The Republican leader insists that Senator Reid file cloture, which starts a 30-hour clock.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefings

Speaking to BBC Arabic after the funeral, Mr Belaid's widow said she would file a lawsuit against the party's leader, Rachid Ghannouchi.

BBC: Tunisia PM Jebali pledges new government 'by next week'

The Likud's primary election, by contrast, will enable the entire rank-and-file to choose between Mr Netanyahu and the incumbent party leader, Ariel Sharon.

ECONOMIST: Can Bibi foil Barak��s bid to block him?

Iran's foreign relations, including such important issues as the nuclear file, fall largely within the remit of the Supreme Leader, rather than the presidency.

ECONOMIST: Iran's election

Soon after he was elected party leader, Mr Trimble showed he was prepared to upset some of the unionist rank and file by meeting with the main party leaders in the Irish Republic.

BBC: Profile - David Trimble