For Honduras and Iran, World’s Aid Evaporated

As international relief agencies rush to tsunami-devastated areas and the UN prepares to coordinate rebuilding efforts, many observers can't help but wonder how long the outpouring of goodwill will last. Six years ago, the aftermath of Hurricane Mitch seemed remarkably similar: World leaders pledged long-term relief, and aid workers populated storm-ravaged areas of Honduras. But now, years after the media's lenses have shifted their focus, the afflicted Hondurans have been left high and dry. Such has been the case with many natural disasters, leaving many concerned about the tsunami relief efforts. This time, though, the scale of the damage is far greater, and considering post-9/11 politics, many wealthier countries have far more to gain by appearing sympathetic to poorer, predominantly Muslim populations. Will this be an opportunity for change, or will it be business as usual after the media spotlight fades? – YaleGlobal