A defiant President Obama has warned the Islamic State militants that the US would not intimidated by video showing the beheading of American citizens. He says the barbaric murder of that second journalist Steven Sotloff has only stiffened the resolve of the US to act against the terror group. 

 

Our objective is clear, and that is to degrade and destroy ISIL so it is no longer a threat no just to Iraq but also the region and to the United States. 

 

A massive explosion has ripped through a shop in Sydney's inner west. A large fire erupted just after four O'clock this morning in Balmain. One resident living above the shop is in serious condition in hospital after being thrown from his flat by the force of the blast. Four others have been treated for smoke inhalation. 

 

Ukraine's prime minister has rejected a Russia peace plan ad NATO leaders prepare to meet in Wales where they'll discuss the ongoing crisis. France has certainly stepped up the pressure, suspending the delivery of a warship to Russia. 

 

Late reports from the Australian-run detention center on Manus Island have revealed ongoing tensions between the asylum seekers. The reports were compiled by the company contracted to provide security at the center. There're revealed incidents including fights between detainees, attacks against guards, self-harm and suicide attempts.