Pro-Haftar forces pushed back near Libya capital: security source

Forces loyal to Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar were pushed back Friday from a key checkpoint less than 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Tripoli, checking their lightning advance on the capital, a security source said. Militiamen from the coastal town of Zawiya, west of Tripoli, retook the base after a "short exchange of fire", the source said on condition of anonymity. The advance by Haftar's forces on Thursday, which came as the United Nations prepares to convene a conference later this month on holding delayed elections, prompted visiting UN chief Antonio Guterres to voice his "deep concern".

Thailand collects sacred waters for king's coronation rituals

Thailand began rituals on Saturday for the coronation of King Maha Vajiralongkorn next month, with officials collecting water in ceremonies across the country for use in purification rites.

from Reuters: World News https://reut.rs/2UjUPju

Timeline: Rituals for Thailand's coronation of King Vajiralongkorn

Thailand began elaborate rituals on Saturday leading to the coronation of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who will be officially crowned in ceremonies from May 4 to 6.

from Reuters: World News https://reut.rs/2TUAv36

Iran expands evacuations as rains worsen floods

Iran moved on Saturday to evacuate more towns and villages threatened by floods after continued rain in the southwest of the country, state television reported, as the nationwide toll from the flooding reached 70.

from Reuters: World News https://reut.rs/2YVHdd4

May's Brexit talks with Labour stall, delay request fails to convince EU

Britain's opposition Labour Party said on Friday that talks with the government on a last-ditch Brexit deal had made no progress, as EU leaders said Prime Minister Theresa May had not convinced them that they should let Britain delay its departure next week.

from Reuters: World News https://reut.rs/2UDyxZc

UK finance minister optimistic over deal with Labour on Brexit

Talks between the British government and the main opposition Labour party aimed at breaking the deadlock over Brexit continue, finance minister Philip Hammond said on Saturday, adding he expected to reach "some form of agreement."

from Reuters: World News https://reut.rs/2U2cerY

Thailand's rising political star charged with sedition

The leader of a new party that has challenged Thailand's military government was charged on Saturday with sedition, the latest legal action facing the rising star after a disputed March election.

from Reuters: World News https://reut.rs/2VpKfEf