Tuesday, February 3, 2009

News Briefs For February 3, 2009

An Iranian flag fluttering in front of an Iranian Safir rocket designed to carry a communications satellite before a test launch in the Islamic republic in 2008. Iran said on Tuesday it has launched its first domestically manufactured satellite into orbit, raising fresh concerns among world powers already at odds with Tehran over its nuclear drive. (AFP/File/Vahidreza Alai)

MIDDLE EAST

Iraqi PM Maliki is the big winner in Iraq's elections. The Iraqi electorate voted for security and stability. Meanwhile .... there is a new U.S. Ambassador to Iraq.

Israel's Key Election Issue: Did War End Too Soon?

Palestinians fire rocket from Gaza, and Israel air force retaliates. Clinton demands that Hamas stop. But Hamas leader Khaled Meshal visits Tehran to thank Iran for its support.

According to the Pentagon, Iran's domestic satellite launch is grave cause for concern.

ASIA

Militants in Pakistan cut US, NATO supply line to Afghanistan

Kyrgyzstan closing US base key to Afghan conflict.

The war in Sri Lanka is getting worse.

More Burmese boat people rescued off Indonesia.

AFRICA

Zimbabwe is changing its currency .... again.

Qaddafi wants to unify the African continent into one state. More here. Many are not happy with this choice. Qaddafi is being accused of an anti-Christian bias.

Somalia’s New President Ahmed pledges to end piracy, seek peace.

EUROPE

German troops in France, the first time since the Second World War.

pope criticized on issue of a holocaust denier.

Greek farmers are rioting.

London is still snowed under on day 2. Many are angry.

World Court settles 40-year dispute over Black Sea.

THE AMERICAS

The FARC guerrillas in Colombia are changing their tactics.

Bolivia wants to be the "OPEC" of lithium.

FINANCIAL/ECONOMIC CRISIS

EU attacks 'Buy American' clause.

PM asks Iceland central bank chiefs to quit.

Australia Cuts Key Interest Rate to 45-Year-Low 3.25%.

Chrysler sales plunge 55 pct; GM, Toyota also down

No comments: