Commando raids in India...Ambush in Afghanistan...Black Friday

MUMBAI, India (AP) Indian commandos have emerged from a raid aimed at freeing the Mumbai Jewish center with assault rifles raised. Police say the siege there is over. There is no word on the fate of the hostages believed to be inside. Meanwhile there's a fresh battle raging at the Taj Mahal hotel. At least 143 people have died since a series of terror attacks began at 10 sites around Mumbai on Wednesday.

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) Authorities in Afghanistan say an ambush by the Taliban has left 13 Afghan troops dead. They say the attack involved as many as 300 Taliban fighters. Another 11 Afghan troops were wounded and 16 troops were captured.

NEW YORK (AP) Wall Street is poised to start today's short session with some light selling. This would follow the huge advance in the previous four trading days. Investors are bracing for what may be a weak holiday shopping season.

Washington (AP) Analysts are warning that the next economic crisis could claim malls, hotels and other businesses affected by the mortgage crunch. Malls from Michigan to Georgia are entering foreclosure, victims of the same crisis that's affected the housing market. Hotels in Tucson, Ariz., and Hilton Head, S.C., also are about to default on their mortgages. That pace is expected to increase.

UNDATED (AP) The nation's retailers are hoping today marks the start of a busy holiday shopping season. Some stores have been hoping to lure customers with fat discounts and extended hours.

Macy's in New York's Herald Square opened at 5 a.m. with another enticement: Richard Simmons. The peppy fitness guru is expected to hand out freebies.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-28-08 0749CST | save this article / add to your favorites list