Friday, February 26, 2010

World News Briefs -- February 26, 2010

An injured man is escorted away from the site of a blast in Afghan capital Kabul Feb. 26, 2010. Two explosions hit downtown area of Afghan capital Kabul on Friday morning, killing at least 22 people. (Xinhua/Zhang Ning)

Many Dead In Attacks On Kabul Guesthouses -- New York Times

KABUL, Afghanistan — At least 18 people were killed and 32 wounded on Friday in suicide and car bomb attacks on two guesthouses popular with foreigners in the center of Kabul, police officials said.

In a telephone interview, a Taliban spokesman claimed responsibility for the attacks, which coincided with a major offensive by American-led coalition forces against militants in the southern province of Helmand, a central element in President Obama’s strategy in rural Afghanistan.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Iran, Syria mock U.S. policy; Ahmadinejad speaks of Israel's 'annihilation'.

Sectarian tensions rise before Iraq elections.

Will the UN put off the Goldstone report another five months?

More clashes over Israeli claim to shrine.

Jundallah arrest proves timely for Iran.

ASIA

Coup rumours as Thailand awaits Thaksin assets ruling.

Cynicism in both India and Pakistan after talks.

At new Bagram prison in Afghanistan, some inmates buoyant.

Myanmar denies dissident’s appeal for freedom. Aung San Suu Kyi appeal rejected by Burma court.

AFRICA

Niger: A coup for democracy?

After Yar'Adua return, Nigeria wonders when he'll take power. Nigeria's Goodluck Jonathan 'is acting president'.

Somali pirates release Singaporean ship for cash.

UN deplores Gaddafi call for anti-Swiss 'jihad'.

On visit to Rwanda, Sarkozy admits ‘grave errors’ in 1994 genocide.

EUROPE

New Ukrainian President touts domestic reforms, non-aligned foreign policy.

European Union pushes cuts for indebted countries.

Greek PM says worst fears confirmed on economy.

AMERICAS

Olympic wire ....

Argentina seeks US backing in dispute with Britain over the Falklands.

Venezuela annuls election of anti-Chavez mayor.

Dissident's funeral spurs crackdown in Cuba.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

US House Leaders stop vote to ban degrading treatment.

U.S. law aimed at terrorists may go too far on free speech (Commentary).

Freed French hostage speaks of al-Qaeda ordeal in Mali.

US drone kills top al-Qaeda operative in Pakistan.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

In Greece’s crisis, Fed studies Wall St.’s activities.

Clinton says U.S. deficit now a security issue.

US senator warns of ‘financial meltdown’ risk.

Euro in danger as the Greek crisis deepens and Merkel admits currency is at risk.

No comments: