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.

Technocracy is a governance system where technical experts make decisions, aiming to maximize societal welfare through scientific and technological advancements. Historically advocated by figures like Henri de Saint-Simon and William H. Smyth, it has been implemented in various forms worldwide, from Singapore's technocratic governance to Chile's neoliberal policies under Pinochet. While technocracy promises efficiency, it faces criticism for potentially undermining democratic values and increasing power concentration. The debate extends to big tech companies like Facebook and X, where leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk influence societal and political landscapes through technological means.

Kharg Island, a critical oil export terminal for Iran, is under potential threat from Israel following recent escalations in the Iran-Israel conflict. The island, responsible for 95% of Iran's oil exports, could be targeted by Israel in retaliation for Iran's missile attacks on Israeli territory. This situation has historical precedents, as Kharg was previously targeted during the Iran-Iraq war. The potential conflict could further increase global oil prices, impacting both Iran and the global economy. The United States, while involved in discussions, opposes direct military action against Iran's oil infrastructure.

The Lebanese Army is unable to combat Israel's invasion due to its limited capabilities and internal political dynamics that favor Hezbollah's dominance. Despite having 80,000 troops, the army's equipment is outdated and largely donated, while Hezbollah, with significant regional support, remains the primary military force in Lebanon. The Lebanese government lacks a monopoly on force, with Hezbollah controlling much of the south and maintaining a strong social and political presence. The UNIFIL and the UN Security Council have been involved in peacekeeping efforts, but the Lebanese Army remains overshadowed by Hezbollah's influence and military strength.

Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, served from 1977 to 1981, focusing on deregulation, energy efficiency, and social welfare reforms. His foreign policy achievements include the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel and normalizing relations with China. Post-presidency, Carter dedicated himself to human rights advocacy, founding the Carter Center and receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Despite challenges during his presidency, such as the 1979 energy crisis and economic issues, Carter's legacy is marked by his commitment to peace and human rights.

The Blue Line serves as a provisional border between Israel and Lebanon, established by the United Nations in 2000 to verify Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. Despite its establishment, the demarcation has not prevented conflicts, with frequent violations by both Israel and Hezbollah. The article outlines the historical context of the Blue Line, including Israel's invasion and occupation of Lebanon, the rise of Hezbollah, and ongoing tensions exacerbated by recent conflicts, such as the 2023 Gaza war. The UNIFIL monitors the line, but it remains a source of contention, with both sides engaging in military actions.

Chemical weapons, which have toxic properties to harm or kill, have been used since antiquity but became more sophisticated with modern science. Despite early prohibitions, such as those from the Hague Conferences and the Geneva Protocol, chemical weapons were used in World War I and later conflicts like the Vietnam War and the Iran-Iraq War. The Chemical Weapons Convention, effective since 1997, aims to prohibit the production, storage, and use of chemical weapons, with verification by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. However, challenges remain in detecting and verifying their use, as seen in the Syrian civil war and by groups like Daesh.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah originated from Israel's invasion of Lebanon in 1982 during the Lebanese civil war. Hezbollah emerged as a resistance force against Israeli occupation, supported by Iran. The conflict continued after Israel's withdrawal in 2000, with Hezbollah allying with groups like Hamas under Iran's influence. Tensions escalated in 2006 with a Hezbollah attack on Israeli soldiers, leading to Israeli military retaliation. The article provides a historical overview of the conflict's origins and developments.