Interior Ministry tells locals to stay in homes despite Israeli phone calls, 'knock on the roof' procedure' urging them to evacuate.

US president attempts to deter IDF ground operation in Gaza, offers to negotiate cease-fire agreement.

2,000 Iraqi troops sent to western cities, key dam, to block Sunni Islamist; meanwhile Shiite militias parade, prepare to fight insurgents, as country moves toward sectarian showdown.

Iraqi soldiers launch counter-attack in Tikrit; al-Maliki engages politicians in fight to keep position of prime minister.

The Hezbollah International Financing Prevention Act will prevent the Lebanon-based terrorist group from receiving financing through international organizations.

CNN reports security forces, aided by Special Forces and local tribesmen, launch operation to regain control of northern Iraq from Islamist insurgents.

Hundreds gather outside Israeli Consulate in Manhattan, many saying they had come because the felt powerless and wanted to express support.

ISIS leader trained under command of Musab al-Zarqawi, spent 4 years in US prison in Iraq; photos of mysterious leader remain scarce.