One of the most effective anti-Assad militias has just been designated a “terrorist” organization by the U.S. Will that help or hobble the exiled opposition’s attempt to take control of the fight against the regime in Damascus?
Mali’s Endless Crisis: Army Soldiers Force Out Prime Minister
Malian soldiers forced the nation’s Prime Minister to resign late Monday night, complicating the West’s plans for a military intervention
Tale of the Taliban Bomber: Behind the Plot to Kill Afghanistan’s Spy Chief
For Asadullah Khalid, the morning of Dec. 6 — the day the Taliban tried to kill him — was as routine as any other. Dressed in an embroidered beige shirt, Kabul’s recently-appointed intelligence chief signed papers and …
Must-Reads from Around the World
The new Mexican president announces education reforms, South Africa and Vietnam sign a deal to reduce rhino poaching and Northern Irish protests continue
Chávez’s Cancer Relapse: Can Venezuela’s Socialists Survive It?
President Hugo Chávez acknowledges that he could be sidelined for good, and a special presidential election might be on the horizon. Can his oil-fueled revolution function without him?
A Time for Mischief: Will Monti’s Departure Mean Berlusconi’s Return?
Italians — and Europeans — were stunned at the turn of political events, just as the economy seemed to be approaching some sort of stability
Detained, Tortured and Held Without Trial, a Saudi Political Prisoner Returns Home
Ghazi al-Harbi has spent the last seven years locked up as a political prisoner. He is now readjusting to the life he was taken away from
Must-Reads from Around the World
South Korea is dubbed the “Republic of Samsung,” atheists around the world suffer from persecution and Romanian elections stoke a political feud.
Women’s Rights at Odds in Egypt’s Constitution Wars
The political battle raging on Cairo’s streets is focused on President Mohamed Morsi’s autocratic actions in his efforts to rush through his draft constitution, but the anxiety of those on the street are equally based on the …
Ceremony for Returning Troops Closes French Combat Mission in Afghanistan
France took a major step toward winding down its activities in the NATO-led mission in Afghanistan on Dec. 8 with a ceremony for 153 returning combat soldiers — part of President François Hollande’s pledge to bring the …
Morsi Under Siege: Will His Concession Calm Egypt?
In a late night announcement, the Egyptian president modifies the controversial decree that granted him new powers and brought protesters into the streets. But will it satisfy the opposition and the occupiers of Tahrir Square?
If You Thought Benghazi Was Bad, Watch Syria
A New York Times exposé suggests U.S. allies armed Libyan extremists, raising troubling questions over Syria’s rebellion
The Problem of Clichy: After 2005 Riots, France’s Suburbs Are Still Miserable
Seven years after Clichy-sous-Bois errupted in rioting that spread across France, TIME returns to see whether billions in spending, years of policy debate, and national soul-searching has improved life in the blighted banlieues. …