Here's a brief look at some of the top news stories around the world for Feb. 11, 2015.

 Obama seeks war authorization against Islamic State

President Obama asked Congress Wednesday to formally authorize military operations against the terrorist group ISIS, including the ability to use ground troops in limited situations.

[Read more from the Los Angeles Times]

 N.C. city in shock over killing of 3 Muslim students

The mayor of Chapel Hill, N.C., said Wednesday the college town has been "rocked" by the shooting deaths of three Muslim students that the father of two of the victims calls a "hate crime."

[Read more from USA Today]

 Costa Concordia captain sentenced to 16 years in prison

Captain Francesco Schettino, who was at the helm when the cruise ship sank in 2012 and killed 32 people, was described as a "reckless idiot" by prosecutors.

[Read more from the BBC]