Somali leaders and diplomats search for a way to avoid war (International Herald Tribune)

AIROBI, Kenya: Cool seasonal rains have slowed the march to war between Somalia's Islamic militants and the secular government, but in the weeks ahead the tropical sun will break through the clouds, dry the muddy roads, shrink the flooded rivers and, many fear, ignite a civil war.

There have been minor skirmishes in the past few weeks. After 20 years of neglect, Somalia's road system is in tatters and virtually impassable when it rains. That means neither side can move troops or maintain supply lines. No one wants to fight in the mud.

Diplomats are trying to take advantage of the military stalemate to break the diplomatic deadlock. When the rains end, the fighting could begin. Read more ...