The Assad regime in Syria has fallen after 54 years, following a rapid offensive led by Hayat Tahrir al Sham (HTS). Despite the end of the dictatorship, the conflict may continue with potential for a new civil war. HTS, originally linked to Al Qaeda, has emerged as a key political player, while other groups like the Front for National Liberation and the Syrian National Army, supported by Turkey, played significant roles in the offensive. The Syrian Democratic Forces, backed by the US, face challenges from the Syrian National Army. Internationally, Russia and Iran, Assad's main supporters, have been weakened, with Russia offering asylum to Assad. Iran's strategic interests in the region are further compromised due to conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, affecting its ally Hezbollah.

Peace missions, primarily conducted by the United Nations, aim to promote peace and security in conflict-affected areas. These missions, governed by UN Security Council mandates, involve mediation, maintaining order, election supervision, and implementing peace agreements. The UN's peacekeeping forces, known as 'blue helmets,' have evolved since their inception post-World War II, adapting to global challenges like terrorism and internal conflicts. While missions like UNMIL in Liberia and UNAMSIL in Sierra Leone have had positive impacts, others have faced criticism for failures, such as the inability to prevent the Srebrenica massacre, and controversies involving misconduct by peacekeepers.

The terms 'Hispanic' and 'Latino' are often used interchangeably in the United States, but they have distinct meanings. 'Hispanic' refers to people from Spanish-speaking origins, while 'Latino' refers to those from Latin American origins. The usage of these terms has evolved with demographic changes and self-identification within these communities. The U.S. Census Bureau categorizes 'Latino' and 'Hispanic' as ethnicities, not races, allowing for diverse racial identities within these groups. The article discusses the historical context and the implications of these terms, including the emergence of 'Latinx' as a gender-neutral alternative.

Nativism is a political stance prioritizing historically dominant citizens over immigrants, often linked to xenophobia and racism. Originating in 19th-century America, it has spread globally, particularly among far-right groups. Nativists oppose immigration on economic, cultural, and environmental grounds, though evidence often contradicts these claims. In the U.S., nativism has been tied to historical immigration waves and racial issues, with recent resurgence under Donald Trump's presidency, marked by anti-immigrant policies and rhetoric.

Nuclear weapons are powerful explosive devices deriving their destructive force from nuclear reactions, either fission or fusion. The development of nuclear weapons began with scientific discoveries in the early 20th century, leading to the Manhattan Project and the eventual use of atomic bombs by the United States on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. During the Cold War, nuclear weapons became central to the strategy of mutual assured destruction between the United States and the Soviet Union, leading to various arms control treaties like the Partial Test Ban Treaty and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Despite these efforts, the arms race continued until the end of the Cold War, with significant treaties like the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty and the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty reducing nuclear arsenals.

The potential return of Donald Trump to the presidency poses significant challenges for the European Union, with concerns over trade wars, defense commitments, and political alliances. Trump's proposed tariffs and protectionist policies could strain EU-US relations, while his alliances with right-wing European leaders may further shift the EU's political landscape. European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron and Olaf Scholz, emphasize the need for a stronger, more united Europe, but face internal political challenges.

Benelux is a political and economic union between Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, established post-World War II to promote economic integration and political cooperation. The union has historical roots in various territorial unions and was formalized with the Benelux Customs Union in 1944, which laid the groundwork for deeper economic collaboration. Over the years, Benelux has played a significant role in European integration, being a founding member of several European organizations. In 2008, the union was renewed with a focus on strengthening the internal market, sustainability, and cross-border crime prevention. The Benelux institutions include the Committee of Ministers, the Council, the Benelux Parliament, the Court of Justice, and the Secretariat General.

Lebanon is experiencing a severe political and economic crisis, with a weak and fragmented state partly controlled by Hezbollah. The country's political system, based on religious sectarianism, has led to a lack of effective governance, with frequent presidential vacancies and an inability to form a stable government. The Lebanese Army, intended to symbolize national unity, remains weak and overshadowed by Hezbollah, while the United Nations continues its peacekeeping missions in the region. The political landscape is further complicated by the influence of former warlords and foreign powers.

The BRICS group, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, represents some of the world's largest emerging economies. Initially coined by economist Jim O’Neill in 2001, the group has expanded to include new members, now known as BRICS+. The group aims to enhance economic, political, and cultural cooperation, seeking greater representation in international institutions and alternatives to dominant currencies like the dollar and euro. Despite economic and political challenges in the 2010s, the BRICS countries collectively account for over 40% of the global population and more than 30% of global GDP. Recent expansions and initiatives, such as the New Development Bank, reflect their ongoing influence and ambition to promote multipolarity in international relations.

UNIFIL, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, was established in 1978 to confirm Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and restore order. Over the years, its mandate has adapted to various conflicts, including the 1982 Israeli invasion and the 2006 war with Hezbollah. Currently, UNIFIL comprises over 10,000 troops from 50 countries, with Spain's Aroldo Lázaro Sáenz as the head of mission. Despite its presence, UNIFIL has struggled to prevent clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, with recent escalations leading to attacks on UNIFIL by Israeli forces. A recent declaration led by Poland condemned these attacks, with support from 37 countries. UNIFIL's role remains crucial in maintaining peace along the Blue Line, the de facto border between Israel and Lebanon.