World News Briefs -- October 4, 2013 (Evening Edition)

House Republicans Say US Government Shutdown Likely To Drag On -- CNN

Washington (CNN) -- Many House Republicans concede the government shutdown likely won't be resolved until the next major congressional deadline in mid-October when Congress needs to raise the nation's debt ceiling.

"I don't see anything happening with the shutdown until we get to some kind of a plan for a bigger agreement," Louisiana Rep. Charles Boustany told reporters after House Speaker John Boehner and other GOP leaders huddled with House Republicans on Friday.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Assad: Turkey will pay for supporting 'terrorists'.

Thousands who protested peacefully languish in Syrian jails: HRW.

Qatar World Cup boss: tournament will not be built on 'blood of innocents'.

Syrians, Lebanese job competition adds to tensions.

Hezbollah hands over checkpoints in Lebanon to avoid strife.

Iran military official: Obama has surrendered.

Report: Israel eyes anti-Iran security pact with gulf states.

Netanyahu says Iranian missiles could eventually reach U.S..

Netanyahu says he would 'consider' meeting with Rouhani.

Most Israelis support Iran strike: Poll.

Israel to run for U.N. Security Council seat for 2019-20.

ASIA

Legendary Vietnam Gen. Vo Nguyen Giap dies at 102.

Former warlord named as 'mentor' of 9/11 mastermind to run for president in Afghanistan.

Pakistan wants talks with insurgents despite attacks.

Former Afghan warlords announce joint ticket for 2014 election.

China shores up regional deals as Obama cancels Asia trip.

China’s leader, Xi Jinping, consolidates power with crackdowns on corruption, Internet.

North Korea lashes out at South Korean President.

India announces warm-up for world's biggest election.

Security alert after mystery drone aircraft crashes into Sydney harbour bridge three days before Prince Harry arrives for international fleet review.

Anger over Pakistan Sindh instant message ban proposal.

AFRICA

Madagascar imposes curfew after mob killings.

At least four killed in Egypt as Islamists mount bold protests.

Attack on Egypt army convoy kills 2 soldiers.

Thousands of Muslim Brotherhood protesters march in Cairo.

Nigeria's military: Scores of Islamic militants killed in air raids in northeast Nigeria.

Kenya clashes leave several dead. Youths burn church, riot in Kenya's Mombasa after imam killed.

Kenyan police actions since Westgate attack raise red flags.

Arrests made after Mali military camp unrest.

France moves to shore up African state in turmoil.

Tunisian government and opponents to start talks Saturday.

UN Security Council to visit Africa Great Lakes region.

EUROPE

Stability fund chief expects third Greek bailout.

Envoys ask Ukraine leader to pardon jailed rival to save EU deal.

Italian Senate panel recommends Berlusconi's expulsion.

Spain's biggest corruption trial ends with 53 people convicted.

Merkel Germany: Delicate coalition talks begin. Merkel to hold another round of coalition talks with SPD Oct. 14.

Italian Senate committee starts Berlusconi expulsion process.

Portugal passes latest eurozone bailout test.

Vatican administration needs total overhaul, Cardinals tell Pope.

Ireland will need EU support when bailout ends this year, says IMF.

Cash-strapped Ireland asks voters to close Senate.

European rights court raps Russia for Kasparov arrest.

Dutch take legal action over Greenpeace ship in Russia.

Italy sinking: Search resumes for missing migrants. Italy boat sinking: hundreds of migrants still missing off Lampedusa.

AMERICAS

White House, Congress agree on something: Back-pay for federal workers.

US shutdown: Barack Obama cancels Asia trip.

Colombia peace talks: Farc points to 'modest progress'.

Brazil electoral court rejects new opposition party.

Conflict brews in Cuba over sales ban of imported goods.

Venezuela's Maduro stuck in shadow of 'El Comandante' Chavez.

Argentina prosecutors seek jail for de la Rua.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Former intelligence analyst: "Al-Qaeda's bigger now than it ever has been".

A creeping terrorist threat in Nigeria.

Yemen army assault to retake Qaeda-held HQ kills 10.

Tunisian extradited to US over NATO bomb plot.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

One big doubt hanging over Twitter's IPO: Fake accounts.

Lockheed Martin to furlough 3,000 workers due to shutdown.

Silk Road seizure increases pressure on virtual currency Bitcoin.

World rankings: Top 10 universities in 2013.

Twitter unveils IPO filing; Aims to raise $1 billion.

Gates, Ballmer seek re-election to Microsoft board.

US Treasury out of tools to pay US bills.

Global economy in ‘epic scale’ change, says IMF’s Lagarde.

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World News Briefs -- October 4, 2013

Obama To Miss APEC Summit Due To Shutdown -- Voice of America

President Obama has canceled an upcoming trip to Asia because of the partial U.S. government shutdown, which entered its fourth day on Friday.

The White House announced late on Thursday that the president made his decision to cancel visits to Indonesia and Brunei based on the difficulty in moving forward with foreign travel in the face of the shutdown and his plans to continue pressuring Republicans to allow a vote to reopen the government.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Assad: Turkey will pay for supporting 'terrorists'.

Thousands who protested peacefully languish in Syrian jails: HRW.

Hezbollah hands over checkpoints in Lebanon to avoid strife.

Iran military official: Obama has surrendered.

Report: Israel eyes anti-Iran security pact with gulf states.

Netanyahu says Iranian missiles could eventually reach U.S..

Netanyahu says he would 'consider' meeting with Rouhani.

Israel to run for U.N. Security Council seat for 2019-20.

ASIA

Pakistan wants talks with insurgents despite attacks.

Former Afghan warlords announce joint ticket for 2014 election.

China shores up regional deals as Obama cancels Asia trip.

China’s leader, Xi Jinping, consolidates power with crackdowns on corruption, Internet.

North Korea lashes out at South Korean President.

India announces warm-up for world's biggest election.

Security alert after mystery drone aircraft crashes into Sydney harbour bridge three days before Prince Harry arrives for international fleet review.

Anger over Pakistan Sindh instant message ban proposal.

AFRICA

Attack on Egypt army convoy kills 2 soldiers.

Thousands of Muslim Brotherhood protesters march in Cairo.

Nigeria's military: Scores of Islamic militants killed in air raids in northeast Nigeria.

Youths burn church, riot in Kenya's Mombasa after imam killed.

Kenyan police actions since Westgate attack raise red flags.

Arrests made after Mali military camp unrest.

France moves to shore up African state in turmoil.

Tunisian government and opponents to start talks Saturday.

UN Security Council to visit Africa Great Lakes region.

EUROPE

Merkel Germany: Delicate coalition talks begin.

Italian Senate committee starts Berlusconi expulsion process.

Portugal passes latest eurozone bailout test.

Vatican administration needs total overhaul, Cardinals tell Pope.

Cash-strapped Ireland asks voters to close Senate.

European rights court raps Russia for Kasparov arrest.

Dutch take legal action over Greenpeace ship in Russia.

Italy sinking: Search resumes for missing migrants.

AMERICAS

US shutdown: Barack Obama cancels Asia trip.

Colombia peace talks: Farc points to 'modest progress'.

Brazil electoral court rejects new opposition party.

Conflict brews in Cuba over sales ban of imported goods.

Venezuela's Maduro stuck in shadow of 'El Comandante' Chavez.

Argentina prosecutors seek jail for de la Rua.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

A creeping terrorist threat in Nigeria.

Yemen army assault to retake Qaeda-held HQ kills 10.

Tunisian extradited to US over NATO bomb plot.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

World rankings: Top 10 universities in 2013.

Twitter unveils IPO filing; Aims to raise $1 billion.

Gates, Ballmer seek re-election to Microsoft board.

US Treasury out of tools to pay US bills.

Global economy in ‘epic scale’ change, says IMF’s Lagarde.

Read More

World News Briefs -- October 3, 2013 (Evening Edition)

'Mass Panic': Car chase from White House to Capitol ends in gunfire, suspect dead -- FOX News

A chaotic car chase that began when a woman tried to ram a security barrier near the White House ended with shots being fired near the U.S. Capitol, putting the Hill temporarily on lockdown and causing what one witness described as "mass panic."

Capitol Hill sources confirm to Fox News that the suspect is dead.

Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, also told Fox News that the woman originally tried to run down a Secret Service agent near the White House. The agent then fired on her and the chase began.

According to U.S. Capitol Police, one officer was injured in a related car crash.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Iran's Rouhani boasts: I rejected Obama five times.

Syrian chemical weapon dismantlement to start next week.

CIA ramping up covert training program for moderate Syrian rebels.

Syria rebels try to end infighting near Turkish border.

Netanyahu says Iranian missiles could eventually reach U.S..

Kerry says not exploring all options with Iran would be 'diplomatic malpractice'.

State Dept. seeks delay in Iran sanctions.

US government shutdown will delay military funding for Israel.

Bahrain's pursuit of suspected militants widens rifts with opposition.

Qatar under growing pressure over workers' deaths as Fifa is urged to act.

Iran passes a law allowing men to marry their 13-year-old adopted daughters just as the country's new president touts himself as a moderate.

Iranian vice president calls for new ‘ping-pong diplomacy’ with U.S.; promises expansion of Internet freedom in Iran.

ASIA

China President makes historic speech in Indonesia.

China launches charm offensive as Obama shortens Asia trip.

Pakistan may ban Skype in Karachi, citing use by terrorists.

Deadly Taliban attack on rival Pakistan group.

Imran Khan open to army operations if Taliban talks fail.

Indian troops battle Kashmir 'infiltrators'.

UN: More civilian casualties in Afghanistan so far this year than last.

Filipino rebel chief wanted over deadly siege.

Second breach at Fukushima nuclear plant leaks toxic water into sea.

US, Japan agree to bolster defenses.

Chinese airline industry battles delays as passenger numbers grow.

Asia grain 'mountains' swell as governments fret over food security.

AFRICA

Islamic fighters connect in Africa.

American's smuggled letter from Egyptian jail details abuse.

Tunisia political dialogue to start Saturday.

Video shows Kenyan soldiers looting besieged mall.

More bodies recovered from site of Kenya mall siege.

Somalis in Nairobi face backlash after attack.

Video shows Egypt generals plotting media gag.

Libyan media links embassy attack to alleged crime by Russian. Kremlin aide plays down political motive for Libya attack.

Russian embassy in Libya evacuated after attack.

Plane crash near Lagos airport kills 15.

Madagascar mob kills Europeans over 'organ trafficking'.

Gambia withdraws from Commonwealth.

Grain Summit sees Africa as an emerging leader for investment.

EUROPE

Political row threatens Slovenia government.

New Russian pension reform fuels nationalization fears.

All 30 aboard Greenpeace ship charged with piracy.

Leader of Greece's far-right Golden Dawn jailed before trial.

Amazon says France's new bill is 'discrimination. France approves 'anti-Amazon' bill.

US, NATO urge Russia to dismantle Georgia border fences.

EU preparing to charge Gazprom in antitrust case.

Russia 'rounds up Sochi migrants' - Human Rights Watch.

Italy boat sinking: Hundreds feared dead off Lampedusa. Italy boat wreck: dozens of migrants die as boat sinks off Lampedusa. At least 94 dead, 250 missing as migrant boat sinks off Italy.

AMERICAS

Shots fired outside US Capitol, triggers lockdown.

Focus shifts to looming debt-ceiling deadline as shutdown talks at White House go nowhere.

US shutdown: Barack Obama warns of default danger.

Mexicans seek asylum as drug violence persists.

Shale oil boom fuel Argentina's dreams.

Colombian government 'ready to reintegrate rebels'.

Mexico City violence at Tlatelolco anniversary.

Brazil's anti-spying internet push could backfire, industry says.

Brazilian officers will face charges of torture and murder.

End of Silk Road for drug users as FBI shuts down illicit website.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Tunisian man extradited to US in suicide bomb plot.

U.S. lawmakers discuss Somali militants after Kenya mall attack.

5 Yemenis jailed for 2012 al-Qaida suicide attack.

Al Qaeda's affiliates continue joint operations in Syria.

Al-Qaeda loosens its admissions standards.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

IMF head warns US debt crisis threatens world economy.

Insight: Little-known Hollywood investor poised to score with Twitter IPO.

Obama meets bank chiefs as economists warn of 'deep and dark recession'.

Tesla stock tumbles after Model S catches fire.

For Lego, rising wealth means more play - and business.

BP wins reprieve over Gulf spill payouts: U.S. appeals court.

Read More

World News Briefs -- October 3, 2013

US Shutdown Enters Third Day -- Voice of America

A partial U.S. government shutdown has entered its third day Thursday with no end to the deadlock in sight.

U.S. congressional leaders met for about an hour late Wednesday with President Obama, but they emerged from the closed-door session with no progress on the budget impasse that triggered the shutdown.

House Speaker John Boehner said Obama told him he will not negotiate a deal to reopen the government. Boehner said he told the president he wants a discussion of what he referred to as the "fairness" of Obama's signature health care program, the Affordable Care Act.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

CIA ramping up covert training program for moderate Syrian rebels.

Syria rebels try to end infighting near Turkish border.

US government shutdown will delay military funding for Israel.

Bahrain's pursuit of suspected militants widens rifts with opposition.

Qatar under growing pressure over workers' deaths as Fifa is urged to act.

Iran passes a law allowing men to marry their 13-year-old adopted daughters just as the country's new president touts himself as a moderate.

Iranian vice president calls for new ‘ping-pong diplomacy’ with U.S.; promises expansion of Internet freedom in Iran.

ASIA

Deadly Taliban attack on rival Pakistan group.

Imran Khan open to army operations if Taliban talks fail.

Indian troops battle Kashmir 'infiltrators'.

UN: More civilian casualties in Afghanistan so far this year than last.

Filipino rebel chief wanted over deadly siege.

Second breach at Fukushima nuclear plant leaks toxic water into sea.

US, Japan agree to bolster defenses.

Chinese airline industry battles delays as passenger numbers grow.

Asia grain 'mountains' swell as governments fret over food security.

AFRICA

Video shows Egypt generals plotting media gag.

More bodies recovered from site of Kenya mall siege.

Somalis in Nairobi face backlash after attack.

Libyan media links embassy attack to alleged crime by Russian. Kremlin aide plays down political motive for Libya attack.

Russian embassy in Libya evacuated after attack.

Plane crash near Lagos airport kills 15.

Madagascar mob kills Europeans over 'organ trafficking'.

Gambia withdraws from Commonwealth.

EUROPE

Leader of Greece's far-right Golden Dawn jailed before trial.

France approves 'anti-Amazon' bill.

US, NATO urge Russia to dismantle Georgia border fences.

EU preparing to charge Gazprom in antitrust case.

Russia 'rounds up Sochi migrants' - Human Rights Watch.

Italy boat wreck: dozens of migrants die as boat sinks off Lampedusa. At least 94 dead, 250 missing as migrant boat sinks off Italy.

AMERICAS

Focus shifts to looming debt-ceiling deadline as shutdown talks at White House go nowhere.

US shutdown: Barack Obama warns of default danger.

Colombian government 'ready to reintegrate rebels'.

Mexico City violence at Tlatelolco anniversary.

Brazil's anti-spying internet push could backfire, industry says.

Brazilian officers will face charges of torture and murder.

End of Silk Road for drug users as FBI shuts down illicit website.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

5 Yemenis jailed for 2012 al-Qaida suicide attack.

Al Qaeda's affiliates continue joint operations in Syria.

Al-Qaeda loosens its admissions standards.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Obama meets bank chiefs as economists warn of 'deep and dark recession'.

Tesla stock tumbles after Model S catches fire.

For Lego, rising wealth means more play - and business.

BP wins reprieve over Gulf spill payouts: U.S. appeals court.

Read More

World News Briefs -- October 2, 2013 (Evening Edition)

Obama, Congressional Leaders To Meet On Shutdown -- Voice of America

The House of Representatives is holding a series of votes on measures to partially reopen the U.S. government, ahead of a crucial White House meeting between congressional leaders and President Barack Obama.

The House votes would restore funding to some parts of the government, while other services and offices stay closed. Even if the measures pass the Republican-led House, Senate Democrats likely will reject them.

President Obama has invited House and Senate leaders from both parties for talks on how to end the govermment shutdown, which is about to enter its third day.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

U.S. to 'wait and see' on use of force in Syria: army chief of staff.

Al Qaeda-linked group advances on Syrian rebels near Turkey.

Syria: massacre reports emerge from Assad's Alawite heartland.

World powers on 'right track' on Syria chemical arms: Putin.

Turkish government seeks renewed mandate to send troops to Syria.

UN urges immediate aid access to Syria.

No real progress in 'constructive' Iran-IAEA talks: Diplomats.

For Israel, attack on Iran seems off the table.

Israel PM calls Iran leader 'wolf in sheep's clothing'.

Iran dismisses Israeli 'sabre-rattling'.

Iran parliament endorses President Rouhani's diplomatic outreach.

Iraq violence leaves almost 1,000 dead in September.

Yemen's army retakes base seized by Qaeda militants.

ASIA

India says fighting big Kashmir incursion from Pakistan side.

Afghans baulk at U.S. push for operations after 2014: Spokesman.

Institute: Further signs NKorea reactor restarted.

South Korea, U.S. sign new pact to deter North Korea nuclear threat. U.S., S. Korea agree to work more on deterring N.Korea.

Pakistani Taliban accept government offer of peace talks, propose cease-fire.

Violence rocks western Myanmar as president visits.

Japan-U.S. security talks likely to highlight Tokyo's cyber-defense woes.

Taiwan jails retired vice admiral for spying for China.

Gandhi forces Indian government to drop move on convicted politicians.

AFRICA

Russian Embassy in Libya attacked, no injuries among diplomats.

Uganda president dares exiled general to try to remove him by force.

Bodies pulled from Nairobi mall as Shebab vows terror.

Mali frees Tuareg rebel prisoners in bid to revive peace process.

Mali violence hitting civilians hard, warns Red Cross.

Mali's President Keita cuts short France visit after weekend of violence.

Is the Arab Spring moving south? Violent anti-government protests hit Sudan.

'Threats' to Tunisia union mediating political crisis.

Libyan oil back in days - politics permitting, says minister.

Army-backed government spruces up Egypt's Tahrir Square ahead of planned rival rallies.

Coptic Christian says Egyptian military ignoring persecution.

Insight: Pre-electoral feuding threatens Nigeria's economy.

Zimbabwe manufacturing in 'dire' state: industry.

Rhino poaching hits new record in South Africa, leading to fears of extinction.

EUROPE

Ten killed in shootout in Russia's Dagestan.

Political row threatens Slovenia government, efforts to avert bailout.

Italy crisis: PM Letta wins vote after Berlusconi U-turn.

UK's Cameron puts economy center-stage in re-election bid.

Spain's jobless claims rise in September, government data shows.

Ukraine police fire tear gas to disperse protest in Kiev.

Greek court frees far-right MPs pending trial.

NSA leaker Snowden among finalists for Europe’s prestigious Sakharov Prize.

Greenpeace activists charged with piracy by Russian authorities.

Pussy Riot's Nadezhda Tolokonnikova ends nine-day hunger strike.

AMERICAS

D.C. awash with blame game as Hill leaders head to White House.

Pakistan Taliban say US drones must stop before peace talks.

Obama summons Hill leaders to White House on shutdown's second day.

Obama Asia trip cut into as shutdown continues.

Obama urges Republicans to back down with shutdown set to enter second day.

Shutdown could last weeks; Dems and GOP trade blame.

US expels Venezuela diplomats in tit-for-tat row.

Brazil property rights: Tribes and farmers battle to the death.

Violent gangs recruit kids from age 6 in Guatemala.

Work halted on Curitiba stadium in latest World Cup setback.

Ecuador officers face arrest over 'crimes against humanity'.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Kenya: A week after Westgate mayhem ends, Al Shabab is gloating.

Taliban commander Mullah Fazlullah claims credit for assassinating Pakistani general.

Al-Qaeda loosens its admissions standards.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Obama to meet heads of big banks on shutdown, debt limit.

Exclusive: Microsoft investors push for chairman Gates to step down.

US budget deadlock spooks investors.

Feds seize 'Silk Road' drug site, arrest operator.

Read More

World News Briefs -- October 2, 2013

Obama Calls A Meeting As Congress Stalls On Shutdown -- USA Today

President Obama calls a meeting as Congress shows no sign of ending the shutdown.

WASHINGTON — Two days in, Congress is no closer to resolving the first government shutdown in 17 years.

President Obama is calling the top four congressional leaders down to the White House for a meeting Wednesday afternoon. A White House official said the president will urge the House to pass a stopgap funding bill to reopen the government, and ask Congress to raise the debt ceiling ahead of an Oct. 17 deadline.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Syria: massacre reports emerge from Assad's Alawite heartland.

World powers on 'right track' on Syria chemical arms: Putin.

Turkish government seeks renewed mandate to send troops to Syria.

Iraq violence leaves almost 1,000 dead in September.

Israel PM calls Iran leader 'wolf in sheep's clothing'.

Iran dismisses Israeli 'sabre-rattling'.

Iran parliament endorses President Rouhani's diplomatic outreach.

Yemen's army retakes base seized by Qaeda militants.

ASIA

South Korea, U.S. sign new pact to deter North Korea nuclear threat. U.S., S. Korea agree to work more on deterring N.Korea.

Pakistani Taliban accept government offer of peace talks, propose cease-fire.

Violence rocks western Myanmar as president visits.

Japan-U.S. security talks likely to highlight Tokyo's cyber-defense woes.

Taiwan jails retired vice admiral for spying for China.

Gandhi forces Indian government to drop move on convicted politicians.

AFRICA

Mali's President Keita cuts short France visit after weekend of violence.

Is the Arab Spring moving south? Violent anti-government protests hit Sudan.

'Threats' to Tunisia union mediating political crisis.

Libyan oil back in days - politics permitting, says minister.

Coptic Christian says Egyptian military ignoring persecution.

Insight: Pre-electoral feuding threatens Nigeria's economy.

Zimbabwe manufacturing in 'dire' state: industry.

EUROPE

Italy crisis: PM Letta wins vote after Berlusconi U-turn.

UK's Cameron puts economy center-stage in re-election bid.

Spain's jobless claims rise in September, government data shows.

Ukraine police fire tear gas to disperse protest in Kiev.

Greek court frees far-right MPs pending trial.

NSA leaker Snowden among finalists for Europe’s prestigious Sakharov Prize.

Greenpeace activists charged with piracy by Russian authorities.

Pussy Riot's Nadezhda Tolokonnikova ends nine-day hunger strike.

AMERICAS

Obama summons Hill leaders to White House on shutdown's second day.

Obama Asia trip cut into as shutdown continues.

Obama urges Republicans to back down with shutdown set to enter second day.

US expels Venezuela diplomats in tit-for-tat row.

Work halted on Curitiba stadium in latest World Cup setback.

Ecuador officers face arrest over 'crimes against humanity'.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Kenya: A week after Westgate mayhem ends, Al Shabab is gloating.

Taliban commander Mullah Fazlullah claims credit for assassinating Pakistani general.

Al-Qaeda loosens its admissions standards.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Obama to meet heads of big banks on shutdown, debt limit.

Exclusive: Microsoft investors push for chairman Gates to step down.

US budget deadlock spooks investors.

Read More

World News Briefs -- October 1, 2013 (Evening Edition)

Lawmakers, Obama Spar Over Shutdown -- Wall Street Journal

House GOP Presses Narrow Funding Bill; President Says Health Law Is 'Here to Stay'

WASHINGTON—The first government shutdown in 17 years showed little sign of ending quickly, as House Republicans came up with a new plan to fund the government piece by piece.

House Republicans are expected to bring up three bills later Tuesday that would restore funding for veterans' services, national parks and allow District of Columbia schools to use local funds to continue running schools and other services through Dec. 15. GOP lawmakers said they anticipated bringing up many other bills in coming days.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Opposition warns of 'disaster' in Damascus suburb.

U.S. considering working with allies to develop moderate Syrian military, police forces.

Russia doubts mid-November date for Syria peace talks.

Experts say Nov. 1 deadline can be met for Syria's chemical threat.

Syria conflict: Chemical arms experts cross border.

Iraq executes 23 people in two days.

Iraq violence kills nearly 900 in September, gunmen storm police station.

Iran ready to defend against Israeli attack.

Iranian President faces backlash over US visit.

Obama on Iran: We won't take military option off the table.

Netanyahu at U.N.: Don't trust Rouhani, Iran's overtures a ruse.

Iran FM accuses Israel's Netanyahu of lying.

Iran studies fuel price rises under sanctions pressure.

Kurdish militants say Turkey's rights reforms not aimed at peace.

Yemen military officers taken hostage in suspected al-Qaida assault.

ASIA

South Korea displays cruise missiles at military parade.

Asia reacts with caution, surprise to US government shutdown.

China ‘shocked’ as embassy in Syria hit by mortar; 1 hurt.

Bangladesh opposition leader sentenced to death for war crimes.

Fresh violence in Rakhine state as Burma leader visits.

Buddhist mobs kill 1, torch 70 homes in Myanmar.

In historic step, Japan PM hikes tax; will cushion blow to economy.

Former Afghan Foreign Minister registers for election.

AFRICA

Torture rife in Libya's jails two years after Gaddafi: U.N. Torture 'widespread' in Libyan jails - UN report.

Canada PM urges Egypt to free Canadian hunger strikers.

Egypt anti-coup rally held in Tahrir Square.

Egyptian army chief calls for quick political transition.

Sour food, shattered glass: Cleaning Kenya's mall.

Kenya security probe mall massacre amid anger.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta vows to keep troops in Somalia to battle Islamic extremists.

Nigeria at 53: Extremist killings, tight security.

Sudan fuel price hikes to avert 'collapse': Bashir.

Unrest in Central Sudan leads to arrests of 700.

Discontent simmers in Sudan after protest deaths.

Africa terrorism is symptom of intractable problems.

Guinea opposition decries 'appalling' poll fraud.

ICC unveils arrest warrant for Ivory Coast politician Ble Goude.

EUROPE

US government shutdown closes US military cemeteries in Europe.

Russian group backs Putin for Nobel Peace Prize over Syria.

Bosnia holds first post-war census.

Pope begins talks on church reform.

Spain's public debt to approach 100 percent of GDP end-2014.

Berlusconi faces obstacles in bid to topple government.

Scottish referendum: Vote registration begins for those 16 and older.

Eurozone unemployment 'may have peaked'.

German unemployment in surprise increase.

Four MPs from Greece's Golden Dawn to appear in court.

Insight: As Ukraine looks west to Europe, Russia's shadow looms.

UN presses Spain over Franco-era crimes and mass graves.

AMERICAS

Canada's new defense HQ bugged.

U.S. Politics Live.

Insurance markets open amid heavy volume and delays.

U.S. government shutdown starts; Congress deadlock remains.

Political ‘dysfunction’: Attorney General Eric Holder sees FBI furloughs possible in shutdown.

After Venezuela expels three US diplomats, Washington says it may retaliate. Venezuela expels three US diplomats over 'sabotage'.

Colombia busts former Presidential security chief for drug ties.

Canada's GDP growth highest in two years.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

'Foreign terrorists' fighting in Syria - Walid Muallem.

Zawahiri's man in Shabaab's 'secret service'.

US intel info suggests al-Shabaab may be planning new attacks.

U.S. tries to salvage case against Bin Laden's publicist.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Vatican bank publishes first ever annual report.

Germany's Siemens to axe 15,000 jobs.

Merck to fire 8,500 in strategy overhaul that shifts R&D.

Stocks rise as investors shrug off shutdown.

Read More

World News Briefs -- October 1, 2013

US Government Shuts Down -- Voice of America

Much of the U.S. government has been shut down for the first time in 17 years, after the two branches of Congress failed by the October 1 deadline to agree on a single spending bill to keep the government operating.

Thousands of federal workers are arriving at their jobs and being told they are on furlough and being sent home.

Other federal workers, considered essential, are being told to stay on the job but there is no guarantee when they will be paid.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

U.S. considering working with allies to develop moderate Syrian military, police forces.

Russia doubts mid-November date for Syria peace talks.

Experts say Nov. 1 deadline can be met for Syria's chemical threat.

Syria conflict: Chemical arms experts cross border.

Iraq violence kills nearly 900 in September, gunmen storm police station.

Iranian President faces backlash over US visit.

Obama on Iran: We won't take military option off the table.

Iran FM accuses Israel's Netanyahu of lying.

Kurdish militants say Turkey's rights reforms not aimed at peace.

Yemen military officers taken hostage in suspected al-Qaida assault.

ASIA

Asia reacts with caution, surprise to US government shutdown.

China ‘shocked’ as embassy in Syria hit by mortar; 1 hurt.

Bangladesh opposition leader sentenced to death for war crimes.

Buddhist mobs kill 1, torch 70 homes in Myanmar.

In historic step, Japan PM hikes tax; will cushion blow to economy.

Former Afghan Foreign Minister registers for election.

AFRICA

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta vows to keep troops in Somalia to battle Islamic extremists.

Nigeria at 53: Extremist killings, tight security.

Unrest in Central Sudan leads to arrests of 700.

Discontent simmers in Sudan after protest deaths.

Africa terrorism is symptom of intractable problems.

Guinea opposition decries 'appalling' poll fraud.

ICC unveils arrest warrant for Ivory Coast politician Ble Goude.

EUROPE

Spain's public debt to approach 100 percent of GDP end-2014.

Berlusconi faces obstacles in bid to topple government.

Scottish referendum: Vote registration begins for those 16 and older.

Eurozone unemployment 'may have peaked'.

German unemployment in surprise increase.

Four MPs from Greece's Golden Dawn to appear in court.

Insight: As Ukraine looks west to Europe, Russia's shadow looms.

UN presses Spain over Franco-era crimes and mass graves.

AMERICAS

U.S. Politics Live.

U.S. government shutdown starts; Congress deadlock remains.

Political ‘dysfunction’: Attorney General Eric Holder sees FBI furloughs possible in shutdown.

Venezuela expels three US diplomats over 'sabotage'.

Colombia busts former Presidential security chief for drug ties.

Canada's GDP growth highest in two years.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

'Foreign terrorists' fighting in Syria - Walid Muallem.

Zawahiri's man in Shabaab's 'secret service'.

US intel info suggests al-Shabaab may be planning new attacks.

U.S. tries to salvage case against Bin Laden's publicist.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Germany's Siemens to axe 15,000 jobs.

Merck to fire 8,500 in strategy overhaul that shifts R&D.

Stocks rise as investors shrug off shutdown.

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World News Briefs -- September 30, 2013 (Evening Edition)

Obama Blames House GOP For Imminent Shutdown -- USA Today

President Obama blamed an imminent government shutdown on House Republicans Monday, and said his health care plan is "moving forward" despite GOP efforts to de-fund it.

"You don't get to extract a ransom for doing your job," Obama said.

Obama said Congress has two responsibilities: Passing a budget and -- in a reference to the upcoming battle over the debt ceiling -- pay the government's bills, and the Republicans are shirking both.

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MIDDLE EAST

Syria at U.N. compares militant onslaught to 9/11 attacks.

U.N. chemical weapons inspectors leave Syria.

More rebel groups reject Syrian opposition coalition - statement.

Syria conflict: Neighbours plead for international help. With Syria’s neighbours ‘stretched to the limit,’ UN refugee chief urges greater support.

Iranian President Rohani orders study of possible Iran-US flights.

Car bombs kill 54 in Shi'ite districts of Baghdad.

Militants seize army base in Yemen, kill three soldiers.

Netanyahu to Obama - Tighten sanctions if Iran defies West.

Iran nuclear deal could be reached in months: Kerry.

Bahrain unrest: 50 Shia Muslims sentenced to up to 15 years.

Turkish PM unveils reforms after summer of protests.

Turkey frustrated over stalled EU membership bid.

ASIA

4 killed in U.S. drone strike in NW Pakistan.

Powerful typhoon hits Vietnam.

Muslims in hiding in Myanmar after sectarian strife flares.

US Defense Chief: North Korea watching world deal with Syria.

India, Pakistan leaders say they want better ties but reach no concrete agreements. Pakistan-India talks in New York get muted response back home.

Japan PM open to talks - not concessions - with China.

Pakistan condemns latest drone strike in North Waziristan.

Philippines says Zamboanga crisis 'over'.

Australian PM says "united" with Indonesia on migrants.

AFRICA

Smash 'n grab: Big looting during Kenya mall siege.

Kenyan anti-tank rocket ended Westgate siege: soldiers.

Kenya's Westgate siege: Number of missing reduced to 39.

Egyptian jihadist group claims shooting attacks on 'apostates' and 'criminals'.

Mali: 'MNLA rebels' attack soldiers in Kidal. Suicide bombers target northern Mali military camp. Mali soldiers fight Tuareg separatists.

France seeks permanent victory in Mali.

Faced with protests, Sudan's al-Bashir digs in against calls for reform. Sudan protesters call for president Omar al-Bashir to step down.

EUROPE

Exclusive: Vatican Bank likely to close embassy accounts after Iran, Iraq red flags.

Paris prosecutor's office opens investigation into fortune of Syrian president's uncle.

Europe’s record jobless rate seen resisting recovery.

Eurozone inflation falls to lowest rate in three years.

German coalition talks could last into January.

Austria election: 'Grand coalition' can rule again.

Silvio Berlusconi calls for fresh Italian elections 'as soon as possible'.

Russia accuses Greenpeace activists of posing a threat to platform personnel. Russian court orders all Greenpeace activists to stay in jail.

Popes John Paul II and John XXIII to become saints.

Spaniard apologises over Gibraltar 'invasion' video.

AMERICAS

10 things affected by the US shutdown.

US government shutdown looms as Congress fights over spending bill – live.

Senate set to defeat Obamacare delay as government shutdown looms.

Danger to US economy worries experts weighing potential government shutdown, default.

Rising Peronist ready to challenge Fernández.

Venezuela says it expelling three U.S. diplomats for 'stirring violence'.

Venezuela's Sabaneta jail search yields weapons arsenal.

Canadians on hunger strike in Egyptian jail claim they were beaten.

US police obtaining military vehicles to aid hunt for criminals.

Report: Homegrown terrorist plots have surged since 2009.

Cuba athletes 'to keep foreign cash'.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Competition between Islamist militants may fuel big attacks.

Africa desert helps breed radicals, from Al Shabab to Boko Haram to Mr. Marlboro.

Terrorists used new tactic to spare some Muslims.

Qaeda plot leak has undermined U.S. intelligence.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Apple unseats Coca-Cola as World's No. 1 brand of 2013.

Google UK paid £11.2m in corporate tax.

Analysis: New trial for Boeing as Norwegian demands 787 repairs.

US shares hit by the threat of a shutdown.

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