Tripoli, Libya (CNN) -- An opposition leader on Sunday denounced Libyan government claims that the regime is working with local tribes to deal with rebels in the port city of Misrata.
The regime has said that it is calling on the tribes to either negotiate with the rebels or use force.
"There are no tribes and there are no negotiations. It's only Libyan people fighting against Gadhafi's forces," said Col. Ahmad Bani, a rebel military spokesman.
Ruler Moammar Gadhafi is "lying to say to the world that he's looking to find a solution," Bani said. "These are Gadhafi dreams and they will never happen."
In his Easter message Sunday, Pope Benedict XVI urged an end to fighting in the North African nation.
"In the current conflict in Libya, may diplomacy and dialogue take the place of arms, and may those who suffer as a result of the conflict be given access to humanitarian aid," the pope said.
Misrata was under heavy shelling Saturday night, according to Bani.
The shelling came hours after the government said its soldiers were suspending operations in Misrata.
Khaled Khaim, Libyan deputy foreign minister, said government forces have only suspended operations a day after he said they had withdrawn from Misrata, leaving tribal leaders to deal with the rebels.
"I'm not surprised. We told you Gadhafi is playing dirty games," Bani said. "Never believe the snake."
The rebel spokesman said the city was still under fire.
"The main street is still under our control and so is the harbor and port area, but there was heavy shelling last night in parts of the city," the rebel spokesman said. "If he (Gadhafi) has withdrawn his troops, then where is the shelling coming from?"
CNN could not independently verify information from Misrata.
Hundreds have been killed in the battle for Misrata, under a bloody siege from Gadhafi's forces for seven weeks.
It is the scene of some of the deadliest battles as the rebels attempt to oust the ruler, who has been in power for 42 years.
Human Rights Watch has said Gadhafi was using internationally banned cluster bombs and other lethal munitions to indiscriminately kill civilians.
Meanwhile, the United States conducted its first Predator drone airstrikes Saturday afternoon, said Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. Darryn James.
Keeping with U.S. practice not to comment on drone strikes, the Pentagon offered no other information.
