WASHINGTON - U.S. President-elect Barack Obama pressed congressional leaders on Monday to pass his huge spending and tax-cut package amid signs the centerpiece of his economic stimulus plan may face delays.
“We are in a very difficult spot,” Obama told reporters after a meeting his economic advisers. “The situation is bad. The situation is getting worse.”
Obama [...]

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By The Canadian Press
OTTAWA - Canadian officials say they’re concerned that Israeli authorities have prevented Canadians from escaping the warfare in the Middle East.
A Canadian Foreign Affairs official says the Israeli Defence Force prevented 36 Canadians from leaving Gaza on Monday, citing “security concerns.” Canadian officials say a list of 36 Canadians who requested help [...]

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By Nidal al-Mughrabi 
GAZA (Reuters) - Israeli troops backed by air strikes fought to seize ground from Hamas militants deep inside the Gaza Strip on Monday despite international calls for a ceasefire in a conflict that has killed more than 540 Palestinians in 10 days.
Israel’s defense minister said the operation, aimed at stopping Hamas rocket attacks [...]

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NAIROBI (AFP) - Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga criticised a controversial communications bill Monday, saying he was surpised the president had signed into law a measure opponents claim will stifle press freedom.
President Mwai Kibaki last week signed the Communication Amendment Act, arguing the main issues of concern were not contained in the legislation passed by [...]

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BLYTH (AFP) - A brilliant freekick by Chilean international Carlos Villanueva proved the difference between Premiership side Blackburn Rovers and non-league Blyth Spartans here on Monday as Rovers ran out 1-0 winners.
Villanueva’s 58th minute effort produced a justified result against a side 181 places below his team and earned them a fourth round clash with [...]

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