World News Briefs -- September 7, 2010

U.S. soldiers provide overwatch for their team during a dismounted patrol near Combat Outpost Mizan, Mizan District, Zabul province, Aug. 16, 2010. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Nathanael Callon

U.S. Commander Seeks 2, 000 New Troops For Afghanistan -- New York Times/Reuters

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan has requested another 2,000 troops for the foreign force fighting the Taliban insurgency, despite waning support for the war in troop-contributing nations, NATO officials said.

NATO officials said the request by General David Petraeus to bolster the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) was made last week and included a call for about 750 more personnel to train the Afghan security forces.

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MIDDLE EAST

Iran says it has the right to bar UN inspectors.

Iran on brink of nuclear weapon, warns watchdog.

Political deadlock damaging Iraq security - minister.

Abbas: No 'historic compromise' on Jerusalem, borders.

Israel's Foreign Minister vows to block settlement slowdown.

Bahrain arrests dozens of Shiite Muslims accused of plotting coup.

ASIA

Julia Gillard to lead Australian minority government.

19 killed in Pakistan suicide attack.

NKorea frees 7 detained SKorean, Chinese fishermen.

Is China envisioning a broader strategy in the South Pacific?

India PM warns China wants foothold in South Asia.

Myanmar military ruler visits China, seeks support.

Long-dormant Indonesian volcano erupts again.

AFRICA

Mozambique bread riots may be warning sign on African food security.

230 people killed in Mogadishu violence.

Climate shifts 'not to blame' for African civil wars.

South Africa unions’ strike suspended.

EUROPE

Commuters walloped by strikes in France, London. France hit by 24-hour strike.

Spain's separatist ETA offers ceasefire, but the government vows to keep the pressure on. Sinn Féin 'heavily involved' in push for Eta ceasefire, says Gerry Adams.

Vladimir Putin considers Russia presidency bid.

AMERICAS

Storms claim nearly 50 lives in Guatemala, Mexico.

3 suspects in Mexico migrant massacre found dead.

U.S. Democrats face GOP election day tsunami in House, Senate.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Judge rules Afghan shopkeeper Khan should remain at Guantanamo.

9 years after 9/11, public safety radio not ready.

Balancing counterterrorism and democracy in Uganda.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

AP analysis: Economic pain failed to ease in July.

Virgin's Richard Branson circles his wagons.

American Bob Diamond to take over as new chief executive of Barclays.