World News Briefs -- March 31, 2015

The Guardian: Iran nuclear talks reportedly close to statement on partial agreement

Unclear whether statement would qualify as political framework, the goal that ministers from seven states set themselves to reach by Tuesday at midnight

Foreign ministers in Lausanne are reported to be close to a joint statement on a partial agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme that would leave some difficult areas to be negotiated in the coming months.

According to the Associated Press, a vague declaration would be accompanied by texts outlining what has been agreed and what has not. It is unclear whether those documents would qualify as a political framework, the goal that the ministers from seven states set themselves to reach by the Tuesday midnight deadline.

MIDDLE EAST

Iran, powers push for nuclear deal as clock ticks toward deadline.

Saudi-led forces pound Yemen Shiite rebels as Iran sends aid. Saudi Arabia says military push will last until Yemen stable. Iran denies sending arms to rebels in Yemen.

Iraq forces retake government HQ in Tikrit. Iraqi forces seize government headquarters in battle for Tikrit.

Syrian media: Islamic State attacks government-held village. Syrian military source alleges Turkish role in Idlib offensive.

Syria donor event opens with more than $1 billion in pledges.

Anonymous hacker group threatens Israel with ‘cyber-holocaust’.

Massive power cut causes chaos in Turkey.

Turkish President warns Iran about trying to dominate Middle East.

Turkish special forces enter Istanbul courthouse after prosecutor taken hostage. Turkish prosecutor taken hostage in Istanbul. Turkish prosecutor taken hostage in Istanbul.

ASIA

Pakistan to aid Saudi coalition in Yemen.

Thai leader moves to lift martial law, impose absolute power. Thai PM to lift martial law. Thailand PM 'to replace martial law' with new restrictions.

Philippine military ends campaign against Islamist rebel group. Philippines ends offensive against small Muslim rebel group.

Myanmar government, rebels sign draft peace deal. Myanmar army and rebels sign draft ceasefire agreement. Burmese government signs draft ceasefire deal with rebel groups.

India-Japan to focus on maritime security.

Indonesia launches military exercises to guard against security threats.

NGOs in China fear clampdown as Xi Jinping plans new security controls.

Vietnam hit by rare strike at major footwear factory.

AFRICA

Opposition leader Buhari ahead in tight Nigeria poll. Nigeria election: Muhammadu Buhari leads Goodluck Jonathan. Nigeria's Buhari builds unassailable lead in historic vote.

Chad army says 54 Islamist militants killed in Nigeria fighting.

Libyan government will request Arab League intervention: Libya PM.

South Sudan has become an aid-dependent entity.

Hardline Mali rebel demands stall hopes for peace.

Uganda prosecutor in al-Shabab bomb case shot dead.

Egypt court frees 68 activists in rare move.

Rise in illegal fishing threatens to revive Somali piracy.

S.Africa mining massacre report to be submitted.

EUROPE

US forces to hold exercises in Ukraine.

Former NATO Chief Clark predicts new offensive in Ukraine.

Forget Greece, Ukraine is now Europe's most economically unstable country.

Financing Crimea may cost Russia $6-7Bln annually - former Finance Minister.

Greece, lenders, fail to unlock aid so far - officials.

Euro bailout rebel quits senior German governing party job.

Unease about immigration at core of UK election campaign.

Germanwings co-pilot had 'suicidal tendencies' in the past.

AMERICAS

Peru's Prime Minister Ana Jara deposed over spy row. Peru's prime minister to resign after censure vote.

Canadian Parliament backs air strikes on Islamic State in Syria.

5mn Venezuelans sign petition against US aggression & interference.

Argentina complains to UN over UK’s 'militarization' of Falklands.

Americans cling to claims for property seized by Cuba.

US State dept official: Cuba aims to ramp up internet access.

Panama Canal sets sights on new $17 billion expansion project.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Commencing jihad: ISIS tweets photos of military 'graduation'.

Libya calls for global task force to create anti-terrorism charter.

Jabhat Al-Nusra's win in Idlib highlights Al Qaeda's strategy to defeat President Bashar Assad.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Jay Z promotes 'artist-owned' music streaming brand.

Russia's Gazprom: Profits plunge 70%.

Taiwan to join China-led regional bank, Japan says not now.

World News Briefs -- March 30, 2015 (Evening Edition)

AFP: Iran talks stretch into the night hours before deadline

Lausanne (AFP) - Marathon talks aimed at curtailing Iran's nuclear programme stretched into the night Monday as negotiators grappled with the remaining "tricky issues" blocking a deal with a deadline just hours away.

"There still remain some difficult issues," Kerry told a CNN reporter in his luxury lakeside hotel in the Swiss town of Lausanne.

"We are working very hard to work those through. We are working late into the night and obviously into tomorrow."

MIDDLE EAST

Iran and six powers entrenched as clock ticks to nuclear deadline. Iran nuclear talks: 'Tricky issues' remain, Kerry says. Iran nuclear talks intensify as key deadline nears. Iran nuclear talks hit hurdle ahead of deadline.

Expected Iranian nuclear deal worse than Israel feared: Netanyahu.

Air strike kills at least 40 at Yemen camp for displaced. Saudi-led forces strike Yemen rebels, blockade ports. ‘Saudi Arabia airstrikes pave way for ground invasion of Yemen’. Airstrikes pound Yemen's capital.

Iran says US drone kills 2 advisers in Iraq; US denies claim.

Syria crisis: Idlib 'captured by Islamist groups'.

Turkey moves to close all gates at border with Syria.

UN Chief Ban in Baghdad for talks.

Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert found guilty of corruption.

ASIA

Pakistan to join Saudi coalition against Yemen rebels: senior official.

North Korea claims it arrested 2 South Korean spies.

N.Korea 'poised to deploy long-range missiles'.

Clashes with Taliban halt supply of power in south Afghanistan.

China, Japan, South Korea halt Thai air route expansion on safety concerns.

China won't let North Korea join Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank as US rings alarm about lack of transparency.

Uzbekistan's leader scores landslide re-election win. Karimov wins Uzbek presidential election with 90,39% of votes.

Malaysia proposes anti-terror laws to curb Islamic militants.

Blogger hacked to death in Bangladesh.

China probes senior power official for graft.

AFRICA

UN: 7,300 civilians killed in Boko Haram insurgency.

Nigeria tensely awaits first results in closely fought election. Nigerians await Presidential election result. Nigeria election: First results expected.

Guinea declares Ebola 'health emergency' in five regions.

Libya tells Arab summit arms embargo must be lifted to fight IS.

Tunis Bardo Museum attack: Thousands join protest march.

South Sudan food crisis leaves people of Ganyiel desperate for a peace deal.

Congo official: DRC will not accept UN ‘neo-colonization’.

Italy deploys ships to monitor Libyan coast.

EUROPE

Germanwings Flight 9525 co-pilot suicidal at one time, prosecutor says. Crash pilot had been treated for suicidal tendencies.

Lufthansa fears second U4 9525 black box may never be found. Alps crash: Lufthansa chief fears recorder too damaged. Germanwings crash co-pilot Andreas Lubitz body parts 'found'.

Prosecutors probe Moldova ex-president's son for corruption.

Azerbaijan starts trial of 6 alleged Islamic State militants.

Andorra on the brink of Europe's next banking crisis.

Greece says not backing down on debt relief goal. Greece and Germany in open hostility over bailout program.

One Ukrainian serviceman killed, three wounded, in clashes with rebels: Kiev military.

Investigators identify mastermind behind Nemtsov murder.

Some 3.5 tons of Afghan heroin worth $1 billion seized in Russia in 2014.

French local elections: Hollande left bruised as Sarkozy and Le Pen triumph.

Breakdown: Czech spectators give up waiting for US Army convoy after 7hr wait.

AMERICAS

Brazil's ex-President Cardoso to defend jailed Venezuelans.

One dead after gate-crashing attempt, gunfire at Fort Meade.

Obama makes first trip to Kenya as President.

Americans see Putin as only slightly more imminent threat than Obama, poll says.

Vote expected late Monday on Canada’s military mission in Iraq, Syria.

Brazil's economy grew 0.1% in 2014.

Chile floods death toll rises to 14 as clean-up begins.

Uruguay will no longer grant asylum to Guantanamo prisoners.

Air Canada plane landed short, hit antennas in Halifax accident.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

British man pleads guilty to trying to set up US terror camp.

US drone strikes in Yemen likely to continue - former CIA officer.

Analysis: How ISIS is different from al-Qaeda.


Feared terror group al-Qaeda discussed strategies to combat CLIMATE CHANGE.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

US Treasury Secretary in China for talks.

Banks to face 'doomsday scenario' of China slowdown and eurozone crash to test financial strength.

Oil prices slip on possible Iran deal, dollar.

Fears of a new global crash as debts and dollar’s value rise.

World News Briefs -- March 30, 2015

Bloomberg: Iran Deal Unlikely Before March 31 as Russia Leaves Talks

(Bloomberg) -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov planned to leave talks on Iran’s nuclear program and only return if an accord is in sight, suggesting that negotiations will continue into the final hours before a March 31 deadline.

Diplomats said obstacles remain after foreign ministers from the six powers jointly met Iranian envoys for the first time in the latest round of talks in Lausanne, Switzerland. Lavrov will return if there’s a “realistic understanding of a deal,” Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.

MIDDLE EAST

Iran nuclear talks intensify as key deadline nears. Iran nuclear talks hit hurdle ahead of deadline.

Expected Iranian nuclear deal worse than Israel feared: Netanyahu.

‘Saudi Arabia airstrikes pave way for ground invasion of Yemen’. Airstrikes pound Yemen's capital.

Iran says US drone kills 2 advisers in Iraq; US denies claim.

Syria crisis: Idlib 'captured by Islamist groups'.

Turkey moves to close all gates at border with Syria.

UN Chief Ban in Baghdad for talks.

Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert found guilty of corruption.

ASIA

Clashes with Taliban halt supply of power in south Afghanistan.

N.Korea 'poised to deploy long-range missiles'.

China won't let North Korea join Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank as US rings alarm about lack of transparency.

Uzbekistan's leader scores landslide re-election win. Karimov wins Uzbek presidential election with 90,39% of votes.

Malaysia proposes anti-terror laws to curb Islamic militants.

Blogger hacked to death in Bangladesh.

China probes senior power official for graft.

AFRICA

Nigeria tensely awaits first results in closely fought election. Nigerians await Presidential election result. Nigeria election: First results expected.

Guinea declares Ebola 'health emergency' in five regions.

Libya tells Arab summit arms embargo must be lifted to fight IS.

Tunis Bardo Museum attack: Thousands join protest march.

South Sudan food crisis leaves people of Ganyiel desperate for a peace deal.

Congo official: DRC will not accept UN ‘neo-colonization’.

Italy deploys ships to monitor Libyan coast.

EUROPE

Lufthansa fears second U4 9525 black box may never be found. Alps crash: Lufthansa chief fears recorder too damaged. Germanwings crash co-pilot Andreas Lubitz body parts 'found'.

Andorra on the brink of Europe's next banking crisis.

Greece says not backing down on debt relief goal. Greece and Germany in open hostility over bailout program.

One Ukrainian serviceman killed, three wounded, in clashes with rebels: Kiev military.

Investigators identify mastermind behind Nemtsov murder.

Some 3.5 tons of Afghan heroin worth $1 billion seized in Russia in 2014.

French local elections: Hollande left bruised as Sarkozy and Le Pen triumph.

Breakdown: Czech spectators give up waiting for US Army convoy after 7hr wait.

AMERICAS

One dead after gate-crashing attempt, gunfire at Fort Meade.

Obama makes first trip to Kenya as President.

Americans see Putin as only slightly more imminent threat than Obama, poll says.

Vote expected late Monday on Canada’s military mission in Iraq, Syria.

Brazil's economy grew 0.1% in 2014.

Chile floods death toll rises to 14 as clean-up begins.

Uruguay will no longer grant asylum to Guantanamo prisoners.

Air Canada plane landed short, hit antennas in Halifax accident.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

US drone strikes in Yemen likely to continue - former CIA officer.

Analysis: How ISIS is different from al-Qaeda.


Feared terror group al-Qaeda discussed strategies to combat CLIMATE CHANGE.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Banks to face 'doomsday scenario' of China slowdown and eurozone crash to test financial strength.

Oil prices slip on possible Iran deal, dollar.

Fears of a new global crash as debts and dollar’s value rise.

Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- March 30, 2015

BBC: Arab League agrees to create joint military force

The heads of Arab League countries meeting in Egypt have agreed to create a joint Arab military force.

The League has been meeting in Sharm el-Sheikh amid a crisis in Yemen and the threat of jihadists who have made major gains in Iraq, Syria and Libya.

However, establishing the make-up and remit of the force could take months, analysts say.

A 10-nation, Saudi-led coalition is currently carrying out air strikes against rebels in Yemen.

Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- March 30, 2015

Arab League Unveils Joint Military Force Amid Yemen Crisis -- ABC News/AP

Arab League to forge NATO-like military alliance of Sunni powers -- Washington Times

Arab leaders announce joint force to intervene in region’s wars -- Washington Post

The world needs a new Arab army -- The Telegraph editorial

3 Saudi Weapons of War Yemen's Houthis Should Fear -- National Interest

Arab allies wage war in Yemen with U.S. weapons, without U.S. leadership -- Washington Times

Germany to invest in French military satellite program: document -- Reuters

Russia Begins Large-Scale Air Defense Drills in Siberia -- Sputnik

Why Russia's War Games Should Scare Nobody -- Alexander Golts, Moscow Times

Russian forces to practise use of S-300, S-400 against air, missile strikes -- ITAR-TASS

Will India Lease Another Russian Nuclear Submarine? -- Ankit Panda, The Diplomat

Indian warplanes go missing during upgrade in Ukraine – report -- RT

Former chief of Sri Lanka Air Force questioned on controversial MIG aircraft deal -- Colombo Page

Vietnam's Submarines to Counter China? -- Marine Link

China's Nightmare: Vietnam's New Killer Submarines -- National Interest

The Real Reason for China's Massive Military Buildup -- Harry J. Kazianis, National Interest

Take a Sneak Peak at Israel's Secret Submarine Fleet -- Arutz Sheva

From second hand boots to ex-Army tanks: Britain's military surplus for sale -- The Telegraph

Germany to invest in French military satellite program: document -- Reuters

Japan overrules Okinawa governor on US base work stoppage -- BBC

US Cites Growing N. Korea Long-Range Missile Threat -- VOA

U.S. special forces operating recon drones in Lebanon -- Daily Star

US Air National Guard F-15s to Europe to Deter Moscow -- Defense Tech

US Air Force Awards $485Mln Contract for Precision Weapons Guidance Pods -- Sputnik

Military planning to spend billions on new Air Force One -- FOX News

Fully fund the A-10 fleet, say Michigan senators -- The Hill

Pentagon Chief May Ease Military Enlistment Standards -- AP

Pentagon Cracks Down on Top Security Clearances After Snowden -- Sputnik

AP Exclusive: NSA weighed ending phone program before leak -- AP

Grandson of Enola Gay pilot to command B-2 unit -- Air Force Times

Meet the Navy SEAL who was shot 27 times and lived to tell the story -- The Telegraph

Some in Bergdahl's platoon undercut his emerging defense -- CNN

Bergdahl's Defense Questions His Army Enlistment After CG Dismissal -- Military.com

How the White House bungled the Bowe Bergdahl case -- John R. Schindler, L.A. Times

Army issues troops safety instructions following Islamic State kill list threat -- Washington Times

How the FBI director figures out who belongs in the most important jobs -- Washington Post

What happens on a night out with 5,000 American sailors? -- The Telegraph

World News Briefs -- March 28, 2015

US Secretary of State John Kerry (L), US Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz (2L), Robert Malley (3L), of the US National Security Council, European Union High Representative Federica Mogherini (C), Head of Iranian Atomic Energy Organisation Ali Akbar Salehi (2R), Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif (R) and others wait for a meeting at the Beau Rivage Palace Hotel on March 27, 2015 in Lausanne. REUTERS/Brendan Smialowski/Pool

Reuters: Iran, powers close in on two-three page nuclear deal; success uncertain: officials

(Reuters) - Iran and major powers are close to agreement on a 2- or 3-page accord with specific numbers that would form the basis of a long-term settlement aimed at ending a 12-year standoff over Tehran's nuclear ambitions, officials said on Friday.

Western and Iranian officials familiar with the negotiations between Iran, the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China cautioned that they still had not agreed on the framework of a deal and key details were still being hotly negotiated.

MIDDLE EAST

Yemen crisis: Saudis lead fresh air strikes on Houthis. Saudi-led air strikes target fresh Houthi advance on Aden: residents.

54 dead in 3 days of clashes in Yemen's Aden: health official.

Yemen's president calls Shiite rebels 'stooges of Iran'.

Warships move in key strait as airstrikes widen in Yemen.

Sunnis cheer Saudi-led battle for Yemen.

Elite Iranian guards training Yemen's Houthis: U.S. officials.

Pentagon: Offensive to take Tikrit from ISIL under way.

Syrian army closes in on city near Lebanese border.

Qaeda seizes 'majority' of Syria's Idlib: monitor. Al-Qaida in Syria seizes large parts of northern city.

US: Assad cannot be part of Syria's future.

Turkey says U.S.-led campaign to train Syria rebels delayed by Washington.

Israel to resume tax transfers to Palestinian Authority.

ASIA

The resurgence of the Taliban: Extremist group release video of fighters parading in cars around recently captured former US military base in Afghanistan.

Pakistan says soldiers kill 15 militants near Afghan border.

Japan is set to extend sanctions on North Korea: Nikkei.

UN condemns North Korea’s human rights violations.

3 dead as rebels attack government convoy in northeast India.

Philippines dismisses China concerns over South China Sea military repairs.

China's Xi preaches peace in key note address.

Uzbekistan to vote to extend veteran leader's rule.

Brother of Sri Lankan President killed in axe attack.

Crowds swell to bid farewell to Singapore's founder Lee ahead of funeral.

AFRICA

Nigerian voters prepare to election new president. Nigerians vote in first genuine contest since end of dictatorship.

Bloody siege at Mogadishu hotel stormed by Al Shabaab Islamic militants 'ends with at least 17 dead'.

Egypt's Sisi backs unified Arab force to confront regional threats.

South Sudan army claims 54 rebels killed in fresh fighting.

Waiting for food, hoping for peace in South Sudan.

Libya forces said to leave bases near oil ports; hopes they may reopen.

U.N. concerned by spread of arms in Libya, arms embargo unchanged.

Hundreds rally in Mali to call for ousted president's return.

Congo Republic president says expects referendum over third term.

EUROPE

Torn-up sick notes show crash pilot should have been grounded.

Latvia says Russia's military rhetoric is 'alarming'.

'Great Wall Of Ukraine' is 'a priority,' Petro Poroshenko says: Donbas defense construction set for April.

Poroshenko’s fortune estimated at $750 million — Forbes-Ukraine.

Greece submits reform proposals to eurozone creditors – with a warning.

'Unholy alliance' of Islamists threatens Sweden: spy chief.

Azerbaijan insists European Games safe despite violence.

Italian court throws out Knox conviction once and for all.

Vandals destroy memorial to murdered Russian opposition leader.

AMERICAS

Venezuela to impose social media restrictions.

Venezuela to present anti-US petition at summit with Obama.

DEA, Secret Service sex scandals shine light on scope of prostitution industry in Colombia.

Delayed results show opposition conservatives win El Salvador vote.

Canada government to dilute controversial anti-terror bill: CBC.

No copies of Clinton emails on server, lawyer says.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Captured IS militants explain why they fought.

France presses at U.N. for Islamic State to face world court.

Al-Qaeda vs. ISIS: The battle for the soul of Jihad. (Analyis).

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

German airline could face 'unlimited' damages for Alps crash.

Russia 'to join China-led development bank'.

Here are the countries with the most gold reserves, and the ones that have been buying it the most.

Virtual reality is coming to sex, sports and Facebook.

World News Briefs -- March 27, 2015

Reuters: Iran, six powers demand mutual concessions in tense nuclear talks

Major powers and Iran were pushing each other for concessions on Friday ahead of an end-March deadline for a preliminary nuclear deal, with Tehran demanding an immediate end to sanctions and freedom to continue sensitive atomic research, officials said.

Tehran and six major powers -- the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China -- are meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland, to hammer out a political framework accord by the end of this month that would lay the foundations for a full deal by June 30.

MIDDLE EAST

Yemen Houthi rebels advance despite Saudi-led air strikes. Saudi airstrikes in Yemen target rebel stronghold in north. Coalition air strikes target Houthi stronghold in Yemen.

With aid of airstrikes, Iraqi forces ring Tikrit, Pentagon says.

Final battle for Tikrit: ‘We won’t let the Americans take the glory’.

Iraqi Sunni tribe wages costly battle against IS group.

Iraq paramilitaries decide Tikrit pullback: commanders.

Syria and Iraq wars swell numbers of asylum seekers.

Syria's Assad calls chlorine allegations 'malicious propaganda': CBS.

Yemeni crisis off agenda at nuclear talks – Iranian foreign minister.

Rouhani writes to world leaders ahead of talks deadline.

Iran, six powers demand mutual concessions in tense nuclear talks.

Qatar mediating long-term truce between Israel and Hamas.

Poll: 68% of Palestinians support rocket fire against Israel.

UN says 2014 'devastating year' for Palestinians.

Obama’s Mideast policy in ‘free fall,’ former Iraq ambassador says.

ASIA

Abdullah Abdullah of Afghanistan worries about Islamic State’s presence in his nation.

Ghani sees Taliban as his 'political opposition'.

North Korea 'arrests two South spies'.

Aquino urges Philippine Congress to push ahead with Muslim autonomous region.

Myanmar army commander pledges successful elections.

China launches Sky Net to catch corrupt officials overseas.

Uzbek leader set to win new term, problems pile up.

Japan nears deflation as consumer prices stop rising.

AFRICA

Nigerian leader urges peaceful vote as elections loom. Nigeria wraps up presidential election campaign. Citing security concerns, Nigeria closes border ahead of election.

Boko Haram HQ Gwoza in Nigeria 'retaken'.

At least 10 killed in Shebab raid on Somalia hotel. At least 9 dead as militants attack hotel in Somali capital.

Kenya detains 52 in latest roundup over suspected Islamist attack.

Australia warns of possible attacks in Kenyan capital.

UN refugee agency condemns LRA's kidnapping of Congolese.

UN orders investigation into Libya rights abuses.

In Sudan, an unlikely path to jihad for students.

'Tens of thousands' set for Tunisia anti-extremism demo.

With big projects, Ethiopia shedding famine stereotype.

Sierra Leoneans to stay home in final push to stop Ebola. Ebola outbreak: Sierra Leone in lockdown. Sierra Leone under 3-day Ebola lockdown.

EUROPE

Germanwings crash: Co-pilot Lubitz 'hid illness'.

Putin speech bodes ill for Ukraine ceasefire.

Russia warns NATO drills a ‘problem’ as US attack planes buzz Poland.

Ukraine sees stabilization signs as areas of fighting remain.

Ukraine's life-saving IMF deal in jeopardy over $3bln default to Russia.
.
Chechnya threatens to arm Mexico if U.S. sends weapons to Ukraine.

Kremlin dismisses Chechen threat to incite separatism in US.

Official: 1,500 North Caucasus people fight in Iraq, Syria.

France to begin push for U.N. Middle East action in 'coming weeks'. France says will propose UN Security Council draft on Israel.

EU wants Serbia accession talks to begin in earnest this year.

Poland charges 2 Russian flight controllers in 2010 crash.

AMERICAS

U.S. lawmaker to Homeland Security: 'clean up' Secret Service.

Russia would consider leasing jets to Argentina to reinforce Falklands' defense.

Venezuela slashes oil shipments to Cuba, Caribbean in half.

Key FARC commander found dead: Colombia military.

Chile says drought permanent, lays out water plan.

Brazil's economy barely avoided recession last year.

25 injured in East Village building explosion, collapse after workers hit gas line: FDNY, sources. Six people unaccounted for after fire razes NYC building.

Top U.S. Senate Democrat Harry Reid to retire after 2016.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Hamas denounces EU decision to keep it on terror list.

Pentagon envisions up to 7 more Guantanamo trials.

US soldier, cousin charged in alleged effort to join IS.

Al Nusrah Front video showcases more American-made TOW missiles.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Airlines across the world to change safety policies.

Heinz to buy Kraft, creating global food giant.

Leave Facebook if you don't want to be spied on, warns EU.

Oil falls more than $1 as Middle East supply fears ease.

World News Briefs -- March 26, 2015

Reuters: Co-pilot appears to have crashed Germanwings plane on purpose, prosecutor says

(Reuters) - A young German co-pilot locked himself alone in the cockpit of a Germanwings airliner and flew it into a mountain with what appears to have been the intent to destroy it, a French prosecutor said on Thursday.

Investigators and grieving relatives were left struggling to explain what motivated Andreas Lubitz, 28, to kill all 150 people on board the Airbus A320, including himself, in Wednesday's crash in the French Alps.

French and German officials said there was no indication the crash was a terrorist attack, but gave no alternative explanation for his motives.

MIDDLE EAST

Saudi leads ten-nation Sunni coalition in bombing Yemen's Shia rebels. Saudi airstrikes target rebel bases in Yemen.

22 killed, 30 wounded amid anti-Houthi airstrikes in Sanaa - Sources.

Turkey supports Saudi-led attack on Houthis in Yemen.

Iran warns of bloodshed as Saudi-led forces bomb Yemen.

US jets pound Isil in Tikrit, Saddam Hussein's home town. US-led coalition pounds ISIL targets in Tikrit.

Iraqi security forces storm ISIL-controlled city of Tikrit - reports. Iraq official: Troops launch final phase of Tikrit offensive.

Syrian Islamist insurgents advance around Idlib city: monitor.

UN says 2014 Palestinian death toll highest since 1967.

Amnesty International accuses militants in Gaza of war crimes in 2014 conflict.

Iran nuclear deal in sight, State Dept. official says. U.S., Iran resume talks on preliminary nuclear deal as deadline looms.

ASIA

Pakistani Army begins offensive to drive militants from Tirah Valley.

North Korea's neighbors push to resume six-party talks.

Philippines says China rushing construction in disputed sea.

Philippines Aquino takes responsibility for bungled mission.

China says probing if more Myanmar bombs strayed over border.

China's Xi vows legal reforms to end 'injustice'.

China says will likely invite Western Allies to WW2 parade.

Business, military, government seize land for rubber in Myanmar: rights group.

AFRICA

Sudan says will take part in Yemen campaign with ground, air forces.

Four Egyptian naval vessels en route to secure Gulf of Aden: sources. Egyptian naval, air forces joined in Yemen campaign against Houthis: source.

Nigeria's presidential candidates sign new peace appeal.

Niger, Chad troops pursue Boko Haram in Nigerian border area.

UN refugee chief: Nigeria crisis similar to Syria's.

Tunisia arrests 23 over museum attack. Tunisia arrests 23 in 'terrorist cell' over museum attack.

No U.N. troop cut in Congo until progress against Rwandan rebels.

Uganda ups security, says al Shabaab group behind U.S. warning.

EUROPE

Germanwings co-pilot 'wanted to destroy' plane. French prosecutor: Co-pilot took doomed flight on ‘deliberate’ dive.

NATO secretary general: Ukraine cease-fire fragile but ‘largely holding’.

Putin says Russia will stand firm in standoff with West. Putin says Western spies plot against Russia before polls.

Greece 'in a corner' as Europe blocks payment. Bank deposits drain adds pressure on Greece.

Germany bans extremist Islamist group 'Tauhid Germany'.

Asylum seekers in the West highest since Bosnia war: UNHCR.

Pope to White House. Pope Francis to visit Obama at White House on Sept 23.

AMERICAS

Farc guerrillas and Colombian troops to work together to tackle landmine legacy.

Costa Rica fires ambassador in Venezuela after vocal support of Maduro.

Four dead in Chile floods, military rescues stranded residents.

US, Cuba teams discuss telecommunications issues.

DEA agents had 'sex parties' with prostitutes, watchdog says.

Indiana Governor declares public health emergency to battle worst HIV outbreak in state history.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Intel community wary of Islamic State influence on U.S. citizens.

‘Islamist extremists,’ phrase rejected by Obama, embraced by allies.

CIA’s ‘Capt. Ahab’ leaves post; Osama bin Laden tracker led counterterrorism center.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Lufthansa to review pilot training: CEO.

Oil prices rise 6% as Saudi Arabia bombs Yemen rebels.

Christie's aims for auction record book with $140 million Picasso.

World News Briefs -- March 26, 2015 (Evening Edition)

Defence Minister Mohammad bin Salman coordinated the strikes at the Royal Saudi Air Force operations centre near Riyadh [SPAnews]

Al Jazeera: Saudi and Arab allies bomb Houthi positions in Yemen

At least 18 people reported killed in Saudi-led airstrikes in Sanaa, as Iran denounces operation as "US-led aggression".

Saudi Arabia and a coalition of regional allies have launched a military operation in Yemen against the Houthi rebels, who deposed the US-backed Yemeni president last month.

Adel al-Jubair, Saudi ambassador to the US, said on Wednesday that a coalition consisting of 10 countries, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), had begun airstrikes at 7pm Eastern time.

"The operation is to defend and support the legitimate government of Yemen and prevent the radical Houthi movement from taking over the country," Jubair told reporters in Washington.

MIDDLE EAST

President Hadi leaves Yemen as Saudis bomb rebels.

Saudi leads ten-nation Sunni coalition in bombing Yemen's Shia rebels. Saudi airstrikes target rebel bases in Yemen.

22 killed, 30 wounded amid anti-Houthi airstrikes in Sanaa - Sources.

Turkey supports Saudi-led attack on Houthis in Yemen.

Iran warns of bloodshed as Saudi-led forces bomb Yemen.

US jets pound Isil in Tikrit, Saddam Hussein's home town. US-led coalition pounds ISIL targets in Tikrit.

Iraq crisis: Tikrit push 'no longer led by Shia militias'. Iraqi security forces storm ISIL-controlled city of Tikrit - reports. Iraq official: Troops launch final phase of Tikrit offensive.

Syrian Islamist insurgents advance around Idlib city: monitor.

440,000 Syrians besieged in 'savagery' of war: UN.

UN says 2014 Palestinian death toll highest since 1967.

Amnesty International accuses militants in Gaza of war crimes in 2014 conflict.

Turkey's Erdogan says can't tolerate Iran bid to dominate Middle East.

Iran's Rouhani intervenes as deadline for nuclear deal approaches.

US, Iran nuke talks enter critical round ahead of deadline. Iran nuclear deal in sight, State Dept. official says. U.S., Iran resume talks on preliminary nuclear deal as deadline looms.

AP Exclusive: Iran may run centrifuges at fortified site.

ASIA

Japan PM Abe to address joint session of U.S. Congress.

Pakistani Army begins offensive to drive militants from Tirah Valley.

North Korea's neighbors push to resume six-party talks.

Philippines says China rushing construction in disputed sea.

Philippines Aquino takes responsibility for bungled mission.

China says probing if more Myanmar bombs strayed over border.

China's Xi vows legal reforms to end 'injustice'.

China says will likely invite Western Allies to WW2 parade.

Business, military, government seize land for rubber in Myanmar: rights group.

Cambodian prime minister criticizes Michelle Obama visit.

AFRICA

UN cuts DR Congo peacekeeping force by 2,000.

Sudan says will take part in Yemen campaign with ground, air forces.

Four Egyptian naval vessels en route to secure Gulf of Aden: sources. Egyptian naval, air forces joined in Yemen campaign against Houthis: source.

Nigeria's presidential candidates sign new peace appeal.

Niger, Chad troops pursue Boko Haram in Nigerian border area.

UN refugee chief: Nigeria crisis similar to Syria's.

Tunisia arrests 23 over museum attack. Tunisia arrests 23 in 'terrorist cell' over museum attack.

No U.N. troop cut in Congo until progress against Rwandan rebels.

Uganda ups security, says al Shabaab group behind U.S. warning.

EUROPE

Co-pilot Andreas Lubitz 'suffered from depression' before he deliberately destroyed plane: latest.

Disbelief, shock worldwide at co-pilot's role in Alps crash.

Germanwings co-pilot 'wanted to destroy' plane. French prosecutor: Co-pilot took doomed flight on ‘deliberate’ dive.

Moscow could reignite Ukraine fighting, US diplomat fears.

NATO secretary general: Ukraine cease-fire fragile but ‘largely holding’.

Putin says Russia will stand firm in standoff with West. Putin says Western spies plot against Russia before polls.

Greece 'in a corner' as Europe blocks payment. Bank deposits drain adds pressure on Greece.

Germany bans extremist Islamist group 'Tauhid Germany'.

Asylum seekers in the West highest since Bosnia war: UNHCR.

Pope to White House. Pope Francis to visit Obama at White House on Sept 23.

AMERICAS

Injuries in blast, building collapse in New York's East Village.

US defends Bowe Bergdahl swap amid desertion charges.

Farc guerrillas and Colombian troops to work together to tackle landmine legacy.

Costa Rica fires ambassador in Venezuela after vocal support of Maduro.

Four dead in Chile floods, military rescues stranded residents.

US, Cuba teams discuss telecommunications issues.

DEA agents had 'sex parties' with prostitutes, watchdog says.

Indiana Governor declares public health emergency to battle worst HIV outbreak in state history.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Intel community wary of Islamic State influence on U.S. citizens.

‘Islamist extremists,’ phrase rejected by Obama, embraced by allies.

CIA’s ‘Capt. Ahab’ leaves post; Osama bin Laden tracker led counterterrorism center.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Airlines across the world to change safety policies.

Lufthansa to review pilot training: CEO.

Oil prices rise 6% as Saudi Arabia bombs Yemen rebels.

Christie's aims for auction record book with $140 million Picasso.

World News Briefs -- March 25, 2015 (Evening Edition)

BBC: Islamic State conflict: US orders air strikes in Tikrit

The United States has ordered air strikes against Islamic State militants in the city of Tikrit, US officials say.

The order followed a request for assistance by the authorities in Baghdad, after an Iranian-backed ground offensive in the city stalled.

Until now, Washington has had no involvement in the operation in Tikrit.

The Iraqi ground offensive also resumed on Wednesday targeting IS positions, Reuters reports.

MIDDLE EAST

Saudi Arabia readies for possible intervention in Yemen on Thursday.

Yemen crisis: President Hadi flees as Houthi rebels advance.

Yemen's President flees his house in Aden as rebels advance. Yemeni President flees palace as Houthis advance south. Reports: Yemen's Houthis advance towards Aden.

Yemeni Houthis seize airbase in advance on Aden.

Shiite rebels arrest Yemen’s defense minister.

Saudi Arabia moves heavy arms to border with chaos-stricken Yemen.

Iraqi forces pound Islamic State in Tikrit, resuming offensive.

Report: Hundreds of thousands live under siege in Syria.

Turkish military fires shells in retaliation to stray Syrian rocket that injures 5 at border.

Syrian forces down Turkish drone in Aleppo – military source.

Turkish cartoonists convicted for insulting Erdogan.

Iran reacts to snap nuclear inspections call.

Iran to insist all sanctions lifted in any nuclear deal: foreign minister.

Facing resistance, U.S. pushes to meet deadline for Iran deal.

Netanyahu pledges peace, eyes better US ties.

ASIA

Thai prime minister threatens to 'execute' journalists.

Ghani: Islamic State "terrible threat" to western, central Asia.

Pakistan 'kills 30 militants in air strikes'.

At least seven dead in suicide attack in Kabul.

Taliban says U.S. troop cut delay hurts peace prospects.

Myanmar students and activists charged over protest clashes.

230 suspected jihadis prevented from leaving Australia.

China US inch closer on Asia Fund as deadline approaches.

Vanuatu officials warn of food, water shortages.

Tearful Singaporeans say farewell to Lee Kuan Yew.

AFRICA

Nigeria election: Borders closed. Nigeria tightens security before presidential polls.

Nigeria denies Boko Haram seized 500 children. Official: Boko Haram kidnaps hundreds of Nigerian civilians.

Sanctions threat will not deter counter-attacks: South Sudan president.

Islamic State group claims deadly bombing in Libya. Islamic State militants kill five pro-Tripoli government fighters: Libyan news agency.

UN refugee agency: Cameroon needs help to assist Nigerian refugees who fled Boko Haram.

Remittance cuts a threat to Somalia’s food security.

Cameroon hosts conference on Islamic fundamentalism.

Glimmers of hope in Central Africa Republic but peace elusive.

EUROPE

Investigators hope cockpit voice tape will unravel Airbus crash riddle. Germanwings plane crash: Leaders visit Alps site.

Russian forces kill over 250 militants in North Caucasus in 2014 — interior minister.

Ultra-nationalist Ukrainian militia gears up for more fighting. Ultra-nationalist Ukrainian battalion gears up for more fighting.

Ukraine arrests two top officials at cabinet meeting.

Moody's cuts Ukraine credit rating on negative forecast.

4 killed when bus hit land mine in eastern Ukraine.

Nemtsov memorial on Moscow bridge vandalised.

Greece pledges full list of reforms within the week. Greece fails in bid for early cash release, reforms awaited.

Greeks celebrate independence as EU creditors discuss their fate.

AMERICAS

Bergdahl charged with desertion, could face life in prison. US military: Bergdahl may face life in prison if convicted.

Argentina criticizes Britain for military boost in Falklands.

Afghan President Ghani to address US Congress.

Marches in Argentina on 39th anniversary of military coup.

US soldiers and contractors sexually abused 54 under age Colombian girls and even made their assaults into pornography and will never face charges, report claims.

U.S. ATF had to ditch $600,000 worth of surveillance drones: watchdog.

47% of American households save nothing.

Report: Va. governor received special treatment from Homeland Security.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Guantanamo ex-inmate awaits bail decision in Canada.

Video shows Al Qaeda operating TOW anti-tank missiles in Syria.

FBI adapts to face terrorism threats but still faces challenges, report finds.

U.S. sees ‘more sophistication’ in Islamic State cyber capabilities.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Oil prices lift on Yemen crisis.

Kraft Foods to merge with Heinz.

Beyond Iran And Pakistan: 7 nuclear wannabes.

Saudis claw back global market share with oil output push.

Slavery taints global supply of seafood.