The language of news stories

• Gives the go-ahead to plans
• in turn of events
• interested parties
• hold talks / conference (Convene is a good alternative for hold. Thanks to Grace for her suggestion)
• top job
• attract attention
• controversial decision
• peace talks
• broke down
• outlined plans for
• taken hostage
• seize control
• lost control of
• keep a close watch on
• keep someone informed as the news developed
• a building caught fire when lightning struck
• no loss of life