John Henry Browne, the lawyer representing U.S. Army staff sergeant Robert Bales, says there is no forensic evidence to support allegations that his client killed 16 villagers in Afghanistan.

French police raided a home in Toulouse early this morning, searching for the gunman who shot dead seven people including three Jewish schoolchildren.

A severe sandstorm brings chaos to a remote region of northwest China.

Two wealthy businessmen vie to lead Hong Kong against a backdrop of escalating friction between residents of the former British colony and the mainland.

Thousands of mourners gather in Cairo to bid farewell to Egypt’s Coptic Christian Pope Shenouda, who died on Saturday aged 88.

Afghans celebrate their New Year at the shrines of Prophet Ali in the capital Kabul and in Mazar-e-Sharif.

Rebels say they came under heavy fire and were forced to flee as violent eruptions took place throughout Syria.

Vice President Joe Biden on Monday lauded President Obama for his leadership in the mission to take out Osama bin Laden last May, calling it the most "audacious" plan in 500 years.

The top U.S. commander in Afghanistan says winding down the decade-plus war is on track and the U.S. has no intention to stay in the country forever.

The top U.S. commander for the war in Afghanistan, Gen. John Allen, will testify on Capitol Hill Tuesday before the House Armed Services Committee on what's happening in the country.

What is best way forward for U.S. in an increasingly muddled situation?

The former Secretary of State and National Security Advisor squelches talk of vice-presidential candidacy and potential tactics for dealing with Iran.

Becky Anderson talks to Irish President Michael Higgins about his U.S. trip, his legacy and the Irish economy.