World News Briefs -- February 17, 2010

U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers take cover behind a berm after recieving accurate fire in the city of Marja in Helmand province, Afghanistan, Feb, 13, 2010. U.S. Marines Corps photo by Lance Cpl. James Clark

Taliban Using 'Human Shields' In Afghanistan -- Voice of America

An Afghan military official says Taliban fighters are increasingly using civilians as "human shields" as Afghan and NATO forces press on with a major offensive in Helmand province.

Afghan commander General Mohiudin Ghori said Wednesday that Taliban fighters have been seen ordering women and children to stand on the roofs of houses while the militants fire weapons around them.

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MIDDLE EAST

Just weeks before elections, specter of sectarian violence resurfaces in Iraq.

Yemen rebels may free Saudi soldiers in days.

PM: Israel to erect Red Army memorial.

Dubai launches global dragnet to nab assassins of Hamas figure.

Iran's opposition searches for a new strategy.

ASIA

US drone attack kills three in Pakistan.

India official condemns deadly Maoist attack.

U.S. carrier arrives in Hong Kong amid China tensions.

Crackdown provokes fears for Sri Lanka’s democracy.

AFRICA

Ivory Coast sees protests against dissolved govt.

Libya suspends issuing visas to Europeans.

EU renews Zimbabwe sanctions.

EUROPE

Ukrainian election results suspended on appeal.

Natural population decline in Russia down by 31% in 2009 — Putin.

In Paris and Berlin, fury over a Greek bailout.

Russia signs deal to build military base in Abkhazia.

AMERICAS

As the world watches, Dalai Lama will meet with Obama at the White House.

Haiti quake damage in billions. Haiti quake more destructive than 2004 tsunami: study.

Missile purchase by Colombia's FARC rebels raises concerns.

Argentina imposes shipping rules in Falklands oil row. Argentina to blockade Falkland waters in dispute over oil rights.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Wife of airline liquid bomb plotter 'prayed he would achieve highest level of martyrdom'.

Iran's Mottaki blames US for spread of terrorism.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Lone voice warns of debt threat to Fed.

Financial crisis hurting millions: ADB, UN.

Foreign demand for US debt drops by record amount.