Reef 's future is 'very poor'

In its latest five-yearly report on the health of the world's largest coral reef system, the government's Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority singled out rising sea temperatures as the biggest threat to the giant organism.

Defying gravity in Norway's 'death diving'

OSLO, Norway - They throw themselves into the air, twisting their bodies and seemingly making time stand still, before landing with a splash: Originally a pastime to impress girls, Norway's sport of "death diving" now attracts dozens of daredevils.

Asians to be affected if NYC drops gifted school programs

New York City's public-school system is the largest and among the most segregated in the United States.

New Pentagon command launched for space warfare

WASHINGTON - The US government announced on Thursday the establishment of the US Space Command to defend its interests in space.

Trump says deal with Taliban is close

WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump said on Thursday the United States plans to withdraw more than 5,000 troops from Afghanistan and then will determine further drawdowns in the longest war in the country's history.

UN extends mandate of peacekeepers in Lebanon

UNITED NATIONS - The UN Security Council warned on Thursday that violations of the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon in the latter country's south "could lead to a new conflict that none of the parties or the region can afford".

Burning ban takes effect as Amazon fires rage

PORTO VELHO, Brazil - A 60-day ban on burning in Brazil took effect on Thursday after a global outcry over fires raging in the Amazon and data showing hundreds of new blazes in the rainforest.

Spanish kids get 'werewolf syndrome' in medicine mix-up

Several Spanish children suddenly sprouted hair all over their bodies earlier this year after developing "werewolf syndrome" as a result of a mix-up of medicines that the country's Health Ministry is continuing to investigate.

IN BRIEF (Page 8)

Retrials ordered for Park, Samsung heir

SEOUL - South Korea's top court on Thursday sent back jailed ex-president Park Geun-hye's corruption case to a lower court. There will be a separate trial on the bribery charges for which she has already been convicted. A ruling could increase her already-lengthy prison term.

Can matcha craze save Japan's tea industry?

FUJIEDA, Japan - From matcha ice cream to matcha cake and matcha chocolate, producers of traditional Japanese green tea are capitalizing on growing global interest in its flavor - even as demand for the drink declines at home.

Swedish teen activist sails across Atlantic for UN climate meeting

NEW YORK - Teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg sailed into New York Harbor on Wednesday in a zero-carbon emissions vessel, completing her nearly 14-day journey from England to take part in a United Nations climate meeting.