Iraqi Forces Advance on Kirkuk

Clashes and artillery fire are reported near Kirkuk following a government advance. The Iraqi Prime Minister, Haider al-Abadi, ordered government forces to secure federal bases and installations in the contested region, Kurdish forces say they will defend themselves if required. Also, Austria is set to have the world's youngest leader, and a rare sighting of one of Australia's most mysterious birds.

(Photo: Iraqi forces gather on the southern outskirts of Kirkuk on October 15th. Credit: AFP)