News on the Go: Sept. 25, 2013

Carrie Blazina

Negotiations between President Barack Obama and Iranian President Hasan Rouhani that many expected to happen as the two visited the United Nations in New York have fallen through, officials said Tuesday. U.S. officials said the Iranians told them the meetings would be “too complicated” and might not be received well in Iran. The presidents spoke in separate speeches at the U.N. on Tuesday and said they were eager to meet, but Obama emphasized that Rouhani needs to back up his promises of openness with action. Read more here.

President Obama and former President Bill Clinton worked together Tuesday to promote Obama’s new health care law, an area Clinton had unsuccessfully tried to reform years earlier. Clinton interviewed Obama in a New York ballroom about the drawbacks and advantages of the new law. Obama said though he does not want to claim ownership of the law, he does want to see it work and will do what it takes to spread the word about how it works. New insurance exchanges required by the law where Americans can buy health insurance will open Oct. 1.

Burger King announced Tuesday the launch of new crinkle-cut french fries have 20 percent fewer calories than the chain’s regular fries. The “Satisfries” do not absorb as much oil as regular fries, and a small order will cost 270 calories instead of 340 for a small order of regular fries. Burger King executives say the Satisfries use potatoes, oil and batter just like their regular fries, and consumers will not taste the difference. Read more here.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said Tuesday security forces had finally claimed victory over the terrorists who had stormed a mall in Nairobi on Saturday. The al-Qaida affiliate’s siege killed 61 civilians and six security officers and hurt 175. Six extremists were killed in the standoff, in which they took citizens hostage, and a total of 21 suspects have been arrested.

Contact Carrie Blazina at [email protected].

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