U.S. Embassy in Baghdad inaugurated

The United States opened its new embassy building in Baghdad on Monday, a step meant to symbolize its transition from occupying power to an ally of a sovereign Iraqi government.

Heavy civilian casualties in Gaza

As Israel seized control of much of Gaza Strip on Monday, President George W. Bush said he understands "Israel's desire to protect itself" from the militant group Hamas.

Taliban claim 5,220 foreign troops killed
The Taliban has long exaggerated its military successes, but its figures for 2008 may be the militia's most startling claims yet.

U.S. tourist stabbed in Rome
An American tourist from California is in serious condition in a Rome hospital after being stabbed outside a bar in downtown Rome.

Man arrested in murder of Ohio mom

Police in Ohio have arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with the death of a Dayton mother and the kidnapping of her 4-year-old son, who was later abandoned at a highway rest stop. His father says the boy is "still terrified."

Greek cop wounded in shooting

Gunmen shot and seriously wounded a policeman in Athens on Monday, the second such attack since police shot dead a teenager last month prompting Greece's worst riots in decades.

Thai nightclub blaze toll hits 64
Thai police say the death toll in a New Year's Eve nightclub fire has reached 64 after two of those injured died.

Prosecutor wants Madoff jailed

A prosecutor says disgraced financier Bernard Madoff violated bail conditions by mailing about $1 million worth of jewelry and other assets to relatives, and wants him jailed.

Obama, CNN Twitter accounts hacked
Social networking tool Twitter was hit by a major hacker attack on Monday, with several "high profile" accounts — including that of President-elect Barack Obama — taken over by computer criminals, the company said.