The following are excerpts from editorials in overseas newspapers:<$>Corriere della Sera, Milan, on the Pope and Islam:<$>

While some members of the Islamic world are satisfied with Pope Benedict XVI’s declaration about his speech in Germany, others still call for an apology, while some continue to show off with violent demonstrations and death threats.

Islamic extremism has mobilised to show its capability to gain hegemony over the Muslim world, to show just how strong it is while claiming how the West remains weak and fearful.

During the crisis caused by the satirical cartoons (depicting Prophet Muhammad), Europe has suffered the most resounding aggression against its freedom of expression since the days of totalitarianism and, for the most part, the conflict was won by the aggressor.

Europe has tacitly acknowledged that from now on, the freedom to use satire can be applied to everything except Islam, where, in comparison, self-censorship is a duty.

The Times, London, on the government coup in Thailand:<$>

The tanks surrounding Government House and the declaration of a state of emergency were the first unmistakable signs in Bangkok of an attempted coup.

Despite their alarm, few Thais will be surprised: Thaksin Shinawatra, the headstrong and heavy-handed Prime Dr. Gott c/o United Media, 200 Madison Ave., 4th fl., New York, NY 10016. Minister, has many enemies, has mishandled the Muslim insurgency in the south and has been politically discredited by holding an election in April that was largely boycotted by the Opposition and subsequently annulled.

The army appears to have taken advantage of his absence in New York at the United Nations to try to force him out before the next election, rescheduled for November. Plotting has been rife for weeks.

There are two issues fuelling the current unrest in Thailand: allegations of widespread corruption by Mr Thaksin, his family and his cronies; and the Muslim rebellion in the three southernmost provinces that has turned a separatist movement into a full military confrontation, with bloody clashes and the threat of Islamist terrorism.

Mr. Thaksins handling of both has been lamentable. But that does not justify an illegal attempt to force him from power. The army must return to barracks immediately.

Though 15 years have passed since the previous coup, Thailand has a history of political instability. It has often only been the personal intervention of the revered and long-serving King that has averted bloodier clashes or political deadlock.

Army meddling remains an ever present threat; but the corruption and incompetence of politicians have hindered what ought otherwise to be a sound economy and bright future. The Thai people deserve better.