World News Briefs -- April 12, 2009

In this photo provided by the Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore Romano, Pope Benedict XVI acknowledges faithful during the Easter Urbi et Orbi (To the City and to the World) blessing from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, overlooking St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, April 12, 2009. Benedict XVI said Sunday that reconciliation was the only way to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and said the entire world needed to rediscover hope to end wars, poverty and financial turmoil.(AP Photo/L'Osservatore Romano, ho). Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Israel's Peres makes rare hint at possible strike on Iran.

Iran alleges foreign-funded plot to undermine government.

Iran president dismisses demand to halt atom work: report.

'Russia won't press Iran for America'.

'Hezbollah's Nasrallah trying to take over Egypt'. More news here.

Saudi rapist 22nd convict beheaded this year.

US coalition soldier killed in Iraq.

Iraq's embattled Christians celebrate Easter.

Hamas 'bomb factory' found in West Bank mosque.

ASIA

Thai protesters force Asia summit cancellation. More news here and here.

Chinese bias for baby boys creates a gap of 32 Million.

Rioting follows state of emergency in Thai capital.

China seeing 'gradual recovery'.

AFRICA

Hostage captain rescued, 3 pirates killed. Obama twice approved force to rescue hostage. Obama vows to fight piracy, salutes freed U.S. captain.

The world’s best-kept secret for business: Rwanda?

Sudan kidnappers threaten to kill aid workers.

20 dead in Central African Republic clashes.

Ethiopia urges UN to act against Eritrea.

EUROPE

Fight breaks out during Georgia street protests. Georgian opposition to continue protest despite Palm Sunday.

Hopes dim in search for survivors of Italian quake.

Switzerland 'to hit back' at OECD in tax row.

Freed hostages arrive in France.

AMERICAS

President Chávez announces Uribe's visit to Venezuela.

Palestinians call on Canada to cancel Dead Sea scroll exhibition.

New York City: The tax capital of the world.

American tourists at home in Cuba. Can Cuba cope with an onslaught of Americans?

Galapagos volcano erupts, could threaten wildlife.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Pakistan pledges UK terror help.

IRA dissidents threaten top Sinn Fein politician.