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BAGHDAD (AP) — It's not clear who is in charge of Iraq's largest refinery, Sunni militants or government forces attempting to hold it. An Iraqi witness told the AP that militants are manning checkpoints around the refinery. The military says their commander in charge told them 100 militants have been killed. Iraq has asked the U.S. to launch airstrikes against fighters for the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. In addition to the assault on the refinery, they've also forced Iraqi troops to abandon cities and facilities in the north.
BEIJING (AP) — Despite tensions over territorial claims, China says it is moving a second oil rig closer to Vietnam's coast. A nearly 2,000 foot long rig is being towed into position and China has asked vessels in the area to give it a wide berth. Hanoi says no country should take unilateral action in contested waters.
WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans will vote on leadership slots today. They have to find a replacement for Majority Leader Eric Cantor, who is stepping down following his upset loss in Virginia's GOP primary. California Rep. Kevin McCarthy is expected to shift into that position. If so, there will be a vote to replace him as majority whip.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Christian conservatives are in Washington and will be courted by Republicans with an eye on 2016 White House bids. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz are among hopefuls expected to speak at the Faith and Freedom Coalition.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama will present the Medal of Honor to a veteran who took the blow from a grenade to protect a fellow Marine in Afghanistan. Retired Cpl. William "Kyle" Carpenter will receive the medal during a ceremony today at the White House. Carpenter, now 24, sustained major wounds, including the loss of his right eye.
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