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World Briefs: May 17
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Dominican Republic
Subway brings in votes
SANTO DOMINGO — Dominicans who went to the polls on Friday had been given chickens, poured beer, promised new homes and even handed cash during a spirited frenzy of campaigning. But President Leonel Fernandez appeared headed for a third term in office largely as a result of a campaign gift to the populace that dwarfed those of his six opponents: a shiny new subway system.
"It's something for all of us," said Francia Catalina Pena, 71, who stood outside one of the downtown stations. Her vote went to the man she calls simply "Leonel."
In brief
Egypt
Bin Laden criticizes Israel
CAIRO — Osama bin Laden vowed Friday to fight Israel for the liberation of the Palestinians, claiming their cause is at the heart of al-Qaida's holy war with the West.
The terrorist leader's third statement this year was released to coincide with the Jewish state's 60th anniversary and came out as President Bush was wrapping up his visit to Israel to celebrate the occasion.
"We will continue our struggle against the Israelis and their allies," bin Laden said in a 10-minute audio posted on an Internet site used frequently by al-Qaida. "We are not going to give up an inch of the land of Palestine."
Iraq
Iran blames U.S. for deaths
BAGHDAD — Iran angrily blamed the United States on Friday after at least three of its diplomats were wounded in a Baghdad shooting, saying the Americans are encouraging attacks on Iranians in Iraq.
The United States defended the actions of Iraqi security forces but said Americans were not involved in the incident and that the U.S. "condemns any attack on guests or visitors of any country."
The shooting — which may have been by Iraqi soldiers during an argument at a checkpoint — comes amid unprecedented strains between Iran and the Iraqi leadership.
— From wire reports
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