Friday, December 30, 2016

World News Briefs -- December 30, 2016 (Evening Edition)



BBC: Syria conflict: Clashes reported despite truce

Fighting between government and rebel forces has been reported in parts of Syria despite a nationwide truce coming into force early on Friday.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitoring group, said there had been fierce clashes and air strikes in northern Hama province.

It added that rebel-held Wadi Barada near Damascus was also bombarded. But the military denied doing so.

There has been no comment from Turkey and Russia, which brokered the truce.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Former Nusra Front criticises Syria ceasefire agreement.

Syria conflict: Nationwide truce holding despite 'clashes'. Syria's cease-fire holding despite minor violations. Syrian truce holding despite minor clashes.

Russian jets target Islamic State around Syria's al-Bab: Turkish military. Syrian Observatory says warplanes carry out 16 raids in Hama province. Syrian forces and allies clash with rebels near Damascus: monitors, rebel official.

Iraqi forces face Islamic State car bombs, fierce resistance in south Mosul.

Commission clears draft expanding Erdogan's power.

With clock ticking, Palestinians pin hopes on Paris summit.

US-Israeli tensions spill into the open in closing days of Obama administration.

Saudi invites rival Iran for talks on hajj return.

ASIA

Kazakh leader orders foreign ministry to prepare for Syria talks.

Taiwan announces U.S. itinerary for president, upsetting China. China urges U.S. not to allow Taiwan president to stop over.

China Communist Party office attackers shot dead by police after killing two.

China blocks India's request for UN to blacklist militant chief.

India: Deadline for discontinued rupee notes looms. India cash crunch: Rupee deposit deadline looms.

Australia distances itself from Obama administration's stance against Israeli settlements.

Hundreds of North Korea workers in Oman sent home, report says.

AFRICA

Congo deal reached for Kabila to step down after 2017 elections.

Many feared dead as Nigerian troops, Boko Haram battle in Borno.

South Sudan bishop decries media indifference as violence continues.

Congo opposition leader says talks on political deal faltering.

Tunisian foreign fighters to be dealt with under anti-terrorism law: PM.

Somalia: Welcoming new Federal Parliament, Ban urges completion of electoral process.

Economy strained for OPEC-member Angola.

Mali sends back migrants deported by France.

EUROPE

Record 2016 pushes migrant arrivals in Italy over half million.

European cities ramp up security for New Year after Berlin attack.

Russia, brushing off Obama, looks to friendlier Donald Trump.

Putin: Russia will not expel anyone in response to US sanctions. Putin says Russia won't expel US diplomats in tit-for-tat measure.

Romanian president designates Grindeanu new prime minister.

Berlin mayor supports German government's call for increased video surveillance.

Downing Street criticises US comments on Israel. Britain, edging towards Trump, scolds Kerry over Israel.

Children from Calais, France, camp sue Britain over denial of asylum.

UN envoy sees 'historic opportunity' for Cyprus reunification in 2017.

Poland buys private art collection with da Vinci painting at bargain price.

Queen Elizabeth II health update: Latest as Queen remains indoors for 10th consecutive day.

AMERICAS

Trump praises Putin for holding back in U.S.-Russia spy dispute.

Moscow says 96 Russians expected to leave United States due to expulsions.

Tennis, sailing or spying? US shuts 2 Russian compounds.

Obama faces difficult choices amid stream of last-minute clemency requests.

Trump’s border wall, deportation plans face pushback from GOP.

Venezuela: President Maduro extends money swap deadline.

Hunger is driving up crime in Venezuela as violence hits new highs, report says.

Brazilian President Michel Temer eyes labor reforms as unemployment hits record high.

Body found in Rio may be missing Greek ambassador: Brazil police. Brazil policeman confesses to killing Greek ambassador: TV report.

Cubans surf the web at home in Havana pilot project.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Threat of New Year attack in U.S. low but 'undeniable': agencies.

U.S., Iraqi sources say Islamic State leader Baghdadi alive despite death reports.

US adds Lashkar-e-Taiba student wing to terrorism list.

Terrorism squad arrests man at Sydney Airport over New Year's Eve 'threat'.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Apple to cut iPhone production in first quarter of 2017: report.

Disney wins 'Cars' copyright suit in China.

China takes new step to downgrade the dollar’s prominence.

Texas oil survey reveals OPEC pessimism.

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