World News Briefs -- September 29, 2012

In Statement, U.S. Spy Chief’s Office Defends Evolving Accounts Of Benghazi Attack, Cites Shifting Intelligence -- Washington Post

The office of the nation’s spy chief issued a statement Friday defending the Obama administration’s accounts of the siege on a U.S. mission in Libya, saying it became clear only in the aftermath that it was “a deliberate and organized terrorist attack.”

The statement appeared aimed at quieting criticism, mostly from Republicans, of the administration’s shifting characterizations of a Sept. 11 assault that killed the U.S. ambassador to Libya and three other Americans. Officials initially described the attack as spontaneous but in recent days have said it was an act of terrorism with links to al-Qaeda.

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MIDDLE EAST

Syria rebels struggle in fresh Aleppo assault.

U.S., France boost Syria support, less than rebels hoped.

Israel PM in 'full agreement' with US on Iran.

Netanyahu's bomb steals the show in his UN speech.

Iranian: 'Our money is becoming more and more worthless every day'.

Yemen’s leader praises U.S. drone strikes.

ASIA

Pakistan is not co-operating with US over drones, ministry insists.

China's Wen urges citizens to back Communist Party.

Bo Xilai to lose Congress seat as China prepares charges.

China's lines around islands suggest more conflict. US will not mediate in China-Japan island dispute.

US issues security alert for Philippine capital.

US troops see terrorism threat diminish on Philippine island of Mindanao.

North Korea plans agriculture reforms - source.

New Zealand admits illegally spying on Megaupload founder Kim Dotcom.

AFRICA

Somalia Islamists abandon Kismayo amid AU attack.

FBI agents keep out of Benghazi.

After decades in exile, Libyan president Magarief ready to die for democracy.

Tunisia 'police rape' condemned.

Christians 'flee Egypt town after death threats'. Egypt's Copts abandon Sinai homes after threats, attack.

U.S. plan for emergency Egypt aid hits roadblock.

EUROPE

Police on alert over Northern Ireland march. Belfast march draws 30,000.

Tymoshenko calls on Ukraine to rise up against "mafia-rule".

Putin rolls back protege's modest liberal legacy.
Russians face their space crisis.

Greek Premier sees hope, but only if Europe helps.

Spain, Portugal brace for more austerity protests.

Valencia: the ghost city that’s become a symbol of Spain’s spending woes.

Tornado hits fair in Spain, flood deaths reach 8.

Pope's ex-butler Paolo Gabriele on trial for theft.

AMERICAS

Satellite launch stirs passions before big vote in Venezuela.

Mexico finds cartel radio network, 300-foot tower.

Mexican court: Military law is unconstitutional.

Google Brazil to take down controversial Brazil video.

Israel disappointed at Argentina talks with Iran.

Trudeau's son would lead Canada Liberals to win: poll.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Radical Islamists unite under fresh name.

Danes won't take Guantanamo prisoners.

Al-Qaida group al-Shabab withdraws from its last stronghold in Somalia.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

As the UN opens its General Assembly session, it is already thinking up new global taxes.

US banks hit by more than a week of cyberattacks.

Coffee giant Starbucks to open first India store.

Bank of America pays $2.4bn to settle Merrill Lynch lawsuit.

Libor interest rate riggers 'should face prosecution'.