Week in pictures: 9-15 August

1 of 8 As the US death toll rises in a blisteringly hot Iraq, troops of the Third Infantry Division give thanks for returning home

2 of 8 Charles Taylor tells the people of Liberia he will sacrifice his presidency to stop the bloodshed in the country.

3 of 8 More and more Ethiopians like Leku are relying on aid to feed themselves following recent droughts.

4 of 8 Rebels in Colombia set fire to oil wells causing environmental damage.

5 of 8 Half a million teenagers receive their A-level results, with more passing and more getting grade As.

6 of 8 Massive power failures left millions stranded in New York and other eastern US and Canadian cities.

7 of 8 India celebrates 56 years of independence, amid fresh calls for peace with arch-rival Pakistan.

8 of 8 Bathers relax on the beach while preparing for the 13th Qingdao International Beer Festival which is on this weekend.