DAMASCUS (Agencies) — Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said on Sunday his negotiations with Hamas leader Khaled Mishaal had been “fruitful” and that talks to form a unity government would continue.

BAGHDAD (AFP) — At least 25 US troops were killed across Iraq in one of the deadliest days for the American forces since the invasion began, as the military said Sunday 3,200 new troops had arrived to quell Baghdad violence.

WASHINGTON (AFP) —  US Democrats forged ahead Sunday with plans to introduce a resolution in Congress condemning President George W. Bush’s decision to send more troops to Iraq, where the US toll rose sharply.