Top story: The Obama administration has begun the rollout for a new strategy for the war in Afghanistan, including the deployment of over 30,000 new troops. The president issued orders to the military on Sunday, then spent Monday discussing the new strategy with foreign leaders. His discussed the plan with Afghan President Hamid Karzai in a videoconference this morning. Tonight, he will address the nation from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
The Washington Post reports that Obama will order the deployment of 34,000 new troops and ask NATO allies for an additional 5,000, bringing the total number close to the 40,000 additional troops requested by Gen. Stanley McChrystal.
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who discussed the new strategy with Obama yesterday, offered a preview of Obama's remarks in an address to parliament, saying the new plan focuses on the "transfer of lead security responsibility to the Afghans -- district by district, province by province -- with the first districts and provinces potentially being handed over during the next year," depending on "the Afghans being ready."
The New York Times reports that Obama has ordered the new troops to be deployed much faster than originally planned, in an effort to reduce Taliban gains and create a sense of urgency in the Afghan government.
New boss: Japanese diplomart Yukiya Amano took over from Mohammed ElBaradei as head of the International Atomic Energy Agency.Middle East
- Iran may take "serious action" against five British yachtsmen detained in the Persian Gulf.
- Dubai's ruler sought to reassure investors that his Emirate's economy remained "strong."
- Israel warned the European Union against recognizing East Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital.
Europe
- The long-awaited Lisbon Treaty of EU integration comes into force today.
- The World Court opened hearings on the legality of Kosovo's independence.
- Two Guantanamo detainees have been transferred to Italy.
Africa
- South African President Jacob Zuma announced a dramatic expansion of AIDS testing and treatment, including treating all babies born with HIV.
- South African mediators opened a new round of talks with Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe.
- A Greek oil tanker fought off a pirate attack, just two days after a U.S.-bound tanker was seized.
Asia
- The son of a powerful political clan has been charged with last week's election massacre in the Philippines.
- A suicide bomber killed an anti-Taliban politician in Northwest Pakistan.
- India is increasing security at nuclear sites after intelligence warnings.
Americas
- A number of countries -- including the United States -- are recognizing Honduras's newly elected government.
- Venezuela is liquidating two banks owned by a onetime ally of President Hugo Chavez.
- What would have been Latin America's first-ever gay marriage was halted by authorities at the last minute in Argentina.
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