Sunday, May 21, 2017

World News Briefs -- May 21, 2017



The Guardian: Trump vows to meet 'history's great test' by conquering extremism

Addressing leaders of 40 Muslim nations in Saudi capital, US president moves away from anti-Islamic rhetoric of campaign

Donald Trump has attempted to stake a claim as a figure who can mobilise the Muslim world against extremism, using his much-anticipated speech on Islam as a rallying call for global cooperation rooted in reform, trade and faith.

Speaking in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, in front of leaders from more than 40 Muslim nations, the US president vowed to meet “history’s great test” by conquering extremism with the help of countries who have suffered most from it.

In a marked divergence from the strident anti-Islamic rhetoric that characterised his campaign, he instead pledged not to “lecture” or “tell other people how to live … or how to worship”.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Trump calls for global coalition against terrorism, 'isolation' of Iran. Donald Trump says Iran has helped commit 'unspeakable crimes' in Syria with Bashar al-Assad. Donald Trump calls on Muslim states to lead fight against radicalisation in Saudi Arabia speech.

Saudi king tells Donald Trump Syrians 'brought destruction to their own country'.

Hamas decries Trump's terror allegation.

Syria regime regains total control of Homs city.

At refugee camp, Trump envoy Haley vows more aid for Syrians.

Southern Yemenis stage independence rally.

Cholera outbreak spreading at 'unprecedented' speed kills 315 in Yemen.

Erdogan returns as ruling AKP party chief after referendum win.

Israelis skeptical of Trump ahead of visit.

'Angry' Netanyahu orders ministers to attend Trump reception.

ASIA

North Korea's second missile launch in a week provokes international outcry. North Korea tests another missile in latest Kim provocation.

Tillerson says US pressure on North Korea in 'early stages'. Chat between top diplomats signals China, US are moving closer on North Korea.

China 'dismantled' CIA spying operations and killed sources – report.

Twenty policemen, dozens of Taliban killed in Shah Joi. German woman killed and Afghan guard beheaded in Kabul.

‘West is just double talk, I want more ties with Russia & China’ – Philippine President Duterte

New Zealand space launch has nation reaching for the stars.

Mount Everest's Hillary Step has collapsed, mountaineer confirms.

AFRICA

East Libyan forces launch strikes after air base attack.

Libya: Mass executions alleged at military base.

UN refugee chief urges Libya to free refugees and asylum seekers.

Suspected Boko Haram jihadists kill vigilantes in Nigeria.

Tensions rise as Uganda refugee policy is pushed to breaking point.

One killed in northern Kenya after rally attended by President Kenyatta.

S. Africa risks becoming 'mafia state' warns Ramaphosa.

Tears of joy as Chibok girls reunite with their parents.

Trump accepts invitation to visit Egypt from President Sisi.

EUROPE

EU foreign policy chief dismisses Russia’s superpower status, doubts Trump will pay Syria bill.

Euro zone, IMF to seek compromise on Greek debt deal Monday.

Make or break: Cypriots cling to hope in peace talks.

Swiss vote in referendum on gradual nuclear phaseout. Switzerland votes to ban nuclear plants, shift to renewable energy in referendum.

Britain's EU 'no deal' threat is genuine, says Brexit minister Davis.

Hungarians protest again over clampdown on university, NGOs.

Pope Francis names five new cardinals, all from outside Italy and the Vatican.

Norway to boost protection of Arctic seed vault from climate change.

AMERICAS

Congressional panels pledge thorough probe into Comey firing.

Republicans fearing for their safety as anger, threats mount.

Venezuela protests: Man set alight as death toll rises. Venezuela's Maduro attacks 'fascist' protesters for setting man alight.

Brazilians call for president to resign after graft charges.

Honduran opposition groups back TV star for presidency.

Canada eases steps to open supervised drug injection sites amid opioid crisis.

Protesting Notre Dame students walk out of Pence’s commencement speech.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Riyadh summit discusses ways of rooting out terrorism.

Saudi Arabia classifies top Hezbollah leader as terrorist. Blacklised Hezbollah official says Trump administration 'crazy'.

Egypt orders military trial for 48 'Islamic State' suspects over church attacks.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

TPP trade deal will continue without Trump. U.S. and Pacific Rim countries at odds in heated trade meeting.

OPEC heads towards supply cut extension as Saudi signals most on board.

Softbank-Saudi tech fund becomes world's biggest with $93 billion of capital.

Ringling Bros. owner: Final shows are ‘a celebration’.

1 comment:

Caecus said...

If there is beauty and spiritual depth in Christianity according to Mr. Ali, how is it that it is banned in the "Holy Land" of Islam, Saudi Arabia? How many Churches, Synagogues or Hindu Temples in that country?