[1][2] The post had been a key loyalist supply line to the capital, Tripoli,[3] but ceased to be so after the rebels recaptured the town of Zawiya and the highway running through it.

[4][5] On 21 August 2011, rebel forces again reached the crossing, meeting stiff resistance from what were reported to be "non-uniformed Gaddafi loyalists".

[6] On 23 August 2011, the Russian Channel One news agency reported that the crossing appeared to be under the control of pro-Gaddafi forces, who prohibited journalists from entering Libya.

[7] On 26 August 2011, witnesses reported that clashes were once again erupting between "large numbers" of rebels and loyalists for control of Ras Ajdir.

[8] This time, at least 100 anti-Gaddafi forces succeeded in capturing the crossing and hoisted their flag at the border post.