World News Briefs -- July 18, 2012

Leading Syrian Regime Figures Killed In Damascus Bomb Attack -- The Guardian

Rebels kill Bashar al-Assad's brother-in-law, architect of the 16-month crackdown, and defence minister in Damascus.

Syria's uprising has entered a dramatic new phase after rebels fighting the regime of Bashar al-Assad killed the chief architect of the 16-month crackdown and the defence minister in a devastating bomb attack in the heart of Damascus.

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MIDDLE EAST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.