World Bulletin/News Desk

Egypt's national carrier EgyptAir on Saturday suspended flights to the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi due to the deteriorating security situation there.

An EgyptAir flight was scheduled to leave for the restive Libyan city on Saturday.

On Friday, Benghazi International Airport Director Ibrahim Ferkash announced the closure of the airport after forces loyal to a renegade Libyan general engaged in deadly fighting with rebels in Benghazi.

Libyan authorities have struggled to restore law and order since the 2011 ouster of strongman Muammar Gaddafi amid the continued refusal of armed militias – which helped overthrow the autocrat leader – to give up their weapons.