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Operators of America's mass transit systems have increased security in the wake of the Madrid train bombings, which killed nearly 200 and injured thousands more. Officials say the public's help is critical to spotting suspicious activity. NPR's Brian Naylor reports.

An Israeli air strike kills the spiritual leader of Hamas, Sheik Ahmed Yassin, a quadriplegic, as he exited a mosque in Gaza City. Seven other people die in the attack, including bodyguards. Thousands of Palestinians take to the streets in protest. Militant Palestinian groups have vowed revenge. Hear NPR's Peter Kenyon.

Secretary of State Colin Powell makes a surprise visit to Baghdad on the first anniversary of the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. At a news conference marking the anniversary, Iraq journalists stage a walkout to protest the lack of security in the country and the killing of two of their colleagues by U.S. troops on Thursday. NPR's Steve Inskeep reports.

The White House denies it had advance knowledge of Israel's plan to kill Sheik Ahmed Yassin, the spiritual leader of Hamas, which has threatened to retaliate against Israel and the United States. National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice points to signs of progress in the Mideast peace process, despite Yassin's killing. Hear NPR's Vicky O'Hara.

The Food and Drug Administration says patients on some popular antidepressants should be closely monitored for warning signs of suicide. The agency asked the makers of 10 drugs to add the caution to their product labels. In changing its requirement, the FDA stressed that it is not yet clear that the drugs actually lead to suicide. NPR's Richard Knox reports.

Fighting at Pakistan's Afghan border ceases as tribal elders in the region try to negotiate a resolution to end the holdout of al Qaeda fighters. The area has been under attack by Pakistani troops since Tuesday, when officials determined key Taliban figures -- possibly including Osama bin Laden deputy Ayman al-Zawahiri -- were in the area. Hear NPR's Michael Sullivan.

Shiite militias in the southern Iraqi port city of Basra have been patrolling the streets and cracking down on the sale of music, pornography and alcohol. Many residents now fear criticizing the city's Islamic parties, and British forces occupying the area worry the militias are undermining their activities. NPR's Ivan Watson reports.

Shiite Muslims take steps to ensure their safety as the Ashoura celebration draws to a close. Iraqis establish checkpoints to protect the Kadhimiya mosque, site of one of several bomb attacks Tuesday that left hundreds of Shiite pilgrims dead or wounded. Criticizing U.S. security efforts, Shiites renew calls for an armed militia. Hear NPR's Steve Inskeep and NPR's Ivan Watson.

President George Bush appeals to U.S. allies not to withdraw support from the occupation of Iraq, saying terrorists must not be allowed to influence international policy or leadership. Spain's new prime minister, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, has called Iraq a "great disaster" and vowed to bring home Spanish troops deployed there. Hear NPR's Don Gonyea.

Former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling pleads not guilty as he is indicted on fraud and insider trading charges. Federal prosecutors say Skilling lied about Enron's finances and intentionally deceived investors. Skilling was released after posting a $5 million bail. NPR's Wade Goodwyn reports. Hear NPR's Robert Siegel and law professor John Coffee of Columbia University.