Rebels claim killing 43 Sri Lankan soldiers
Tamil Tiger rebels killed 43 Sri Lankan soldiers in a single fierce clash in the island's north, halting their march toward a strategic crossroads, a pro-rebel Web site reported.
At least 18 LTTE rebels were killed as Sri Lankan troops stepped up offensive in Puthukkudirippu town to flush out the Tigers from their last remaining stronghold in the embattled North, officials said on Saturday.