Syria’s Future Chris Murphy is a U.S. Senator from Connecticut. He has been in the Senate since 2013 and is part of the Democratic Party. He works on issues like gun control, health care, and foreign policy. Before joining the Senate, he served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2007 to 2013 and worked in Connecticut’s state government. He became well-known after the Sandy Hook school shooting in Connecticut, where he pushed for stronger gun laws. He also speaks out for human rights and works on safety and international issues. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is an important group in the U.S. Senate. It helps guide the country’s foreign policy and relationships with other countries. The committee approves treaties, confirms U.S. ambassadors, and plans foreign aid. It also discusses laws about global issues like security, human rights, and trade. Started in 1816, it is one of the oldest Senate committees. The committee has 21 members and focuses on how the U.S. works with the rest of the world. ISIS • : A group called the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. They are known for using violence and terrorism. • : ISIS is a dangerous group that has hurt many people. ISIL • : Another name for ISIS, meaning the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant. • : Some people call ISIS “ISIL” because the Levant is another name for the region they talk about. Play out • : To happen or develop in a certain way. • : Many nations are waiting to see how the situation will play out in Syria. Chemical weapons • : Dangerous weapons that use chemicals to harm or kill people. • : Using chemical weapons is against international law. Weapons of Mass Destruction • : Very powerful weapons that can kill many people at once, like nuclear or chemical weapons. • : The government is trying to stop the spread of weapons of mass destruction. The jury is still out • : People do not know the final answer or decision yet. • : The jury is still out on whether the plan will work. Extremist groups • : Groups that believe in very extreme ideas and may use violence to support their beliefs. • : Extremist groups can be dangerous to the safety of others. Take them at their word • : To believe what someone says without questioning it. • : The teacher took him at his word when he said he finished his homework. Inclusive • : Making sure everyone is included and treated equally. • : The school is very inclusive and welcomes students from all cultures. Arab • : A person from Arab countries, like Egypt, Iraq, or Saudi Arabia. 200 million people. 20 Different countries • : Many Arab countries are located in the Middle East. Self-governance • : When a group or country makes its own rules and decisions. • : The people fought for self-governance and independence. To have a voice • : To be able to share opinions and be heard. • : It is important for everyone to have a voice in the meeting. Leverage • : Power or an advantage that helps someone get what they want. • : He used his experience as leverage to get the job.