International chemical weapons experts have finally inspected the site of a suspected attack near Damascus which caused an international crisis. The team from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) travelled to the town of Douma and collected samples and other items. The delay in giving the team access has pushed the US, UK and France into a war of words with Russia, the Syrian regime’s main ally.
Meanwhile, Iraq’s election commission has fined more than 100 candidates in the first week of campaigning and issued a warning that further violations will result in them being booted from the race. Karim al-Tamimi, spokesperson for commission, announced that the 100 candidates fined come from across the board – “from most of the coalitions and political parties.” The individuals fined had “violated” the rules of the commission that regulate campaign procedures – including things like dates and places where campaigning is restricted.
Lastly, rest in peace Verne Troyer, who was best known for playing Mini-Me in the Austin Powers films. The actor, who was 2ft 8in (81cm) tall, has died at the age of 49. Earlier this month, Troyer was admitted to hospital in Los Angeles but his team did not say what he was suffering from. He was considered one of the shortest man in the world but with a big heart and positive attitude despite his fight with depression.
