Iraqi forces push ahead with Fallujah liberation

Here is a round-up of global news developments:

• Iraqi government forces continue their advance into the Daesh-held city of Fallujah. Army officials say dozens of Daesh terrorists have been killed in the latest clashes. Meanwhile, the United Nations Refugee Agency says some 3,700 Iraqis have fled the city as fighting has escalated over the past week.
• In Bahrain, an appeals court upholds death sentences for three citizens and life imprisonment for six others charged with alleged involvement in a deadly bomb attack in 2014. Another court sentenced 11 people to jail terms and life in prison. They were accused of forming and financing a terrorist group.
• Iran’s foreign minister calls on the United States to dispel fears of retribution against Europeans wishing to do business with Tehran. Mohammad Javad Zarif added that a psychological barrier still prevails despite various statements from the EU and US officials encouraging financial institutions to engage with Tehran.
• Russia says it may soon start new airstrikes against the Nusra Front terrorist group in Syria. The head of Russia’s State Duma defense committee said delaying such attacks would only worsen the situation in Syria. Russia had earlier proposed joint airstrikes but Washington rejected Moscow's proposal, saying its military objectives are different.
• Turkish police clash with activists holding a rally to mark the third anniversary of the Gezi protests in Istanbul. In 2013, environmentalists demonstrated against the cutting of trees in an urban area in Istanbul. Police used excessive force against them which sparked a broader anti-government movement, known as the Gezi park protests.
• Amnesty International says the number of internally displaced Afghans has doubled to one-point-two million over the past three years. Amnesty said many of those fleeing their homes are struggling to survive, as they're facing a lack of basic services. Afghanistan has one of the highest refugee populations in the world.
• In Britain, new polls suggest that public opinion has shifted towards leaving the EU in a referendum scheduled for June 23. The polls indicate that over 50 percent of voters are in favor of Brexit. Many top politicians including Prime Minister David Cameron have warned about the consequences of a Brexit.
• In Greece, scuffles have erupted between police and port workers over the government’s decision to sell off the country’s two largest ports. The workers have been on strike since last week. They have threatened to continue the walkout unless their demands are met.

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