World News

Srinagar, Jan 6: With the encounter between the militants and Indian army personnel entering the 6th day in restive Kashmir, the Indian army ruled out aerial strikes against the militants.

The process of reforms was derailed after the 1989 crackdown, Bao said, and is now reformist only in name. China's chief hope for change still lies with grassroots activists around the country, he said.

Israel views Hamas approaching Egypt as an indication that Hamas is feeling pressured and is opting for a diplomatic path to end Israel's military operation in Gaza.

'(Sata) was an active participant in fighting terrorism in Iraq, and one of the personnel responsible for starting the Iraqi Army air defense units,' Jamil said.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is likely to have a budget deficit in 2009 despite promises from the government of a balanced budget, ArabianBusiness.com reported.

Lebanese officials are playing down concerns that the fighting in Gaza will spread to Israel's northern border and spark renewed fighting between Israel and the Lebanese Hizbullah.

He called for strict adherence to humanitarian principles in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where an already dire situation has been made worse by the Israeli offensive which began on 27 December.

Prior to the operation, several intelligence missions were conducted, as well as the establishment of a Provincial Reconstruction Team to advise on an effective immediate stabilization plan.