Western powers react with scepticism to Syria's acceptance of UN envoy Kofi Annan's peace plan, as the UN says more than 9,000 have died in unrest.

The West African regional bloc Ecowas suspends Mali and announces a delegation to persuade leaders of a military coup there to restore democracy.

US doctors have carried out what they say is the most extensive face transplant ever performed, by giving a man a new jaw, teeth and tongue.

Seven members of a US militia based in Michigan are acquitted of charges of sedition and conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction.

Bottlenose dolphins in Australia organise their complex society into gang-like groups of males, according to scientists.

The United Nations says victims of Haiti's 2010 earthquake are being placed at risk due to broken aid promises, with $231m needed this year.

Colombia's armed forces kill at least 35 Farc guerrillas in the eastern Meta region, in the latest setback for the rebel group.

Hong Kong's government wins an appeal against a ruling that could have allowed foreign domestic helpers to apply for residency in the city.