Rice: Iraq must break deadlock
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice made a surprise visit to Iraq on Sunday and bluntly warned its bickering political leaders they must form a national government or risk losing the backing of the international community. Rice and British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, who accompanied her, were trying to break a 31 1/42-month political deadlock that has worsened the country’s slide into sectarian violence.
Iran touts 2nd missile test
Iran conducted its second major test of a new missile within days on Sunday, firing a high-speed torpedo it said no submarine or warship can escape at a time of increased tensions with the U.S. over its nuclear program. The new torpedo, called the “Hoot,” or “whale,” could raise concerns over Iran’s power in the Persian Gulf. U.S. officials would not comment on whether the new torpedo represents a threat to American forces.
Chirac signs labor law bill
President Jacques Chirac signed a contested measure to promote jobs for youths into law on Sunday even though he has said it would be replaced by a modified version to defuse a crisis that has led to violent demonstrations. Unions, however, hoped that another round of strikes on Tuesday would provide a still more powerful push to get the measure withdrawn.
Boat didn’t have license to sail
Bahrain’s Interior Ministry said a traditional dhow sailboat turned into a floating restaurant did not have a permit to take its passengers on a dinner cruise in the waters off this tiny Gulf island kingdom when it sunk Thursday, killing 57 people. Officials also said the boat’s captain, who has been detained for questioning, was not licensed to pilot the craft.
AND FINALLY
Angry? Don’t get even–break a plate
At the Isdaan restaurant in Gerona, Philippines, patrons can work out their stress in a slightly unconventional way. For 30 cents a try, they can hurl plates at the “wall of fury” emblazoned with words such as “ex-wife,” “boss” and “lover.” A shout of “tacsiyapo”– or “shame on you” in the local dialect–usually accompanies the smashing crockery. Vases and bowls also are available, and angry but wealthier patrons can toss an old TV for 1,300 pesos.
