Italian election could hinge on immigration

Israeli premier Bennett said Egypt could help restart the peace process with the Palestinians, while Egyptian President Al-Sisi said he wants to "strengthen regional security."

Taro Kono may be the favorite with members of the Liberal Democratic Party, but factional politics mean that Fumio Kishida is likely to emerge as Japan's new prime minister, say experts.

Italy is holding municipal elections on October 3 and 4. Voters in 1,000 constituencies are electing their representatives, including in the city of Naples, where an unusual battle is taking place between two members of the Maradona family. The iconic late Argentinian footballer, who played for Napoli from 1984 to 1991, still has a special place in the hearts of Neapolitans. With a brother and son involved in the campaign but on opposite sides, can Diego Maradona be a kingmaker from beyond the grave? Our correspondents report.

New Prime Minister Fumio Kishida faces many economic challenges, not least the impact of the pandemic. However, major policy changes are not expected, at least in the short term.

The exiled former Catalan leader has arrived in court in Sassari, Italy. He is wanted on charges of sedition over his role in Catalonia's ill-fated push for independence.

Iraqi forces claim to have captured a high-ranking IS leader in an international operation.

Arrivederci, Alitalia: Toubled Italian airline shuts down after 75 years. After 75 years of service, Alitalia is closing down. Italy's national carrier had failed to turn a profit in over 20 years, and struggled to adapt to low-cost competition. ... After 75 years of service, Alitalia is closing down.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki tells MEPs in the European Parliament that Poland rejects EU "blackmail" on legal matters, saying the Constitution remains "the supreme law" for his country.

The residence of Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi was hit in an apparent drone attack, Iraqi officials said. The military has described the strike as an assassination attempt.

Prime Minister Andrej Babis' Cabinet met on Thursday to tender their resignation. The move follows the coalition agreement between center-right parties after last month's elections.

Thousands across Sudan have protested a deal between military and civilian leaders to reinstate Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, who was ousted in a coup. The main opposition bloc now rejects any power-sharing with the military.

Italian authorities said the criminal network forced 41 Nigerian women into prostitution while nine were forced to beg for money on the streets. The exploitation stretched outside Italy into Germany and Libya.