Morning Brief, Tuesday, July 11

War on terror

A huge change of U.S. policy: The Pentagon says it will treat all detainees according to the minimum standards of the Geneva Conventions. The development is certain to get Bush some friendlier press from US allies when he travels to the G8 meeting in St. Petersburg later this week.

Iran

Iran's top nuclear negotiator said today that talks on the country's nuclear future will be a "long process." The stalling tries US patience, and moves are afoot to urge the Security Council to impose sanctions. 

Israel/Palestine

Israeli PM Olmert defends the incursion into Gaza, though the captured Israeli soldier has not been recovered. Hamas member and Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh takes to the WaPo's editorial pages to accuse Israel and its allies of trying to destroy the results of democratic elections.

Elsewhere

As expected, China refuses to back sanctions against North Korea. At least eight people die in attacks in the capital of Indian-administered Kashmir, and five blasts rock Mumbai. Lopez Obrador says he has proof of election fraud in Mexico. The US pledges $80 million for democracy promotion in Cuba. Rumsfeld visits Afghanistan the day after the British announce a troop increase in the country.