evidence. also this morning military jet crashes and burns in southern california. it happened late last night at the point mugu air base in ventura county. the jet crashed on takeoff sliding off the runway and erupting into flames. three crew members on board the 747 aircraft escaped with minor injuries. it belonged to omega air refueling which is a navy contractor. it is said to be carrying 150,000 pounds of jet fuel. in just a few hours president obama will deliver what s being described as a major speech on the middle east. the president will outline new goals for the region and he s expected to defend new sanctions against syria after the violent crackdown on anti-government protesters. also said to be in the speech, unveiling of the $2 billion aid package for egypt as well as the announcement of a new trade partnership with the region and a fund for helping to stimulate investment. cnn will carry the president s speech live. it s happening at 11:30 eastern
good morning. welcome. it s thursday morning, may 19th. we have a lot of news this morning including some breaking news. let s begin with that breaking news. the resignation of dominique strauss-kahn as head of the international monetary fund. this move comes just before a bail hearing today in new york. we re seeing this mug shot for first time. the former imf chief is facing sexual assault charges for allegedly attacking a maid in his manhattan hotel room. he says he is not guilty. resigning from the imf so he can defend himself fully. here is part of a statement he released. quote, i think at this time first of my wife, whom i love more than anything, of my children, of my family of my friends. i want to say that i deny with the greatest possible firmness all of the allegations that have been made against me. i want to protect this institution, which i have served with honor and devotion, and especially i want to devote all of my strength, all of my time and all of my