With global attention focussing on news of BBC journalist Alan Johnston's release from captivity in Gaza, a leading church agency says it is time to end the isolation of the Palestinian authority if peace is to be possible.

Christian Aid today warmly welcomed a number of new Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s ministerial appointments, saying that the changes are a good sign of his continuing commitment to justice for the world’s poor.

Civilians are bearing the brunt of violence as fighting rages in Sri Lanka between the military and the Tamil Tigers (LTTE), church and civilian humanitarian agencies report. Long-term solutions are vitally needed.

Fighting between the Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah in the Gaza Strip has highlighted the urgent need for the international community to end the isolation and blockade on the Palestinian government, say churches and NGOs.