World briefs 1/29/06

4,000 Beijing firefighters ready for Lunar New Year

BEIJING -- The Chinese capital prepared to usher in the Lunar New Year with bang Saturday, after authorities lifted a 12-year ban on fireworks. As residents stocked up on fireworks, officials were urging caution. About 4,000 firefighters were placed on standby, with 21 fire engines and 129 firefighters dispatched to the most densely populated areas of Beijing, the Beijing Youth Daily newspaper reported.

Saddam trial set to resume under renewed criticism

BAGHDAD, Iraq -- The troubled Saddam Hussein trial resumes today with a new judge and with international human rights groups saying political interference is threatening the tribunal's independence. Saddam and his seven co-defendants are charged in the deaths of about 140 Shiite Muslims following an assassination attempt against the former Iraqi leader in the Shiite town of Dujail in 1982.

Britain hopes to lower troop numbers in Iraq

DAVOS, Switzerland -- Britain said Saturday it hopes to lower the number of troops it has in Iraq. At the fourth and final day of the World Economic Forum, Iraqi officials urged more time and patience as they struggle to rebuild their country. British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said London was looking to withdraw some of its 8,500 troops later this year, but did not provide a timetable.

-- From wire reports

Activist Cindy Sheehan considers running for office

CARACAS, Venezuela -- Cindy Sheehan, the peace activist who set up camp near President Bush's Texas ranch last summer, said Saturday she is considering running against Sen. Dianne Feinstein to protest what she called the California lawmaker's support for the war in Iraq. "She voted for the war. She continues to vote for the funding. She won't call for an immediate withdrawal of the troops," Sheehan said in an interview while attending the World Social Forum in Venezuela along with thousands of other anti-war and anti-globalization activists. Feinstein's campaign manager, Kam Kuwata, said the senator "doesn't support George Bush and his war policies."

-- From wire reports