Tuesday, January 20, 2015

World News Briefs -- January 20, 2015



CNN: ISIS threatens to kill 2 Japanese hostages unless Tokyo pays $200 million

MIDDLE EAST

Shiite militiamen seize Yemen presidential palace.

Nearly 20 more air strikes target Islamic State: U.S. coalition.

Militias undermine Iraqi army, says Sadr.

Israeli security source: We didn't know Iranian general was at site of Syria strike.

Iran promises ‘crushing response’ to Israeli strike.

Israel on high alert for possible Hezbollah retaliation after strikes on fighters.

Turkey arrests dozens suspected of eavesdropping on president.

Palestinian citizens of Israel declare nationwide strike after Bedouin deaths.

ASIA

Rough year ahead for Afghanistan as peace remains elusive.

'Isil cell' plotted bombing campaign in Bangladesh, police claim.

Brawl in Nepal parliament as clock ticks on new constitution.

China's growth slows to weakest in 24 years.

Australia raises terror threat level to 'high' for police.

Sri Lanka prime minister vows democracy after authoritarian past.

No sign or sounds of terrorism in cockpit recording from AirAsia QZ8501. AirAsia flight QZ8501 'climbed too fast'.

AFRICA

African armies cannot defeat Boko Haram terror, experts warn.

Mistrust between Nigeria, Cameroon stalls fight against Boko Haram.

Nigerian bishop: 'Send in Western troops to crush Boko Haram'.

Millions in UN Somalia aid diverted; hints that some went to terrorists.

Deadly DR Congo clashes over Joseph Kabila's future. Violence in Congo claims 13 lives, internet shut down by Gov't.

Zambians vote in tight presidential election. Claims of fraud as Zambians brave rain to vote for president.

CAR militiamen kidnap French charity worker in Bangui.

Ebola virus death toll in West Africa exceeds 8,500 — WHO.

EUROPE

New round of peace talks on Ukraine set for Wednesday: Germany.

Fighting rages in Donetsk as rebels and Army both claim control of airport. Ukraine army targeted Gorlovka with 500kg air bombs – Donetsk militia leader. Shelling in eastern Ukraine kills at least 6 civilians.

New military draft starts in Ukraine amid intensified assault on militia-held territories.

Russia must strengthen army to defend itself: Putin.

800,000 refugees from Ukraine’s south-east stay in Russia.

200 police raid homes in Germany based on terror suspicions.

Five Russian nationals arrested in France on suspicion of plotting violence. 5 Chechens arrested in France, including 1 with explosives.

After Paris shootings, Europe's police forces reconsider arms rules.

Ukraine president gets Polish invitation to Auschwitz anniversary, unlike Putin.

AMERICAS

Obama will give State of Union address against backdrop of deep partisan divide.

US to launch historic talks with Cuba.

We must assume sleeper cells in US, says senator.

White House chief of staff takes blame for Paris rally absence.

Argentine prosecutor Alberto Nisman's death sparks protests.

Brazil orders rolling blackouts as demand spikes in record heat.

No DNA match of charred remains for most missing Mexico students: lab.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Video: Islamic State group threatens to kill Japan hostages. ISIS threatens to kill 2 Japanese hostages unless Tokyo pays $200 million.

A look at the hostages believed held by Islamic State group.

Iraq: Isis publicly execute 13 teenagers for watching Asian Cup football match, activists claim.

ISIS announces 24/7 propaganda web video channel.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

IMF downgrades global growth forecast.

Oil falls again as IMF cuts forecast; Iran hints at $25 oil.

Most governments conceal data despite G20 pledges, study says.

Davos readies for the World Economic Forum.

No comments: