Nigerian forces bombard Islamist militant camps from the air

Lagos Reuters—Nigerian forces used jets and attack helicopters to bombard Islamist militant camps in the northeast on Friday, killing a number of insurgents, the defence headquarters spokesman said. Brigadier-General Chris Olukolade told Reuters by telephone several camps had been attacked, including in the Sambisa game reserve in Borno state, but did not have further details. "A number of insurgents have been killed. It is not just Sambisa, every camp is under attack. But we have no...

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Egypt in midst of petition war as Mursi popularity plummets

Cairo, Asharq Al-Awsat—Responding to the Tamarod (Rebellion) petition seeking to oust Egyptian president Mohamed Mursi—which at last count had gathered more than two million signatures—the Islamists have launched a petition of their own in support of the embattled leader. Mursi supporters have launched a Tajarud (Impartial) petition following calls by Al-Gama'a Al-Islamiyya leader Assem Abdul-Majid. This battle of the petitions comes in the week that an independent public opinion resea...

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