Grim Afghanistan Report.. Assad On Instagram.. Zimbabwe Votes

Violence against civilians has risen by almost a quarter in Afghanistan as international forces hand security to Afghans, the United Nations said in a report on Wednesday, with insurgents striking in areas where troops have already left.

Assad's Instagram

Jordan's Treasure Hunters

Mugabe Vows To Step Down If He Loses Zimbabwe Election

In an election that poses one of the biggest threats to President Robert Mugabe's 33-year grip on power, Zimbabweans flocked to polling stations Wednesday despite suspicions that vote-counting could be rigged in a nation beset by bitter division and economic hardship.

Cambodian Opposition Claims Election Majority

Cambodia's opposition party escalated its challenge to the country's election results Wednesday, claiming it had actually won a majority of National Assembly seats. The action suggests that the opposition is digging in for a protracted battle over the results against the long-time Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Kerry: Israel, Palestinians Will Try To Reach Peace Deal In 9 Months

Israel and the Palestinians will seek to reach a peace agreement within nine months and negotiators will meet again within two weeks after holding a "positive" first round of talks, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said on Tuesday.

Last Charges Against Suspected Swedish Serial Killer Dropped

Prosecutors on Wednesday dropped the last remaining charges against a man who was once considered Sweden's worst serial killer, but whose eight murder convictions were overturned after he withdrew his confessions.

Syrian Troops Battle For Site Of Alleged Nerve Gas Attack

Syrian government troops launched an assault Wednesday to regain control of a northern village that was the site of an alleged chemical weapons attack earlier this year, activists said.