Weekly News Brief: 8/31/23

Breaking World News

The following news is taken in whole or part from Worthy News Ministries.

70 Killed As Fire Hits Johannesburg Migrants Building

More than 70 people have died and scores were injured after a fire in an apartment block in South Africa’s city of Johannesburg, mainly used by migrants, officials confirmed Thursday.

Canada issues travel advisory for LGBTQ Canadians traveling to US

Canada on Tuesday updated its travel advisory for Canadians visiting the United States by adding a section advising LGBTQ travelers that some American states have implemented laws that may present them with “barriers” and “risks,” the Canada Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) reports.

‘Ukraine Ready To Improve Hungarian Rights’

Hungary’s president said Tuesday that Ukraine’s leader is ready to restore language and administrative rights to ethnic Hungarians, many of whom fight and die in the Ukrainian army.

Latest World News Headlines

Pentagon Says US Forces to Remain in Middle East to Counter Iranian Threat – August 30, 2023

Greek wildfire now EU’s largest on record as it enters 11th day – August 30, 2023

Chinese government continues program of genocide against Uyghur Muslims – August 30, 2023

‘70,000 Ukrainian Soldiers Killed In War’ – August 30, 2023

Detained Ex-US Marine Appears In Russia Video – August 30, 2023

7.1 magnitude earthquake strikes Indonesia’s Bali and Java islands, causing panic across the country – August 30, 2023

Nile Dam Talks Restart in Cairo With High Stakes for Regional Stability – August 29, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Iran is prompting Hezbollah to attack Israel, Defense Minister Gallant say

Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has warned United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres that Iran is encouraging Hezbollah, its proxy in Lebanon, to attack Israel’s northern border, CBN News reports. Iran’s Islamic fundamentalist regime and the Hezbollah Lebanese terrorist organization are political and military allies, and sworn enemies of Israel.

Iran threatens Israel with “retaliation” following airstrike on Syrian airport

Iran’s Foreign Minister has threatened Israel with retaliation following an airstrike Monday on Syria’s international airport in Aleppo, the Times of Israel (TOI) reports. The Iranian Islamic fundamentalist regime has been a staunch ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad since civil war broke out in Syria in 2011.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israel-Saudi peace deal likely within 6 months, says Israeli FM; Saudis may ‘bribe’ Abbas – August 30, 2023

Israel, US to hold drill simulating strike on Iran nuke sites – August 30, 2023

Syria says Aleppo airport to reopen, two days after alleged Israeli airstrike – August 30, 2023

Sierra Leone and Papua Guinea to open embassies in Jerusalem instead of Tel Aviv – August 29, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Hurricane Idalia insurance claims estimated to cost Florida insurers $9.36B after historic landfall

Insurance claims in Florida stemming from Hurricane Idalia, which made historic landfall over the state’s Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm, are expected to cost billions of dollars, Reuters reports.

U.S. GDP actually worse than originally published

Newly revised Gross Domestic Product data shows that the U.S. economy grew by 2.1% in the second quarter of 2023, lower than previously reported by the federal agency.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

FBI takes down major ransomware botnet that hit more than 200,000 U.S. computers – August 30, 2023

Five Pro-Lifers Found Guilty Of FACE Act Violations For Protesting At Late-Term Abortion Facility – August 30, 2023

Total Federal Debt Spikes $5T Under Biden – August 30, 2023

Trump trial date set for middle of Republican primary – August 29, 2023

DeSantis declares state of emergency as Idalia takes aim at Florida’s Big Bend – August 29, 2023

US: ‘Three Blacks Killed In Hate Crime’ – August 28, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Pakistan Churches Face Islamic Graffiti Attacks

Christians in several parts of Pakistan faced a new dilemma Thursday after their churches were painted with pro-Islam slogans by suspected Muslim militants, according to footage obtained by Worthy News.

Nigeria: Christians murdered, abducted in Kaduna state

Christians in Nigeria’s Kaduna state continue to face extremely violent persecution as Islamic terrorists murdered a Christian woman on August 9, shot a Baptist pastor dead on August 23, and kidnapped two Anglican brothers on August 25, Morning Star News (MSN) reports. Nigeria ranks number one in the world for the number of Christians murdered (5,014 last year) and kidnapped (4,726 last year), according to data collected by the US Open Doors International Christian advocacy organization.

ChatGPT generates fake Bible passage about ‘Jesus accepting trans people’; Christians respond

A fake Bible passage reportedly generated by ChatGPT about how Jesus accepts trans-identified individuals has generated responses from Christian scholars as some media outlets have touted the passage as an example of “much needed” tolerance.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Azerbaijan: 120,000 Armenian Christians facing extreme persecution in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh)  – August 30, 2023

Haiti: Christian nurse forgives her kidnappers after release from captivity – August 30, 2023

Thousands Protest Against Christians In Pakistan – August 30, 2023

Haiti: Seven Christians killed after pastor tells them to confront heavily armed gang – August 29, 2023

India: At least 40 Madhya Pradesh churches issued with suspicious, “discriminatory” police questionnaires – August 29, 2023

Pakistan: Christian man shot dead by Islamic extremists – August 28, 2023

Weekly News Brief 8/9/23

The following news is taken in whole or part from Worthy News Ministries.

UN says deal reached with Syria to reopen main border crossing from Turkey

The United Nations announced late Tuesday that an agreement had been reached with Syria to reopen the main border crossing from Turkey to its rebel-held northwest for six months.

Russian Missile Strikes Hit Ukrainian Town, But Moscow Blames Kyiv

Rescue efforts continued in an eastern Ukrainian town on Tuesday as the confirmed death toll following a Russian missile strike rose to seven.

What is Disease X? UK scientists begin work on vaccine for new pandemic

Scientists in the UK have begun developing vaccines to ensure the public is protected against a new pandemic caused by an unknown “Disease X”.

Latest World News Headlines

Biden Admin Has Given $2.35 Billion to Taliban-Controlled Afghanistan – August 8, 2023

Iran gets ready for first parliamentary elections since nationwide protests – August 8, 2023

Fires Rage In Portugal, Floods In Slovenia As Severe Weather Hits Europe (Worthy News Radio) – August 8, 2023

3,000 US Navy troops arrive in Middle East to deter Iran’s seizure of international merchant ships – August 8, 2023

Ukraine’s SBU Prevents Killing President, But Several Die In Russian Strikes – August 8, 2023

US announces $345 million military aid for Taiwan – August 7, 2023

Dozens Killed In Pakistan Train Crash – August 7, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Israeli scientists grow tiny beating heart model from stem cells

A team of Israeli scientists announced on August 7 that they have succeeded in creating a tiny beating heart model grown from stem cells in a lab, the Times of Israel (TOI) reports. Researchers believe that the availability of human organoids such as this model heart can help scientists understand human physiology and lead to medical breakthroughs in fighting disease.

U.S., Saudi agree on broad contours of a deal to normalize Israel ties, report

U.S. and Saudi Arabia have agreed on the broad contours of a deal for Saudi Arabia to recognize Israel in exchange for concessions to the Palestinians, U.S. security guarantees and help in advancing a civilian nuclear program. the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israel committed to Christians’ safety in Jerusalem amid attacks, police say – August 8, 2023

Israeli Court To Scrutinize Law Protecting Netanyahu in Expanded Hearing – August 7, 2023

Gaza: Hamas sentences seven people to death for “collaboration” with Israel – August 7, 2023

Syria says four soldiers killed in alleged Israeli airstrike on Damascus – August 6, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

CBO says federal deficit will reach $1.7 trillion this year, third worst in history

The Congressional Budget Office revised its projections Tuesday, saying it now expects the federal government to run a $1.7 trillion deficit this year as inflation hits Uncle Sam hard.

US Scientists Repeat Fusion Ignition Breakthrough

U.S. scientists have achieved net energy gain in a fusion reaction for the second time since December, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory said on Sunday.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Moody’s Downgrades US Banks, Warns of Possible Cuts to Others – August 8, 2023

As credit card debt tops $1 trillion for the first time, ‘a huge test’ for cardholders is coming – August 8, 2023

China is conducting “relentless espionage campaign” against America, US lawmaker reports – August 8, 2023

Texas rescues more than 900 smuggled children at southern border – August 8, 2023

Federal judge halts Colorado’s new gun purchase age limit law – August 7, 2023

Judge overseeing Trump classified documents case deals blows to special counsel Jack Smith – August 7, 2023

Judge orders Catherine Herridge to reveal sources for stories on FBI, Chinese American scientist – August 7, 2023

Breaking Christian News

US nurse and daughter freed after kidnapping in Haiti

U.S. nurse Alix Dorsainvil and her young daughter are free after being kidnapped and held hostage in Haiti, the Christian charity that she works for announced Wednesday.

Man charged for silently praying near abortion clinic in England, critics call it a ‘thoughtcrime’

Authorities in Bournemouth, England, have criminally charged a British army veteran for praying silently while standing in a buffer zone outside an abortion clinic, his attorneys said Friday.

Taliban Deploys Hundreds of Suicide-Bombers in Faceoff With Iran

The Taliban has deployed hundreds of suicide bombers to Afghanistan’s border with Iran amid an intensifying dispute over water access, Bloomberg reported.

Latest Christian News Headlines

India: Chhattisgarh Christians attacked for refusing to renounce Christ – August 8, 2023

India: Manipur Christians continue to suffer violence amid unrest, government criticized for silence – August 7, 2023

Uganda: Pastor beaten unconscious for comparing Jesus and Mohammed at funeral – August 2, 2023

Evangelical college sued by former female instructor for “complementarian” sex discrimination – August 2, 2023

High living costs have caused significant downturn in US charitable giving – August 1, 2023

Abducted US Christian nurse and daughter still captives in Haiti – August 1, 2023

Tens of thousands of young Christians attend youth conference in Missouri – August 1, 2023

Weekly News Brief; 7/19/23

North Korea Detains US Soldier

U.S. President Joe Biden faced another foreign policy crisis Tuesday as defense officials confirmed that the person crossing unauthorized into North Korea was an American soldier.

US Deploys Nuke Sub to South Korea

The United States deployed a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea on Tuesday for the first time in four decades, as the allies warned North Korea that any use of the North’s nuclear weapons in combat would result in the end of its regime.

Russia Attacks Ukraine Ports After Ending Grain Deal (Worthy News Radio)

Russia has warned Ukraine of security risks if it continues shipping grain out of Ukrainian Black Sea ports without Moscow’s approval. The Kremlin made the announcement after pulling out of a grain deal and then ordering overnight air strikes on Ukrainian port cities.

Latest World News Headlines

Russia Ends Grain Deal After Bridge Attack – July 17, 2023

Around 700 million people worldwide are facing hunger, UN reports – July 17, 2023

U.S. sending F-16 fighter jets to protect ships from Iranian seizures in Gulf region – July 17, 2023

Last Grain Ship Leaves Ukraine Worrying Africa – July 17, 2023

EU, Tunisia Sign Migration Deal After Disasters – July 17, 2023

Iran Resumes Enforcing Hijab After Deadly Protests – July 16, 2023

Thousands Attend Budapest Pride Protesting Hungary’s LGBT Law – July 16, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Two Syrian soldiers injured in alleged Israeli strikes near Damascus

Two Syrian soldiers were injured after alleged Israeli airstrikes targeted sites in the Damascus area on Tuesday night, according to the Syrian state news agency SANA.

Laser air defenses coming to Israeli border communities soon

Within approximately 18 months, Israel is expected to deploy the world’s first laser defense systems, on borders that have Iranian-backed terrorist armies on the other side.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israeli protesters block highways in ‘day of disruption’ against Netanyahu’s judicial overhaul plan – July 18, 2023

Biden invites Netanyahu to Washington during first conversation in 4 months – July 17, 2023

Netanyahu Vows Crackdown on Military No-Shows in Judicial Protest – July 17, 2023

Netanyahu Allies ‘Shocked’ Israel’s High Court will Hear Petition to Disqualify Prime Minister – July 16, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

US officially cuts all funding to Wuhan Institute of Virology

The US government on Monday officially cut off all future federal funding for the controversial Wuhan Institute of Virology from which it is suspected the COVID-19 virus originated, citing the lab’s violation of safety protocols and refusal to submit required documents on security, the New York Post reports. The US decision will affect new contracts, grants, and other transactions at the Institute.

House Democrat seeks to eliminate “husband” and “wife” from federal law

A House Democratic lawmaker have proposed legislation to eliminate the terms “husband” and “wife” from federal law in favor of gender neutral terminology.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Court ruling for web designer may not protect others opposing same-sex weddings – July 18, 2023

House to vote on pro-Israel resolution ahead of President Herzog’s visit – July 17, 2023

Jan. 6 defendant appeals to Supreme Court in case that could upend hundreds of riot charges – July 17, 2023

Iowa judge blocks state’s six-week abortion ban – July 17, 2023

Despite Supreme Court ruling, Biden unveils $39 billion in new student loan debt forgiveness – July 16, 2023

Biotech Lab Working to Create Lab-Grown Human Eggs – July 16, 2023

Fed Set to Raise Rates in July Despite Inflation Slowdown – July 13, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Indonesia Christians: ‘Muslim Crackdown On Congregations’ (Worthy News In-Depth)

Indonesian Christians said Tuesday that several church congregations have been “disbanded” by angry Muslim protesters and local authorities. “In one of them, my children worship,” a concerned Christian told Worthy News.

Indonesia: North Sumatra Christian worship service again disrupted by Muslims

A Christian congregation in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia, had its worship service disrupted by Muslim protestors for the second time in two months on July 2, Morning Star News (MSN) reports. 

Mali: Hundreds of civilians killed by Islamic State fighters, “please pray”

Survivors of Islamic State attacks in Mali have given testimony to the Human Rights Watch (HRW) organization that indicates hundreds of civilians in the north-west African country were killed by jihadists in the first half of this year alone, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports. Mali has been plagued by a staggering rise in Islamic terror attacks since jihadists took over much of its northern section in a coup in 2012.

Latest Christian News Headlines

India: 400 violent attacks on Christians in first half of 2023 – July 18, 2023

Pakistan: Christian man charged with blasphemy is refused bail – July 17, 2023

Uganda: Young man murdered for his faith two weeks after accepting Christ – July 17, 2023

Angry Muslim Crowds Try To Attack Pakistan Christians – July 16, 2023

Afghanistan: Christians face death but the Gospel is going forward – July 13, 2023

Pakistan: Christian man detained on charges of blasphemy for sharing Facebook post with Bible verse – July 13, 2023

There is “no religious freedom in China,” Chinese pastor tells US House Select Committee – July 13, 2023

Weekly News Brief: 7/7/23

Breaking World News

The following news is taken in whole or part from Worthy News Ministries.

Iran is continuing to execute anti-government protestors, UN says

The United Nations reported this week that Iran is continuing to carry out “chilling” executions on citizens suspected of involvement in nationwide anti-government protests that were sparked last year after young Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini died in police custody in September, i24News reports.

Hungary Pledges Ties With Russia Despite Invasion

Hungary pledged to continue cooperation with Moscow while hosting the Russian health minister despite Western condemnation over Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine.

Transgender individuals have significantly higher rate of suicide and mortality, report shows

A newly published Danish study has shown that transgender individuals have significantly higher rates of suicide attempts and mortality than nontransgender individuals. Published by the American Medical Association’s JAMA Network, the study is titled ‘Transgender Identity and Suicide Attempts and Mortality in Denmark.’

Latest World News Headlines

US Navy stops Iran from seizing two oil tankers in Gulf of Oman – July 5, 2023

Ukraine and Russia trade accusations of imminent attack on Europe’s largest nuclear plant – July 5, 2023

Netherlands Record-Breaking Storm Kills, Injures Several – July 5, 2023

Russia Blames Ukraine For Deadly Missile Strikes (Worthy News Radio) – July 5, 2023

Russia, Syria to hold six-day military drills – July 4, 2023

Russia Threatens Europe’s Largest Nuclear Plant After Missiles Injure Dozens – July 4, 2023

Dutch King Apologizes For Slavery – July 3, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Israel strikes in Damascus; Syrian air defenses fail to respond

The Israeli Air Force carried out an airstrike on Iranian advanced arms depots in Damascus overnight Thursday, but Syrian air defense systems were not activated, Ynet has learned.

Not a ‘one-off’: Israel will continue ‘mowing the lawn’ in Jenin

Comments by Israeli leaders in the aftermath of a two-day incursion in the Jenin refugee camp indicate that the Israel Defense Forces will take repeated military action against Palestinian terror.

Latest Israel News Headlines

IDF: Rocket fired from Lebanon explodes near border, artillery returning fire – July 6, 2023

New haredi city expected to reach population of 80,000 – July 5, 2023

IDF strikes Gaza after rockets launched at southern Israel – July 5, 2023

Israeli Forces Conclude Major Operation in Jenin Amid Tensions – July 4, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Christian School Asks 11th Circuit to Strike Down Prayer Ban at Football Games

Attorneys for a Tampa, Florida Christian school recently told an Atlanta-based federal appeals court that prayer over a loudspeaker before a football game is protected by the U.S. Constitution.

‘Sound of Freedom’ skyrockets at box office opening day

“Sound of Freedom,” a film released earlier this week that brings awareness to human trafficking, got the top spot at the box office in the United States on its opening day, the Fourth of July.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

California church targeted with overnight cross burnings, police investigating – July 6, 2023

US Judge Restricts Biden Officials From Contact With Social Media Firms – July 5, 2023

FDA blasted for ‘misleading’ mRNA COVID vaccine labels as ‘sudden death’ research mounts – July 5, 2023

Confidence in U.S. government plummets – July 5, 2023

Judge bars Biden administration from working with social media companies on ‘protected speech’ – July 4, 2023

Biden Decries Mass Shootings Overshadowing Independence Day – July 4, 2023

Federal courts lift bans on gender-affirming treatment for minors in Kentucky, Tennessee – July 4, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Nigeria: Plateau state Christians receive written threats of impending attacks on specific communities by Fulani jihadists

As part of an ongoing campaign of terror, murder, displacement and destruction of livelihood against Nigerian Christians in Plateau State, Fulani jihadists sent written warnings to specific local Christian communities at the weekend, advising them of impending attacks in specific locations, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports. Notably, the jihadists pointed out that no Nigerian security forces would come to the aid of the Christians if they valued their own lives.

Nigeria: Jihadist slaughter of Christians continues; “We enjoin all Christians to cry for God’s mercy”

Leaders from the Church of Christ in Nations (CAN) denomination in Nigeria have called for all Christians to beseech God for His mercy on their land as Fulani Islamic jihadists murdered 11 more Christians in Nigeria’s Plateau state and 20 Christians in neighboring Taraba state in attacks on June 27 and June 25 respectively, Morning Star News (MSN) reports.

China: Four Christians imprisoned without charge following raid on church

A Christian pastor and three of his church members in China’s Guangdong Province have been in custody for six weeks after being arrested by the ruling Chinese Communist Party on suspicion of conducting “illegal business operations,” China Aid reports.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Niger: A generation of children is growing up surrounded by Jihadist death and destruction, Amnesty International reports – July 4, 2023

Nigeria: Pastor murdered and 7 congregants abducted in Ogun state attack – July 3, 2023

Pakistan:Islamic criminal confesses to brutal murder, rape of Christian widow – July 3, 2023

Christian Community Attacked In Pakistan After Believer Post Bible Verse – July 2, 2023

China introduces app forcing citizens to obtain approval to attend religious services – June 30, 2023

‘1 In 3 Countries Persecute Christians, Other Groups’ – June 29, 2023

North Korea Raids Secret Church, Five Detained – June 29, 2023

Weekly News Brief: 6/16/23

Breaking World News

The following news is taken in whole or part from Worthy News Ministries.

UN Chief Seeks “Global Digital Compact” to Police the Spread of Disinformation

The secretary-general of the United Nations has unveiled a “Global Digital Compact” to police “hate and lies” about issues such as climate change.

Migrant Boat Tragedy Death Toll Rises To Hundreds; ‘No Hope Of Survivors’ (Worthy News Radio)

Greek authorities said Thursday that more than 500 migrants, including many children, were believed to have died after their overloaded fishing boat capsized and sank off southern Greece.

Ukraine Regains Control Over’ Swathes Of Territory’ (Worthy News Radio)

Ukraine says it has regained control over vast swathes of territory in its counteroffensive against Russian forces. The announcement comes despite Moscow claiming Ukraine’s counterattack is faltering.

Latest World News Headlines

Record-breaking 110 million people now displaced worldwide, most refugees hosted in poorer countries – June 15, 2023

Turkey continues to oppose Sweden’s accession to NATO – June 15, 2023

United States to follow United Kingdom in sending depleted uranium munitions to Ukraine – June 15, 2023

England: National Health Service to stop most puberty blocking treatments for minors, cites insufficient evidence that it’s best course – June 15, 2023

Egypt submits application to join BRICS, says Russian envoy to Cairo – June 15, 2023

US to provide additional $2.1 billion in military aid to Ukraine – June 15, 2023

Deadly Cyclone and Quake Hit Pakistan, India Prompting Prayers – June 15, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Netanyahu: US Pushing for ‘Small’ Iran Nuclear Deal, State Dept Denies

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking Wednesday in a meeting with the Knesset Foreign Affairs Committee, said the U.S. is pushing for a “small” informal arrangement with Iran in order to prevent a military confrontation over Iran’s uranium enrichment program.

Iran attacks Israel through its Middle East proxies, Gallant tells Austin

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday night met with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin in Brussels to discuss Iran and other important aspects of the US-Israel relationship.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Palestinian Authority and China establish strategic partnership, sign cooperation agreements – June 15, 2023

Israel Reportedly Attacks Targets In Syria, Air Defenses Activated – June 15, 2023

U.S. House passes bill to establish Abraham Accords special envoy – June 15, 2023

Saudi embassy in US: No normalization with Israel without Palestinian state – June 13, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

U.S. government says several agencies hacked as part of broader cyberattack

Several U.S. agencies have been hacked as part of a broader cyberattack that has hit dozens of companies and organizations in recent weeks through a previously unknown vulnerability in popular file sharing software.

GOP-led House passes Separation of Powers Restoration Act

The GOP-led House passed the Separation of Powers Restoration Act on Thursday by a vote of 220-211.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

‘Operation Lone Star’ Underway as House Republicans Accuse Mayorkas of ‘Dereliction of Duty’ – June 15, 2023

Fed leaves rates unchanged, sees two small hikes by end of 2023 – June 15, 2023

FBI Official Stuns Hawley When He Claims The Bureau ‘Unintentionally’ Spied On ‘278,000’ Americans – June 15, 2023

Biden administration extending temporary legal status for 300K immigrants Trump sought to end – June 13, 2023

Former U.S. President Trump Pleads Not Guilty In Mishandling Secrets – June 13, 2023

Joe and Hunter Biden caught on 17 recordings with Burisma owner, Grassley reveals FBI form says – June 12, 2023

Poll Finds Growing Opposition to Trans Athletes in Women’s Sports – June 12, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Indonesia: Muslim protesters prevent church from holding services in rented room

Following a large protest by members of the Indonesian Muslim Alliance (AUI), a church in Medan, Indonesia has been prevented from holding worship services in a room it rented at a shopping mall for this purpose, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports.

Nigeria: Fulani terrorists murder 21 people, including a pastor, in coordinated attacks in Plateau state

Fulani jihadists in Nigeria murdered 21 people in Plateau state on Sunday in coordinated attacks on the Rim, Jol, and Kwi communities of Riyom and the Gana-Ropp community in the Barkin Ladi local government area, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports.

Manipur, India: Hindu extremists are committing “genocide” against Christians in tribal conflict, Christian leader says

Amid the ongoing deadly and destructive tribal conflict in India’s Manipur state, a local Christian leader has pleaded for help saying Hindu extremist members of the Meitei tribe are committing “ethnic cleansing” and “genocide” against Christians from the Kuki and Zo tribes, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Evangelicals have brought racial reconciliation into sharper focus since police killing of George Floyd – June 12, 2023

Artificial Intelligence Leads Church Service In Germany – June 12, 2023

UK government called upon to help stop the “genocidal attacks” on Christians in Nigeria – June 11, 2023

Nigeria Pastors Want Christian Parliament Speakers As Violence Spreads – June 11, 2023

Iraq: Persecuted Christians  launch TV channel in Syriac language derived from Jesus’ Aramaic – June 9, 2023

Nigeria: Mass grave for Christian women and children, “Let us not put our hope on weapons to defend ourselves, our weapon is in Christ” – June 9, 2023

India: Hindu nationalists close churches, jail pastors in Uttar Pradesh – June 8, 2023

Weekly News Brief 6/8/23

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Breaking World News

The following news is taken in whole or part from Worthy News Ministries.

NATO to hold largest ever European air drills over Germany

Germany is set to host NATO’s largest air force deployment over Europe in the alliance’s history, officials said on Wednesday.

Blinken visits Saudi Arabia to expand Abraham Accords

Three years after the signing of the Abraham Accords, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday on a mission to steady Washington’s relationship with Riyadh after Biden’s insulting 2021 election statements, ongoing oil disagreements, and disputes on Iran policy.

Flooding Threatens Tens of Thousands in Ukraine (Worthy News Radio)

Kyiv pleaded for international help on Wednesday as tens of thousands of people were at risk of drowning following the collapse of a gigantic dam in a Russian-occupied region of southern Ukraine.

Latest World News Headlines

French Pension Reform Protesters Storm Olympic Headquarters – June 7, 2023

US and Israel outraged as Iran elected rapporteur to UN international security committee, “UN has reached a new low” – June 6, 2023

Kyiv Says Russia ‘Blew Up Dam’ As Thousands Flee Flooding (Worthy News Radio) – June 6, 2023

Turkish Re-elected President Hopes To Tackle Economic Crisis – June 6, 2023

Russia Says It Prevented Ukraine Offensive Killing 250 Troops – June 6, 2023

Iran to reopen embassy in Saudi Arabia following years of severed diplomatic ties – June 5, 2023

Serbia Soul Searching After Rally Over Shootings – June 5, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Ministers’ hawkish posture suggests Netanyahu would have votes to strike Iran

If Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant present the Diplomatic-Security Cabinet with a plan to strike Iran, it would pass by a large majority, unlike the situation 10 years ago, when Netanyahu and then-Defense Minister Ehud Barak could not get such support in that forum.

Israel conducts first drone air taxi test

Israel carried out its first drone air taxi test this week, as part of a new initiative to relieve traffic congestion on the roads, i24News reports. This week’s test involved 11 drone companies, and represents the first time Israel has tried drone technology for the purpose of operating taxis.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israel and Egypt reaffirm commitment to peace and security after border killings – June 6, 2023

The Israelis set for new Jewish temple on Al-Aqsa site – June 6, 2023

Iran unveils hypersonic missile it says can reach Israel in 400 seconds – June 6, 2023

IDF attacked secret Iranian weapon factories in Syria – June 5, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Biden vetoes measure halting student debt relief

President Joe Biden on Wednesday vetoed a plan to cancel his student debt relief plan.

Louisiana House approves ban on gender treatments for minors

The Louisiana state House on Wednesday approved a ban on gender-related treatments for minors by a veto-proof margin.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Bipartisan resolution introduced to Congress calling for recognition of Semele Massacre/Assyrian Genocide of 1933 – June 7, 2023

Federal judge blocks Florida ban on medicalized gender transition for children – June 6, 2023

House to Charge FBI Director with Contempt if Unclassified ‘Biden’ Doc Not Handed Over – June 6, 2023

Ex-VP Mike Pence Enters US Presidential Race – June 5, 2023

Utah school district bans KJV Bible in lower schools for “vulgarity and violence” – June 5, 2023

Sonic Boom Over Washington D.C. Caused By Jets Intercepting Plane – June 5, 2023

Biden orders 20-year ban on oil, gas drilling to protect New Mexico tribal sites – June 5, 2023

Breaking Christian News

South Sudan: Christian leaders urgently call for peace following abduction of Bishop

Christian leaders in South Sudan have issued urgent calls for peace after the Bishop of Morobo and his driver survived a violent abduction by armed insurgents on Monday, Christian Today (CT) reports. The kidnappers claimed to be members of the National Salvation Front, a militant group opposed to the South Sudanese government.

Nigeria: 43 more Christians murdered in Nasarawa state, “Where is the outcry? Where is effective action?”

As the genocidal slaughter of Christians in Nigeria continues, Fulani Islamic jihadists murdered 43 Christians, including a pastor and his wife, in Nasarawa state last month, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports. 

Christians in Syria at risk of “genocidal” attacks from NATO member Turkey

Christians in Syria continue to face “genocidal” attacks not only from jihadists inside the country but also from Islamist-affiliated, NATO member Turkey, Algemeiner reports.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Fewer Protestant churchgoers now engaged with fostering or adoption than five years ago, poll shows – June 1, 2023

Pakistan: Young Christian man sentenced to death for blasphemy, “Our faith in Christ has not waivered” – May 31, 2023

Nigeria: 50 members of Plateau Baptist Convention murdered by jihadists – May 30, 2023

Indonesia: Muslim extremists disrupt two church services; “If a church is seen to spreading the gospel, they soon run into opposition” – May 30, 2023

Nigeria Christians Fear New Muslim President And Muslim VP (Worthy News-Focus) – May 30, 2023

North Korea: Two-year old boy sentenced to life in prison after parents found with Bible – May 30, 2023

Burkina Faso: 15 more civilians slaughtered as jihadist insurrection continues – May 30, 2023

Weekly News Brief; Week of 5/3/23

Iran seizes second oil tanker in Gulf waters in a week

In the latest of a series of seizures or attacks on commercial vessels since 2019, Iran on Wednesday morning seized control of a second oil tanker in Gulf waters in a week, Reuters reports.

Iran’s President Raisi meets with Syrian President Assad in Damascus

Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi met with Syrian President Bashar Assad in Damascus on Monday, marking the first time an Iranian president has visited Syria since the civil war took over the country in 2011, the Associated Press reports. Raisi’s meeting with Assad was part of a two-day visit to boost economic and political cooperation between Iran and Syria.

Teenager Detained As Belgrade School Shooting Kills Nine (Worthy News Radio)

Serbian police say they have detained a 14-year boy who was allegedly involved in killing at least eight students and a security guard at a primary school in Belgrade.

Latest World News Headlines

Hundreds Detained In France After Policeman Was Nearly Killed In Protests – May 2, 2023

Russia Rejects US Casualty Claims As Battle Continues (Worthy News Radio) – May 2, 2023

Mother of Kidnapped US Journalist Doubts Biden’s Assurances – May 2, 2023

BRICS Expands Threatening West’s Dominance – May 2, 2023

Russia Unleashes Missiles Strike in Ukraine Ahead of Counteroffensive (Worthy News Radio) – May 2, 2023

French police clash with violent protesters during mass May Day demonstrations – May 2, 2023

Turkish forces have killed leader of Islamic State, Erdogan says – May 1, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Israel, Gaza Armed Groups Agree to Cease-fire After Recent Flare-Up

Israel and Gaza armed groups agreed to a cease-fire early Wednesday after a day of increased violence, sparked by the death of a prominent Palestinian Islamic Jihad member during a hunger strike in an Israeli prison. According to Al Jazeera and Reuters, Palestinian sources confirmed that the truce went into effect before dawn, mediated by officials from Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations.

IDF hits terrorist targets in Gaza after series of day-long rocket barrages

The Israel Defense Forces struck terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday night following a series of rocket attacks throughout the day, the army said in a statement.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Netanyahu not in contempt of court, High Court rules – May 2, 2023

US Speaker McCarthy addresses Israel’s Knesset – May 2, 2023

Syria says Aleppo airport forced to shut after Israeli airstrike; 1 soldier killed – May 2, 2023

Israeli airstrikes hit targets near Homs, Syrian state media says – April 30, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

As evidence emerges in Hunter Biden probe, investigators see a political protection racket

A letter falsely insinuating a laptop was Russian disinformation. An IRS whistleblower. Suspicious activity bank reports. Suggestions of false testimony to Congress.

Customers Urged To Remain Calm After First Republic Collapse

Worried customers were urged Tuesday to remain confident in the U.S banking system after First Republic became the second-largest bank to fail in American history.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Kansas passes law defining gender as person’s biological sex at birth – May 2, 2023

Pennsylvania school district must allow After School Satan Club – May 2, 2023

US Dust Storm Kills Six and Injures Dozens – May 2, 2023

Treasury’s Yellen Says US Could Default as Soon as June 1 – May 2, 2023

In 3rd Major Bank Collapse, Regulators Seize First Republic Bank, Sell It to JPMorgan Chase – May 2, 2023

FDIC Recommends Raising Insured Deposit Limit for Businesses – May 2, 2023

U.S. military is tracking another mysterious balloon – May 2, 2023

Breaking Christian News

US Commission on International Religious Freedom publishes annual report, lists worst violators

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) on Monday published its annual report on the state of religious freedom around the world, listing those nations which it found to be the worst violators of such freedom, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports.

Sudan: Christians killed, churches destroyed in ongoing violent conflict

While it is not yet clear if Christians are being specifically targeted in the violent civil conflict in Sudan, four churches have been destroyed and Christians have reportedly been killed, wounded, turned away from state hospitals, and barred from receiving humanitarian aid being given to Muslims, Baptist Press reported on April 28. The violence broke out on April 15 as the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) fought for control of the government.

Uganda: Christian college student murdered for sharing the Gospel

A 24-year-old Christian college student in northern Uganda was murdered last month by a suspected radicalized Muslim because he had been sharing the Gospel on his school campus, Morning Star News (MSN) reports. While Christianity is legal in Uganda, Christians, especially evangelists, have been increasingly vulnerable to deadly attacks by radicalized Muslims.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Florida court rejects churches’ request to leave UMC with property and no exit fees – May 1, 2023

Nigeria: Slaughter of Christians continues, “We lost hope in the Nigerian Police” – May 1, 2023

Concerns About Abducted Christians In Nigeria After Killings – April 28, 2023

Nigeria: Christian community devastated by jihadist attacks worships God in burnt-out church on Good Friday – April 27, 2023

18 US Christian colleges forced to shut down since pandemic – April 27, 2023

100 Christian Families Freed From Pakistan Brick Kilns – April 26, 2023

Nigeria: Mass slaughter of Christians continues; 134 murdered by Fulani jihadists in Benue state – April 26, 2023

Breaking News from This Week 4/12/23

Breaking World News The following news is taken in whole or part from Worthy News Ministries.

Hundreds Of Migrants Await Rescue At SeaHundreds of migrants feeling war, persecution, and poverty were still awaiting to be rescued Wednesday off the coast of southern Italy, more than two days after activists raised the alarm.

Pentagon: ‘Special US, NATO Forces In Ukraine’More details have emerged about Western special forces inside Ukraine after Worthy News initially reported that troops from the NATO military alliance were in the wartorn nation.BRICS Nations Dumping Dollar As New World Currency Nears

The U.S. dollar was rapidly losing its status as the world’s reserve currency Tuesday after five leading emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS), agreed to work on a new global currency, Worthy News monitored.

Latest World News Headlines

Hungary Extends Energy Deals With Russia – April 11, 2023Saudi officials travel to Yemen to try and end crushing civil war – April 11, 2023China completes 3 days of military drills simulating blockades around Taiwan – April 11, 2023Worries Over Good Friday Agreement Mar 25th Anniversary (Worthy News Radio) – April 10, 2023US Deploys Nuclear Submarine In Standoff With Iran – April 10, 2023France Challenges US Superpower Status – April 9, 2023China, Taiwan Nearing Military Confrontation – April 9, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Netanyahu Vows to Restore Security ‘On All Fronts’ After Terror Attacks, Rocket Fire

Israel’s embattled prime minister pledged on Monday evening to restore security after a turbulent few days saw violent clashes on Jerusalem’s Temple Mount, deadly acts of terrorism, and cross-border rocket fire including the biggest barrage from Lebanon since the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war.Netanyahu bars Jewish visitors from Temple Mount for last 10 days of RamadanJewish visitors will be barred from the Temple Mount from Wednesday until the end of Ramadan in ten days’ time, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced on Tuesday, after a series of security consultations on the issue amid widespread violence linked to tensions at the holy site.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israel has the “right to defend itself” against aggression, US government says – April 11, 2023Israeli PM Reinstates Defense Minister Gallant Despite Earlier Dismissal – April 10, 2023Leaked Pentagon Document Suggests Israel May Supply Weapons to Ukraine – April 10, 2023Frail Pope Urges Peace In Israel After Deadly Clashes – April 9, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Oklahoma school board unanimously rejects application for publicly-funded Catholic charter schoolA school board appointed by Republican officials in Oklahoma has unanimously rejected an application by the Catholic Church to establish the first tax-payer funded religious charter school in the US, Reuters reports.Biden administration officials were involved in Mar-a-Lago raid despite claiming otherwise: report

The Biden administration involved itself in the raid of former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home despite reports that its officials were “stunned” to find out about the news on social media, according to the group America First Legal, which obtained internal government documents related to the raid through a Freedom of Information Act request.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

US Bank Lending Slumps by Most on Record in Final Weeks of March – April 11, 2023Leak of US classified documents online is “very serious risk to national security” and could lead to loss of life, Pentagon says – April 11, 2023Justice Department asks appeals court to stop ruling that would halt approval of abortion pill – April 10, 2023Next abortion battles may be among states with clashing laws – April 10, 2023Kentucky Governor Urges Prayers As Several Killed At Bank – April 10, 2023Deficit soars to $1.1 trillion for first half of fiscal 2023 – April 10, 2023House Oversight Republicans subpoena more bank records in Biden family probe – April 9, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Indonesia Pledges To Facilitate Church After Outcry

Indonesia’s government says it will facilitate a place of worship for Protestant Christians in West Java after the forced closure of their church by authorities provoked an international outcry.Attacks on churches surged in first quarter of 2023, report findsAttacks on churches escalated in the first quarter of 2023 consistent with a years-long trend of rising vandalism, arson and shootings, none worse this year than the deadly rampage at the Covenant School in Nashville.

Indonesia: Government authorities continue to shut down churchesAmid an ongoing spate of government-sponsored church closures in Indonesia, the Purwakarta Simalungun Protestant Christian Church (GKPS) was forced to give up worshiping and building a sanctuary in Cigelam Village because the Purwakarta Regency Government in West Java refused to issue the requisite permit and de facto shut the church down, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports. 

Latest Christian News Headlines

Persecuted Chinese congregation arrives in the US seeking asylum – April 10, 2023Nigeria: Church of Christ in Nations pastor and his two sons among Christians slaughtered in Plateau state – April 6, 2023Faith-based movie about Abraham and Isaac places third at weekend box office – April 6, 2023Nigeria: Christians slaughtered in Benue state attacks – April 4, 2023186 churches file suit against United Methodist Church for not allowing disaffiliation over LGBT issues – April 4, 2023Scotland: Church leaders say proposed conversion therapy ban could criminalize Christians who teach that homosexual behavior is sinful – April 4, 2023Thailand: Asylum-seeking Chinese congregation taken into police custody following expiry of visas – April 4, 2023