THE UN is in danger of becoming as irrelevant and ineffectual as the League of Nations that preceded it — able to condemn atrocities but not halt them. The chemical attack in Syria, most likely by government forces, is the most recent example.

Austerity-weary Greeks lashed out against more tax rises and pension cuts with a new round of strikes today.

A 24-hour public transport and taxi strike is snarling traffic in the Greek capital, while a work stoppage by air traffic controllers has forced airlines to cancel or reschedule flights as unions lash out against more austerity measures.

Why We Run: A Story of Obsession. Robin HarvieJohn Murray; £12.99

European’s deadly heatwave, blamed for deaths, drying rivers and scorching wildfires, could last until September, weathermen said today.

The International Olympic Committee has backed Greek organisers of the 2004 games over plans to build a rowing venue near the ancient battleground of Marathon.