Wednesday, August 12, 2015

World News Briefs -- August 12, 2015



BBC: China's yuan currency falls for a second day

China's Central Bank has again cut the guiding rate for the national currency, the yuan, a day after Tuesday's record 1.9% devaluation.

The move sent fresh shockwaves through Asian markets, but the bank has sought to calm fears, saying it was not the start of a sustained depreciation.

The yuan fell another 1% on Wednesday, marking the biggest two-day lowering of its rate against the dollar in more than two decades.

The new rate is meant to boost exports.

Figures released at the weekend showed Chinese exports fell more than 8% in July, adding to concerns the world's second largest economy is heading for a slowdown.

MIDDLE EAST

Syrian air strikes kill 31, rebels bombard Damascus: monitor. Rebel rockets hit Damascus ahead of visit by Iranian minister.

Truce between Hezbollah fighters, militants starts in Syria. Ceasefire under way in Syrian town and villages.

Assad loyalists protest over siege of troops by ISIL.

Iraq reforms: Parliament backs PM Haider al-Abadi's plan.

Three killed in PKK grenade attack on security outpost in southeast Turkey.

Turkey's AK Party eyes early election as polls show rising support.

IAEA to discuss its role, money needs under Iran deal on Aug 25.

ASIA

China's currency devaluation could spark 'tidal wave of deflation'.

Taliban leadership struggle fuels wave of attacks in Afghanistan.

Taliban infiltrate base, kill up to 15 Afghan police: officials.

Gunmen kidnap 12 minority Hazaras in east Afghanistan.

The great North Korean bloodletting claims its latest victim: Now the country's vice premier 'is executed by firing squad after opposing Kim Jong-Un's forestry policies'.

Myanmar evacuates thousands as worst floods in decades hit.

Ghosts Of World War II haunt east Asia as Shinzo Abe readies anniversary statement.

AFRICA

Nigeria's Boko Haram militants 'have new leader'.

Scores killed in Nigeria cattle market blast.

Military deployed as Boko Haram scare grips Cameroon.

US condemns Nigeria violence.

Libya's prime minister says he will step down. Libyan PM Thinni says on TV he will resign but spokesman says he stays.

UN peacekeepers accused of killing and rape in Central African Republic.

South Sudan rebels deny split in ranks.

Families of South Africa's 'Marikana Massacre' victims file civil suit.

EUROPE

Russia, NATO drills fan tensions as Europe on Edge, ELN says.

Ukraine surge in fighting violates ceasefire - EU.

Greek lawmakers prepare bailout bill for Thursday vote.

EU demands "up-front action" from Greece to secure bailout.

Exclusive: Greek bank access to bailout cash to be restricted.

Migrants locked in stadium overnight on Greek island of Kos.

Tomislav Salopek: Croatia PM to speak on Egypt hostage.

AMERICAS

Kerry: 'I'm not accusing' Iran deal critics of wanting war.

Obama’s Iran nuclear deal a tough sell to American public, polls show.

El Salvador gangs: Arrests of members ordered.

Ravaged by Oil’s collapse, Venezuela now has a big gold problem.

Argentina flooding kills three, leads to thousands evacuating homes.

Cuba dissidents won’t attend U.S. Embassy event.

No arrests in Ferguson protests for first time in five days: police.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Croatian ISIS captive reportedly beheaded. ISIS' Egypt affiliate claims to behead Croatian hostage. ISIL Egyptian affiliate 'beheads Croatian hostage'.

Suspected U.S. drone strike kills five al Qaeda militants in Yemen.

It's been a suspiciously long time since the leader of Al Qaeda made a public statement.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Alibaba growth slowest in three years.

Google radically restructures, but why?

32 charged over 'insider trading hack' scheme.

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