A picture released by the French Army shows French soldiers intercepting pirates off the coast of Kenya. Republican Representatives Ron Paul says Somali piracy has an age-old solution: "Letters of marque" empowering private citizens to chase the seaborne scoundrels from the oceans. (AFP)MIDDLE EAST
Drought threatens `Garden of Eden' marshes in Iraq.
Saudi speeds up education reform, clerics resist.
Israel balks at UN war crimes probe of Gaza war.
ASIA
Indians begin voting in epic elections.
Stone-throwing Afghan crowd swarms women's protest.
ANALYSIS: Pakistan and US at odds on Obama's war policy. While the Taliban are only 50km away from Islamabad.
Pakistan aid effort hits Saudi hurdle.
Fiji military ruler tightens grip. New Zealand says Fiji economy near collapse as military strengthens grip.
Thai ex-PM Thaksin urges king to help end conflict.
AFRICA
US unveils plan to tackle piracy.
US food aid ship escapes Somali pirate attack.
Mob invades major land reform project in South Africa.
EUROPE
Italy earthquake reconstruction will cost billions. Recovery a distant dream for Italy quake victims.
Moldova starts election recount.
AMERICAS
U.S. to name a 'border czar'.
Brazil breadbasket teeters with economic meltdown.
In surprise move, Canada's spy boss to quit job.
Bolivia congress sets date for general elections.
Most-wanted Colombia drug lord caught 'like a dog'.
Obama orders U.S. Treasury to seize Drug Cartels' assets.
Canada a target of espionage due to NATO ties.
Obama puts focus on Latin America.
TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR
Indian court to start trial of gunman held for Mumbai attacks.
Guantanamo captive phones TV office, claims abuse.
Al-Qaeda thrives in the Sahara deadlock.
No U.S. transfer sites for Guantánamo detainees selected.
FINANCIAL/ECONOMIC CRISIS
US economy weak: Fed.
Fiat CEO says other options to Chrysler deal.