Militants ‘still hold Iraq cities’
Sunni militants linked to al-Qaeda are reportedly still in control of parts of two cities in western Iraq following days of fierce fighting. BBC News – Middle East
Craig Taylor
Spain steps into Panama Canal row
The Spanish government says it is in talks with Panama and Sacyr, the builder at the heart of a row over a contract to expand the global shipping hub. BBC News – Latin America & Caribbean
Vigil to mark Schumacher birthday
Fans of injured Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher hold a vigil to mark his birthday at the French hospital treating him. BBC News – Europe
Flooding continues to threaten UK
High tides and strong winds lead to flooding in Wales and south-west England as officials warn of a continuing flood threat across the west of the UK. BBC News – UK
US and Canada snowstorm wreaks chaos
A winter storm has blanketed parts of Canada and the north-eastern US with up to 2ft (61cm) of snow, with dangerously cold temperatures. BBC News – US & Canada
Number of displaced in CAR ‘doubles’
The number of internally displaced people in the Central African Republic has doubled to 935,000 in a month amid escalating violence, the UN warns. BBC News – Africa