World News Briefs -- May 20, 2009

The test-firing of a new medium-range surface to surface missile, named Sejil-2, at an undisclosed location in Iran. President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad announced that Iran had successfully test-fired the new missile, drawing a warning from Israel that Europe too should now worry about the Islamic republic's ballistic programme. (AFP/FARS NEWS)

US Officials Confirm Iranian Missile Launch -- Yahoo News/AP

WASHINGTON – The missile test-fired by Iran is similar in design and range to missiles it has launched in previous years, but it is too early to tell if it demonstrated any new capabilities, U.S. defense and intelligence officials said Wednesday.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates provided the first official U.S. confirmation of the Iranian launch, briefly telling a House committee about the test nearly eight hours after it was announced by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

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MIDDLE EAST

Iran tests missile with range that can hit Israel. Gates: Iran missile test successful.

US unit to leave Baghdad ahead of June 30 deadline.

Hamas rocket attack prompts Israeli air raid on Gaza strip.

Israeli settlers reject Obama call to halt building.

Netanyahu says Israel ready for peace talks with Syria.

U.S. Special Ops chief arrives in Lebanon.

ASIA

Sri Lankan Government savors victory while Tamils ponder future.

India set to counter China's influence in Lanka.

India's Congress Party picks Singh for second term.

Backers of Burma's Suu Kyi say junta is rushing trial. More news here and an editorial here.

AFRICA

Somali pirates embrace capture as route to Europe.

Chad readies forces to strike rebels in Sudan.

Ethiopia denies its troops entered Somalia.

UN asks Congo to arrest army officers.

EUROPE

Irish church knew abuse 'endemic'.

Biden to Bosnia: Join Europe or die!

Italy going rogue on Iran diplomacy.

Moldova in presidential deadlock.

AMERICAS

Venezuela’s hope of more sway dims as riches dip.

Did a high-seas fistfight nix a Russia-Venezuela submarine deal?

Ecuadoran town a hub for drug-running rebels, Colombia says.

Colombian Senate OKs referendum on re-election.

Drugs grab Mexican political spotlight.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Judge rules US can hold detainees indefinitely.

Spain: Police arrest 17 Al-Qaeda suspects in north.

FBI director concerned about Gitmo releases.

ECONOMIC/FINANCIAL CRISIS

Geithner: Major banks have raised $48 billion.

Japan economy takes a record fall.