Author Archive
Ideas
The FBI’s Role in National Security
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has been reoriented toward counterterrorism in recent years, but continues to face charges of overreach.
Ideas
Iran Expected an Economic Boost from the Nuclear Deal. It’s Not Happening
Sluggish growth is putting pressure on Tehran, where hardliners who opposed the deal may be looking to strike back.
Ideas
What You Need to Know About Aleppo
Because of the city’s importance to all parties in the conflict, fighting between rebels, ISIS and the Russia-Syria-Iran alliance is only expected to escalate.
Ideas
In Iraq, the 'Real Mystery' Is What Comes After ISIS
Even as Iraqi special forces and Shia militias roll back the self-proclaimed Islamic State, Baghdad has done little to address the underlying causes of Sunni militancy, says journalist Ned Parker.
Ideas
Can Afghan Forces Resist the Taliban?
One expert thinks a bevy of complications and a security force that's spreading itself too thin are jeopardizing the country's chances.
Ideas
Will US-Iran Diplomacy Go Beyond the Nuclear Deal?
A conversation about the shifting diplomatic landscape with James Dobbins, former assistant Secretary of State for Europe.
Policy
Everything You Want To Know About Iran Sanctions
As the P5+1 continues negotiating a deal, here's how Tehran came to face a dizzying array of punitive measures.
Threats
Who Are the Houthis?
The Iranian-backed Shia militia toppled Yemen's government and has sparked civil war. Here's how they came to power.
Ideas
Everything You Need to Know About the Taliban in Afghanistan
With their summer offensive well under way in southern Helmand province, the Council on Foreign Relations' Zachary Laub retraces the Taliban's evolution over the past two decades. By Zachary Laub
Threats
A Guide to ISIS, the Group That's Tearing Up Iraq
ISIS began its life as Al Qaeda in Iraq after the U.S. invasion, but have morphed into an extremely dangerous force. By Zachary Laub and Jonathan Masters
Ideas
Why This Year's Elections in Afghanistan Won't Matter That Much
Four analysts told the Council on Foreign Relations that the upcoming elections may not have that big of an impact on Afghanistan's security situation. Interview By Zachary Laub
Featured eBooks
Threats
Everything You Need to Know About Al-Qaeda in Iraq
Learn more about the resurgent terrorist group in this guide from CFR.org. By Zachary Laub and Jonathan Masters.
Ideas
Predictions for Afghanistan in 2014
Five experts forecast the war's drawdown, elections, foreign aid, democracy, and Pakistan -- all challenges for Kabul next year. CFR.org Interview By Zach Laub
Threats
Why Egypt's Sinai Is a Security Mess
The triangle shaped buffer zone between Egypt and Israel is a hotbed of lawlessness, and political instability stemming from the aftershocks of the Arab Spring. By Zachary Laub
Threats