The Caribbean

Venezuela: Chávez sees Curaçao threat

Amsterdam summoned the Venezuelan ambassador to explain accusations by Hugo Chávez that the Netherlands are colluding with the US by allowing military access to the Dutch Antilles.

The Andes

Colombia: FARC and ELN broach merger

In a statement released on the Internet, Colombia’s two guerilla armies, the FARC and ELN, announced they intend to unite, saying “Our only enemy is North American Imperialism.”

Palestine

Egypt builds security barrier on Gaza border

Egypt has commenced construction of a huge metal wall along its border with the Gaza Strip that will extend 18 meters (55 feet) underground in an attempt to cut smuggling tunnels.

Central America

Honduras: reject amnesty for abuses during coup

The proposal by Porfirio Lobo, winner of Honduras’ disputed presidential election, for an “amnesty for all” involved in the coup undermines the rule of law, Human Rights Watch charges.

Central America

Gay activist assassinated in Honduras

Walter Trochez, a well-known LGBT leader in Honduras and activist in the resistance against the coup d’etat, was gunned down by drive-by killers in central Tegucigalpa.

Central America

Honduras: anti-sweatshop campaigns advance

Students at North American campuses are demanding their universities drop licensing agreements with Nike unless 1,800 workers for Honduran contractors get back pay and severance packages.