Representatives of Lebanon’s many political factions are meeting to begin dialogue on the country’s future.

Officials in the Gaza Strip say at least 11 people have been killed in a gun battle between Hamas security forces and a powerful local clan.

Ukraine has been plunged into political crisis again following the collapse of the ruling coalition. The governing parties of President Viktor Yushchenko and Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko are pro-western but are deeply divided over other issues.  Tensions recently came to a head over the subject of presidential powers. 

The Netherlands has prevented the EU from agreeing to extend new trade benefits to Serbia.The block comes despite a positive report from the chief UN war crimes prosecutor on Belgrade’s co-operation.

Outgoing General David Petraeus has handed over control of US military operations in Iraq at a ceremony in Baghdad. Petraeus is widely credited for security gains in Iraq after implementing a surge strategy backed by 30,000 extra US troops.

Five former US Secretaries of State say the next American administration should hold direct and unconditional talks with Tehran.

Israeli President Shimon Peres has suggested targeting Iran’s main source of income as a means of lowering the country’s defensive force.

Iran says it wants to forge a strong security alliance with the participation of its neighbors, the Persian Gulf littoral states.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Mottaki says that Tehran aims to draw strategies to help establish stability and security in the Caucasus.

Iran has rejected reports that its vessel hijacked by Somali pirates in the Gulf of Aden was carrying a ‘dangerous consignment’.