The election of pope to lead the world’s one billion Catholics stirs debate over the spiritual authority of the pontiff and the church’s role in the world.

Relations between the Vatican and Israel are a complex combination of diplomacy mixed with interfaith discussion.

A profile of three IRA splinter groups that remain active in Northern Ireland.

Public disapproval of the Iraq war is starting to create fissures among Republicans and posing challenges for Democrats seeking to balance national security and political gains .

A recent trip to Syria by the Speaker of the House has set off a debate over the role of legislators in conducting foreign policy.