World News Briefs -- January 13, 2011

Arab League Chief Warns Of Syrian Civil War -- ABC News/AP

The head of the Arab League warned Friday that Syria may be sliding toward civil war, as security forces fired on thousands of people who poured into the streets in support of army defectors who switched sides to try to topple President Bashar Assad.

Also Friday, an activist group said two foreign journalists and a translator were arrested in the Syrian capital, Damascus. The group, the Local Coordination Committees, had no further details. The government has barred access to the country by most foreign media, except on a limited number of escorted trips.

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MIDDLE EAST

Syria protests erupt, Arab League fears civil war. Syrians call for rallies in support of rebels.

Iran leader says CIA, Mossad behind scientist murder.

Iran 'steps up military aid to Syria'.

US seeking to 'close down' Iran central bank.

U.S. Embassy workers detained in Baghdad.

ASIA

Tension in Pakistan as Zardari travels, military meets. Officials: Pakistan PM called UK, fearing coup. Pakistan, UK deny call expressing coup fears.

S. Korea, US, Japan to hold post-Kim talks next week.

Kim Jong Il's body to be permanently displayed.

Myanmar frees more political prisoners.

Japan pledges to reduce Iran oil imports.

AFRICA

Nigeria unions suspend strikes in fuel dispute.

57 killed in tribal revenge attack in South Sudan.

KENYA-SOMALIA: Paying high price for military incursion.

ICRC suspends food aid to 1.1 million Somalis.

South Africa President criticizes UN over Libya.

Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood enters 'uncharted waters' in new parliament.

EUROPE

Eurozone nations set for S&P downgrade.

French TV says France downgraded by S&P, citing source. France downgraded by S&P, losing triple-A status: Report.

Italy's crisis opens doors to cash-rich mafia.

Putin vows to end repression in Russia.

Russia says would be threatened by Iran military action.

AMERICAS

U.S. debt nears $15.194 trillion ceiling.

Another ATF weapons operation comes under scrutiny.

Church worried over rising violence in Venezuela.

Mexican star Kate del Castillo shocks with praise for drug lord.

Haiti marks two years after catastrophic quake.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Gitmo defense lead at odds with commander.

Thailand says Lebanese suspect arrested over security.

Opponents start Guantanamo prison's second decade with jumpsuit protests.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Viva la gaffe... Mercedes-Benz apologises for using image of Che Guevara to promote 'revolutionary' car sharing programme.

Beijing Apple store pelted with eggs after iPhone 4S launch cancelled.

U.S. slaps sanctions on China state oil trader over Iran.

Delta eyes American Airlines bid.