Germany Drops Attempt to Ban Scientology

Germany is dropping its pursuit of a ban on Scientology after finding insufficient evidence of illegal activity, security officials said Friday

• Germany's Battle Against Scientology

Iraq's Race for Political Advantage After US Departure

Discord over a Status of Forces Agreement with Washington intensifies as Iraqi parties seek to position themselves for the post-American era

• In Baghdad, Blasts from the Past

Europe's Road Ahead

Obama's win has filled Europe with joy, but the Old World has its own work to do

• The Russia Problem

Japan Reaches Out

At home its economy is floundering, but overseas its growing soft power is enabling Japan to make new friendships and forge a reputation as a responsible world leader

Somalia Gunbattle Kills 17 in Capital

Somali security forces and Islamic insurgents engaged in one of the fiercest gunbattles in recent weeks in the capital Friday, killing at least 17 people and wounding six, police and witnesses said

The Middle East Blog

A Setback for Syria

The International Atomic Energy Agency has served up a reminder of just how difficult it will be for Syria and the West to kiss and make up.

The China Blog

On the Scene in Dharamsala

Our colleague Jyoti Thottam reports from northern India where Tibetans are meeting to discuss the future of their movement.

Dongxiaokou: In China, Hard Times at the Scrap Heap