LA Times News

LA Times News

U.S. warns Syria regime against using chemical weapons

Posted: 03 Dec 2012 07:41 PM PST

The move reflects concerns over intelligence indicating Syria may be preparing to unleash chemical agents on rebels. The U.N. withdraws some staff.

BEIRUT — The United States bluntly warned Syrian President Bashar Assad against using chemical weapons as his forces lose ground to rebel fighters, and the United Nations said it was pulling nonessential foreign staff from Syria because of deteriorating security.

Egypt's Supreme Judicial Council to oversee vote on draft charter

Posted: 03 Dec 2012 05:30 PM PST

The decision may help ease political unrest amid a crisis over Egypt's draft constitution. But it also points up rifts in the judiciary.

CAIRO — Egypt's Supreme Judicial Council agreed Monday to oversee a national referendum on the country's draft constitution, a move that suggested at least a temporary easing of the crisis between the courts and President Mohamed Morsi.

European nations criticize Israel over E-1 settlement plan

Posted: 03 Dec 2012 05:30 PM PST

Britain, France, Spain, Sweden and Denmark formally complain about the Israeli project, which critics say could destroy efforts to create a Palestinian state.

JERUSALEM — Israel is facing an onslaught of criticism from European allies over its decision to revive a controversial West Bank settlement project known as E-1, which critics say could destroy efforts to create a Palestinian state.