Iraqi VP Urges Immediate Probe into US Attack against Popular Forces

 Iraqi Vice-President Nouri al-Maliki condemned the recent US strikes against Hashd al-Shaabi (popular forces), and urged an immediate probe into the hostile action by Washington troops in his country.

North Korea: 'Whatever comes, we will handle it'

A North Korean official says his country is ready for war if the United States attacks as a US aircraft carrier group heads for the region. There is speculation that Pyongyang may conduct a sixth nuclear weapons test on Saturday.

France braced for week of transport strike chaos

France is preparing itself for a week of severe disruption to transport after unions called for more action in their bitter standoff with the Socialist government over labour reforms.