BBC World News

1. Assad regime planned US journalist's kidnap for weeks, BBC finds

   Austin Tice’s abduction was approved by Syria’s former leader Bashar al-Assad, a source claims.

2. US interest rates raised for first time in three years

   Rates were hiked in a unanimous decision despite fierce opposition from President Donald Trump, who had called for a cut.

3. Snapchat open to putting time limits on teens, boss tells BBC

   Evan Spiegel says it would be "an important step forward for the industry" in an interview with the BBC.

4. Rosenberg: Russia's elections will have few surprises, but for the Kremlin they matter

   There is no doubt over the outcome of this vote, but for the Kremlin they are still an important moment.

5. Photos show widespread damage at US sites from Iranian attacks

   A wrecked air force plane and destroyed buildings are among the images obtained by the BBC's partner CBS News.