In the News: Oct-24

Iraq approves provincial elections law - 24 Oct 2008 at 2:00pm - BAGHDAD (AP) — Iraq's parliament overwhelmingly approved a provincial elections law Wednesday, overcoming months of deadlock and giving a boost to U.S.-backed national reconciliation efforts. U.S. officials have complained privately that Iraqi politicians have failed to take advantage of the sharp drop in violence — down 80% since last year, according to the U.S. military — to forge lasting power-sharing agreements.

Russia says U.S. sanctions will hit ties - 24 Oct 2008 at 1:37pm - MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia accused Washington on Friday of breaking international law and undermining cooperation on Iran's nuclear program after it imposed sanctions on companies accused of passing sensitive technology to Tehran.

Thought for the day:
It is our choices... that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities. -J. K. Rowling, Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets