World News Briefs -- September 11, 2010

The Tribute in Lights illuminates the sky over lower Manhattan on Sept. 11, 2009, the eighth anniversary of the attack on the World Trade Center. (Lucas Jackson/Reuters)

Religious Tension Marks Sept 11 Anniversary -- Yahoo News/Reuters

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Religious tensions are overshadowing the anniversary of the September 11 attacks on the United States where President Barack Obama urged a Christian preacher to abandon a plan to burn copies of the Koran.

And a day ahead of Saturday's ninth anniversary, a report warned that the United States faced a growing threat from home-grown insurgents and an "Americanization" of the al Qaeda leadership.

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MIDDLE EAST

Iraqi official foresees a U.S. military presence until 2016.

Iran announces delay in release of jailed American woman.

Turkey braces for key vote over its future.

ASIA

Afghan government struggling to keep support of Islamic council.

China demands Japan release detained boat captain.

North Korea proposes talks with South on split families.

In North Korea, signs of public discontent about Kim succession.

AFRICA

DR Congo bans mining for mobile phone minerals.

Cholera stalks West Africa as rains spread disease.

Uganda's LRA rebels 'must face African joint action'.

EUROPE

U.N. resolution paves the way for Serbia-Kosovo talks.

Catholic Church in Belgium details widespread sexual abuse.

Greek protesters to confront government on economy.

The E.U. tries to stop France's crackdown on gypsies.

AMERICAS

Islam controversies cast shadow over 9/11 events.

Eight months after Haiti earthquake, a nation hangs on.

Elite flee drug war in Mexico's No. 3 city.

Colombia police killed as rebel surge continues.

Salvadoran leader speaks of criminal gangs' links to drug cartels.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Nine years after 9/11, is Al-Qaeda's threat overrated?

Experts: Terrorism threat to U.S. now more homegrown.

Pentagon eases rules for reporters covering Guantanamo trials.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Outlook gloomy at secret billionaire meeting.

China's trade surplus hits $20 billion again.

IMF says growth will slow in coming months.