An unmanned rocket bound for the International Space Station has exploded during its launch from the US state of Virginia.

Egypt is reportedly planning a 500m buffer zone along the border with the Gaza Strip to block the smuggling of weapons.

US Secretary of State John Kerry warns Russia that it will violate international agreements if it recognises an election planned by rebels in eastern Ukraine.

US envoy Samantha Power praises efforts to tackle Ebola in Liberia in West Africa, and urges international donors to continue to help.

The Australian government says it is trying to confirm reports that the most senior Australian member of Islamic State has been killed in Syria.

New Zealand is to hold a binding referendum in 2016 on whether to change the design of the national flag, PM John Key says.

The US has increased security at government buildings across the nation in the wake of an attack on the Canadian parliament.

Singapore is ranked the best country to do business for a ninth consecutive year by the World Bank's annual "Doing Business" report.