Nation

Countries Urge Tamil Tigers to Surrender as Civilians Flee Fighting

By Admin, PBS News Hour

As Sri Lanka's Tamil Tigers lose more territory in their fight against the government, international powers including the United States, European Union, Japan and Norway have urged the rebels to lay down their arms to avoid more civilian deaths.

Iran Launches First 'Homegrown' Satellite Into Space

By PBS News Hour

Iran said Tuesday that it had launched its first domestically-produced satellite as part of Tehran's ongoing efforts to build a space program. The launch was timed to coincide with observances of the 30th anniversary of the 1979 Iranian revolution.

Suicide Bomber Kills 21 in Attack in Southern Afghanistan

By PBS News Hour

A suicide bomber disguised as a police officer killed 21 Afghan police in a local station in southern Afghanistan Monday, according to government officials.

Weekly Poem: 'Pittsburgh'

In honor of the Steelers' Super Bowl victory, we've gone into the Poetry Series archive.

Afghanistan Delays Presidential Election Until August

By Admin, PBS News Hour

Afghan officials said Thursday that the country's second-ever presidential election will be postponed three months until Aug. 20 to give them more time to prepare. The delay also would allow more time for additional U.S. troops to arrive.

Pope Draws Criticism for Pardoning Bishop

Pope Benedict XVI's decision to reinstate Bishop Richard Williamson, who has made comments denying the full extent of the Holocaust and the existence of gas chambers during World War II, has drawn sharp criticism. A reporter discusses the controversy.

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House Defeats Bill to Delay Digital TV Switch

By PBS News Hour

The House voted against a bill Wednesday to delay the nation's switch to digital television, handing a defeat to President Barack Obama and congressional Democrats who voiced concern that consumers needed more time to prepare for the transition.

Acclaimed American Author John Updike Dies at Age 76

John Updike, one of the most prolific and popular American authors of his generation who chronicled the drama of everyday suburban life, died Tuesday, his publisher said. Writer Nicholas Delbanco, a former student of Updike's, remembers his friend and mentor.

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Switch to Digital TV Prompts Concerns, Calls for Delay

The impending switch to digital TV has caused confusion in some households and prompted Congress to consider delaying the switchover even further over concerns that the message has not yet reached some important groups. Kwame Holman reports.

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Obama Moves to Revise Fuel Efficiency Policies

By Admin, PBS News Hour

President Barack Obama on Monday ordered federal regulators to reexamine two policies that could lead to tougher fuel-economy standards for new cars and trucks.