Tokyo eases North Korea policyPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 7:54amJapan indicated on Tuesday it was resigned to the US removing North Korea from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, considerably softening what had been staunch opposition to the move. Nobutaka Machimura, chief cabinet secretary, said Tokyo understood the high possibility that Washington would begin the process of delisting North Korea if, as hoped, Pyongyang declared its nuclear programmes on Thursday. Full Story
Rushdie receives knighthoodPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 7:58amQueen Elizabeth II on Wednesday knighted the controversial author Salman Rushdie, an award which caused protests by Muslims around the world when it was announced last year. Rushdie was knighted for his services to literature. Full Story
China announces Olympics drugs crackdownPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:00amChina plans to crack down on illegal drugs in Beijing and other cities that will host Olympic events, a top police official said Wednesday. Authorities will target drug use at nightclubs and other entertainment venues, as well as smugglers supplying major cities, said Yang Fengrui, director of the Bureau of Narcotics Control under the Public Security Ministry. Full Story
Brown calls for Zimbabwe cricket banPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:06amPrime Minister Gordon Brown said Wednesday he wanted the Zimbabwe cricket team to be banned from touring England next year and from the 2009 Twenty20 World Cup, which England are due to host. "The Secretary for Culture is working with the English Cricket Board," Brown told lawmakers at the House of Commons during Prime Minister's Question Time on Wednesday. Full Story
'Berlusconi bill' passed in ItalyPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:07amItaly's Senate has passed legislation which opponents of PM Silvio Berlusconi say is designed to help him in his legal battles with the nation's courts. The bill would freeze some long-running trials for a year, including one involving Mr Berlusconi in Milan. Full Story
Tourist dies of 'food poisoning'Posted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:08amA British tourist has died of suspected food poisoning at a luxury hotel at Lake Garda, northern Italy. Geoffrey Appleyard, 71, from Evesham in Worcs, died early on Sunday after falling ill after dinner hours earlier. Full Story
Indian rebel leaders announce trucePosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:09amSeveral commanders of a leading separatist group in India's restive northeast announced a cease-fire Wednesday and called for an end to their 30-year rebellion, separatist leaders and government officials said. Full Story
Wheeler to appeal over referendumPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:09amTycoon Stuart Wheeler says he has "high hopes" of winning an appeal against a High Court decision to oppose his bid for a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty. Two judges rejected the millionaire's claim that there was a "legitimate expectation" of a public vote. Full Story
Tropical storm hits flood-weary southern ChinaPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:24amTropical storm Fengshen struck China's southeastern coast Wednesday, bringing new torrential downpours to a region still reeling from heavy rains and deadly flooding since early June. The storm, which also packed high winds, made landfall in Guangdong province early in the morning, closing schools and disrupting air traffic across the region and in neighbouring Macau and Hong Kong, Xinhua news agency reported. Full Story
Militants kill 22 pro-government tribesmen in north-west PakistanPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:27amPro-Taliban militants executed 22 tribesmen they had held captive for two days in Pakistan's volatile north-western tribal regions, officials said Wednesday. The bullet-riddled bodies of the abducted men were found Wednesday morning in the Kariwam area of Jandola, the gateway to the restive South Waziristan tribal district that borders Afghanistan. Full Story
S Korea to allow US beef back inPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 8:31amSouth Korea will resume US beef imports from Thursday following a deal between the two sides on extra safeguards, ruling party officials have said. A legal notice on new rules will be posted in the government gazette, the final step needed to restart imports. Full Story
New jihadist message calls for bomb-making aidPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:00amA new message posted on a prominent al-Qaeda linked website calls on Islamic militants to lend their bomb-making expertise to the jihadist cause. Full Story
Three (3) Americans killed, Shiite fighting in southPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:11amA roadside bomb killed three American soldiers and an interpreter north of Baghdad, the U.S. military said Wednesday, and Iraqi police reported 14 Shiite gunmen were arrested after fighting south of the capital. Full Story
End of truce? 3 Kassams hit w. NegevPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:13amThe sixth day of the Gaza truce saw the first violations when three Kassam rockets slammed into Israel in response to the IDF killing of top Islamic Jihad operative Tarek Abu Ghally in Nablus on Tuesday. There was no immediate military response from the IDF. Full Story
Racist crime on the rise across EuropePosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:23amRacist crime is on the rise across Europe, the head of the European Union's Agency for Fundamental Rights announced in Brussels on Tuesday. There was a worrying trend of an increase in racist crimes between 2000 and 2006, and 2007 showed a similar picture, Anastasia Crickley, the agency's chairperson, said as she presented her organisation's annual report. Full Story
Ukraine PM's daughter 'assaulted'Posted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:24amAuthorities in Ukraine are investigating allegations that the daugher of Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko was assaulted by police. The alleged incident took place last week at a Black Sea resort, where Yevhenia was staying with her husband. Yevhenia and her partner, British musician Sean Carr, say they were beaten by police on a beach in Odessa. Full Story
BP Russia boss 'should quit job'Posted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:29amThe Russian chairman of BP's joint venture, TNK-BP, has called on the firm's chief executive to step down. Speaking to the BBC, billionaire Mikhail Fridman said that Robert Dudley was concerned only with BP's interests and this was "unacceptable".
But he denied that the actions of the Russian police, who pulled in Mr Dudley for questioning, were anything more than "routine practice" in Russia. Full Story
Iran slams UK for lifting opposition banPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:33amIran on Wednesday condemned as a "disgrace" the decision by Britain to lift a ban on the main Iranian armed opposition group, the People's Mojehedin Organisation of Iran (PMOI). "The British government's action regarding the group of monafeghin is a disgrace and utterly condemned," foreign ministry spokesman Mohammad Ali Hosseini said in a statement. Full Story
Serbian Socialists to join governing alliancePosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:34amThe Serbian Socialist Party will join an alliance headed by the Democratic Party to form a pro-European coalition government, the Socialist leader, Ivica Dacic, said Monday. Although details on the final division of posts and functions in the cabinet have yet to be decided, the move signals the formation of a government that will try to speed up Serbia's European Union membership campaign after years of halting progress. Full Story
Forest fire burns near AthensPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:34amA large forest fire on the outskirts of Athens is sending a cloud of smoke over the Greek capital just as power in part of the city has been cut. The fire is burning on the eastern slopes of Mount Hymmetus, near the Glyka Nera area of greater Athens. It is not immediately clear whether the fire is threatening homes or is related to the power outages in central Athens. Full Story
Polish shipyard workers protest outside EU headquartersPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:36amPolish trade union workers demonstrated outside EU headquarters Wednesday demanding officials move away from threats to force the closure of three ailing shipyards. Around 100 people took part in a noisy protest to try to sway the European Commission not to rule against Polish subsidies given to the shipyards in Gdynia, Szczecin and Gdansk in recent years. Full Story
Swedish foreign minister has no concerns on secularismPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:47amSwedish Foreign Minister and Chairperson of the Committee of Ministers of Council of Europe Carl Bildt said European observers do not share the concerns about secularism in Turkey, in an interview with the Turkish Daily News Monday. None of the European observers following Turkey have seen anything that would disturb them really. Full Story
French Senate rejects referendum hypocrisy against TurkeyPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:51amFrance's Senate has dropped a measure from a proposed bill that would require a referendum on Turkey's membership in the European Union. The measure has proven one of the most sensitive parts of a broader institutional reform package going through the French parliament. The measure would require a referendum before France could approve EU membership for any country whose population exceeds 5 percent of the population of the entire 27-nation union. Full Story
US-backed radio says Turkmen commentator torturedPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:55amTurkmen security forces detained and tortured a commentator for a U.S.-backed radio station after he had refused to stop working for the broadcaster, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) said."Today a contributor to RFE/RL's Turkmen Service (Radio Azatlyk) was found beaten and tortured for refusing to sign a letter in which he agreed to stop reporting for RFE/RL," the station said in a statement released late on Tuesday. The Prague-based station said Sazak Durdymuradov told his wife he "wanted to die" after she found him at a state security detention centre. Full Story
Rights group: Russians kill civilians in IngushetiaPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 9:58amA leading human rights group accused Russian forces on Wednesday of killing innocent civilians as they try to snuff out rebel activity in Ingushetia. New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) said Russia's heavy-handed counter-insurgent tactics were alienating the population and risked destabilising the whole north Caucasus. "The crimes in Ingushetia, although on a far smaller scale, evoke the thousands of enforced disappearances, killings and torture cases that plagued Chechnya for more than a decade," said Tanya Lokshina, main author of the HRW's 120-page report. Full Story
Neo-Nazi jailed for terror, paedophile offencesPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 10:01amA court on Wednesday ordered a 16 year jail term against a neo-Nazi who made nail bombs designed to attack black, South Asian and Jewish people. A judge in Leeds told Martyn Gilleard, who was found guilty by a jury of terror offences Tuesday, that he believed he intended to cause "havoc" with the devices, which were found under a bed at his home. Full Story
Central Asia: Websites Unite To Protest Internet Censorship In UzbekistanPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 10:07amSeveral websites in Central Asia have launched what they call an "unlimited campaign" against Internet censorship to protest the increasingly restricted access in Uzbekistan to independent websites. The independent websites fergana.ru and uznews.net and an online news bulletin, "Uzbekistan's Civil Society," have placed a special emblem on their homepages that carries the inscription "This Site Is Blocked in Uzbekistan." Full Story
Child food poisoning cases rise to 70 in East SiberiaPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 10:15amThe number of children hit by a relatively uncommon stomach infection in the East Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk since last week has risen to 70, the region's chief sanitary doctor said Wednesday. A total of 46 children from the Solnechny summer camp were hospitalized on June 20 with the symptoms of yersiniosis, which is a bacterial infection usually contracted through the consumption of undercooked meat, milk, water or vegetables. Full Story
Georgia warns Russia, Abkhazia against establishing sea linksPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 10:19amGeorgia pledged Wednesday to appeal to international organizations if regular sea links are set up between its breakaway republic of Abkhazia and Russia. Russian media reported recently that regular passenger routes between Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi and Gagra in Abkhazia will be restarted on July 1. Full Story
Dagestani Police Head MurderedPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 10:34amA senior police officer in the restive republic of Dagestan was killed in an apparent contract murder, Dagestani police said Tuesday. Magomed-Arip Aliyev, police chief in the town of Buinaksk, died at the scene after armed assailants sprayed his Mercedes 500 sedan with automatic gunfire late Monday. The unidentified attackers fled the scene, regional police spokesman Mark Tolchinsky said. Full Story
Protesting police warn of airport, border crossings troublesPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 1:10pmProtests over wages by National Police officers could bring airports and border crossings to a standstill in July with officers threatening to scrupulously follow the rules - checking almost everyone entering or leaving the country, filing charges for all offences and filling in all the relevant paperwork. Full Story
EU proposes single European legal status for small firmsPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 1:40pmThe European Commission sought on Wednesday to make it easier for small and mid-sized companies to do business across Europe's borders with proposals for a single EU legal status. "If SMEs want to do business in several member states, they have to set up subsidiaries using different company forms," said EU Internal Market Commissioner Charlie McCreevy. Full Story
Hijacked Dutch ship released in Somalia, crew safePosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 1:55pmA Dutch shipping company says a freighter hijacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia a month ago is free, along with its crew, and sailing toward the Suez Canal. Spokesman Lars Walder of Reider Shipping BV says its freighter Amiya Scan and its crew of four Russians and five Filipinos are unharmed. Full Story
Afghan intelligence accuses Pakistan spy agency of Karzai attackPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 1:56pmAfghanistan's intelligence agency on Wednesday accused its Pakistani counterpart, ISI, of masterminding an assassination bid on President Hamid Karzai in April. The US-backed Karzai survived the April 27 attack at the annual military parade, but three Afghans were killed, one of them a parliamentarian. Full Story
Ecuador buys planes, radar for borderPosted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 6:03pmColombian rebels in northern Ecuador are an old problem that previous governments failed to confront, Ecuador's defense minister told The Associated Press, announcing additions to a growing arsenal aimed at securing the Andean nation's borders. Defense Minister Javier Ponce said in an interview that the government is buying six Israeli-made unmanned aerial vehicles and new radar so it can get a better handle on its borders, especially the troubled frontier with Colombia. Full Story
Courtesy Terrorism Research Center, Inc.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
CONFLICT & TERROR 06/25
Pirates take four European tourists hostagePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 7:54amPirates took four European tourists hostage after their yacht ran out of fuel off the coast of northern Somalia in the Red Sea's Gulf of Aden, according to a Somaliland official. Full Story
Indonesian police use water cannon in fuel protestPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:04amIndonesian police used water cannons to disperse about 500 protesters who threw rocks and bamboo sticks at police and broke a parliament building fence on Tuesday to protest against a hike in fuel prices. Full Story
Airstrikes kill 16 Taliban in Afghan eastPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:06amInternational troops killed 16 Taliban insurgents in airstrikes on Tuesday after the militants attacked a small town in eastern Afghanistan, a provincial police chief said. The Taliban have overrun a number of isolated small towns in the last two years, briefly taking control of local government buildings and forcing thinly spread Afghan and international forces to mobilise to chase them out. Full Story
Germany to send 1,000 more troops to AfghanistanPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:21amGermany plans to increase its military contingent in northern Afghanistan by up to 1,000 soldiers, Defence Minister Franz Josef Jung said Tuesday. The announcement follows months of pressure from Germany's NATO allies to step up its troop presence in Afghanistan and deploy soldiers in the south to help US, British and Canadian forces fight a tenacious Taliban insurgency. Full Story
Spanish court asked to charge 4 alleged NazisPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:22amA human rights group has asked a Spanish court to indict four alleged former Nazi concentration camp guards and seek their extradition from the United States over the deaths of Spanish citizens, a lawyer said Tuesday. The Brussels-based rights organization, Equipo Nizkor, names the suspects as John Demjanjuk, a retired, 88-yr-old auto worker in Ohio who is also being sought by Germany; Anton Tittjung, Josias Kumpf and Johann Leprich. Full Story
Thirty hurt in new religious protests in Indian KashmirPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:23amThirty people were hurt in Indian Kashmir Tuesday in fresh protests against the handing over of land to Hindu pilgrims visiting the Muslim-majority region, officials and witnesses said. The violent clashes in Srinagar, Indian Kashmir's summer capital, came a day after police apparently opened fire on stone-throwing youths, killing one and wounding two others. Full Story
Thai lawmakers begin debate on prime minister's futurePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:27amThe Thai prime minister fought for his political survival Monday as opponents began a no-confidence debate in Parliament and thousands of protesters continued to besiege his office. The opposition Democrat Party brought the no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and his cabinet in the wake of four weeks of street protests calling for the government's resignation, and the Senate opened debate on the measure Monday. FullStory
Iran says EU sanctions could hurt nuclear diplomacyPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:37amIran said on Tuesday new sanctions imposed on it by the European Union over its nuclear plans could hurt diplomatic efforts to resolve the row. The standoff between the West and the Islamic state has sparked fears of a military confrontation that would disrupt oil supplies. Last week a report said Israel had practiced for a possible strike against Iran's nuclear sites. Full Story
Britain removes Iran oppo group from terror listPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:44amBritish lawmakers formally removed an Iranian opposition group from the U.K.'s list of banned terror groups on Monday, after a seven-year campaign by the organization. Legislators approved the decision of the Court of Appeal, which ruled in May that the People's Mujahedeen of Iran should no longer be listed as a proscribed group. Full Story
EU sanctions illegal, says IranPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:46amIran has condemned as illegal new EU sanctions against Tehran over its uranium enrichment program. A foreign ministry spokesman said the sanctions would make Iran more determined to obtain the technology. Full Story
More German troops to AfghanistanPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:52amUnder pressure from NATO, Germany announced Tuesday that it would increase the level of troops available for duty in Afghanistan by almost one-third to 4,500. Franz Josef Jung, the defense minister, said the government wanted to increase the number of troops it can send to Afghanistan by 1,000, after a parliamentary mandate limiting the deployment to 3,500 expires in October. The increase will require the approval of the lower house of parliament, the Bundestag. Full Story
Rockets hit Israel, which says truce brokenPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 9:14amPolice say two Palestinian rockets hit southern Israel and Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's office says the cease-fire that took effect last week has been broken. Full Story
Pirates take four European tourists hostagePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 9:58amPirates took four European tourists hostage after their yacht ran out of fuel off the coast of northern Somalia in the Red Sea's Gulf of Aden, according to a Somaliland official. The pirates then took their hostages -- a man, woman, their child and their yacht's pilot -- into hills around the fishing town of Las Qoray, said Ahmed Yusuf Yasin, vice president of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland. Full Story
British reporter kidnapped on Afghan-Pakistan border is freedPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:02amBritain's Foreign Office says a British reporter kidnapped on the border of Afghanistan and Pakistan has been released after being held for three months. Sean Langan was working on a documentary for Britain's Channel 4 when he was seized. Full Story
France, Spain to approve text of immigration policyPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:08amFrance and Spain will approve the text for an immigration proposal at a mini-summit between the two nations on Friday in the northern Spanish city of Zaragoza, a Spanish government official said Monday. The text will serve as the basis to develop a European consensus on immigration before a European Union summit in October, Spain's secretary of state for the EU, Diego Lopez Garrido, told a news conference. Full Story
Spanish prime minister admits severity of slowdownPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:14amPrime Minister Josi Luis Rodrmguez Zapatero on Monday acknowledged Spain was facing a much sharper economic downturn than originally thought and predicted activity for 2008 would grow by under two percent, below official forecasts. Economy Minister Pedro Solbes has made mention of the word "crisis" to describe Spain's rapidly slowing economy almost a taboo, but Zapatero Monday said the semantic debate was of "little practical" importance. Full Story
West links drug war aid to Iranian nuclear impassePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:17amIranian forces have battled for years in the lonely canyons and deserts on the Afghan border against opium and heroin traffickers winning rare praise from the United States and aid from Europe for the fight along one of the world's busiest drug routes. Full Story
Explosion in Baghdad's Sadr City district kills 10Posted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:18amA bomb struck a municipal council building Tuesday in Baghdad's Shiite Sadr City district, killing four Americans, including two soldiers and two U.S. government civilian employees, U.S. officials said. At least six Iraqi civilians also died. Full Story
Zimbabwean opposition leader seeks refuge in Dutch embassyPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:47amAll of today's papers carry a photograph of Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai on their front pages and while the headlines vary, they all convey the same message: "safe in Dutch embassy". On Sunday evening, the Movement for Democratic Change leader sought refuge in the Dutch embassy in Harare, as he feared for his life and the lives of MDC supporters. Full Story
Pakistani Taliban said pulling out of captured townPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 11:52amPakistani Taliban militants began withdrawing from a northwestern town on Tuesday after capturing it the previous day in a bloody clash with rivals, a government and a security official said. Militants loyal to notorious Taliban commander Baitullah Mehsud seized the town of Jandola, on the main road into the South Waziristan ethnic Pashtun tribal region on the Afghan border. Full Story
Rebel commanders shun violence in India's northeastPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 11:55amA powerful separatist group in India's restive northeast suffered a blow when half a dozen of its senior commanders decided to shun violence and declared a ceasefire, officials said on Tuesday. At least six field commanders of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) in Assam state decided to put their guns away. Full Story
Suicide at farewell ceremony mars Sarkozy trip to IsraelPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 12:47pmAn Israeli police officer fatally shot himself in the head on Tuesday at an airport departure ceremony for French President Nicolas Sarkozy, authorities said, sparking fear of an assassination attempt and prompting bodyguards to whisk Sarkozy and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert away. The shooting occurred while a military band was playing, and the leaders apparently didn't hear anything. Dark-suited security men then quickly ushered Sarkozy up the stairs of his plane. In a panic, Sarkozy's wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, rushed up the stairs ahead of him. Full Story
Ecuador says may impose Colombia trade sanctionsPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 3:46pmEcuador said on Tuesday it may impose trade restrictions on Colombia, part of a diplomatic dispute stemming from a Colombian military raid on Ecuador's side of the border in March. The threat came after Colombia postponed this week's scheduled restoration of diplomatic ties with its neighbor. Full Story
Haiti president offers new prime ministerPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 3:49pmFor years her name has been rumored as a potential prime ministerial candidate. But each time the job was available, Michhle Pierre-Louis never got the call -- until now. Pierre-Louis, a highly-respected educator who is considered a trailblazer in international circles because of her work on behalf of Haiti's poor and youths, has been tapped by Haitian President Reni Prival to become prime minister. Full Story
Attacks in east Afghanistan up 40 percent, US saysPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 4:14pmInsurgent attacks in eastern Afghanistan rose by 40 percent in the first five months of this year over the same period a year ago, the U.S. commander of NATO forces in the region said on Tuesday. While insisting NATO was making progress in establishing stability, Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser said he was "nowhere near" being able to state those efforts had achieved irreversible momentum. Full Story
Argentine farmers end road blockadePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 4:18pmCountry roads and highways swelled with trucks bearing grains and gasoline during the weekend as Argentina's farmers cleared the highways after lifting their fourth strike in three months. While hope sprang eternal here in Santa Fe Province that food rationing and gasoline shortages would finally ease, the latest chapter in the political drama began playing out in Buenos Aires, where the embattled president, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, met with farm leaders late Monday. Full Story
Governors snub Bolivia referendumPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 4:27pmFive of Bolivia's nine regional governors have rejected President Evo Morales' plans for a vote on whether they should all stay in office. President Morales set 10 August for a recall referendum, aiming to gather support for his wide-ranging reforms. Full Story
Courtesy Terrorism Research Center, Inc.
Indonesian police use water cannon in fuel protestPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:04amIndonesian police used water cannons to disperse about 500 protesters who threw rocks and bamboo sticks at police and broke a parliament building fence on Tuesday to protest against a hike in fuel prices. Full Story
Airstrikes kill 16 Taliban in Afghan eastPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:06amInternational troops killed 16 Taliban insurgents in airstrikes on Tuesday after the militants attacked a small town in eastern Afghanistan, a provincial police chief said. The Taliban have overrun a number of isolated small towns in the last two years, briefly taking control of local government buildings and forcing thinly spread Afghan and international forces to mobilise to chase them out. Full Story
Germany to send 1,000 more troops to AfghanistanPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:21amGermany plans to increase its military contingent in northern Afghanistan by up to 1,000 soldiers, Defence Minister Franz Josef Jung said Tuesday. The announcement follows months of pressure from Germany's NATO allies to step up its troop presence in Afghanistan and deploy soldiers in the south to help US, British and Canadian forces fight a tenacious Taliban insurgency. Full Story
Spanish court asked to charge 4 alleged NazisPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:22amA human rights group has asked a Spanish court to indict four alleged former Nazi concentration camp guards and seek their extradition from the United States over the deaths of Spanish citizens, a lawyer said Tuesday. The Brussels-based rights organization, Equipo Nizkor, names the suspects as John Demjanjuk, a retired, 88-yr-old auto worker in Ohio who is also being sought by Germany; Anton Tittjung, Josias Kumpf and Johann Leprich. Full Story
Thirty hurt in new religious protests in Indian KashmirPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:23amThirty people were hurt in Indian Kashmir Tuesday in fresh protests against the handing over of land to Hindu pilgrims visiting the Muslim-majority region, officials and witnesses said. The violent clashes in Srinagar, Indian Kashmir's summer capital, came a day after police apparently opened fire on stone-throwing youths, killing one and wounding two others. Full Story
Thai lawmakers begin debate on prime minister's futurePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:27amThe Thai prime minister fought for his political survival Monday as opponents began a no-confidence debate in Parliament and thousands of protesters continued to besiege his office. The opposition Democrat Party brought the no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and his cabinet in the wake of four weeks of street protests calling for the government's resignation, and the Senate opened debate on the measure Monday. FullStory
Iran says EU sanctions could hurt nuclear diplomacyPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:37amIran said on Tuesday new sanctions imposed on it by the European Union over its nuclear plans could hurt diplomatic efforts to resolve the row. The standoff between the West and the Islamic state has sparked fears of a military confrontation that would disrupt oil supplies. Last week a report said Israel had practiced for a possible strike against Iran's nuclear sites. Full Story
Britain removes Iran oppo group from terror listPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:44amBritish lawmakers formally removed an Iranian opposition group from the U.K.'s list of banned terror groups on Monday, after a seven-year campaign by the organization. Legislators approved the decision of the Court of Appeal, which ruled in May that the People's Mujahedeen of Iran should no longer be listed as a proscribed group. Full Story
EU sanctions illegal, says IranPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:46amIran has condemned as illegal new EU sanctions against Tehran over its uranium enrichment program. A foreign ministry spokesman said the sanctions would make Iran more determined to obtain the technology. Full Story
More German troops to AfghanistanPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 8:52amUnder pressure from NATO, Germany announced Tuesday that it would increase the level of troops available for duty in Afghanistan by almost one-third to 4,500. Franz Josef Jung, the defense minister, said the government wanted to increase the number of troops it can send to Afghanistan by 1,000, after a parliamentary mandate limiting the deployment to 3,500 expires in October. The increase will require the approval of the lower house of parliament, the Bundestag. Full Story
Rockets hit Israel, which says truce brokenPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 9:14amPolice say two Palestinian rockets hit southern Israel and Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's office says the cease-fire that took effect last week has been broken. Full Story
Pirates take four European tourists hostagePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 9:58amPirates took four European tourists hostage after their yacht ran out of fuel off the coast of northern Somalia in the Red Sea's Gulf of Aden, according to a Somaliland official. The pirates then took their hostages -- a man, woman, their child and their yacht's pilot -- into hills around the fishing town of Las Qoray, said Ahmed Yusuf Yasin, vice president of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland. Full Story
British reporter kidnapped on Afghan-Pakistan border is freedPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:02amBritain's Foreign Office says a British reporter kidnapped on the border of Afghanistan and Pakistan has been released after being held for three months. Sean Langan was working on a documentary for Britain's Channel 4 when he was seized. Full Story
France, Spain to approve text of immigration policyPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:08amFrance and Spain will approve the text for an immigration proposal at a mini-summit between the two nations on Friday in the northern Spanish city of Zaragoza, a Spanish government official said Monday. The text will serve as the basis to develop a European consensus on immigration before a European Union summit in October, Spain's secretary of state for the EU, Diego Lopez Garrido, told a news conference. Full Story
Spanish prime minister admits severity of slowdownPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:14amPrime Minister Josi Luis Rodrmguez Zapatero on Monday acknowledged Spain was facing a much sharper economic downturn than originally thought and predicted activity for 2008 would grow by under two percent, below official forecasts. Economy Minister Pedro Solbes has made mention of the word "crisis" to describe Spain's rapidly slowing economy almost a taboo, but Zapatero Monday said the semantic debate was of "little practical" importance. Full Story
West links drug war aid to Iranian nuclear impassePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:17amIranian forces have battled for years in the lonely canyons and deserts on the Afghan border against opium and heroin traffickers winning rare praise from the United States and aid from Europe for the fight along one of the world's busiest drug routes. Full Story
Explosion in Baghdad's Sadr City district kills 10Posted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:18amA bomb struck a municipal council building Tuesday in Baghdad's Shiite Sadr City district, killing four Americans, including two soldiers and two U.S. government civilian employees, U.S. officials said. At least six Iraqi civilians also died. Full Story
Zimbabwean opposition leader seeks refuge in Dutch embassyPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 10:47amAll of today's papers carry a photograph of Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai on their front pages and while the headlines vary, they all convey the same message: "safe in Dutch embassy". On Sunday evening, the Movement for Democratic Change leader sought refuge in the Dutch embassy in Harare, as he feared for his life and the lives of MDC supporters. Full Story
Pakistani Taliban said pulling out of captured townPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 11:52amPakistani Taliban militants began withdrawing from a northwestern town on Tuesday after capturing it the previous day in a bloody clash with rivals, a government and a security official said. Militants loyal to notorious Taliban commander Baitullah Mehsud seized the town of Jandola, on the main road into the South Waziristan ethnic Pashtun tribal region on the Afghan border. Full Story
Rebel commanders shun violence in India's northeastPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 11:55amA powerful separatist group in India's restive northeast suffered a blow when half a dozen of its senior commanders decided to shun violence and declared a ceasefire, officials said on Tuesday. At least six field commanders of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) in Assam state decided to put their guns away. Full Story
Suicide at farewell ceremony mars Sarkozy trip to IsraelPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 12:47pmAn Israeli police officer fatally shot himself in the head on Tuesday at an airport departure ceremony for French President Nicolas Sarkozy, authorities said, sparking fear of an assassination attempt and prompting bodyguards to whisk Sarkozy and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert away. The shooting occurred while a military band was playing, and the leaders apparently didn't hear anything. Dark-suited security men then quickly ushered Sarkozy up the stairs of his plane. In a panic, Sarkozy's wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, rushed up the stairs ahead of him. Full Story
Ecuador says may impose Colombia trade sanctionsPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 3:46pmEcuador said on Tuesday it may impose trade restrictions on Colombia, part of a diplomatic dispute stemming from a Colombian military raid on Ecuador's side of the border in March. The threat came after Colombia postponed this week's scheduled restoration of diplomatic ties with its neighbor. Full Story
Haiti president offers new prime ministerPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 3:49pmFor years her name has been rumored as a potential prime ministerial candidate. But each time the job was available, Michhle Pierre-Louis never got the call -- until now. Pierre-Louis, a highly-respected educator who is considered a trailblazer in international circles because of her work on behalf of Haiti's poor and youths, has been tapped by Haitian President Reni Prival to become prime minister. Full Story
Attacks in east Afghanistan up 40 percent, US saysPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 4:14pmInsurgent attacks in eastern Afghanistan rose by 40 percent in the first five months of this year over the same period a year ago, the U.S. commander of NATO forces in the region said on Tuesday. While insisting NATO was making progress in establishing stability, Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser said he was "nowhere near" being able to state those efforts had achieved irreversible momentum. Full Story
Argentine farmers end road blockadePosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 4:18pmCountry roads and highways swelled with trucks bearing grains and gasoline during the weekend as Argentina's farmers cleared the highways after lifting their fourth strike in three months. While hope sprang eternal here in Santa Fe Province that food rationing and gasoline shortages would finally ease, the latest chapter in the political drama began playing out in Buenos Aires, where the embattled president, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, met with farm leaders late Monday. Full Story
Governors snub Bolivia referendumPosted on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 4:27pmFive of Bolivia's nine regional governors have rejected President Evo Morales' plans for a vote on whether they should all stay in office. President Morales set 10 August for a recall referendum, aiming to gather support for his wide-ranging reforms. Full Story
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Tuesday, June 24, 2008
CONFLICT & TERROR 06/24
Sri Lanka says at least 29 killed in fresh fightingPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:02amHeavy fighting between government troops and Tamil Tiger rebels across Sri Lanka's northern regions left at least 29 combatants dead, the defence ministry said on Monday. Full Story
French workers kidnapped in NigerPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:23amTuareg-led rebels say they have abducted four French workers from a uranium mine in northern Niger. In Niger's capital, Niamey, the government confirmed the kidnapping and said everything was being done to ensure the release of the hostages. Full Story
Sarkozy urges settlement freezePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:24amFrench President Nicolas Sarkozy has called for an end to Jewish settlement construction on Palestinian land, in an address to Israeli MPs. He told the Israeli Knesset that without this there would be no lasting peace in the Middle East. Full Story
Councils warned over spying lawsPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:32amCouncils in England have been urged to review the way they use surveillance powers to investigate suspected crime. Under laws brought in to help fight terrorism, councils can access phone and e-mail records and use surveillance to detect or stop a criminal offence. Full Story
Brown focusing on social mobilityPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:52amGordon Brown is to set out his vision of increasing fairness and social mobility, in what Downing Street says is a major policy speech. Parents who agree to options such as treating children with behavioural difficulties or accepting free childcare places will receive #200. Full Story
German business confidence falls in JunePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:54amGerman business confidence fell in June, dragged down by concerns over record high oil prices, a closely watched survey of attitudes in Europe's biggest economy showed Monday. "Dark clouds are gathering over the German economy," said Andreas Rees, chief German economist at UniCredit. "Today's business barometer showed that it is time to say good bye to the so-far outstanding resilience of 'Made in Germany.'" Full Story
German airline Lufthansa hit by warning strikesPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:59amDomestic and international services by the German airline Lufthansa were hit by warning strikes on Monday as it negotiated pay agreements, the airline and trade union Verdi said. Several flights, including some to Paris were canceled as a result, a Lufthansa spokeswoman said. Full Story
Militants abduct 17 Pakistan police in Khyber PassPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:08amSuspected pro-Taliban militants have kidnapped 17 Pakistani policemen from posts on the Khyber Pass, the latest security incident on the vital supply route for Western forces in Afghanistan. Militants attacked four checkposts on Sunday night on the winding road through the pass which leads to the Afghan border, kidnapping the policemen and wounding one in a brief exchange of fire, a senior government official in the region said. Full Story
Qantas flights grounded by strikePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:09amSix Qantas flights have been cancelled and 18 cancellations are expected on Tuesday as engineers begin a series of strikes over pay. The Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association (ALAEA) last week announced action in five major cities after failing to agree a pay deal. Full Story
Pakistan Reports New Bird Flu OutbreakPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:11amPakistani authorities have reported a new outbreak of bird flu at a poultry farm in the country's northwest. The authorities said Sunday tests conducted at laboratories in Islamabad confirmed the presence of the deadly H5N1 strain of avian flu at a farm in Swabi district of the North West Frontier Province. Full Story
Thai Senate blasts government's performancePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:13amMembers of the Thai Senate on Monday blasted the government's four-month performance as thousands of protestors laid siege to the cabinet's offices demanding its resignation. "After four months in office, the government's performance has been a complete failure," Senator Sumon Sathariyawat said, launching a debate on the performance of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and his ministers, who assumed their posts February 6. Full Story
US-led forces kill 55 militants in AfghanistanPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:21amUS-led coalition forces killed 55 militants including three "extremist leaders" in fighting near the insurgency-hit Afghan-Pakistani border, the coalition said in a statement on Monday. The fighting erupted in the eastern province of Paktika after rebels attacked a coalition patrol on Friday, the statement said, while a coalition spokesman said the casualties occurred over the past three days. Full Story
12 officials fired over earthquake responsePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:24amChina fired 12 officials for dereliction of duty and misuse of earthquake relief, a top anti-corruption official said Monday. Supervision Minister Ma Wen said her department had received 1,178 complaints involving officials' response to the May 12 quake in Sichuan province and had dealt with more than 1,000 of them. Full Story
Malaysia releases Sri Lankan accused of nuclear linksPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:26amMalaysia said on Monday it had released a Sri Lankan man held for four years over alleged links with a nuclear black market run by Pakistan's Abdul Qadeer Khan, saying he did not pose any threat. Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar said Buhary Syed Abu Tahir remained in the country and would be monitored. Full Story
Female suicide bomber in Iraq kills 15, wounds 40Posted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9:08amA female suicide bomber concealing explosives beneath her black robe struck outside a government complex northeast of Baghdad on Sunday, killing at least 15 people and wounding more than 40, U.S. and Iraqi officials said. Full Story
Fighting rages in north Lebanon for 2nd dayPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9:21amSecurity sources say nine people killed, 50 wounded in clashes in Tripoli. Fighting continues on outskirts of mainly Sunni Muslim port city despite ceasefire agreement between government, gunmen close to Hizbullah-led opposition. Full Story
Talks on new Iraq oil law to resume this weekPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9:35amOfficials from the Iraqi central government and the self-ruled Kurdish region in the north will resume talks this week in Baghdad to try to settle their differences over a proposed new oil law, a Kurdish spokesman said Sunday. Full Story
U.N. nuclear inspectors arrive in SyriaPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9:56amSenior U.N. inspectors arrived in Syria on Sunday to investigate U.S. allegations that Damascus was building a clandestine nuclear reactor for military purposes before an Israel air strike destroyed it in September. Full Story
North Korea to submit nuclear declaration on ThursdayPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:19amNorth Korea is scheduled to submit a long-awaited declaration of its nuclear programmes on Thursday, six-party talks sources said Monday, according to Kyodo News. Diplomatic sources in Beijing told the Japanese agency that the declaration, a key part of a nuclear disarmament deal, would be handed to Chinese negotiators on June 26. Full Story
Pakistan court disqualifies Sharif from by-electionPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:21amA Pakistani court disqualified former prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday from contesting this week's by-election, an aide and his lawyers said. Sharif was barred from the general election in February because he had been convicted for the hijacking of then army chief General Pervez Musharraf's plane in 1999. Full Story
Raids hit EU 'people-smugglers'Posted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 2:52pmA pan-Europe police operation has led to the arrest of 75 people suspected of trafficking Iraqi Kurds into the EU. The suspects, believed to belong to a network of Iraqi nationals, were detained in nine European countries. Full Story
Council workers vote for strikePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 2:54pmCouncil workers have voted in favour of industrial action in a dispute over pay, the union Unison has announced. Members in England, Wales and Northern Ireland voted by 55% to strike, after rejecting a 2.45% pay offer. Full Story
EU lifts Cuba sanctions: presidencyPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 2:58pmThe European Union officially lifted its sanctions against Cuba, the Slovenian presidency of the bloc said Monday, in the hope of encouraging democracy on the island in the post-Fidel Castro era. "The problems that came up during the day have been resolved. The decision has been adopted," a spokesman for the presidency said, referring to a procedural obstacle that had briefly delayed the move. Full Story
France's Sarkozy offers in Israel to broker peacePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 3:00pmFrench President Nicolas Sarkozy put himself forward on Monday as a possible Middle East peace broker, offering in a speech to Israel's parliament to help reach agreement and mobilize French troops if necessary. "I ask you to trust us because we want to help you," said Sarkozy, the first French president to address the Knesset since Francois Mitterrand in 1982. Full Story
Canadian aided foiled UK bomb plot, court hearsPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 3:02pmA Canadian software developer designed a remote bomb detonator he called the "hi-fi digimonster" to be used in planned attacks in the United Kingdom, an Ottawa court heard on Monday. In a highly detailed opening statement, prosecutor David McKercher said Momin Khawaja, 29, was "directly involved" in the British bomb plot, and met with members of a terrorist cell during visits to the U.K. in 2003 and 2004. Full Story
Pakistani Taliban seize tribal town, six killedPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:14pmPakistani militants loyal to Taliban commander Baitullah Mehsud captured a town at the entrance to the South Waziristan tribal region on Monday after a battle with pro-government tribesmen, police said. At least six people, four tribesmen and two militants, were killed in the fighting for control of Jandola town, the gateway to Waziristan, they said. Full Story
Colombian rebels release video of abducted congressmanPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:29pmColombia's main rebel group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, has released a video of an abducted congressman as proof the politician is alive. The video, broadcast Saturday on Colombian TV Caracol, showed Sigifredo Lopez, who was kidnapped in 2002 with 11 other politicians in the city of Santiago de Cali. Full Story
Colombia's main oil pipeline closed after guerrilla attackPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:31pmColombia's main oil pipeline was closed on Monday, after a dynamite attack on Saturday by the Farc guerrilla movement, the military authorities said. Some 100,000 barrels per day of crude oil is transported along the 780 kilometre pipeline, which is located in the Tibu area, 650 km northeast of Bogota. Full Story
Paraguay's president quits, but Congress may not accept resignationPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:33pmParaguay's outgoing President Nicanor Duarte resigned Monday two months before his term ends _ but opposition parties in Congress may not accept the move. Duarte wants to take a seat in Paraguay's Senate with the ruling Colorado Party. President-elect Fernando Lugo, who won last April's election with the opposition coalition Patriotic Alliance for Change, takes office on Aug. 15. He has supported Duarte's right to resign. Full Story
Trial begins for Canadian accused of role in 2004 UK bombing plotsPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:39pmA man accused of participating in an al-Qaida-inspired cell that plotted bombings in Britain pleaded not guilty Monday as his trial began under heavy security. Momin Khawaja, a 29-year-old Canadian-born software developer, is the first man to be charged under Canada's Anti-Terrorism Act. Khawaja faces seven terrorism-related charges that could put him in prison for life if he's convicted. Full Story
President of Ecuador's Constitutional Assembly resignsPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:49pmThe president of Ecuador's Constitutional Assembly has resigned just weeks before the Assembly's July 26 deadline to draft a new constitution. Assembly President Alberto Acosta has not given any reasons for his resignation, which was included on the assembly's agenda for Monday. Full Story
Courtesy Terrorism Research Center, Inc.
French workers kidnapped in NigerPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:23amTuareg-led rebels say they have abducted four French workers from a uranium mine in northern Niger. In Niger's capital, Niamey, the government confirmed the kidnapping and said everything was being done to ensure the release of the hostages. Full Story
Sarkozy urges settlement freezePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:24amFrench President Nicolas Sarkozy has called for an end to Jewish settlement construction on Palestinian land, in an address to Israeli MPs. He told the Israeli Knesset that without this there would be no lasting peace in the Middle East. Full Story
Councils warned over spying lawsPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:32amCouncils in England have been urged to review the way they use surveillance powers to investigate suspected crime. Under laws brought in to help fight terrorism, councils can access phone and e-mail records and use surveillance to detect or stop a criminal offence. Full Story
Brown focusing on social mobilityPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:52amGordon Brown is to set out his vision of increasing fairness and social mobility, in what Downing Street says is a major policy speech. Parents who agree to options such as treating children with behavioural difficulties or accepting free childcare places will receive #200. Full Story
German business confidence falls in JunePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:54amGerman business confidence fell in June, dragged down by concerns over record high oil prices, a closely watched survey of attitudes in Europe's biggest economy showed Monday. "Dark clouds are gathering over the German economy," said Andreas Rees, chief German economist at UniCredit. "Today's business barometer showed that it is time to say good bye to the so-far outstanding resilience of 'Made in Germany.'" Full Story
German airline Lufthansa hit by warning strikesPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 7:59amDomestic and international services by the German airline Lufthansa were hit by warning strikes on Monday as it negotiated pay agreements, the airline and trade union Verdi said. Several flights, including some to Paris were canceled as a result, a Lufthansa spokeswoman said. Full Story
Militants abduct 17 Pakistan police in Khyber PassPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:08amSuspected pro-Taliban militants have kidnapped 17 Pakistani policemen from posts on the Khyber Pass, the latest security incident on the vital supply route for Western forces in Afghanistan. Militants attacked four checkposts on Sunday night on the winding road through the pass which leads to the Afghan border, kidnapping the policemen and wounding one in a brief exchange of fire, a senior government official in the region said. Full Story
Qantas flights grounded by strikePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:09amSix Qantas flights have been cancelled and 18 cancellations are expected on Tuesday as engineers begin a series of strikes over pay. The Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association (ALAEA) last week announced action in five major cities after failing to agree a pay deal. Full Story
Pakistan Reports New Bird Flu OutbreakPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:11amPakistani authorities have reported a new outbreak of bird flu at a poultry farm in the country's northwest. The authorities said Sunday tests conducted at laboratories in Islamabad confirmed the presence of the deadly H5N1 strain of avian flu at a farm in Swabi district of the North West Frontier Province. Full Story
Thai Senate blasts government's performancePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:13amMembers of the Thai Senate on Monday blasted the government's four-month performance as thousands of protestors laid siege to the cabinet's offices demanding its resignation. "After four months in office, the government's performance has been a complete failure," Senator Sumon Sathariyawat said, launching a debate on the performance of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and his ministers, who assumed their posts February 6. Full Story
US-led forces kill 55 militants in AfghanistanPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:21amUS-led coalition forces killed 55 militants including three "extremist leaders" in fighting near the insurgency-hit Afghan-Pakistani border, the coalition said in a statement on Monday. The fighting erupted in the eastern province of Paktika after rebels attacked a coalition patrol on Friday, the statement said, while a coalition spokesman said the casualties occurred over the past three days. Full Story
12 officials fired over earthquake responsePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:24amChina fired 12 officials for dereliction of duty and misuse of earthquake relief, a top anti-corruption official said Monday. Supervision Minister Ma Wen said her department had received 1,178 complaints involving officials' response to the May 12 quake in Sichuan province and had dealt with more than 1,000 of them. Full Story
Malaysia releases Sri Lankan accused of nuclear linksPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 8:26amMalaysia said on Monday it had released a Sri Lankan man held for four years over alleged links with a nuclear black market run by Pakistan's Abdul Qadeer Khan, saying he did not pose any threat. Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar said Buhary Syed Abu Tahir remained in the country and would be monitored. Full Story
Female suicide bomber in Iraq kills 15, wounds 40Posted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9:08amA female suicide bomber concealing explosives beneath her black robe struck outside a government complex northeast of Baghdad on Sunday, killing at least 15 people and wounding more than 40, U.S. and Iraqi officials said. Full Story
Fighting rages in north Lebanon for 2nd dayPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9:21amSecurity sources say nine people killed, 50 wounded in clashes in Tripoli. Fighting continues on outskirts of mainly Sunni Muslim port city despite ceasefire agreement between government, gunmen close to Hizbullah-led opposition. Full Story
Talks on new Iraq oil law to resume this weekPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9:35amOfficials from the Iraqi central government and the self-ruled Kurdish region in the north will resume talks this week in Baghdad to try to settle their differences over a proposed new oil law, a Kurdish spokesman said Sunday. Full Story
U.N. nuclear inspectors arrive in SyriaPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 9:56amSenior U.N. inspectors arrived in Syria on Sunday to investigate U.S. allegations that Damascus was building a clandestine nuclear reactor for military purposes before an Israel air strike destroyed it in September. Full Story
North Korea to submit nuclear declaration on ThursdayPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:19amNorth Korea is scheduled to submit a long-awaited declaration of its nuclear programmes on Thursday, six-party talks sources said Monday, according to Kyodo News. Diplomatic sources in Beijing told the Japanese agency that the declaration, a key part of a nuclear disarmament deal, would be handed to Chinese negotiators on June 26. Full Story
Pakistan court disqualifies Sharif from by-electionPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:21amA Pakistani court disqualified former prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday from contesting this week's by-election, an aide and his lawyers said. Sharif was barred from the general election in February because he had been convicted for the hijacking of then army chief General Pervez Musharraf's plane in 1999. Full Story
Raids hit EU 'people-smugglers'Posted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 2:52pmA pan-Europe police operation has led to the arrest of 75 people suspected of trafficking Iraqi Kurds into the EU. The suspects, believed to belong to a network of Iraqi nationals, were detained in nine European countries. Full Story
Council workers vote for strikePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 2:54pmCouncil workers have voted in favour of industrial action in a dispute over pay, the union Unison has announced. Members in England, Wales and Northern Ireland voted by 55% to strike, after rejecting a 2.45% pay offer. Full Story
EU lifts Cuba sanctions: presidencyPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 2:58pmThe European Union officially lifted its sanctions against Cuba, the Slovenian presidency of the bloc said Monday, in the hope of encouraging democracy on the island in the post-Fidel Castro era. "The problems that came up during the day have been resolved. The decision has been adopted," a spokesman for the presidency said, referring to a procedural obstacle that had briefly delayed the move. Full Story
France's Sarkozy offers in Israel to broker peacePosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 3:00pmFrench President Nicolas Sarkozy put himself forward on Monday as a possible Middle East peace broker, offering in a speech to Israel's parliament to help reach agreement and mobilize French troops if necessary. "I ask you to trust us because we want to help you," said Sarkozy, the first French president to address the Knesset since Francois Mitterrand in 1982. Full Story
Canadian aided foiled UK bomb plot, court hearsPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 3:02pmA Canadian software developer designed a remote bomb detonator he called the "hi-fi digimonster" to be used in planned attacks in the United Kingdom, an Ottawa court heard on Monday. In a highly detailed opening statement, prosecutor David McKercher said Momin Khawaja, 29, was "directly involved" in the British bomb plot, and met with members of a terrorist cell during visits to the U.K. in 2003 and 2004. Full Story
Pakistani Taliban seize tribal town, six killedPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:14pmPakistani militants loyal to Taliban commander Baitullah Mehsud captured a town at the entrance to the South Waziristan tribal region on Monday after a battle with pro-government tribesmen, police said. At least six people, four tribesmen and two militants, were killed in the fighting for control of Jandola town, the gateway to Waziristan, they said. Full Story
Colombian rebels release video of abducted congressmanPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:29pmColombia's main rebel group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, has released a video of an abducted congressman as proof the politician is alive. The video, broadcast Saturday on Colombian TV Caracol, showed Sigifredo Lopez, who was kidnapped in 2002 with 11 other politicians in the city of Santiago de Cali. Full Story
Colombia's main oil pipeline closed after guerrilla attackPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:31pmColombia's main oil pipeline was closed on Monday, after a dynamite attack on Saturday by the Farc guerrilla movement, the military authorities said. Some 100,000 barrels per day of crude oil is transported along the 780 kilometre pipeline, which is located in the Tibu area, 650 km northeast of Bogota. Full Story
Paraguay's president quits, but Congress may not accept resignationPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:33pmParaguay's outgoing President Nicanor Duarte resigned Monday two months before his term ends _ but opposition parties in Congress may not accept the move. Duarte wants to take a seat in Paraguay's Senate with the ruling Colorado Party. President-elect Fernando Lugo, who won last April's election with the opposition coalition Patriotic Alliance for Change, takes office on Aug. 15. He has supported Duarte's right to resign. Full Story
Trial begins for Canadian accused of role in 2004 UK bombing plotsPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:39pmA man accused of participating in an al-Qaida-inspired cell that plotted bombings in Britain pleaded not guilty Monday as his trial began under heavy security. Momin Khawaja, a 29-year-old Canadian-born software developer, is the first man to be charged under Canada's Anti-Terrorism Act. Khawaja faces seven terrorism-related charges that could put him in prison for life if he's convicted. Full Story
President of Ecuador's Constitutional Assembly resignsPosted on Monday, June 23, 2008 at 4:49pmThe president of Ecuador's Constitutional Assembly has resigned just weeks before the Assembly's July 26 deadline to draft a new constitution. Assembly President Alberto Acosta has not given any reasons for his resignation, which was included on the assembly's agenda for Monday. Full Story
Courtesy Terrorism Research Center, Inc.
Monday, June 23, 2008
CONFLICT & TERROR 06/23 WEEK IN REVIEW
EU agrees to lift 5-year-old sanctions on CubaPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 8:05amThe European Union on Thursday agreed to lift its diplomatic sanctions against Cuba, but imposed tough conditions on the communist island to maintain sanction-free relations, officials said. The U.S., which has maintained a decades-long trade embargo against Cuba, criticized the move, saying there were no significant signs the communist island was easing a dictatorship. An independent analyst predicted it would have no affect on U.S. policy toward the Caribbean island. Full Story
Bird flu mistaken as dengue, typhoid in IndonesiaPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 8:34amSome cases of human bird flu in Indonesia have been variously misdiagnosed as dengue fever and typhoid, resulting in the late administration of drugs, a leading doctor in the country said on Friday. Indonesia has had the highest number of human H5N1 cases in the world and while mortality rates are around 60 percent in other places, the figure is highest, or at 81 percent, in Indonesia. Full Story
Afghans count Taliban dead in valley near KandaharPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 8:39amNATO and Afghan forces held mopping up operations, hunting Taliban fighters and burying the dead on Friday, after an air and ground offensive routed hundreds of insurgents from a valley near Kandahar city. The allies mounted the offensive on Wednesday after the Taliban took control of the Arghandab valley, 20 kms (12 miles) northwest of Kandahar. Full Story
Protesters march in Thai capitalPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 8:47amSeveral thousand protesters have converged on government offices in the Thai capital Bangkok to demand that the government step down. Police lined the streets as crowds led by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) marched in Bangkok. Full Story
Army: Sri Lanka fighting kills 29Posted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:01amFighting between the government forces and Tamil Tiger rebels along the northern front lines killed 26 rebels and three government soldiers, the military said Friday. The newly reported fighting took place in Vavuniya, Mannar, Welioya and Jaffna regions bordering the rebels' de facto state in the north Thursday, said a defense ministry official, speaking on condition of anonymity due to government regulation. Full Story
Philippines braces for powerful tropical stormPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:04amA powerful tropical storm is sweeping across the Philippine Sea and is expected to lash the eastern edge of the country over the weekend, the government weather station said. At 4:00am Friday (local time), the storm, called Fengshen, was 180 kilometres east of the central island of Samar, moving north-west at 15 kilometres per hour, the weather bureau said. Full Story
Kidnapped Frenchman released in AfghanistanPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:06amA French businessman who was abducted in southern Afghanistan last month has been released safely along with two Afghan colleagues, the French Foreign Ministry announced Friday. Johan Freckhaus, 37, was released on Thursday, nearly a month after he was abducted on his way from Kandahar to Kabul along with the two Afghan colleagues. Full Story
Nepal parties fail to break post-monarchy deadlockPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:08amNepal's Maoists and the country's biggest mainstream party said Friday they were still at odds over who should lead a new government following the abolition of the monarchy. The Maoists and the centrist Nepali Congress -- Nepal's most powerful political groups -- have been unable to progress on naming the Himalayan nation's first president since the monarchy was abolished over three weeks ago. Full Story
Czech threat looms for EU treatyPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:18amEU leaders have admitted that the Czech Republic may not be able to ratify the Lisbon Treaty, which has already been rejected by the Irish. The declaration, to be agreed at an EU summit in Brussels, will note that the Czechs cannot complete ratification for the moment, officials said. Full Story
Hezbollah may attack Canadian JewsPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:19amDisturbing "chatter" picked up by intelligence agencies about attacks against Jewish targets by Canadian-linked supporters of Hezbollah has prompted an alert to Canada's Jewish community urging added caution. Full Story
China 'arrests' fake terroristsPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:22amThree men who reportedly posed as terrorists to try to extort more than $300,000 (#150,000) have been arrested in the Chinese Olympic city of Qingdao. A company in the city is said to have received a phone call last week from a man who claimed he was a member of an "East Turkestan independence group". Full Story
US targets Hezbollah links in VenezuelaPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:28amA Lebanese-born businessman living in Venezuela denied U.S. government accusations that he has helped financed Hezbollah, saying he doesn't know anyone in the group. Full Story
Bahrain Shiites protest articles on their clericPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:34amMore than 10,000 Shiites marched Thursday in this tiny Sunni-ruled Gulf country to protest newspaper articles deemed insulting to their top cleric. The protesters were mostly supporters of the Shiite opposition Al-Wefaq parliamentary bloc, which holds 17 seats in the 40-member assembly. They marched along the highway just outside the capital of Manama, chanting slogans in support of Bahrain's top Shiite cleric, Sheik Isa Qassim. No violence was reported. Full Story
Abu Hamza loses extradition fightPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:48amJailed Muslim cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri has lost his High Court bid against extradition to the US where he faces terror-related charges. The Egyptian-born preacher is currently serving a seven-year jail term in the UK for inciting murder and race hate. Full Story
Israel held military drill as prep for attack on IranPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:49amU.S. officials say Israel carried out a large military exercise this month that appeared to be a rehearsal for a potential bombing attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, The New York Times reported on Friday. Full Story
Iran president claims US assassination plotPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:54amIranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Thursday accused the United States of plotting to kidnap and assassinate him during a visit to Iraq, state media reported. Full Story
Iran warns of strong blow' if Israel attacksPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:58amTeheran Friday warned its arch-enemy Israel of a strong blow if it takes forceful measures, after the US media reported military exercises by the Jewish state were a possible practice for a strike against Iran. Full Story
Treaty on hold until court rulesPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 10:28amGordon Brown has said Britain will not ratify the EU Treaty until the High Court has ruled on a separate bid to force a British referendum. It followed a High Court judge's letter expressing surprise ministers appeared to be pressing ahead with ratification. Full Story
Hizbullah 'needs its arms' beyond ShebaaPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 10:35amHizbullah on Thursday said Lebanon would still need its armed presence even if Israel finally quit the disputed Shebaa Farms region in the South. Full Story
More weapons caches turning up in IraqPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 10:47amWeapons caches are turning up with increasing frequency in public places in Iraq from a bakery to a fish farm as recent security gains embolden more civilians to come forward with tips, U.S. and Iraqi military officials say. Full Story
Muslim convert 'recruits' inmatesPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 11:02amA former British National Party activist who converted to Islam in prison is trying to radicalise young prisoners, the BBC can reveal. Inmate Stephen Jones is being held in a segregation unit at Whitemoor Prison, Cambridgeshire, the BBC has been told. Full Story
British mercenary 'was to head E.Guinea's presidential guard'Posted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 12:21pmBritish mercenary Simon Mann had been tapped to head Equatorial Guinea's presidential guard after a 2004 plot to topple the west African nation's leader, the court trying his case learned Friday. Documents shown at the trial of Mann and his co-accused indicate that he would also have been in charge of recruiting guard members and given exclusive rights in a number of economic sectors. Full Story
China 'frees Tibetan protesters'Posted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 12:33pmChina has released more than 1,000 people involved in unrest in Tibet earlier this year, Chinese media say. The official Xinhua news agency quoted a senior official saying those freed had been held for minor offences connected with the unrest in March. Full Story
Japan apologises over Taiwan boat incidentPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 12:39pmA Japanese envoy on Friday apologised to the captain of a Taiwanese fishing boat which sank after colliding with a Japanese patrol ship near disputed islets in the East China Sea. "I am here today to express our sincere apology to the captain," Hitoshi Funamachi, Japan's deputy de facto ambassador to Taiwan, told reporters through an interpreter. Full Story
Mayors clash over Olympic costsPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 1:56pmLondon Mayor Boris Johnson has clashed with his predecessor Ken Livingstone over the funding of the 2012 Olympics. Mr Johnson told BBC Radio 4 a deal signed by Mr Livingstone on cost over-runs was "far from clear" and he doubted its existence. Full Story
Irish premier sorry for treaty 'no' votePosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 2:19pmIreland's prime minister said Friday he regretted that Irish voters rejected the European Union's reform treaty, a result that has plunged the EU into political crisis. An EU survey released Friday found that the main reason the Irish voted "no" was that they did not understand the treaty. Full Story
Bias charges won't stop Berlusconi trial: judgePosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 2:24pmA corruption trial against Silvio Berlusconi and British lawyer David Mills will go ahead in July despite the Italian premier's attempts to have it stopped by accusing the court of bias, the judge said on Friday. The 71-year-old prime minister is charged with paying Mills $600,000 in 1997, from alleged "secret funds" held by his media empire Mediaset, to withhold incriminating details of his business dealings. Both of them deny any wrongdoing. Full Story
Spain's conservative opposition moves to end internal crisisPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 2:40pmSpain's conservative opposition Popular Party sought to heal its internal divisions at a national convention that opened Friday, three months after it suffered its second successive election defeat. "We have not come here to fight one another," the mayor of the Mediterranean city of Valencia, Rita Berbera, said in an inaugural speech to the three-day gathering. "We are here to fight socialism and return to government." Full Story
Partygoers And Cops Killed In StampedePosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:16amAt least nine young people and three police officer have been trampled to death during a raid on a packed nightclub in Mexico City. Full Story
'Ball of fire' if Iran attacked: IAEA chiefPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:17amUN atomic watchdog chief Mohamed ElBaradei warned that any attack on Iran would transform the region into a "ball of fire," in an interview with Al-Arabiya television broadcast on Saturday. His comments come after US media reported that Israeli jet pilots trained for a possible strike on Iranian nuclear sites. Full Story
Afghan Bomb Kills 4 Troops From U.S.-Led ForcePosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:18amA bomb killed four troops from the U.S.-led coalition in southern Afghanistan on Saturday, one of the deadliest attacks on foreign forces this year. The explosion seriously wounded two other troops as they were conducting operations in Kandahar province, a coalition statement said. It didn't release the nationalities of the victims or other details. Full Story
Iran dismisses any halt of nuclear workPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:18amIran appeared to dismiss on Saturday any suggestion of freezing its nuclear enrichment activities, which the West suspects are aimed at making bombs. Diplomats said on Friday six major powers had offered Tehran preliminary talks on its nuclear work, on condition it limits uranium enrichment to current levels for six weeks in exchange for a freeze on moves towards harsher sanctions. Full Story
Sikhs in Mumbai hold anti-Dera protests, halt trainsPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:19amA large number of Sikhs blocked railway tracks in Mumbai and a shutdown was observed in areas dominated by the community on Saturday, a day after clashes between Sikh protesters and bodyguards of Dera Sacha Sauda sect chief left one person dead and two injured. Members of the community squatted on railway tracks near Mulund station and stopped suburban and long distance train services from 11:30 am, causing hardship to thousands of office-goers and college students. Full Story
Musharraf says Pak parliament free to impeach himPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:20amPakistan President Pervez Musharraf has said that the country's parliament was free to bring forth and debate an impeachment motion against him. Talking to PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and opposition leader Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, he said he would continue supporting the democratic process and accept the supremacy of parliament. Full Story
Bosnian Serb war crimes suspect transfered to The Hague: reportPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:21amBosnian Serb Stojan Zupljanin, one of the most wanted war crimes suspects, was transferred on Saturday to The Hague where the UN war crimes tribunal sits, independent B92 radio reported. Zupljanin, arrested last week near Belgrade, was brought to Belgrade airport shortly after 4:00 am (0200 GMT), the report said. Full Story
Chavez refutes US Hezbollah chargesPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:22amPresident Hugo Chavez says the United States is trying to bring him before an international court.Chavez says the United States is using accusations that the Venezuelan government is supporting the Lebanese group Hezbollah to "see if the world will make a move" against him. The U.S. has charged a Venezuelan official and others with helping Hezbollah. Washington considers the armed group and political party in Lebanon a terrorist organization. Full Story
UN nuke chief urges Syria to cooperatePosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:23amThe U.N. nuclear watchdog chief urged Syria on Friday to show "transparency" and cooperate with inspectors from the world agency visiting the Mideast country this weekend. It marks the start of an international fact check of U.S. and Israeli assertions that Damascus had tried to build a plutonium-producing facility under the radar of the international community. Full Story
Maoists quit Nepal government, demand PM's resignationPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:24amNepal was thrown into political limbo on Saturday after the Maoists quit the interim government of the newly republican nation and demanded the prime minister's resignation.Nepal's former Maoist rebels stormed out of the government late on Friday, accusing a rival party of clinging to power despite being defeated in landmark elections in the Himalayan country two months ago. Full Story
China vows to 'smash' Dalai LamaPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:25amThe Olympic torch relay has finished in Tibet with Government officials vowing to smash the Dalai Lama. Amid tight security, the torch arrived in front of Potala Palace, the Dalai Lama's former chief residence, carried by Caidan Zhuoma, a famous Tibetan singer. Full Story
SLAF MI-24 helicopters raid LTTE gathering - MannarPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:26amSri Lanka Air Force MI-24 helicopter gun ships raided a gathering place of the LTTE terrorists located in general area north of Andankulam this afternoon, June 21. Full Story
Russian strategic bombers patrol Arctic, Atlantic OceansPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:27amFour Russian strategic bombers are conducting an aerial patrol of the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, the Itar-Tass news agency reported on Friday. Full Story
Thai PM Will Not Resign in Face of ProtestsPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:01pmThai officials say Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej will not resign despite massive street protests calling for his ouster. Full Story
Bahrain arrests Qaeda suspects: policePosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:06pmPolice in Bahrain said on Saturday one man was arrested and another freed on bail after they were accused of cooperating with and funding a foreign terrorist group, a reference to Al-Qaeda. Full Story
Navy's newest submarine christenedPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:33pmThe Navy's newest attack submarine, the New Hampshire, was christened Saturday, delivered eight months ahead of schedule and $54 million under budget. Full Story
Mumbai Sikhs hold protests, demand action against chiefPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 7:16pmThousands of Sikhs blocked railway tracks, damaged a station and observed a shutdown in parts of Mumbai Saturday to protest the killing of a member of the community by the Dera Sacha Sauda sect chief's bodyguards. Full Story
Shells from Pakistan hit Afghan basesPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 7:20pmArtillery shells fired from Pakistan landed in an Afghan army compound and close to an international military base in Afghanistan on Saturday and NATO forces returned fire, the alliance said. Full Story
700 missing after ferry capsizesPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:16amOnly three survivors have been found after a ferry with more than 700 people onboard capsized near the central Philippine island of Sibuyan, according to a Philippines Coast Guard official. Homes in the city of Iloilo have been flooded after the arrival of Typhoon Fengshen. Full Story
Heavy clashes between rival clans in northern LebanonPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:17amHeavy clashes erupted on Sunday between rival factions in the northern city of Tripoli forcing the withdrawal of the Lebanese army from the area. Full Story
Rights group accuses Israel of abusing Palestinian prisonersPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:20amAn Israeli rights group claimed on Sunday the military regularly abuses Palestinian prisoners, including children, after their arrest. In its annual report, the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel mentions 90 cases of detainees claiming to have been mistreated by soldiers. Full Story
Iraq official says U.K. captives alivePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:22amFive Britons who were kidnapped in Baghdad more than a year ago are still alive, Iraq's most senior security official said. Mowaffak al-Rubaie, Iraq's national security adviser, said authorities had "very good, strong intelligence telling us they are alive." Full Story
60 dead in floods from typhoon in PhilippinesPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:22amAt least 60 people are confirmed dead and 60 others are missing after Typhoon Fengshen struck islands in the central Philippines, a local official said Sunday. Full Story
Iraqi forces start second stage of security crackdown in S IraqPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:24amIraqi security forces started Saturday its second stage of ongoing security operation in Maysan province, security sources said. Full Story
Next terror threats to come from PakistanPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:25amThe most urgent foreign policy problem that the next U.S. president will face wont be Iraq. Nor will it be Iran.The next terrorist attack on America is likely to originate, according to the top U.S. military commander, Adm. Mike Mullen, in a place youve probably never heard of: the FATA. Thats the acronym for the Federally Administered Tribal Areas of northern Pakistan. Full Story
LTTE claymore mine explosion kills two policemenPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:26amLTTE terrorists have exploded a claymore mine targeting a police route clearing patrol at Kaludaveli in Batticaloa around 7.25 this morning (June 22). According to the defence sources, one officer of Police Special Task Force and another police constable have been killed. Full Story
Colombian hostage calls for rebel-government talksPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:28amA former Colombian lawmaker captured by FARC rebels a year ago accused the guerrillas and the government of "cruelty and barbarism" for refusing to negotiate a prisoner swap deal, in a video clip made public Saturday. Full Story
NATO returns fire following attack from PakistanPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:31amNATO says its forces have launched artillery across the Afghan border at attackers who fired at them from Pakistan. A military statement said three rounds of "indirect fire" landed near a NATO base in Afghanistan's Paktika province Saturday. Three more landed in an Afghan army compound. No casualties were reported. Full Story
16 rebels among 18 killed in Sri Lanka: ArmyPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 2:30pmIn clashes across embattled northern Sri Lanka, at least 16 LTTE rebels and two soldiers were killed, officials said here on Sunday. Full Story
Niger Tuareg rebels seize 4 French uranium workersPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 2:31pmTuareg-led rebels in Niger seized four French employees of a French-run uranium mine on Sunday in an abduction they said showed the country's government could not guarantee the safety of foreign mining operations. Full Story
Saudi will increase oil output to cut pricesPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:37pmSaudi Arabia will increase its daily oil production from 9 million barrels to 9.7 million in the near future to counter the sharp rise in international oil prices, Saudi King Abdullah said Sunday. Full Story
Billions more needed to secure US embassiesPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:39pmDespite an intensive $4 billion drive to protect U.S. embassies, at least 150 American missions abroad fall short of security standards put in place after deadly bombings, The Associated Press has learned. Full Story
Area terror cell numbered 8, agent saysPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:39pmAlthough they were known as the Lackawanna Six, the group of Buffalo- area men who trained at Osama bin Ladens terrorist camp in Afghanistan actually numbered eight and could have grown to 12, according to the former FBI agent who headed the investigation. Full Story
Bush fails to appoint a nuclear terror czarPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:40pmTen months after Congress passed a law establishing a White House coordinator for preventing nuclear terrorism, President Bush has no plans to create the high-level post any time soon, according to the National Security Council. Full Story
Explosion in Kirkuk kills three Iraqis, two injuresPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:41pmhree Iraqi people were killed and two others were injured on Sunday due to an explosion of an improvised explosive device (IED) that rocked northen city of Kirkuk. Full Story
Qaeda urges Somali insurgents to fight on-Web videoPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 4:25pmAn al Qaeda leader said a U.N.- brokered peace deal between the Somali government and some opposition figures was worthless and called on Islamist insurgents in the Horn of Africa nation to fight on. Full Story
Nigerian armed group declares ceasefirePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 4:28pmThe most high-profile armed group in the Niger Delta on Sunday declared a unilateral ceasefire starting "12 midnight on Tuesday, June 24, 2008". Full Story
Pakistani rebels kill four Afghans in rocket attacksPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 6:19pmFour civilians including two children were killed Sunday when militants from inside Pakistan fired rockets at NATO bases in eastern Afghanistan, the alliance force and police said. Full Story
Kidnapped Christians freedPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 6:54pmSixteen members of the Christian community kidnapped from the Academy Town returned home on Sunday morning but the government still transferred the city police chief and his deputy after holding them responsible for the incident. Full Story
Australia to boost sanctions against ZimbabwePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 7:42pmAustralia's government said on Monday it was looking to lift the level of sanctions against Zimbabwe and called on African nations to do more against the "brutal" regime of President Robert Mugabe. Full Story
4th Bolivian state moves toward autonomyPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 8:20pmNatural gas-rich Tarija became the fourth Bolivian state to declare autonomy from the central government of leftist President Evo Morales on Sunday when voters backed greater independence in a referendum, according a private quick-count of votes. Full Story
Colombian oil pipeline closed by attacks - sourcePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:41pmColombia's Cano Limon-Covenas oil pipeline has been closed by rebel bomb attacks carried out on Saturday and Sunday, a source at state petroleum company Ecopetrol told Reuters. Full Story
One security officer wounded in militant attack in ChechnyaPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:51pmA security officer was wounded after unidentified assailants opened fire on a car near the capital of the Republic of Chechnya in Russia's restive North Caucasus region, a local police source said Sunday. Full Story
Top member of Islamist group wounded in Lebanon blastPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:52pmA top Islamist militant was critically wounded on Sunday in a blast near the Palestinian refugee camp of Ain el-Helweh in south Lebanon which injured four others, a security official told AFP. Full Story
LTTE has links with global terror groups: Lanka PMPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:54pmSri Lankan Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayaka has alleged that the Tamil Tigers maintain links with international terror groups such as PKK and certain affiliates of Al-Qaida. Full Story
Shin Bet: Terror activity, arms smuggling stepped up in GazaPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:55pmDiskin addressed the Egypt-brokered cease fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, which went into effect Thursday morning, saying that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his Fatah movement supported the deal, but "felt that they had received the short end of the deal and exchanged hushed messages about it." Full Story
National terror warning system 'useless'Posted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:56pmThousands of large ships entering Australian waters and ports each year have been fitted with anti-terror warning systems that are useless in preventing acts of terrorism. Full Story
Terrorism help for PakistanPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:58pmAustralian counter-terrorism experts could be sent to Pakistan under a far-reaching plan by the Federal Government to help that country promote stability, slow the spread of Islamic extremism and stem the flow of insurgents into Afghanistan. Full Story
Secrecy, open courts collide in terrorism suspect's casePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:59pmThe trial of terror suspect Momin Khawaja will renew what has, since 9-11, become an epic clash of national interests. Full Story
Irish 'No' on EU leaders' agendaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 7:20amEuropean Union leaders are due to attend a summit in Brussels which is likely to be dominated by Ireland's rejection of the EU treaty last week. They are expected to agree ratification must continue, but refrain from proposing an early way out of the crisis, the BBC's Oana Lungescu says. Full Story
Gaza truce takes hold, skepticism aboundsPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:05amGuns went quiet as a six-month truce between Israel and Gaza Strip militants took effect early Thursday, but there was widespread skepticism about its ability to hold. Full Story
China earthquake region braces for rainstormsPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:10amEarthquake-ravaged sections of China's devastated Sichuan province braced Thursday for heavy rainstorms that could trigger new landslides, one day after officials reportedly finished evacuating 110,000 people from the area. Full Story
Militants ambush Pakistani food convoy; 6 deadPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:11amMilitants in Pakistan attacked a convoy carrying food into a violence-plagued region on Thursday and murdering a driver, but five of them were killed when security forces retaliated, an official said. Sunni Muslim militants have been attacking vehicles going into the Shi'ite-majority Kurram ethnic Pashtun tribal region on the Afghan border for months. Full Story
Taliban raise a storm in KandaharPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:21amThe battle for Kandahar, the city in the southern province of the same name where the Taliban rose to power in the 1990s before taking control of the rest of Afghanistan, has begun. And while Afghan and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces are massed in the area around Arghandab, 20 kilometers north of Kandahar, the Taliban have their sights firmly set on the provincial capital. Full Story
Suu Kyi birthday marked in BurmaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:22amIn Burma supporters of Aung San Suu Kyi gave alms to monks as they marked the detained pro-democracy leader's 63rd birthday. Security personnel watched as dozens of people handed out food at the National League for Democracy headquarters. Full Story
U.S. helicopter engines stolen en route to Pakistan portPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:25amFour U.S. helicopter engines worth more than $13 million have been stolen while they were being trucked from Afghanistan to a port in Pakistan to be shipped home, the U.S. military said. Most supplies for the U.S. military in landlocked Afghanistan, including fuel, are transported through Pakistan, and militants in both Pakistan and Afghanistan have been stepping up attacks on shipments. Full Story
Nepal parties agree on integration of former rebel fightersPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:27amNepal's three largest political parties reached a deal Thursday to integrate Maoist former rebels fighters into the national Army and other security bodies, ending months of differences that have prevented the formation of a new government. The deal was struck during a meeting of senior leaders of the Nepali Congress, the Maoists and the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninists (CPN-UML). Full Story
Iraqi government says Amarah operation under wayPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:30amIraqi troops fanned out across the Shiite militia stronghold of Amarah Thursday and gunmen tossed their weapons onto the streets or into canals as the government officially launched a military crackdown on the area. Full Story
Four communist rebels killed in eastern PhilippinesPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:30amFour communist rebels were killed Thursday in a clash with government troops in a remote eastern Philippine town, a military spokesman said. Lieutenant Colonel Ernesto Torres said the fighting erupted when patrolling troops encountered heavily armed guerrillas is Tinambac town in Camarines Sur province, 285 kilometres south-east of Manila. Full Story
US envoy's convoy stoned in S. LebanonPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:31amHezbollah's Shiite supporters attacked a top U.S. diplomat's motorcade with stones in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, protesting her first visit to the militant group's stronghold, witnesses said. Full Story
3,600 Thai police to handle protestPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:32amAbout 3,600 Thai police will be deployed to watch over protesters planning to march Friday to Government House, a police spokesman said, warning that violence might break out. "The national police chief has ordered the police forces to be tripled to guard Government House and the surrounding areas," Major General Surapol Tuanthong told reporters on Thursday. Full Story
Call for Hindu suicide squads sparks anger in IndiaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:40amA powerful Hindu-nationalist political party in western India has called for Hindu suicide squads to counter Islamic terrorism, causing outrage and embarrassing the national opposition with which it is allied. Full Story
S Koreas Lee apologises over US beef rowPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:48amPresident Lee Myung-bak on Thursday apologised to all South Koreans for his governments decision to resume imports of US beef, an issue that has marred his first 100 days in office. Mr Lee said he would replace most of his top advisors on Friday, the precursor to a wide-ranging cabinet reshuffle that is expected next week. The agriculture and health ministers, among others, will be replaced. Full Story
US targets Hezbollah links in VenezuelaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:57amThe Bush administration took action Wednesday against a Venezuelan official and others accused of providing financial support to the Hezbollah terror group. The Treasury Department's action covers Ghazi Nasr al Din, whom the United States identified as a Venezuelan diplomat. The order also targets Fawzi Kan'an and two Venezuelan-based travel agencies -- Biblos and Hilal -- that he allegedly owns or controls. Full Story
France renews contact with FARC leaders on hostagePosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 10:04amFrance has renewed contact with the leaders of Colombian guerrillas holding Franco-Colombian hostage Ingrid Betancourt to try and secure her release after their main guerrilla contact was killed in March, presidency sources said on Thursday. The left-wing Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) has turned to kidnapping, extortion and the cocaine trade to finance operations against the military and outlawed paramilitary groups. Full Story
German court jails man for promoting Qaeda onlinePosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 10:15amA German court on Thursday sentenced an Iraqi man to three years in jail for distributing messages by al Qaeda leaders on the Internet. The court in the northern town of Celle said there was enough evidence that 37-year old chatroom administrator Ibrahim R. had placed several texts by Osama bin Laden and his deputy Ayman al-Zawahri online since 2005. Full Story
Tajiks jailed for 'Taleban links'Posted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 12:43pmA Tajik court has jailed three men for between 18 and 22 years for membership of a militant Islamic group said to have fought for the Afghan Taleban. The Supreme Court in Dushanbe was told the three Tajik nationals were active members of the Islamic Jihad Union. Full Story
Hezbollah agents discuss strikes outside Middle East: reportPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 7:19pmCanadian spies have overheard agents of Lebanese-based Hezbollah talking about a possible strike against the Israeli embassy in Ottawa, according to a report from a U.S. news agency. Full Story
Chavez threatens to block oil over EU rulesPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:46pmVenezuelan President Hugo Chavez threatened on Thursday to punish European countries that apply controversial new rules for deporting illegal immigrants by denying them oil and blocking their investments. Full Story
China shocks with 18 percent fuel price risePosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:47pmChina unexpectedly raised retail gasoline and diesel prices by up to 18 percent on Thursday, sending oil prices tumbling as Beijing moved to temper demand at the risk of stoking domestic angst over decade-high inflation. Full Story
EU agrees to lift 5-year-old sanctions on CubaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:48pmThe European Union on Thursday agreed to lift its diplomatic sanctions against Cuba, but imposed tough conditions on the communist island to maintain sanction-free relations, officials said. Full Story
Colombian admiral arrested in drug probePosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:49pmColombia's chief prosecutor ordered the arrest Thursday of a cashiered navy rear admiral on charges he helped drug traffickers. Full Story
New EU plan for illegal migrantsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:54amThe European Parliament is preparing to vote on a set of common EU rules that would allow the detention of illegal immigrants for up to 18 months. The "return directive" was agreed by EU interior ministers on 5 June and it is backed by conservative and liberal MEPs. The vote is set for Wednesday. Full Story
2 earthquakes strike Greece; no injuriesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:56amA strong earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 5.7 struck near the Greek capital before dawn Wednesday, followed hours later by a much weaker quake off the Aegean island of Karpathos, the Athens Geodynamic Institute said. No injuries or damage were reported from either quake. Full Story
Afghans start anti-Taliban offensive in southPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:58amHelicopter gunships and troops with small and heavy arms blasted a valley in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday as local and NATO forces launched a huge offensive against hundreds of Taliban insurgents, many of whom broke out of jail last week. The defence ministry in Kabul said 20 Taliban guerrillas were killed in a NATO air strike and two Afghan army officers also died in the operation, in Arghandab district. Full Story
Radical preacher Abu Qatada freed on bailPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:58amRadical preacher Abu Qatada, once called Osama bin Laden's "spiritual ambassador in Europe," was released on bail Tuesday in a court decision that dealt an embarrassing blow to the British government's anti-terror campaign. Home Secretary Jacqui Smith reacted by saying the government will protect national security and public safety, despite the unwanted release of Abu Qatada. Full Story
BoE voted 8-1 to hold interest rate: minutesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:00amBank of England policymakers voted 8-1 to leave interest rates at 5.00 percent earlier this month, according to minutes of their meeting that were published on Wednesday. The central bank's nine-member Monetary Policy Committee left its key lending rate on hold after a two-day meeting on June 4-5, in a move which analysts said was aimed at dampening high inflation despite slowing growth. Full Story
China and Japan strike gas dealPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:03amJapan and China have struck a deal for the joint development of a gas field in the East China Sea, resolving a protracted bilateral dispute. Japanese private sector firms will take part in China's project to develop the Chunxiao gas field, which is known as Shirakaba in Japan. Full Story
Militants release kidnapped journalists in PhilippinesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:07amAl-Qaeda-linked militants have freed a popular TV news anchor, her cameraman and a university professor more than a week after snatching them in the volatile southern Philippines, police said. The kidnappers, identified by police as Abu Sayyaf militants, released ABS-CBN anchor Ces Drilon and the two other captives on Jolo Island around 11 pm yesterday following talks with negotiators, said Director Avelino Razon, the national police chief. Full Story
Pakistani anger over U.S. airstrike remainsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:14amThe Pakistani military is so angry over the U.S. airstrikes here last week that it is threatening to postpone or cancel an American program to train a paramilitary force in counterinsurgency for combating Islamic militants, two Pakistani government officials said. Full Story
Thousands of Indonesians rally against Ahmadiyah sectPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:17amThousands of Indonesians wearing white to show their religious piety rallied at the presidential palace here on Wednesday to demand the banning of a minority Islamic sect deemed "deviant" by top clerics. More than 4,000 people from an array of mainstream Muslim political parties and fringe Islamist groups chanted slogans, shouted Allahu akbar (God is great) and waved banners condemning the Ahmadiyah sect. Full Story
Four British soldiers killed in AfghanistanPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:21amFour British soldiers were killed in the restive southern Afghan province of Helmand, officials said Wednesday, including reportedly the first female British military fatality. The soldiers serving with NATO died Tuesday when their vehicle was caught in a blast during what the British defence ministry called "a deliberate operation" east of the provincial capital Lashkar Gah. Full Story
India warns Kashmir violence may risePosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:23amIndia's defence minister said Wednesday he feared an upsurge of rebel attacks in disputed Kashmir in the run-up to state elections. The warning came days after militants killed five people, including four soldiers, and hurt 15 civilians in three separate attacks. Full Story
Mounting devastation as rains swamp southern ChinaPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:27amTorrential rains that have caused some of the worst flooding in 50 years and killed scores of people continued to batter a huge swath of southern China on Tuesday near one of the biggest manufacturing zones in the country. The government said the storms and floods had killed at least 63 people over the past week, left 13 missing and affected more than 17 million people in nine southern provinces. Full Story
Philippines seeks resumption of peace talks with Muslim rebelsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:29amPhilippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Wednesday called for the resumption of stalled peace talks with the country's largest Muslim separatist rebel group. Arroyo said the government has drafted a new proposed agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on the contentious issue of ancestral domain, which covers the establishment of a Muslim homeland in the southern region of Mindanao. Full Story
Bali bomber warns more al-Qaida attacks 'very likely' if he is executedPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:04amAn Islamic militant awaiting execution in Indonesia for carrying out the 2002 Bali bombings has warned that al-Qaida would be "very likely" to launch revenge attacks if authorities kill him, a magazine reported. Imam Samudra and two other Indonesian militants were sentenced to death in 2003 for their roles in the suicide attacks that killed 202 people, mostly foreign tourists, at two nightclubs on the resort island of Bali. Full Story
U.S. blames Shi'ite group for Baghdad bombPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:10amU.S. forces blamed a rogue Shi'ite militia group seeking to stir up sectarian violence on Wednesday for a devastating truck bombing that killed 63 people in Baghdad. Full Story
Israel agrees to truce with HamasPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:20amIsrael has agreed to a six-month truce with Palestinian armed groups including Hamas, the government's chief spokesman has confirmed. Full Story
Eight arrested for spying on behalf of IranPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:23amSaudi sources say that eight Bahraini citizens have been arrested on claims that they were spying for Iran. Full Story
Iraq bans dealings with Iran opposition groupPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:25amThe Iraqi government Tuesday banned any dealings with an Iranian opposition group based in Iraq. In an official statement, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's Cabinet accused the Mujahedeen Khalq organization of interfering in Iraq's internal affairs. Full Story
Argentine congress to debate tax hikePosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:44amFacing the biggest crisis since filling the seat vacated by her husband, President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner announced Tuesday that a grain export tax increase that has unleashed months of protests by farmers will be debated by Congress. Fernandez, whose party dominates both chambers, said she will send the proposal to legislators to give it ''more democratic support.'' Full Story
Peru protesters release 47 police hostagesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:13amProtesters blockading Peru's southern Pan-American Highway on Tuesday released 47 police hostages they were holding, clearing the way for talks with the government on their demand of a greater share of the region's mine revenues. The decision by residents of Moquegua province to release the hostages, including a police general, came after Cabinet Chief Jorge del Castillo said the government would end talks if the demonstrators didn't release the officers. Full Story
Chavez and ailing Castro meetPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:38amVenezuelan President Hugo Chavez had an "animated and warm" meeting with former Cuban leader Fidel Castro during a visit to Havana, state-run media said on Tuesday, but no photos or videos of the left-wing allies were made public. Full Story
New Venezuela finance minister says no major policy changePosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:39amVenezuela's new Finance Minister Ali Rodriguez said on Tuesday he will make no big changes to the economic policies of his predecessor, who tightened monetary supply but could not slow inflation. Rodriguez said Venezuela's oil-based economy presented special challenges but was still healthy. Full Story
Bomb injures two in St ThomasPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:46amA mysterious bomb blast in the commercial district of Morant Bay, St Thomas, yesterday afternoon has left two women injured and members of the business fraternity horrified. Reports are that the loud explosion, which left a plume of thick black smoke in the air, sent scores of persons running for cover. Full Story
Fuel protesters target BrusselsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:51amHundreds of truck, tractor and taxi drivers are converging on the centre of Brussels on the eve of a crucial European summit. The farmers and transport workers are protesting at the crippling effect of soaring fuel prices. Global oil prices have quadrupled in the past seven years, nearing $140 (90 euros) a barrel in Monday's trading. Full Story
Italy holds 'Tamil Tiger' membersPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:53amMore than 30 suspected members of Sri Lanka's Tamil Tiger rebel group have been arrested in Italy in a series of raids across the country, police say. They say all of them are Sri Lankan citizens suspected of extorting funds for the Tigers, who are banned as a terrorist group by the European Union. Full Story
Argentine President Seeks to Quell CriticismPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:54amArgentinas president, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, sought on Tuesday to cool mounting criticism over her economic policies, saying she would ask the Argentine Congress to legitimize the export taxes that have prompted three months of revolt by farmers. Members of her Peronist party control both houses of Congress, but her call for legislators to weigh in on the taxes was seen as a concession. Full Story
Brown denies French navy mergerPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:55amGordon Brown has rejected suggestions that the French and British navies could merge as "totally untrue". Speaking at prime minister's questions, he dismissed reports that HMS Ark Royal or HMS Illustrious could be controlled from Brussels. Full Story
Ex-journalist leads Salvador polls for rebel partyPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:59amA former CNN journalist could lead a leftist party of former Cold War Marxist guerrillas to power for the first time in El Salvador's presidential election next year, opinion polls show. Recent surveys by the University of Central America and CID-Gallup give ex-TV reporter and Salvadoran talk show host Mauricio Funes a lead of up to 20 points over ruling party candidate Rodrigo Avila, El Salvador's former police chief. Full Story
U.N.: 'Shock' rise in Colombia coca growthPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 11:46amColombia's coca crop the basis for cocaine grew by 27 percent last year, the United Nations reported Wednesday, calling the increase "a surprise and a shock" given major U.S.-funded eradication efforts. Eradication of the crop in Colombia, the world's No. 1 cocaine-producing nation, has been the cornerstone of a multibillion-dollar U.S. aid package. Full Story
Man released over bomb attackPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 12:08pmA 57-year-old man arrested as part of the investigation into the attempted murder of two police officers has been released without charge. Two officers were slightly injured on Saturday when a landmine partially exploded as their car was crossing a bridge in Rosslea. Full Story
Turkish singer tried over dissentPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:32pmOne of Turkey's best known singers, Bulent Ersoy, has gone on trial charged with attempting to turn the public against military service. The charges were brought after she suggested it was not worth sacrificing soldiers' lives in Turkey's conflict with the Kurdish separatist PKK group. Full Story
Politkovskaya murder charges laidPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:35pmThree men have been charged over the murder of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya, investigators have said. Politkovskaya, a prominent Kremlin critic, was shot dead outside her home in the capital on 7 October 2006. Russia's Investigative Committee said a fourth man, an officer with the country's security service, had also been charged with abuse of office. Full Story
Srebrenica survivors seek damages from UNPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:40pmRelatives of the victims of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre asked a Dutch court Wednesday to waive the immunity of the United Nations and allow them to seek damages for their loss. Bosnian Serb forces commanded by Ratko Mladic massacred 8,000 Muslim men and boys from Srebrenica, a town declared a safe area and guarded by a Dutch Army unit serving as part of a larger UN force. Full Story
NATO tests Ukraine's readiness to joinPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:45pmNATO's secretary general, accompanied by top envoys from all 26 countries in the alliance, is trying to get a sense of whether Ukraine, the largest former Soviet republic so far to seek membership in the organization, is making progress with preparations to join and in resolving its disputes with Russia. The secretary general, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, and NATO ambassadors are holding talks in Kiev this week with the Ukrainian Defense Ministry and with top members of Ukraine's three main political factions to try to evaluate the extent of change in the Ukrainian military. They are also trying to measure the gravity of a fresh warning from Russia, which says that it will never allow Ukraine to join the Atlantic alliance. Full Story
New constitution on agenda againPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:51pmThe ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), which had to shelve plans for a new and democratic constitution for Turkey after a closure case was filed against the party on March 14, has decided to reintroduce the package after the country's top court overturned a constitutional amendment a couple of weeks ago intended to end a ban on the Muslim headscarf at universities. Full Story
Turkey widens EU talks, expects French fairnessPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:55pmTurkish officials said Tuesday they expect France, long an opponent of the Turkish European Union membership bid, to approach membership negotiations fairly and openly during the six-month French EU presidency beginning next month. At a Luxembourg accession conference, Turkey and the EU opened two new chapters in negotiations, covering company law and intellectual property rights, bringing the total issues under discussion to 8 of 35. Turkey, if successful in the slow-moving negotiations, is not expected to join the bloc until 2015 at the earliest. Full Story
Pressure Increases On Belarusian PressPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 2:27pmIndependent journalists could soon find their work in Belarus even more difficult as a result of a new media law that is taking shape. The legislation seeks to impose curbs on the Internet -- the last outpost of uncensored information and free exchange of ideas in one of the world's most authoritarian countries. The bill, which was submitted by the government on June 10, was endorsed in its first reading by the Chamber of Representatives within a week. The speed with which it was rushed through the lower house reportedly surprised even some legislators well accustomed to rubber-stamping documents coming from the presidential administration or government. Full Story
Protests as govt bids to ratify EU treatyPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 2:31pmThe government battled to push a new European Union treaty over its last parliamentary hurdle Wednesday, defying protests against ratifying it before a summit clouded by Ireland's "no" vote. The upper House of Lords saw sometimes stormy scenes as members debated the Lisbon Treaty bill, days after an Irish referendum which dealt a stunning blow to the 27-nation bloc's plans. Full Story
EU lawmakers pass new rules for expelling illegalsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 2:33pmEurope's hardening attitudes toward immigration found a voice in the EU Parliament Wednesday, as legislators passed controversial new rules for expelling illegals amid a widening crackdown in the United States. As the global economy slows, governments in rich countries are coming under increased pressure to act tough on immigration. While the European rules do not lay the groundwork for workplace raids like in America, they do contain contentious measures such as providing for long detention periods. Full Story
Srebrenica survivors seek damages from UN, DutchPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 2:35pmA Dutch court began hearings Wednesday about whether survivors of a 1995 massacre of Muslims in Bosnia Europe's worst mass killing since World War II can sue the United Nations for failing to prevent the slaughter. Serb forces killed more than 8,000 Muslims in one week in July 1995, overrunning the Srebrenica enclave declared a U.N. safe zone. Dutch peacekeepers overwhelmed by the Serbs' superior force watched helplessly as the male victims were led away from their custody for execution. Full Story
Congress panel votes to loosen Cuba travel rulesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 3:13pmPeople living in the United States could travel to Cuba more often and visit a broader list of family members under legislation approved by a congressional panel on Tuesday. A House of Representatives appropriations panel embraced the liberalized travel initiative, which faces several more legislative steps over the next few months and likely would be opposed by the Bush administration. Full Story
Norway arrests woman for carrying cocaine in wigPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 3:31pmA British woman's bulging wig did not fool customs agents in Norway who realized she wasn't just having a bad hair day. The wig was concealing 2.2 pounds of cocaine glued to her head and customs agents detained her on suspicion of cocaine smuggling, authorities said Wednesday. The 32-year-old suspect, whose name was withheld, arrived late Sunday at Vaernes airport near the city of Trondheim on a flight from Copenhagen, Denmark, the customs service said. Full Story
Mark Thatcher member of coup plot, mercenary tells courtPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 3:41pmMark Thatcher, son of former prime minister Margaret Thatcher, was a key member of the plot to topple Equatorial Guinea's president, British mercenary Simon Mann told a court Wednesday. South Africa and Spain approved of the operation, he added, as did the United States after several oil companies reported that the country was not stable and that a change of government would be welcome. Full Story
Gunmen kill public official in Mexican border cityPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 5:45pmGunmen have killed the police administrative director in the violent Mexican border city of Ciudad Juarez, the latest high-profile killing in Mexico's drug war, police said on Wednesday. Full Story
Afghans start anti-Taliban offensive in southPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 6:03pmHelicopter gunships and troops blasted a valley in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday in a huge offensive by NATO and local forces against Taliban insurgents, many of whom broke out of jail last week. Full Story
Sweden adopts law allowing official eavesdroppingPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:38pmSweden's Parliament narrowly approved a law Wednesday that gives authorities sweeping powers to eavesdrop on all e-mail and telephone traffic that crosses the Nordic nation's borders. Full Story
Courtesy Terrorism Research Center, Inc
Bird flu mistaken as dengue, typhoid in IndonesiaPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 8:34amSome cases of human bird flu in Indonesia have been variously misdiagnosed as dengue fever and typhoid, resulting in the late administration of drugs, a leading doctor in the country said on Friday. Indonesia has had the highest number of human H5N1 cases in the world and while mortality rates are around 60 percent in other places, the figure is highest, or at 81 percent, in Indonesia. Full Story
Afghans count Taliban dead in valley near KandaharPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 8:39amNATO and Afghan forces held mopping up operations, hunting Taliban fighters and burying the dead on Friday, after an air and ground offensive routed hundreds of insurgents from a valley near Kandahar city. The allies mounted the offensive on Wednesday after the Taliban took control of the Arghandab valley, 20 kms (12 miles) northwest of Kandahar. Full Story
Protesters march in Thai capitalPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 8:47amSeveral thousand protesters have converged on government offices in the Thai capital Bangkok to demand that the government step down. Police lined the streets as crowds led by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) marched in Bangkok. Full Story
Army: Sri Lanka fighting kills 29Posted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:01amFighting between the government forces and Tamil Tiger rebels along the northern front lines killed 26 rebels and three government soldiers, the military said Friday. The newly reported fighting took place in Vavuniya, Mannar, Welioya and Jaffna regions bordering the rebels' de facto state in the north Thursday, said a defense ministry official, speaking on condition of anonymity due to government regulation. Full Story
Philippines braces for powerful tropical stormPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:04amA powerful tropical storm is sweeping across the Philippine Sea and is expected to lash the eastern edge of the country over the weekend, the government weather station said. At 4:00am Friday (local time), the storm, called Fengshen, was 180 kilometres east of the central island of Samar, moving north-west at 15 kilometres per hour, the weather bureau said. Full Story
Kidnapped Frenchman released in AfghanistanPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:06amA French businessman who was abducted in southern Afghanistan last month has been released safely along with two Afghan colleagues, the French Foreign Ministry announced Friday. Johan Freckhaus, 37, was released on Thursday, nearly a month after he was abducted on his way from Kandahar to Kabul along with the two Afghan colleagues. Full Story
Nepal parties fail to break post-monarchy deadlockPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:08amNepal's Maoists and the country's biggest mainstream party said Friday they were still at odds over who should lead a new government following the abolition of the monarchy. The Maoists and the centrist Nepali Congress -- Nepal's most powerful political groups -- have been unable to progress on naming the Himalayan nation's first president since the monarchy was abolished over three weeks ago. Full Story
Czech threat looms for EU treatyPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:18amEU leaders have admitted that the Czech Republic may not be able to ratify the Lisbon Treaty, which has already been rejected by the Irish. The declaration, to be agreed at an EU summit in Brussels, will note that the Czechs cannot complete ratification for the moment, officials said. Full Story
Hezbollah may attack Canadian JewsPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:19amDisturbing "chatter" picked up by intelligence agencies about attacks against Jewish targets by Canadian-linked supporters of Hezbollah has prompted an alert to Canada's Jewish community urging added caution. Full Story
China 'arrests' fake terroristsPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:22amThree men who reportedly posed as terrorists to try to extort more than $300,000 (#150,000) have been arrested in the Chinese Olympic city of Qingdao. A company in the city is said to have received a phone call last week from a man who claimed he was a member of an "East Turkestan independence group". Full Story
US targets Hezbollah links in VenezuelaPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:28amA Lebanese-born businessman living in Venezuela denied U.S. government accusations that he has helped financed Hezbollah, saying he doesn't know anyone in the group. Full Story
Bahrain Shiites protest articles on their clericPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:34amMore than 10,000 Shiites marched Thursday in this tiny Sunni-ruled Gulf country to protest newspaper articles deemed insulting to their top cleric. The protesters were mostly supporters of the Shiite opposition Al-Wefaq parliamentary bloc, which holds 17 seats in the 40-member assembly. They marched along the highway just outside the capital of Manama, chanting slogans in support of Bahrain's top Shiite cleric, Sheik Isa Qassim. No violence was reported. Full Story
Abu Hamza loses extradition fightPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:48amJailed Muslim cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri has lost his High Court bid against extradition to the US where he faces terror-related charges. The Egyptian-born preacher is currently serving a seven-year jail term in the UK for inciting murder and race hate. Full Story
Israel held military drill as prep for attack on IranPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:49amU.S. officials say Israel carried out a large military exercise this month that appeared to be a rehearsal for a potential bombing attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, The New York Times reported on Friday. Full Story
Iran president claims US assassination plotPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:54amIranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Thursday accused the United States of plotting to kidnap and assassinate him during a visit to Iraq, state media reported. Full Story
Iran warns of strong blow' if Israel attacksPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 9:58amTeheran Friday warned its arch-enemy Israel of a strong blow if it takes forceful measures, after the US media reported military exercises by the Jewish state were a possible practice for a strike against Iran. Full Story
Treaty on hold until court rulesPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 10:28amGordon Brown has said Britain will not ratify the EU Treaty until the High Court has ruled on a separate bid to force a British referendum. It followed a High Court judge's letter expressing surprise ministers appeared to be pressing ahead with ratification. Full Story
Hizbullah 'needs its arms' beyond ShebaaPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 10:35amHizbullah on Thursday said Lebanon would still need its armed presence even if Israel finally quit the disputed Shebaa Farms region in the South. Full Story
More weapons caches turning up in IraqPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 10:47amWeapons caches are turning up with increasing frequency in public places in Iraq from a bakery to a fish farm as recent security gains embolden more civilians to come forward with tips, U.S. and Iraqi military officials say. Full Story
Muslim convert 'recruits' inmatesPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 11:02amA former British National Party activist who converted to Islam in prison is trying to radicalise young prisoners, the BBC can reveal. Inmate Stephen Jones is being held in a segregation unit at Whitemoor Prison, Cambridgeshire, the BBC has been told. Full Story
British mercenary 'was to head E.Guinea's presidential guard'Posted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 12:21pmBritish mercenary Simon Mann had been tapped to head Equatorial Guinea's presidential guard after a 2004 plot to topple the west African nation's leader, the court trying his case learned Friday. Documents shown at the trial of Mann and his co-accused indicate that he would also have been in charge of recruiting guard members and given exclusive rights in a number of economic sectors. Full Story
China 'frees Tibetan protesters'Posted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 12:33pmChina has released more than 1,000 people involved in unrest in Tibet earlier this year, Chinese media say. The official Xinhua news agency quoted a senior official saying those freed had been held for minor offences connected with the unrest in March. Full Story
Japan apologises over Taiwan boat incidentPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 12:39pmA Japanese envoy on Friday apologised to the captain of a Taiwanese fishing boat which sank after colliding with a Japanese patrol ship near disputed islets in the East China Sea. "I am here today to express our sincere apology to the captain," Hitoshi Funamachi, Japan's deputy de facto ambassador to Taiwan, told reporters through an interpreter. Full Story
Mayors clash over Olympic costsPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 1:56pmLondon Mayor Boris Johnson has clashed with his predecessor Ken Livingstone over the funding of the 2012 Olympics. Mr Johnson told BBC Radio 4 a deal signed by Mr Livingstone on cost over-runs was "far from clear" and he doubted its existence. Full Story
Irish premier sorry for treaty 'no' votePosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 2:19pmIreland's prime minister said Friday he regretted that Irish voters rejected the European Union's reform treaty, a result that has plunged the EU into political crisis. An EU survey released Friday found that the main reason the Irish voted "no" was that they did not understand the treaty. Full Story
Bias charges won't stop Berlusconi trial: judgePosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 2:24pmA corruption trial against Silvio Berlusconi and British lawyer David Mills will go ahead in July despite the Italian premier's attempts to have it stopped by accusing the court of bias, the judge said on Friday. The 71-year-old prime minister is charged with paying Mills $600,000 in 1997, from alleged "secret funds" held by his media empire Mediaset, to withhold incriminating details of his business dealings. Both of them deny any wrongdoing. Full Story
Spain's conservative opposition moves to end internal crisisPosted on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 2:40pmSpain's conservative opposition Popular Party sought to heal its internal divisions at a national convention that opened Friday, three months after it suffered its second successive election defeat. "We have not come here to fight one another," the mayor of the Mediterranean city of Valencia, Rita Berbera, said in an inaugural speech to the three-day gathering. "We are here to fight socialism and return to government." Full Story
Partygoers And Cops Killed In StampedePosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:16amAt least nine young people and three police officer have been trampled to death during a raid on a packed nightclub in Mexico City. Full Story
'Ball of fire' if Iran attacked: IAEA chiefPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:17amUN atomic watchdog chief Mohamed ElBaradei warned that any attack on Iran would transform the region into a "ball of fire," in an interview with Al-Arabiya television broadcast on Saturday. His comments come after US media reported that Israeli jet pilots trained for a possible strike on Iranian nuclear sites. Full Story
Afghan Bomb Kills 4 Troops From U.S.-Led ForcePosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:18amA bomb killed four troops from the U.S.-led coalition in southern Afghanistan on Saturday, one of the deadliest attacks on foreign forces this year. The explosion seriously wounded two other troops as they were conducting operations in Kandahar province, a coalition statement said. It didn't release the nationalities of the victims or other details. Full Story
Iran dismisses any halt of nuclear workPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:18amIran appeared to dismiss on Saturday any suggestion of freezing its nuclear enrichment activities, which the West suspects are aimed at making bombs. Diplomats said on Friday six major powers had offered Tehran preliminary talks on its nuclear work, on condition it limits uranium enrichment to current levels for six weeks in exchange for a freeze on moves towards harsher sanctions. Full Story
Sikhs in Mumbai hold anti-Dera protests, halt trainsPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:19amA large number of Sikhs blocked railway tracks in Mumbai and a shutdown was observed in areas dominated by the community on Saturday, a day after clashes between Sikh protesters and bodyguards of Dera Sacha Sauda sect chief left one person dead and two injured. Members of the community squatted on railway tracks near Mulund station and stopped suburban and long distance train services from 11:30 am, causing hardship to thousands of office-goers and college students. Full Story
Musharraf says Pak parliament free to impeach himPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:20amPakistan President Pervez Musharraf has said that the country's parliament was free to bring forth and debate an impeachment motion against him. Talking to PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and opposition leader Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, he said he would continue supporting the democratic process and accept the supremacy of parliament. Full Story
Bosnian Serb war crimes suspect transfered to The Hague: reportPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:21amBosnian Serb Stojan Zupljanin, one of the most wanted war crimes suspects, was transferred on Saturday to The Hague where the UN war crimes tribunal sits, independent B92 radio reported. Zupljanin, arrested last week near Belgrade, was brought to Belgrade airport shortly after 4:00 am (0200 GMT), the report said. Full Story
Chavez refutes US Hezbollah chargesPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:22amPresident Hugo Chavez says the United States is trying to bring him before an international court.Chavez says the United States is using accusations that the Venezuelan government is supporting the Lebanese group Hezbollah to "see if the world will make a move" against him. The U.S. has charged a Venezuelan official and others with helping Hezbollah. Washington considers the armed group and political party in Lebanon a terrorist organization. Full Story
UN nuke chief urges Syria to cooperatePosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:23amThe U.N. nuclear watchdog chief urged Syria on Friday to show "transparency" and cooperate with inspectors from the world agency visiting the Mideast country this weekend. It marks the start of an international fact check of U.S. and Israeli assertions that Damascus had tried to build a plutonium-producing facility under the radar of the international community. Full Story
Maoists quit Nepal government, demand PM's resignationPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:24amNepal was thrown into political limbo on Saturday after the Maoists quit the interim government of the newly republican nation and demanded the prime minister's resignation.Nepal's former Maoist rebels stormed out of the government late on Friday, accusing a rival party of clinging to power despite being defeated in landmark elections in the Himalayan country two months ago. Full Story
China vows to 'smash' Dalai LamaPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:25amThe Olympic torch relay has finished in Tibet with Government officials vowing to smash the Dalai Lama. Amid tight security, the torch arrived in front of Potala Palace, the Dalai Lama's former chief residence, carried by Caidan Zhuoma, a famous Tibetan singer. Full Story
SLAF MI-24 helicopters raid LTTE gathering - MannarPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:26amSri Lanka Air Force MI-24 helicopter gun ships raided a gathering place of the LTTE terrorists located in general area north of Andankulam this afternoon, June 21. Full Story
Russian strategic bombers patrol Arctic, Atlantic OceansPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:27amFour Russian strategic bombers are conducting an aerial patrol of the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, the Itar-Tass news agency reported on Friday. Full Story
Thai PM Will Not Resign in Face of ProtestsPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:01pmThai officials say Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej will not resign despite massive street protests calling for his ouster. Full Story
Bahrain arrests Qaeda suspects: policePosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:06pmPolice in Bahrain said on Saturday one man was arrested and another freed on bail after they were accused of cooperating with and funding a foreign terrorist group, a reference to Al-Qaeda. Full Story
Navy's newest submarine christenedPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 5:33pmThe Navy's newest attack submarine, the New Hampshire, was christened Saturday, delivered eight months ahead of schedule and $54 million under budget. Full Story
Mumbai Sikhs hold protests, demand action against chiefPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 7:16pmThousands of Sikhs blocked railway tracks, damaged a station and observed a shutdown in parts of Mumbai Saturday to protest the killing of a member of the community by the Dera Sacha Sauda sect chief's bodyguards. Full Story
Shells from Pakistan hit Afghan basesPosted on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 7:20pmArtillery shells fired from Pakistan landed in an Afghan army compound and close to an international military base in Afghanistan on Saturday and NATO forces returned fire, the alliance said. Full Story
700 missing after ferry capsizesPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:16amOnly three survivors have been found after a ferry with more than 700 people onboard capsized near the central Philippine island of Sibuyan, according to a Philippines Coast Guard official. Homes in the city of Iloilo have been flooded after the arrival of Typhoon Fengshen. Full Story
Heavy clashes between rival clans in northern LebanonPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:17amHeavy clashes erupted on Sunday between rival factions in the northern city of Tripoli forcing the withdrawal of the Lebanese army from the area. Full Story
Rights group accuses Israel of abusing Palestinian prisonersPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:20amAn Israeli rights group claimed on Sunday the military regularly abuses Palestinian prisoners, including children, after their arrest. In its annual report, the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel mentions 90 cases of detainees claiming to have been mistreated by soldiers. Full Story
Iraq official says U.K. captives alivePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:22amFive Britons who were kidnapped in Baghdad more than a year ago are still alive, Iraq's most senior security official said. Mowaffak al-Rubaie, Iraq's national security adviser, said authorities had "very good, strong intelligence telling us they are alive." Full Story
60 dead in floods from typhoon in PhilippinesPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:22amAt least 60 people are confirmed dead and 60 others are missing after Typhoon Fengshen struck islands in the central Philippines, a local official said Sunday. Full Story
Iraqi forces start second stage of security crackdown in S IraqPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:24amIraqi security forces started Saturday its second stage of ongoing security operation in Maysan province, security sources said. Full Story
Next terror threats to come from PakistanPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:25amThe most urgent foreign policy problem that the next U.S. president will face wont be Iraq. Nor will it be Iran.The next terrorist attack on America is likely to originate, according to the top U.S. military commander, Adm. Mike Mullen, in a place youve probably never heard of: the FATA. Thats the acronym for the Federally Administered Tribal Areas of northern Pakistan. Full Story
LTTE claymore mine explosion kills two policemenPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:26amLTTE terrorists have exploded a claymore mine targeting a police route clearing patrol at Kaludaveli in Batticaloa around 7.25 this morning (June 22). According to the defence sources, one officer of Police Special Task Force and another police constable have been killed. Full Story
Colombian hostage calls for rebel-government talksPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:28amA former Colombian lawmaker captured by FARC rebels a year ago accused the guerrillas and the government of "cruelty and barbarism" for refusing to negotiate a prisoner swap deal, in a video clip made public Saturday. Full Story
NATO returns fire following attack from PakistanPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:31amNATO says its forces have launched artillery across the Afghan border at attackers who fired at them from Pakistan. A military statement said three rounds of "indirect fire" landed near a NATO base in Afghanistan's Paktika province Saturday. Three more landed in an Afghan army compound. No casualties were reported. Full Story
16 rebels among 18 killed in Sri Lanka: ArmyPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 2:30pmIn clashes across embattled northern Sri Lanka, at least 16 LTTE rebels and two soldiers were killed, officials said here on Sunday. Full Story
Niger Tuareg rebels seize 4 French uranium workersPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 2:31pmTuareg-led rebels in Niger seized four French employees of a French-run uranium mine on Sunday in an abduction they said showed the country's government could not guarantee the safety of foreign mining operations. Full Story
Saudi will increase oil output to cut pricesPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:37pmSaudi Arabia will increase its daily oil production from 9 million barrels to 9.7 million in the near future to counter the sharp rise in international oil prices, Saudi King Abdullah said Sunday. Full Story
Billions more needed to secure US embassiesPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:39pmDespite an intensive $4 billion drive to protect U.S. embassies, at least 150 American missions abroad fall short of security standards put in place after deadly bombings, The Associated Press has learned. Full Story
Area terror cell numbered 8, agent saysPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:39pmAlthough they were known as the Lackawanna Six, the group of Buffalo- area men who trained at Osama bin Ladens terrorist camp in Afghanistan actually numbered eight and could have grown to 12, according to the former FBI agent who headed the investigation. Full Story
Bush fails to appoint a nuclear terror czarPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:40pmTen months after Congress passed a law establishing a White House coordinator for preventing nuclear terrorism, President Bush has no plans to create the high-level post any time soon, according to the National Security Council. Full Story
Explosion in Kirkuk kills three Iraqis, two injuresPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 3:41pmhree Iraqi people were killed and two others were injured on Sunday due to an explosion of an improvised explosive device (IED) that rocked northen city of Kirkuk. Full Story
Qaeda urges Somali insurgents to fight on-Web videoPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 4:25pmAn al Qaeda leader said a U.N.- brokered peace deal between the Somali government and some opposition figures was worthless and called on Islamist insurgents in the Horn of Africa nation to fight on. Full Story
Nigerian armed group declares ceasefirePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 4:28pmThe most high-profile armed group in the Niger Delta on Sunday declared a unilateral ceasefire starting "12 midnight on Tuesday, June 24, 2008". Full Story
Pakistani rebels kill four Afghans in rocket attacksPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 6:19pmFour civilians including two children were killed Sunday when militants from inside Pakistan fired rockets at NATO bases in eastern Afghanistan, the alliance force and police said. Full Story
Kidnapped Christians freedPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 6:54pmSixteen members of the Christian community kidnapped from the Academy Town returned home on Sunday morning but the government still transferred the city police chief and his deputy after holding them responsible for the incident. Full Story
Australia to boost sanctions against ZimbabwePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 7:42pmAustralia's government said on Monday it was looking to lift the level of sanctions against Zimbabwe and called on African nations to do more against the "brutal" regime of President Robert Mugabe. Full Story
4th Bolivian state moves toward autonomyPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 8:20pmNatural gas-rich Tarija became the fourth Bolivian state to declare autonomy from the central government of leftist President Evo Morales on Sunday when voters backed greater independence in a referendum, according a private quick-count of votes. Full Story
Colombian oil pipeline closed by attacks - sourcePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:41pmColombia's Cano Limon-Covenas oil pipeline has been closed by rebel bomb attacks carried out on Saturday and Sunday, a source at state petroleum company Ecopetrol told Reuters. Full Story
One security officer wounded in militant attack in ChechnyaPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:51pmA security officer was wounded after unidentified assailants opened fire on a car near the capital of the Republic of Chechnya in Russia's restive North Caucasus region, a local police source said Sunday. Full Story
Top member of Islamist group wounded in Lebanon blastPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:52pmA top Islamist militant was critically wounded on Sunday in a blast near the Palestinian refugee camp of Ain el-Helweh in south Lebanon which injured four others, a security official told AFP. Full Story
LTTE has links with global terror groups: Lanka PMPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:54pmSri Lankan Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayaka has alleged that the Tamil Tigers maintain links with international terror groups such as PKK and certain affiliates of Al-Qaida. Full Story
Shin Bet: Terror activity, arms smuggling stepped up in GazaPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:55pmDiskin addressed the Egypt-brokered cease fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, which went into effect Thursday morning, saying that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his Fatah movement supported the deal, but "felt that they had received the short end of the deal and exchanged hushed messages about it." Full Story
National terror warning system 'useless'Posted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:56pmThousands of large ships entering Australian waters and ports each year have been fitted with anti-terror warning systems that are useless in preventing acts of terrorism. Full Story
Terrorism help for PakistanPosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:58pmAustralian counter-terrorism experts could be sent to Pakistan under a far-reaching plan by the Federal Government to help that country promote stability, slow the spread of Islamic extremism and stem the flow of insurgents into Afghanistan. Full Story
Secrecy, open courts collide in terrorism suspect's casePosted on Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 9:59pmThe trial of terror suspect Momin Khawaja will renew what has, since 9-11, become an epic clash of national interests. Full Story
Irish 'No' on EU leaders' agendaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 7:20amEuropean Union leaders are due to attend a summit in Brussels which is likely to be dominated by Ireland's rejection of the EU treaty last week. They are expected to agree ratification must continue, but refrain from proposing an early way out of the crisis, the BBC's Oana Lungescu says. Full Story
Gaza truce takes hold, skepticism aboundsPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:05amGuns went quiet as a six-month truce between Israel and Gaza Strip militants took effect early Thursday, but there was widespread skepticism about its ability to hold. Full Story
China earthquake region braces for rainstormsPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:10amEarthquake-ravaged sections of China's devastated Sichuan province braced Thursday for heavy rainstorms that could trigger new landslides, one day after officials reportedly finished evacuating 110,000 people from the area. Full Story
Militants ambush Pakistani food convoy; 6 deadPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:11amMilitants in Pakistan attacked a convoy carrying food into a violence-plagued region on Thursday and murdering a driver, but five of them were killed when security forces retaliated, an official said. Sunni Muslim militants have been attacking vehicles going into the Shi'ite-majority Kurram ethnic Pashtun tribal region on the Afghan border for months. Full Story
Taliban raise a storm in KandaharPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:21amThe battle for Kandahar, the city in the southern province of the same name where the Taliban rose to power in the 1990s before taking control of the rest of Afghanistan, has begun. And while Afghan and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces are massed in the area around Arghandab, 20 kilometers north of Kandahar, the Taliban have their sights firmly set on the provincial capital. Full Story
Suu Kyi birthday marked in BurmaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:22amIn Burma supporters of Aung San Suu Kyi gave alms to monks as they marked the detained pro-democracy leader's 63rd birthday. Security personnel watched as dozens of people handed out food at the National League for Democracy headquarters. Full Story
U.S. helicopter engines stolen en route to Pakistan portPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:25amFour U.S. helicopter engines worth more than $13 million have been stolen while they were being trucked from Afghanistan to a port in Pakistan to be shipped home, the U.S. military said. Most supplies for the U.S. military in landlocked Afghanistan, including fuel, are transported through Pakistan, and militants in both Pakistan and Afghanistan have been stepping up attacks on shipments. Full Story
Nepal parties agree on integration of former rebel fightersPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:27amNepal's three largest political parties reached a deal Thursday to integrate Maoist former rebels fighters into the national Army and other security bodies, ending months of differences that have prevented the formation of a new government. The deal was struck during a meeting of senior leaders of the Nepali Congress, the Maoists and the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninists (CPN-UML). Full Story
Iraqi government says Amarah operation under wayPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:30amIraqi troops fanned out across the Shiite militia stronghold of Amarah Thursday and gunmen tossed their weapons onto the streets or into canals as the government officially launched a military crackdown on the area. Full Story
Four communist rebels killed in eastern PhilippinesPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:30amFour communist rebels were killed Thursday in a clash with government troops in a remote eastern Philippine town, a military spokesman said. Lieutenant Colonel Ernesto Torres said the fighting erupted when patrolling troops encountered heavily armed guerrillas is Tinambac town in Camarines Sur province, 285 kilometres south-east of Manila. Full Story
US envoy's convoy stoned in S. LebanonPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:31amHezbollah's Shiite supporters attacked a top U.S. diplomat's motorcade with stones in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, protesting her first visit to the militant group's stronghold, witnesses said. Full Story
3,600 Thai police to handle protestPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:32amAbout 3,600 Thai police will be deployed to watch over protesters planning to march Friday to Government House, a police spokesman said, warning that violence might break out. "The national police chief has ordered the police forces to be tripled to guard Government House and the surrounding areas," Major General Surapol Tuanthong told reporters on Thursday. Full Story
Call for Hindu suicide squads sparks anger in IndiaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:40amA powerful Hindu-nationalist political party in western India has called for Hindu suicide squads to counter Islamic terrorism, causing outrage and embarrassing the national opposition with which it is allied. Full Story
S Koreas Lee apologises over US beef rowPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:48amPresident Lee Myung-bak on Thursday apologised to all South Koreans for his governments decision to resume imports of US beef, an issue that has marred his first 100 days in office. Mr Lee said he would replace most of his top advisors on Friday, the precursor to a wide-ranging cabinet reshuffle that is expected next week. The agriculture and health ministers, among others, will be replaced. Full Story
US targets Hezbollah links in VenezuelaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:57amThe Bush administration took action Wednesday against a Venezuelan official and others accused of providing financial support to the Hezbollah terror group. The Treasury Department's action covers Ghazi Nasr al Din, whom the United States identified as a Venezuelan diplomat. The order also targets Fawzi Kan'an and two Venezuelan-based travel agencies -- Biblos and Hilal -- that he allegedly owns or controls. Full Story
France renews contact with FARC leaders on hostagePosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 10:04amFrance has renewed contact with the leaders of Colombian guerrillas holding Franco-Colombian hostage Ingrid Betancourt to try and secure her release after their main guerrilla contact was killed in March, presidency sources said on Thursday. The left-wing Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) has turned to kidnapping, extortion and the cocaine trade to finance operations against the military and outlawed paramilitary groups. Full Story
German court jails man for promoting Qaeda onlinePosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 10:15amA German court on Thursday sentenced an Iraqi man to three years in jail for distributing messages by al Qaeda leaders on the Internet. The court in the northern town of Celle said there was enough evidence that 37-year old chatroom administrator Ibrahim R. had placed several texts by Osama bin Laden and his deputy Ayman al-Zawahri online since 2005. Full Story
Tajiks jailed for 'Taleban links'Posted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 12:43pmA Tajik court has jailed three men for between 18 and 22 years for membership of a militant Islamic group said to have fought for the Afghan Taleban. The Supreme Court in Dushanbe was told the three Tajik nationals were active members of the Islamic Jihad Union. Full Story
Hezbollah agents discuss strikes outside Middle East: reportPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 7:19pmCanadian spies have overheard agents of Lebanese-based Hezbollah talking about a possible strike against the Israeli embassy in Ottawa, according to a report from a U.S. news agency. Full Story
Chavez threatens to block oil over EU rulesPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:46pmVenezuelan President Hugo Chavez threatened on Thursday to punish European countries that apply controversial new rules for deporting illegal immigrants by denying them oil and blocking their investments. Full Story
China shocks with 18 percent fuel price risePosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:47pmChina unexpectedly raised retail gasoline and diesel prices by up to 18 percent on Thursday, sending oil prices tumbling as Beijing moved to temper demand at the risk of stoking domestic angst over decade-high inflation. Full Story
EU agrees to lift 5-year-old sanctions on CubaPosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:48pmThe European Union on Thursday agreed to lift its diplomatic sanctions against Cuba, but imposed tough conditions on the communist island to maintain sanction-free relations, officials said. Full Story
Colombian admiral arrested in drug probePosted on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:49pmColombia's chief prosecutor ordered the arrest Thursday of a cashiered navy rear admiral on charges he helped drug traffickers. Full Story
New EU plan for illegal migrantsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:54amThe European Parliament is preparing to vote on a set of common EU rules that would allow the detention of illegal immigrants for up to 18 months. The "return directive" was agreed by EU interior ministers on 5 June and it is backed by conservative and liberal MEPs. The vote is set for Wednesday. Full Story
2 earthquakes strike Greece; no injuriesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:56amA strong earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 5.7 struck near the Greek capital before dawn Wednesday, followed hours later by a much weaker quake off the Aegean island of Karpathos, the Athens Geodynamic Institute said. No injuries or damage were reported from either quake. Full Story
Afghans start anti-Taliban offensive in southPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:58amHelicopter gunships and troops with small and heavy arms blasted a valley in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday as local and NATO forces launched a huge offensive against hundreds of Taliban insurgents, many of whom broke out of jail last week. The defence ministry in Kabul said 20 Taliban guerrillas were killed in a NATO air strike and two Afghan army officers also died in the operation, in Arghandab district. Full Story
Radical preacher Abu Qatada freed on bailPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 7:58amRadical preacher Abu Qatada, once called Osama bin Laden's "spiritual ambassador in Europe," was released on bail Tuesday in a court decision that dealt an embarrassing blow to the British government's anti-terror campaign. Home Secretary Jacqui Smith reacted by saying the government will protect national security and public safety, despite the unwanted release of Abu Qatada. Full Story
BoE voted 8-1 to hold interest rate: minutesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:00amBank of England policymakers voted 8-1 to leave interest rates at 5.00 percent earlier this month, according to minutes of their meeting that were published on Wednesday. The central bank's nine-member Monetary Policy Committee left its key lending rate on hold after a two-day meeting on June 4-5, in a move which analysts said was aimed at dampening high inflation despite slowing growth. Full Story
China and Japan strike gas dealPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:03amJapan and China have struck a deal for the joint development of a gas field in the East China Sea, resolving a protracted bilateral dispute. Japanese private sector firms will take part in China's project to develop the Chunxiao gas field, which is known as Shirakaba in Japan. Full Story
Militants release kidnapped journalists in PhilippinesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:07amAl-Qaeda-linked militants have freed a popular TV news anchor, her cameraman and a university professor more than a week after snatching them in the volatile southern Philippines, police said. The kidnappers, identified by police as Abu Sayyaf militants, released ABS-CBN anchor Ces Drilon and the two other captives on Jolo Island around 11 pm yesterday following talks with negotiators, said Director Avelino Razon, the national police chief. Full Story
Pakistani anger over U.S. airstrike remainsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:14amThe Pakistani military is so angry over the U.S. airstrikes here last week that it is threatening to postpone or cancel an American program to train a paramilitary force in counterinsurgency for combating Islamic militants, two Pakistani government officials said. Full Story
Thousands of Indonesians rally against Ahmadiyah sectPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:17amThousands of Indonesians wearing white to show their religious piety rallied at the presidential palace here on Wednesday to demand the banning of a minority Islamic sect deemed "deviant" by top clerics. More than 4,000 people from an array of mainstream Muslim political parties and fringe Islamist groups chanted slogans, shouted Allahu akbar (God is great) and waved banners condemning the Ahmadiyah sect. Full Story
Four British soldiers killed in AfghanistanPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:21amFour British soldiers were killed in the restive southern Afghan province of Helmand, officials said Wednesday, including reportedly the first female British military fatality. The soldiers serving with NATO died Tuesday when their vehicle was caught in a blast during what the British defence ministry called "a deliberate operation" east of the provincial capital Lashkar Gah. Full Story
India warns Kashmir violence may risePosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:23amIndia's defence minister said Wednesday he feared an upsurge of rebel attacks in disputed Kashmir in the run-up to state elections. The warning came days after militants killed five people, including four soldiers, and hurt 15 civilians in three separate attacks. Full Story
Mounting devastation as rains swamp southern ChinaPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:27amTorrential rains that have caused some of the worst flooding in 50 years and killed scores of people continued to batter a huge swath of southern China on Tuesday near one of the biggest manufacturing zones in the country. The government said the storms and floods had killed at least 63 people over the past week, left 13 missing and affected more than 17 million people in nine southern provinces. Full Story
Philippines seeks resumption of peace talks with Muslim rebelsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:29amPhilippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Wednesday called for the resumption of stalled peace talks with the country's largest Muslim separatist rebel group. Arroyo said the government has drafted a new proposed agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on the contentious issue of ancestral domain, which covers the establishment of a Muslim homeland in the southern region of Mindanao. Full Story
Bali bomber warns more al-Qaida attacks 'very likely' if he is executedPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:04amAn Islamic militant awaiting execution in Indonesia for carrying out the 2002 Bali bombings has warned that al-Qaida would be "very likely" to launch revenge attacks if authorities kill him, a magazine reported. Imam Samudra and two other Indonesian militants were sentenced to death in 2003 for their roles in the suicide attacks that killed 202 people, mostly foreign tourists, at two nightclubs on the resort island of Bali. Full Story
U.S. blames Shi'ite group for Baghdad bombPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:10amU.S. forces blamed a rogue Shi'ite militia group seeking to stir up sectarian violence on Wednesday for a devastating truck bombing that killed 63 people in Baghdad. Full Story
Israel agrees to truce with HamasPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:20amIsrael has agreed to a six-month truce with Palestinian armed groups including Hamas, the government's chief spokesman has confirmed. Full Story
Eight arrested for spying on behalf of IranPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:23amSaudi sources say that eight Bahraini citizens have been arrested on claims that they were spying for Iran. Full Story
Iraq bans dealings with Iran opposition groupPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:25amThe Iraqi government Tuesday banned any dealings with an Iranian opposition group based in Iraq. In an official statement, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's Cabinet accused the Mujahedeen Khalq organization of interfering in Iraq's internal affairs. Full Story
Argentine congress to debate tax hikePosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 9:44amFacing the biggest crisis since filling the seat vacated by her husband, President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner announced Tuesday that a grain export tax increase that has unleashed months of protests by farmers will be debated by Congress. Fernandez, whose party dominates both chambers, said she will send the proposal to legislators to give it ''more democratic support.'' Full Story
Peru protesters release 47 police hostagesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:13amProtesters blockading Peru's southern Pan-American Highway on Tuesday released 47 police hostages they were holding, clearing the way for talks with the government on their demand of a greater share of the region's mine revenues. The decision by residents of Moquegua province to release the hostages, including a police general, came after Cabinet Chief Jorge del Castillo said the government would end talks if the demonstrators didn't release the officers. Full Story
Chavez and ailing Castro meetPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:38amVenezuelan President Hugo Chavez had an "animated and warm" meeting with former Cuban leader Fidel Castro during a visit to Havana, state-run media said on Tuesday, but no photos or videos of the left-wing allies were made public. Full Story
New Venezuela finance minister says no major policy changePosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:39amVenezuela's new Finance Minister Ali Rodriguez said on Tuesday he will make no big changes to the economic policies of his predecessor, who tightened monetary supply but could not slow inflation. Rodriguez said Venezuela's oil-based economy presented special challenges but was still healthy. Full Story
Bomb injures two in St ThomasPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:46amA mysterious bomb blast in the commercial district of Morant Bay, St Thomas, yesterday afternoon has left two women injured and members of the business fraternity horrified. Reports are that the loud explosion, which left a plume of thick black smoke in the air, sent scores of persons running for cover. Full Story
Fuel protesters target BrusselsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:51amHundreds of truck, tractor and taxi drivers are converging on the centre of Brussels on the eve of a crucial European summit. The farmers and transport workers are protesting at the crippling effect of soaring fuel prices. Global oil prices have quadrupled in the past seven years, nearing $140 (90 euros) a barrel in Monday's trading. Full Story
Italy holds 'Tamil Tiger' membersPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:53amMore than 30 suspected members of Sri Lanka's Tamil Tiger rebel group have been arrested in Italy in a series of raids across the country, police say. They say all of them are Sri Lankan citizens suspected of extorting funds for the Tigers, who are banned as a terrorist group by the European Union. Full Story
Argentine President Seeks to Quell CriticismPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:54amArgentinas president, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, sought on Tuesday to cool mounting criticism over her economic policies, saying she would ask the Argentine Congress to legitimize the export taxes that have prompted three months of revolt by farmers. Members of her Peronist party control both houses of Congress, but her call for legislators to weigh in on the taxes was seen as a concession. Full Story
Brown denies French navy mergerPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:55amGordon Brown has rejected suggestions that the French and British navies could merge as "totally untrue". Speaking at prime minister's questions, he dismissed reports that HMS Ark Royal or HMS Illustrious could be controlled from Brussels. Full Story
Ex-journalist leads Salvador polls for rebel partyPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 10:59amA former CNN journalist could lead a leftist party of former Cold War Marxist guerrillas to power for the first time in El Salvador's presidential election next year, opinion polls show. Recent surveys by the University of Central America and CID-Gallup give ex-TV reporter and Salvadoran talk show host Mauricio Funes a lead of up to 20 points over ruling party candidate Rodrigo Avila, El Salvador's former police chief. Full Story
U.N.: 'Shock' rise in Colombia coca growthPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 11:46amColombia's coca crop the basis for cocaine grew by 27 percent last year, the United Nations reported Wednesday, calling the increase "a surprise and a shock" given major U.S.-funded eradication efforts. Eradication of the crop in Colombia, the world's No. 1 cocaine-producing nation, has been the cornerstone of a multibillion-dollar U.S. aid package. Full Story
Man released over bomb attackPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 12:08pmA 57-year-old man arrested as part of the investigation into the attempted murder of two police officers has been released without charge. Two officers were slightly injured on Saturday when a landmine partially exploded as their car was crossing a bridge in Rosslea. Full Story
Turkish singer tried over dissentPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:32pmOne of Turkey's best known singers, Bulent Ersoy, has gone on trial charged with attempting to turn the public against military service. The charges were brought after she suggested it was not worth sacrificing soldiers' lives in Turkey's conflict with the Kurdish separatist PKK group. Full Story
Politkovskaya murder charges laidPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:35pmThree men have been charged over the murder of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya, investigators have said. Politkovskaya, a prominent Kremlin critic, was shot dead outside her home in the capital on 7 October 2006. Russia's Investigative Committee said a fourth man, an officer with the country's security service, had also been charged with abuse of office. Full Story
Srebrenica survivors seek damages from UNPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:40pmRelatives of the victims of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre asked a Dutch court Wednesday to waive the immunity of the United Nations and allow them to seek damages for their loss. Bosnian Serb forces commanded by Ratko Mladic massacred 8,000 Muslim men and boys from Srebrenica, a town declared a safe area and guarded by a Dutch Army unit serving as part of a larger UN force. Full Story
NATO tests Ukraine's readiness to joinPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:45pmNATO's secretary general, accompanied by top envoys from all 26 countries in the alliance, is trying to get a sense of whether Ukraine, the largest former Soviet republic so far to seek membership in the organization, is making progress with preparations to join and in resolving its disputes with Russia. The secretary general, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, and NATO ambassadors are holding talks in Kiev this week with the Ukrainian Defense Ministry and with top members of Ukraine's three main political factions to try to evaluate the extent of change in the Ukrainian military. They are also trying to measure the gravity of a fresh warning from Russia, which says that it will never allow Ukraine to join the Atlantic alliance. Full Story
New constitution on agenda againPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:51pmThe ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), which had to shelve plans for a new and democratic constitution for Turkey after a closure case was filed against the party on March 14, has decided to reintroduce the package after the country's top court overturned a constitutional amendment a couple of weeks ago intended to end a ban on the Muslim headscarf at universities. Full Story
Turkey widens EU talks, expects French fairnessPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 1:55pmTurkish officials said Tuesday they expect France, long an opponent of the Turkish European Union membership bid, to approach membership negotiations fairly and openly during the six-month French EU presidency beginning next month. At a Luxembourg accession conference, Turkey and the EU opened two new chapters in negotiations, covering company law and intellectual property rights, bringing the total issues under discussion to 8 of 35. Turkey, if successful in the slow-moving negotiations, is not expected to join the bloc until 2015 at the earliest. Full Story
Pressure Increases On Belarusian PressPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 2:27pmIndependent journalists could soon find their work in Belarus even more difficult as a result of a new media law that is taking shape. The legislation seeks to impose curbs on the Internet -- the last outpost of uncensored information and free exchange of ideas in one of the world's most authoritarian countries. The bill, which was submitted by the government on June 10, was endorsed in its first reading by the Chamber of Representatives within a week. The speed with which it was rushed through the lower house reportedly surprised even some legislators well accustomed to rubber-stamping documents coming from the presidential administration or government. Full Story
Protests as govt bids to ratify EU treatyPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 2:31pmThe government battled to push a new European Union treaty over its last parliamentary hurdle Wednesday, defying protests against ratifying it before a summit clouded by Ireland's "no" vote. The upper House of Lords saw sometimes stormy scenes as members debated the Lisbon Treaty bill, days after an Irish referendum which dealt a stunning blow to the 27-nation bloc's plans. Full Story
EU lawmakers pass new rules for expelling illegalsPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 2:33pmEurope's hardening attitudes toward immigration found a voice in the EU Parliament Wednesday, as legislators passed controversial new rules for expelling illegals amid a widening crackdown in the United States. As the global economy slows, governments in rich countries are coming under increased pressure to act tough on immigration. While the European rules do not lay the groundwork for workplace raids like in America, they do contain contentious measures such as providing for long detention periods. Full Story
Srebrenica survivors seek damages from UN, DutchPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 2:35pmA Dutch court began hearings Wednesday about whether survivors of a 1995 massacre of Muslims in Bosnia Europe's worst mass killing since World War II can sue the United Nations for failing to prevent the slaughter. Serb forces killed more than 8,000 Muslims in one week in July 1995, overrunning the Srebrenica enclave declared a U.N. safe zone. Dutch peacekeepers overwhelmed by the Serbs' superior force watched helplessly as the male victims were led away from their custody for execution. Full Story
Congress panel votes to loosen Cuba travel rulesPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 3:13pmPeople living in the United States could travel to Cuba more often and visit a broader list of family members under legislation approved by a congressional panel on Tuesday. A House of Representatives appropriations panel embraced the liberalized travel initiative, which faces several more legislative steps over the next few months and likely would be opposed by the Bush administration. Full Story
Norway arrests woman for carrying cocaine in wigPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 3:31pmA British woman's bulging wig did not fool customs agents in Norway who realized she wasn't just having a bad hair day. The wig was concealing 2.2 pounds of cocaine glued to her head and customs agents detained her on suspicion of cocaine smuggling, authorities said Wednesday. The 32-year-old suspect, whose name was withheld, arrived late Sunday at Vaernes airport near the city of Trondheim on a flight from Copenhagen, Denmark, the customs service said. Full Story
Mark Thatcher member of coup plot, mercenary tells courtPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 3:41pmMark Thatcher, son of former prime minister Margaret Thatcher, was a key member of the plot to topple Equatorial Guinea's president, British mercenary Simon Mann told a court Wednesday. South Africa and Spain approved of the operation, he added, as did the United States after several oil companies reported that the country was not stable and that a change of government would be welcome. Full Story
Gunmen kill public official in Mexican border cityPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 5:45pmGunmen have killed the police administrative director in the violent Mexican border city of Ciudad Juarez, the latest high-profile killing in Mexico's drug war, police said on Wednesday. Full Story
Afghans start anti-Taliban offensive in southPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 6:03pmHelicopter gunships and troops blasted a valley in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday in a huge offensive by NATO and local forces against Taliban insurgents, many of whom broke out of jail last week. Full Story
Sweden adopts law allowing official eavesdroppingPosted on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 8:38pmSweden's Parliament narrowly approved a law Wednesday that gives authorities sweeping powers to eavesdrop on all e-mail and telephone traffic that crosses the Nordic nation's borders. Full Story
Courtesy Terrorism Research Center, Inc
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