Monday, September 2, 2013

World News Briefs -- September 2, 2013



'The Middle East Is A Powder Keg, And The Fire Is Approaching': Assad Says West Has No Proof Regime Carried Out Chem Attack -- NBC

Syrian President Bashar Assad, who has largely remained in the shadows amid allegations that his regime killed more than 1,000 people in a chemical weapons attack, claimed in an interview with a French newspaper that his accusers — including the White House and the French government — have no evidence.

"Anyone accusing must give proof," Assad told Le Figaro in interview excerpts published online Monday. "We have challenged the United States and France to come forward with a single proof."

Assad's government has strongly denied responsibility for the mass killing in the suburbs of Damascus, claiming that rebel insurgents launched the chemical weapons.

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MIDDLE EAST

Syria crisis: Assad says no 'logic' to claims that his forces used chemical weapons.

Syria’s Assad threatens intervention will have ‘negative repercussions’.

French report claims Syria staged three chemical attacks. Syria crisis: French intelligence dossier blames Assad for chemical attack. Syrian government behind 'massive chemical attack'.

Hezbollah mobilises ahead of potential US Syria strike.

Nearly 90 Syria rebels killed in 48 hours.

Arab League: Only UN can stop Syria crimes.

Iranian Foreign Minister discusses Syria -- on Facebook.

Iraq promises probe into Iranian exile killings.

Yemeni Prime Minister escapes assassination attempt.

ASIA

China argues against US action against Syria.

Australia backs US military strike on Syria but says it has no plans to assist.

Afghan police deaths double as foreign troops withdraw.

Afghan Taliban target U.S. army base as attacks mount.

Pervez Musharraf faces police inquiry into Red Mosque clearance.

Philippines setting limits for increased US forces presence.

Fukushima: Japan promises swift action on nuclear cleanup.

South Korea pledges aid to North in bid to ease tension.

Japanese mother tells of heartbreak years after North Korea abducted 13-year-old daughter.

China's manufacturing activity at 16-month high.

AFRICA

UN mission in DRC plans to set up security zone.

U.N. envoy says military success an opportunity for Congo talks .

Egypt’s Mohammed Morsi to stand trial for 'acts of violence'.

Egypt judges recommend dissolving the Brotherhood.

Ethiopia denies crackdown on Semayawi opposition.

South Sudan's Kiir to visit Sudan ahead of oil stoppage deadline.

Mandela discharged from hospital, still in critical condition, will get intensive care at home.

EUROPE

German intelligence concludes sarin gas used on Assad’s orders – reports.

France will not attack Syria alone, PM to meet parliament leaders.

Russia may send lawmakers to US to discuss Syria.

UK's 'reckless' Cameron pays political price for Syria vote loss.

Britain says no plans for new Syria vote.

Merkel, German election rival debate euro crisis.

Britain named the European capital of drug addiction.

Croatians tear down Serbian signs in Vukovar.

Azeri authorities clamp down on dissent ahead of October vote: Group.

AMERICAS

Kerry, Hagel to appear at Foreign Relations Committee to make case for Syria strikes.

NSA 'spied on communications' of Brazil and Mexico presidents.

Colombian army arrests six ELN rebels accused of attack.

Protests over Mexico education reform spill over into violence.

Mexican forces seize drug kingpin 'Ugly Betty'.

Venezuela admits its economy has 'structural problems'.

Diana Nyad completes Cuba-Florida swim.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Al-Qaeda operatives applied for NSA jobs, say new Snowden files.

Anti-al-Qaeda leader escapes assassination in Iraq.

Hamas terror plot targeting Jerusalem mall foiled.

Who has more info: Guantanamo lawyers or Hollywood?

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Verizon, Vodafone agree to historic $130 billion deal.

Real Madrid signs Bale in world record-breaking deal.

Thai prosecutors to issue arrest warrant for Red Bull heir.

Shippers brace for more Suez turmoil after vessel attack.

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