World News Briefs -- April 16, 2009

U.S. President Barack Obama speaks next to Mexico's President Felipe Calderon during an official welcoming ceremony at the presidential residence Los Pinos in Mexico City April 16, 2009. REUTERS/Daniel Aguilar (MEXICO POLITICS)

MIDDLE EAST

Suicide bomber attacks Iraqi soldiers in Anbar province. 17 killed, 17 wounded.

U.S. military expresses concern about perception of an Iraqi crackdown on Sunnis.

US-Israeli differences over Palestinians emerge. Obama envoy to Israel: U.S. wants Palestinian state.

Israel warns of a 'new approach' in the path to peace in the Middle East.

Claims of biz swindle in Dubai's ruling family.

Egypt seeks arrest of Hezbollah chief.

ASIA

Attacks plague Indian elections, killing at least 17.

Sri Lankan troops attack rebel defenses.

Expelled UN nuclear inspectors leave North Korea.

Australia: Explosion on asylum seekers' boat

AFRICA

Conservationists fear for Zimbabwe rhino.

Somali PM asks for more help to fight pirates.

Amnesty: Nigerian police more violent in south.

Sudan to allow some restoration of foreign aid.

EUROPE

Russia ends Chechen counterterrorism operation. Chechnya and Russia: Timeline on the history of violence between neighbours since Chechnya declared independence in 1992

French fishermen lift blockades.

Italy to close quake victim camps before autumn.

AMERICAS

Obama supports Mexico's drug war.

Ground Zero redevelopment may take decades.

15 gunmen, 1 soldier killed in Mexican shootout.

Bolivian police uncover plot against president.

Colombia Army dismantles five FARC camps.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Al Qaeda urges Somalis to attack ships.

Spanish AG says no torture probe of US officials.

Obama to shield CIA interrogators from charges. No charges against CIA officials for waterboarding.

Iran's new South American embassies tied to Hizbullah activity, U.S. routes.

ECONOMIC/FINANCIAL CRISIS

U.S. foreclosures 46% higher in March than a year ago.

China growth slowest on record.

U.S. lays groundwork for bank stress test release.

A 'Copper Standard' for the world's currency system?

IMF sees long and severe slowdown.