A US soldier stands guard at the site of a mortar attack in Baghdad's Karrada commercial district, Iraq. Photo / Reuters
US Senate approves Iraq war money, quashes troop pull-out
WASHINGTON - The US House of Representatives has approved, by a vote of 280-142, US$100 billion ($140 billion) in new funds for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
A timetable for withdrawing combat troops was discarded, which outraged
many Democrats who see the bill as a failure.
Bush held back from crowing about his apparent victory on the funding bill, instead trying to convince sceptical Americans of the need to stay in Iraq.
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Food safety is a major problem in new China
BEIJING - 'Bananas can cause SARS' and other food safety rumours are spreading in the streets of China's cities.
"It is purely a rumour and it is impossible for bananas to contain SARS-like viruses," the Agriculture Ministry said.
Introducing standardised practices when it comes to food safety is a major issue in China these days, especially facing the Olympic Games next year.
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US 'accusing Iran of attacks' to bolster Iraq strategy
LUXEMBOURG - The Bush administration may be highlighting accusations that the Iranian government is behind attacks in Iraq in order to strengthen its hand in preparing for military strikes on Iran.
The US and UK governments have frequently accused Iran of aiding militant groups in Iraq who are attacking coalition forces.
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