UN chief urges protection of civilians as clashes intensify in S. Sudan
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Thursday urged all parties in South Sudan to ensure protection of civilians as fresh fighting between pro-government and opposition forces intensified in the world's youngest nation.
Israeli president says no alternative to peace with Palestinians
There is no alternative to peace between Israel and the Palestinians, said Israeli President Shimon Peres at the conference here on Thursday.
Supporters of Syrian president rally in Damascus
A man shout slogans during a demonstration supporting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in the countryside of Damascus, Syria, Feb. 20, 2014. Several Syrian cities witnessed pro-government rallies over the past few days. (Xinhua/Zhang Naijie)
Moscow says US policy on Syria ‘encourages’ support for terrorism
Moscow accused Washington Thursday of prolonging the Syrian conflict by supporting the opposition, on the eve of a UN Security Council vote that threatens to further deepen divisions between major powers.
Egypt adjourns Al-Jazeera trial until March 5
A court on Thursday adjourned the trial of Al-Jazeera journalists, including foreign reporters, to March 5, in a case that has sparked accusations of censorship against Egypt’s military-installed government.
Ambitious Iran nuke talks set
Iran and world powers agreed Thursday a timetable and framework for the ambitious and arduous process of hammering out a lasting nuclear accord by July 20 that satisfies all sides.
10 killed in Iraq's violence
Ten people were killed and 10 others wounded in two violent incidents in eastern and central Iraq on Thursday, police source said.
Kerry asks Abbas to extend peace talks with Israel
US Secretary of State John Kerry has asked Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to extend the current peace negotiations with Israel for an additional nine months, a Palestinian official said on Thursday.
Timetable for future Iranian nuclear talks set: officials
EU's foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif announced on Thursday the timetable for the next round of Iranian nuclear talks.
China condemns Beirut attack
China on Thursday condemned the twin bombings that hit the Lebanese capital Beirut, which killed at least 6 people and injured 129 others.