Brazilian Minister Steps Aside Following Tape Leak

A key minister in Brazil's new government has stepped aside after he was caught on tape allegedly conspiring to obstruct a major corruption investigation. The Planning Minister, Romero Juca, says his comments were taken out of context and he supports the corruption probe.

The United Nations has called for the urgent provision of safe corridors to allow civilians to leave the besieged Iraqi city of Fallujah. Thousands of government troops and militia have started a military offensive to regain Fallujah after more than two years of control by the so-called Islamic State.

Mars is approaching its closest point to Earth for eleven years...offering a rare opportunity for professional and amateur astronomers.