World News Briefs -- October 7, 2009 (Evening Edition)

Obama: Mr Obama, who will hold a third meeting on Afghan strategy with principal advisers later this week, is on the spot after Gen Stanley McChrystal, the top US and NATO commander in Afghanistan, presented a grim assessment of the war. Photo: REUTERS

Obama Receives Request For More Afghanistan Troops -- Reuters

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A request from the top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan for additional troops has been transferred to President Barack Obama for review and has started working its way through the military chain of command, the Pentagon said on Wednesday.

The request, which General Stanley McChrystal submitted to Defense Secretary Robert Gates last month, recommends adding up to 40,000 additional U.S. and NATO troops next year, according to congressional officials.

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MIDDLE EAST

Is the U.S. preparing to bomb Iran?

Iranian court shuts down 3 pro-reform newspapers as dissent continues to simmer.

Saudi King to pressure Syria over Iran alliance.

Israel intercepts plane overflying nuclear reactor.

Palestinian official: We erred over Gaza report. Abbas faces more anger over UN war crimes report.

ASIA

Japan: US troop burden on Okinawa needs easing.

Afghan outlook bleak as Taliban grabs territory.

Billions in US aid sparks debate in Pakistan.

The tantalizing riches of North Korea.

Analysis: US leery of direct talks with NKorea. Failed nuclear disarmament deals netted North Korea $2.2 billion. China aims to steady North Korea.

N Korea said to have 13 bacterial weapons.

India plans to put military pressure on Pakistan by deploying advanced aircraft in Punjab.

AFRICA

Kenyans 'rearming for 2012 poll'.

Somali pirate error ends with 5 in French brig.

U.S. condemns mass killings and rape in Guinea. Guinea opposition calls for Camara to step down.

Major suspect in genocide of Rwandans is captured.

Mediators: Madagascar leader can't run in election.

Mugabe plans to evict all white farmers; Lobby group protests.

EUROPE

Russia sees new U.S. anti-missile shield less risky: report.

Italy's Berlusconi loses immunity.

Greece swears in socialist Prime Minister.

Turkey sidesteps obstacle to Armenia pact.

Police clash with protesters outside finance meeting in Turkey.

AMERICAS

Ecuador government seeks end to Indian protest.

Dalai Lama urges U.S. to address rich-poor issue.

Diplomats converge on Honduras for talks.

U.S. to overhaul immigration system.

Drug cartels face an economic battle.

2016 Olympics a crowning glory for Brazil leader.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Holder worried about lawmakers' Gitmo objections.

Attorney General says alleged bomb plot in N.Y. was 'very serious'.

Obama: No one can promise there will never be another attack on U.S. soil.

Al-Qaeda inspired groups still active in Canada: report

In failed strike on Saudi Prince, a new fear of Al-Qaeda's tactics.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

The great tax drought of 2009.

Sugar the new oil as prices soar.

Panic leads to dollar dump, investors seek refuge in gold.

Brussels shames deficit bingers amid spending rows.