Africa
North Cameroon bans burqas after suicide blasts
After twin deadly suicide bombings by two women wearing burqas, authorities in Northern Cameroon have banned women from wearing burqas and face-covering veils.
East Asia
Protests as Japan moves toward remilitarization
Despite a massive nationwide protest campaign, the ruling bloc in the Diet's lower house pushed through a law "reinterpreting" Japan's constitution to allow combat missions.
Central America
Guatemala political money linked to criminality
The UN International Commission Against Impunity reported that approximately a quarter of the money used for Guatemalan political campaigns is from criminal groups.
Mexico
Mexico sells offshore oil blocs, but majors are shy
For the first time in nearly 80 years, Mexico opened its oil industry to foreign investors, offering 14 offshore exploration blocs—but only two sold, and not to industry majors.
Europe
Greece seeks ‘security axis’ with Cyprus, Israel
With his own country in turmoil, Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias spoke in Jerusalem of developing an "axis of security" made up of Greece, Cyprus and Israel.
Greater Middle East
Bahrain releases ailing rights advocate
Bahrain's king released the president of the Bahrain Center for Human Rights, Nabeel Rajab, citing health reasons. He is charged with insulting authorities on Twitter.
Afghanistan
ISIS burns opium to gain Afghanistan foothold
Fighters loyal to ISIS have seized substantial territory in Afghanistan, burning opium fields in an apparent bid to stigmatize the Taliban as corrupt and soft on drugs.
Iran
Iran, world powers reach nuclear agreement
The Iran nuiclear deal comes as the US is in a de facto alliance with Tehran against ISIS, and includes a lifting of sanctions on a notorious commander of counterinsurgency forces in Syria and Iraq.
North Africa
Libya parties sign UN peace deal —sans Tripoli
Warring parties in Libya signed a preliminary UN-sponsored peace agreement—but without the Islamist-led Libya Dawn coalition that continues to hold Tripoli.
East Asia
China detains human rights lawyers
At least five Chinese attorneys from a human rights law firm were detained after being accused of running a criminal syndicate and smear campaign against the Communist Party.
Mexico
Mexico: Chapo Guzmán escapes —again!
A massive manhunt is underway in Mexico after the country's most notorious drug lord escaped from the country's highest security prison through a secret tunnel.
Greater Middle East
Syria: Alawites clash with regime, Iran troops
Syrian regime forces backed by Iranian troops clashed with residents of two Alawite villages outside Hama following a wave of mass arrests in the area.