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The United Nations inspectors probing the possible use of chemical weapons in Syria postponed a visit to a second site so the team’s safety could be ensured, the world body announced, as Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon once again urged all parties to cooperate with the investigation.

C-130 Hercules planes are used as Open Skies aircraft. The Open Skies Treaty allows States to overfly each others' territory with an observation aircraft. The flights can be used for conflict prevention, crisis management and to protect the environment. (USAF)

Syria's Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem is vowing to strike back at any Western military attack with what he calls "surprise" defenses.

U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel is traveling in Southeast Asia in a bid to strengthen ties with the militaries of partners and allies in the face of China's growing influence in the region. Hagel has arrived in Brunei for a meeting of defense ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, ASEAN.

The United States has postponed a meeting with Russian officials scheduled for later this week to discuss the situation in Syria, as Washington weighs its response to allegations that Syrian forces used chemical weapons last week.

Israeli soldiers inspect a vehicle entering the village of Azzun Atma through the West Bank Barrier.

Across the Philippines on Aug. 26, "National Heroes Day," tens of thousands of people turned out to demonstrate against discretionary funds given to lawmakers that critics say are not being used as intended and instead are funneled to corrupt organizations.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon (centre right) addresses a press conference in Seoul, Republic of Korea.

High-ranking U.S. lawmakers of both major parties are urging prompt action in response to evidence that chemical weapons have been used in Syria.