Wednesday, January 8, 2014

World News Briefs -- January 8, 2014



US Closely Monitors Iraq Violence But Has Few Options -- Voice of America

WHITE HOUSE — President Barack Obama and his advisers are keeping a close watch on Iraq, where government forces are confronting al-Qaida-linked militants. Washington is sending surveillance drones and missiles and is urging Iraq's Shiite-dominated government and Sunni tribal leaders to unite against the militants. However, analysts think the U.S. has few options.

In Ramadi and Fallujah, in western Anbar province, Iraqi government troops face off against Islamist militants linked to al-Qaida. In the most serious threat to central authority since U.S. troops withdrew from Iraq in 2011, the Sunni militants have taken over parts of both cities.

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MIDDLE EAST

Iraqi prime minister says victory certain as Falluja assault looms.

Iraq forges new strategy to defeat fighters.

Biden enters Iraq fray, but McCain says he lacks al-Maliki's 'confidence'.

UN warns of humanitarian threat in western Iraq.

Syria rebels 'seize' ISIS headquarters in Aleppo.

Al Qaeda group vows to attack Syrian rebels, opposition leaders.

First transport ship leaves Syria loaded with chemical arms.

Police purge in Turkey spreads to regions.

Israel casts doubt on April target for Palestinian deal.

Iran-sanctions bill gains steam in U.S. Senate.

ASIA

US lists crimes of alleged insurgents slated for release in Afghanistan.

Afghan girl, 10, says Taliban brother forced her into suicide bomb plot.

Thousands flee tribal clashes in India's Assam state.

Kerry: US will not accept North Korea as a nuclear state.

U.S., South Korea hold high-level talks in wake of Pyongyang purge.

South Korea pulled strings as Cambodia’s military cracked down on protesters.

Indonesian FM: Relations with Australia in 'difficult phase'.

India targets American expatriate club as diplomatic fight escalates.

AFRICA

Libya's PM warns may sink oil tankers nearing east ports.

South Sudan army closes in on rebel-held town.

South Sudan government ready to sign cease-fire 'soon'.

Nigerian mosque attacked in Kano village of Kwankwaso.

Strike, protest in Tunisia town as social unrest mounts.

Somalia's Puntland appoints new president.

Russian Fishing Agency accuses Greenpeace of pulling strings in Senegal to stall trawler seizure.

Morsi trial delayed due to 'bad weather'.

EUROPE

Eurozone unemployment steady but retail sales rebound.

Russia ramps up security in Sochi.

Germany looks into fears over EU migration 'abuse'.

Croatia court approves ex-spy chief's extradition to Germany.

Greek police hunt for convicted terrorist who disappeared on furlough.

Gallic uproar over 'Fall of France' Newsweek article.

AMERICAS

Record freeze extends to eastern United States, at least nine dead. Big freeze shatters North America temperature records.

Obama to consult intelligence leaders, Congress on NSA review.

White House defends Biden as ex-Pentagon chief Gates unloads.

Argentina appoints Malvinas Secretary to push Falkland Islands issue.

Haiti, Dominican Republic meet to discuss disputes.

Did thieves snare Miss Venezuela and husband with booby-trapped highway? Gang of five arrested for robbing and shooting dead couple in front of their daughter, 5, 'after puncturing their car tires'.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Two suspected Qaeda militants killed in Yemen drone strike: residents.

Former Guantanamo detainee implicated in Benghazi attack.

Nuclear panel sees minimal terror risk in spent-fuel pools.

US launches probe into deadly ‘wedding party’ drone strike.

Costs could climb for $1.5 billion terrorist-tracking system.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Microsoft close to naming CEO, Ford's Mulally stays put.

Smoker numbers edge close to one billion.

The biggest bet ever: Soros, Paulson and Cooperman take on Adelson over the future of gambling in America.

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