First-time jobless claims drop slightly last week (AP)

Democrats, White House close in on health bill (AP)

Greece hit by strikes, riots over austerity plan (AP)

Early results: Iraqi PM winning in 2 provinces (AP)

Biden implores Israel, Palestinians to make peace (AP)

Mass school closures approved in Kansas City, Mo. (AP)

Toyota troubles put spotlight on US safety agency (AP)

Mexico's Slim becomes 'world's richest' person (AP)

'Big Mike' draws tears, cheers on 'American Idol' (AP)

A-Rod: Lawyers are setting up interview with feds (AP)

Biden appeals for Mideast peace talks without delay (Reuters)

Police clash with protesters as Greeks fight cuts (Reuters)

PM Maliki leads Iraq vote in two provinces (Reuters)

Volcker rule gets lift in Senate amid reform talks (Reuters)

BP to pay Devon $7 billion for oil fields (Reuters)

Obama: Time for talk is over on healthcare bill (Reuters)

Senate passes $149 billion for jobless aid (Reuters)

Iran warns neighbors over U.S. presence in the Gulf (Reuters)

Mideast talks hopes in tatters (AFP)

Police battle demonstrators in strike-hit Greece (AFP)