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April 17, 2024

Iran
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards

Conceived as the principal defenders of the 1979 revolution, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has evolved into an institution with vast political, economic, and military power.

Members of the Revolutionary Guards attend a parliamentary session in Tehran.
Backgrounder by CFR.org Editors

September 13, 2023

United Nations
What Is the UN General Assembly?

The General Assembly hosts a much-watched debate of world leaders annually. Its 2023 meeting is expected to emphasize climate change, the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, and the war in…

A large UNGA sign is photographed in front of the United Nations buildings.
Backgrounder by CFR.org Editors

April 18, 2024

Palestinian Territories
What Is Hamas?

The Palestinian militant group struggled to govern the Gaza Strip before launching a surprise attack on Israel in 2023. Now facing Israel’s military campaign to destroy it, Hamas’s future is in doubt…

Gun-toting Hamas militants ride a vehicle amid a massive crowd of the group's supporters
Backgrounder by Kali Robinson

April 3, 2024

United States
What Does the U.S. National Guard Do?

The National Guard is a special part of the U.S. military that answers to both state governors and the president. While it began as a “strategic reserve,” the guard has come to play an important role…

A member of the National Guard patrols the southern U.S. border in Eagle Pass, Texas.
Backgrounder by Anshu Siripurapu and Noah Berman

August 15, 2023

United Nations
The Role of the UN Secretary-General

The United Nations’ top leadership position has broad authority to steer the organization’s agenda, but its impact has varied widely since 1946.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres is escorted by staff at a displaced persons camp in Somalia.
Backgrounder by CFR.org Editors

November 9, 2005

Democracy
Iraq’s Reconstruction Ailments

This publication is now archived. What is the status of the U.S.-led reconstruction efforts in Iraq?The reconstruction of Iraq has been hampered by a number of hurdles, including government bureaucra…

Backgrounder by Lionel Beehner

March 26, 2024

Refugees and Displaced Persons
How Does the U.S. Refugee System Work?

The United States has long been a safe haven for refugees from around the world. President Biden is working to expand the country’s resettlement program after the Trump administration made sharp cuts…

Afghan refugees walk through Dulles International Airport in Dulles, Virginia, on September 2, 2021.
Backgrounder by Diana Roy, Claire Klobucista, and James McBride Renewing America