Israelis can't escape troubles in world travels
Accustomed to war and instability at home, Israelis have long looked overseas for an escape, earning them a reputation as among the most intrepid — and noticeable — world travelers.

$1 million inaugural package for disadvantaged

A Va. businessman has spent $1 million to bring to Barack Obama's inauguration disadvantaged people, terminally ill patients, wounded soldiers and others down on their luck.

Jewish settlers, Israeli troops clash

Israeli security forces stormed a disputed house in Hebron on Thursday, dragging out some 250 settlers who barricaded themselves inside and hurled rocks, eggs and chemicals.

Bernanke urges more action on foreclosures
Fed chief Ben Bernanke called on the government to ramp up efforts to stem soaring home foreclosures, which are feeding into the country's deep economic troubles.

Retailers saw sales drop in November
Retailers limped through a miserable November that even a surge of shopping after Thanksgiving couldn't save, new data show.

Solar car completes first round-the-world trip

The first solar-powered car to travel around the world ended its journey at the U.N. climate talks Thursday, arriving with the message that clean technologies are available now to stop global warming.

European, U.K. central banks cut rates
The European Central Bank has cut its benchmark interest rate to 2.5 percent, following similar moves by central banks across the continent.

Ship carrying 122 adrift in Antarctic
A cruise ship carrying 122 people is taking on water after running aground in the Antarctic on Thursday but is in no danger of sinking, the Argentine Navy said.

U.S. weighs action on mortgage rates

Department considers plans to intervene directly to force down rates and stimulate the moribund housing market, according to sources.