Experts say an overhaul of U.S. transportation infrastructure may help spur the economy, improve global competitiveness, and address homeland security needs. But the Obama administration's initial effort falls short of setting a true national transportation agenda.

A brief overview of the Israeli political system.

Venezuela is trying to develop new markets for its oil at a time of increasing friction with its main customer, the United States. But a significant short-term shift in oil relations between Venezuela and the United States is unlikely.

U.S. and Western military officials are calling on Iran to help stabilize Afghanistan, but historic tensions and allegations of arming militants raise doubts about Tehran's intent.

China's growing military capabilities pose a concern for U.S. security interests. Experts say the United States must push for greater engagement with China's military to reduce the potential for misunderstandings.

China's military modernization agenda has led most other countries in the region to respond with defense plans of their own to balance China's growing military capabilities.

Iraq's provincial elections provide signals about the maturity of the country's political system, as well as highlight new power brokers in the provinces.

A primer on government funds charged with investing currency reserves for profit.

President Obama has signed one of the largest rescue packages since the Great Depression to revive the U.S. economy. Economists warn of the need to keep spending targeted, timely, and temporary.

The Sunni awakening movement and the Sons of Iraq security forces it inspired helped restore peace. Iraq's long-term stability could hinge on keeping the movement satiated, experts say.

Retired Adm. Dennis C. Blair, President Obama's director of national intelligence, is a former commander of the U.S. Pacific Command with long military experience.

The Bush administration's approach to the detention and prosecution of prisoners held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, has been deemed unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court. But the battle continues.

U.S. experts say any new approach to bringing stability to Afghanistan must be regional in scope. Saudi Arabia, with historic ties to the Taliban and Afghan Pashtuns, could hold a principle seat at the table.

Vietnam's stock market has plunged and its economic growth has dwindled since 2006, when it was seen as a model for emerging country growth. The country's experience highlights the problems confronting emerging markets in the 2008 financial crisis.

The United Nations was responsible for establishing universal human rights standards, but its image in recent years has been tarnished by the record of its main body charged with safeguarding rights.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act has boosted U.S.-Africa trade and is viewed favorably by economists. But experts say African states must build trade capacity to benefit fully.

James L. Jones, a retired Marine commandant, brings extensive military and diplomatic experience to his new post as national security adviser for President Barack Obama.

President Barack Obama's attorney general, Eric H. Holder Jr., has criticized some of the Bush administration's counter-terrorism moves, calling for the closure of the Guantanamo Bay detention center and bans on torture.

Robert M. Gates, a Cold War veteran selected to remain as defense secretary, has won bipartisan praise for his pragmatism and handling of the Pentagon amid two wars.

Janet Napolitano, experienced in federal law enforcement and immigration issues, has been selected for secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.