World News Briefs -- April 13, 2009

Hat Tip Lucianne

MIDDLE EAST

Four Lebanese soldiers killed in ambush.

Iran says it welcomes nuclear talks with West.

Vague Russia pledge on no S-300 to Iran: Israelis.

News Analysis: Egypt-Hezbollah standoff dents Egypt-Iran relations.

Iraq sues to shut newspaper, TV station in Baghdad.

ASIA

Thailand: Bangkok street violence leaves 2 dead. Bangkok protests 'under control'.

Sri Lanka Govt urges civilians to leave war zone as army begins truce. But Sri Lanka civilians stay in war zone despite lull.

Kidnappers kill hostage in Philippines.

Democratic future fades for Fiji.

U.N. condemns North Korean rocket launch.

AFRICA

U.S. military considers attacks on Somali pirates’ land bases.

Somali insurgents fire mortars towards U.S. rep.

Sudan's Bashir hails Obama's overture to Islamic world.

In Algeria, Bouteflika's opponents challenge his landslide win.

10 killed in Nigeria speedboat clashes.

SAfrica faces 'failed state' risk if ANC win vote: opposition

EUROPE

Polish homeless hostel fire kills 22 people, hurts 20.

Georgia protesters intensify push to oust president. Georgia protests enter fifth day.

Obama's half-brother refused UK visa: reports.

"Smeargate" scandal continues in U.K. politics.

Italy quake victims mark somber Easter Holiday.

AMERICAS

Colombian President Alvaro Uribe's push to ban drugs up for discussion.

Some U.S. travel restrictions to Cuba to be lifted.

Paraguay leader admits love-child.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

'Manchester terror plot' suspect pictured for first time.

Pakistani 'terror plot suspects' to be deported rather than charged.

US Al-Qaeda member urges support for jihadists.

'Tartan Taleban' arrested as terror suspect in Pakistan.

No decisions yet on relocation of Guantanamo detainees.

FINANCIAL/ECONOMIC CRISIS

GM told to prep for bankruptcy filing: report.

China slows purchases of US Bonds.

Canada job losses worst since 1982 recession.

China's problem we wish we had: too much credit.