6/16/12

* Egyptians choose new president amid political chaos Egyptians voted Saturday in the nation's first free presidential election, a runoff that pits a conservative Islamist against a former prime minister who served in the regime toppled last year.

* Saudi heir apparent Prince Nayef dead Crown Prince Nayef, the long-serving interior minister who led Saudi Arabia's crackdown against al-Qaeda's branch in the country and then rose to become next in line to the throne, has died. He was in his late 70s.

* Baghdad car bombings target Shia pilgrims Two separate car bomb attacks targeting Shia Muslim pilgrims in Baghdad have killed at least 32 people, Iraqi officials say.

* U.N. suspends peace mission in Syria due to uptick in violence The United Nations said Saturday it has suspended its monitoring mission in Syria due to intensifying violence, sending a strong indication that prospects for peace are failing.

* Campaigning ends ahead of crucial Greek elections Campaigning in Greece has ended ahead of a crucial election on Sunday which could determine its future in the eurozone.

* Panetta urges quick and peaceful transition to democracy in Egypt US Defense Secretary asks head of ruling military council to promptly hold legislative elections.

* China launches space mission with first woman astronaut China has launched its latest manned space mission - whose crew includes its first female astronaut, Liu Yang

* Eurozone approaching its moment of truth After more than two years of uncertainty, instability and slow growth, decisions taken over the next few months could determine the economic future of the whole European continent for the next decade and beyond.

* Ahmadinejad: I will retire from politics in 2013 Iranian president tells German newspaper that "eight years is enough," he will quit when second term ends and return to academia.

* Remnants of Grad rocket found in southern Israel Rocket shell found in Arava region; IDF probe finds that rocket appears to be Grad; no injuries or damages.