Wednesday, July 18, 2012

World News Briefs -- July 18, 2012 (Evening Edition)



Syria Conflict: Ministers 'Killed In Suicide Attack' -- BBC

Three men at the heart of President Assad's defence team have died in a suicide bombing, Syrian state TV says.

The president's defence minister, brother-in-law and head of his crisis team were at a meeting at national security headquarters in Damascus.

No footage has yet emerged of the attack in which the national security chief and interior minister were also said to have been wounded.

It comes as rebels claim to have launched an offensive on the capital.

For the past three days, rebels have fought with troops in several parts of the city, declaring their operation, entitled Damascus Volcano, a final battle for the capital.

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MIDDLE EAST

Rebels say bombing that killed top Syrian officials signals new push to topple Assad.

Syrian defense minister killed in suicide blast. Top Syrian officials killed in major blow to al-Assad's regime.

Russia accuses West of inciting Syrian rebels.

Terrified Syrians pack up to flee capital.

Iran admits sanctions are hurting.

Israeli prime minister blames Iran for Bulgaria bomb.

Netanyahu coalition loses major ally in draft law dispute. Israeli PM urged to call elections after Kadima leader quits government.

Israel gas fields pose naval security challenge.

Iran says US can't clear Gulf of mines.

For Navy crew, shooting at Indian fishermen was last resort. US offers condolences to India over fatal Navy shooting in Gulf.

ASIA

Burma 'creating humanitarian crisis' with displacement camps in Arakan.

David Cameron visits troops in Afghanistan.

Taliban bomb destroys 22 NATO supply trucks in Afghan north.

Kim Jong-un becomes marshal of North Korean military.

China has territorial claims to nearly 20 countries.

Roadside bomb kills 14 in NW Pakistan.

Thai, Cambodian troops leave disputed area.

Phl to pursue sea claims despite Asean setback.

AFRICA

In the new Egypt, beards appear where they were once banned.

Tunisian President in France to repair ties.

Tanzania rescue bid as ferry sinks off Zanzibar.

Mali preparing military action to take control of north, PM says.

UN: Somali refugees surpass one million in Horn of Africa.

Somalia: 11 militants killed in Somalia fighting, says military.

Mahmoud Jibril's centrist party dominates Libyan election.

South African children sing Happy Birthday to Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela, South Africa's legendary leader, celebrates 94th birthday.

China touts relations with Africa amid grumbling.

EUROPE

Report criticizes Vatican bank, urges more reform.

London 2012 Olympics: £27 million Opening Ceremony shortened by 30 minutes amid transport fears.

Russia backs WTO entry, U.S. friction persists. U.S., Russia try to reset and retrench relations, but Magnitsky bill threatens process.

Russia parliament passes 'foreign agents' law.

Greek leaders push back decision on austerity cuts.

European Union sharply criticizes Romania over rule of law, judicial independence.

'Most wanted' Nazi war criminal, aged 97, arrested in Budapest.

AMERICAS

U.S. lawmakers threaten to cut aid to El Salvador over Supreme Court showdown.

For the first Time, Canadians now richer than Americans.

Report: Venezuela continues trampling human rights.

Google executives say technology can be harnessed to fight drug cartels in Mexico.

Toronto fears rise in violence after shooting.

Chile charges two over General Alberto Bachelet's death.

Indians drag Colombian soldiers off hilltop.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

U.S. House urges adding Haqqani group to terrorist list.


Military judge rejects recusal motion made by defendant in USS Cole bombing case at Guantanamo.

Newest U.S. counter-terrorism strategy: Trolling.

Court demands secret files on US 'black jails'.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Senate panel approves Russia trade, rights bill.

Mexico takes flight as hub for aerospace industry.

Microsoft faces massive EU fines over browser competition rules 'breach'.

I.M.F. warns of ‘sizable risk’ of deflation in Euro zone.

Analysts see weak PC demand hurting Intel margins.

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