A volatile environment is developing on the international stage today. In ,the Middle East, conflicts are heightening over political. Meanwhile, researchers are alerting about the potentialconsequences of a majordisaster. On a more optimistic note, a newaccord has been negotiated between twostates,

A major earthquake/volcanic eruption/landslide has devastated/struck/hit the region/area/country of Syria/Haiti/Indonesia. Rescue efforts are underway/ongoing/in progress as emergency services/aid workers/first responders race to assist/help/reach those affected/injured/trapped. Meanwhile, in the U.