World News Briefs -- May 16, 2010

Thai Military Cancels Plan to Impose Bangkok Curfew -- Voice of America

Thailand's military has canceled plans to impose a curfew in parts of Bangkok, where troops remain locked in a tense confrontation with anti-government protesters.

Army officials told reporters Sunday that the government no longer saw a need to enforce a curfew. The army had said earlier it would impose a curfew later in the day. No explanation was given for the reversal.

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MIDDLE EAST

Mounting concern among Iraqis about more violence.

Gaza rally raises Palestinian reconciliation hopes.

Brazil's Lula in Iran for 'last chance' nuclear talks. Russia says Lula has poor chance of success in Iran.

Iranian cleric wants creation of 'Greater Iran'.

ASIA

Red Shirts ready to negotiate with Thai government.

David Cameron holds talks with Afghan president Karzai.

Officials: US missiles kill 5 in NW Pakistan.

North Korea boats draw warning shots from South.

AFRICA

Officials: More than 160 killed in Darfur clashes.

East Africa seeks more Nile water from Egypt.

Algerian forces kill 3 suspected Islamic militants.

U.N., Congo snagged on timing of peacekeeper exit.

EUROPE

UK and Ireland shut some airspace due to ash cloud. Scientists forecast decades of ash clouds.

Muhammad cartoonist in hiding after arson attack.

‘Mummy’ Merkel battered as Germans lose faith in EU.

AMERICAS

BP confident it can contain gushing oil with pipe.

Former Mexican presidential candidate goes missing.

Jamaican leader caught in the middle of a drug war.

Canada: Fighter jets scrambled after bomb threat on Cathay Pacific plane.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

U.S. is still using private spy ring, despite doubts.

Guantanamo detainees find island homes — this time it may the Maldives.

Al Qaeda's Iraq network replaces slain leaders.

For car bomb suspect, a long path to Times Square.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

2nd German banker doubts Greece's ability to repay.

Greece considering legal action against U.S. banks for crisis.

WTO says conclusion of Doha Round talks 'vitally needed'.