Former CIA Director David Petraeus tells the BBC that Islamic State militants can only be defeated through a dual military and political approach.

The International Monetary Fund says Ukraine's economy is likely to shrink by a worse-than-expected 9% in 2015, as the continuing conflict takes its toll.

Smoking is now banned in restaurants, offices and on public transport in China's capital, Beijing, after existing rules are toughened up.

US anti-terror provisions that allow security services to bulk collect phone data expire after the Senate fails to reach a deal.

The Solar Impulse, which is attempting the world's first Pacific Ocean crossing in a solar-powered plane, is told to hold as weather worsens.

A report into cruelty in Queensland's greyhound racing industry finds "barbaric" treatment of the dogs and other animals.

Thailand's revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej, 87, returns to hospital in Bangkok for tests, weeks after being discharged.

Australian Cardinal George Pell seeks legal advice over allegations his handling of child abuse claims was "almost sociopathic".