Final battle rages in Ivory Coast, forces prepare

United Nations and French forces ready to attack Ivory Coast's presidential fortress Tuesday after initiation full attacks on the residence of the well-established leader, the republican guard, two major military basis and state TV.

Fighters aim to topple strongman Laurent Gbagbo had succeeded in taking almost the entire countryside in just three days last week, other than they faltered once they reached the country's main city, where the presidential palace and residence are situated.

In the midst of the help of international forces, the armed grouping fighting to install the country's democratically nominated leader Alassane Ouattara pushed their way to the heart of the city to reach Gbagbo's home. They have bounded it, and as of early on Tuesday they were waiting for him to step down, said a close consultant to Ouattara who could not be named because he is not official to speak to the press.

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UN chief warns that Ivory Coast risks civil war

The U.N. chief has warned that Ivory Coast faces "a real risk" of return to civil war, and that U.N. peacekeepers will face a critical situation in the coming days unless Laurent Gbagbo removes a blockade around his opponent's headquarters.

The United Nations (U.N.) and other world leaders recognize Alassane Ouattara as the winner of last month's disputed presidential election. Gbagbo, the incumbent who refuses to acknowledge defeat and leave the presidency, has forces surrounding the building where his rival is based.

The U.N. has said that people inside are not getting needed medication, and that delivery of food and water also has been in an inferior position.

"Any attempt to starve the United Nations mission into submission will not be tolerated," U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Tuesday.

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