gadhafi fighters from three fronts. Doctors at a makeshift clinic said two people had died, and 20 were injured -- some seriously. Rebel fighters said Gadhafi's forces had retreated from Bir Al-Ghanam and claimed victory over the town. Bir Al-Ghanam is about 85 kilometers from the capital city of Tripoli. Capturing the town is significant because not much else stands in the way between Bir Al-Ghanam and the Libyan coastline -- where Tripoli is situated. For months, rebel fighters -- who have controlled the eastern city of Benghazi and other areas -- have been trying to move closer toward Tripoli, in the west. They are seeking the ouster of Gadhafi, who has ruled Libya for 42 years.