World News Briefs -- June 16, 2010 (Evening Edition)

BP Agrees To $20-Billion Escrow Fund; Cancels Dividends -- L.A. Times

The Obama administration has reached a preliminary agreement with BP executives that would see the oil company pay $20 billion over several years into an independently controlled escrow account to be established to compensate Gulf of Mexico residents affected by the disastrous oil spill, and BP's board of directors has eliminated the company's stock dividend, at least temporarily.

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MIDDLE EAST

U.S. adds new sanctions aimed at Iran's nuclear program.

Goods flow into Gaza despite Israeli blockade. Israel expected to agree to ease Gaza blockade.

Iran President wants to punish West over sanctions.

Iran to build 'powerful' new nuclear reactor.

ASIA

Seven more killed as ‘sectarian killings’ continue in Karachi, Pakistan.

North Korea rejects torpedo findings, threatens war.

Militant group expands attacks in Afghanistan. Afghan war trends signal "mounting crisis"-US senator.

Heavy arms fire rings out in Kyrgyz south.

Report: More urgency needed in Washington's approach to North Korea.

Pakistan wants combat copters.

Japan's ruling coalition ally proposes vast economic stimulus measures.

AFRICA

Somali government responds to New York Times child soldier story.

South Sudan soldiers clash with rebel militia: Army.

Somali insurgents detain soccer fans.

Sudan rebel leaders surrender to warcrimes court.

EUROPE

Poll: 86 pct dissatisfied with German government.

France, Spain set reforms under euro zone pressure.

Report calls 1972 Bloody Sunday killings by British troops unjustified. Bloody Sunday report published.

France lifts retirement age to balance pension books.

French flash floods kill 20.

Seven killed in Russia's Dagestan region: Ifax.

AMERICAS

Calderon asks for Mexicans' support as toll rises. Mexico army fights gang in tourist town, killing as many as 15. More news on Calderon's speech is here.

More Cuban political prisoners put their lives on the line.

Owner of anti-Chavez TV channel flees Venezuela.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Suspected Hezbollah financier arrested in Paraguay.

American was on solo mission to kill Bin Laden, Pakistani police say. Pakistan: Doctor examines bin Laden hunter from US.

Pentagon upholds ban on Guantanamo reporters, but offers possibility of return.

Analysts: north African Qaeda helps drug trade.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Price increases fuel fears of food ‘crises’.

AT&T and Apple's marriage made in hell. Apple, AT&T hit with glitches on new iPhone orders.

EU denies planning Spain credit line with IMF, U.S.