Paul Lim

U.S. Disaster Relief at Home and Abroad

The U.S. government responds to scores of disasters each year in coordination with foreign, state, and local partners, but more frequent and severe storms, fires, and floods are straining resources.

Backgrounder by Diana Roy, Amelia Cheatham and Rocio Cara Labrador October 23, 2024

Lebanon

What Is Hezbollah?

The Iran-backed Shiite militia was considered the most powerful non-state group in the Middle East, but an Israeli military campaign against Hezbollah in 2024 has considerably weakened it.

Backgrounder by CFR.org Editors October 23, 2024

Latin America

Can Amazon Countries Save the Rain Forest?

The Amazon Rainforest plays a critical role in global climate health, but accelerating deforestation continues to raise alarm. How are the region’s governments responding?

Backgrounder by Diana Roy October 22, 2024

Top Stories on CFR

Ukraine

Zelenskyy’s ‘Victory Plan’ for Ukraine Makes Sense. It Has Little Chance of Being Implemented

The Ukrainian president formally presented his plan calling for ramped-up Western military firepower and economic aid and at least a promise of NATO membership to help accelerate the war’s end. The country’s supporters should heed his calls for fortifying Ukraine’s defenses.

Expert Brief by Max Boot October 21, 2024

Brazil

What Is the BRICS Group and Why Is It Expanding?

As BRICS grows in both membership and global sway, its expansion comes with divisions among its members old and new on how to set the stage for a revised world order.

Backgrounder by Mariel Ferragamo October 18, 2024

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Sinwar’s Death Does Not Mean Breakthrough in Israel-Hamas War

Despite some raised expectations, the killing in Gaza of formidable Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar is not likely to hasten a formal cease-fire, nor end Israeli efforts to eliminate the group responsible for the October 7, 2023, attacks.

Expert Brief by Steven A. Cook October 18, 2024