Weekly News Brief: 8/16/23

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

Britain Detains Suspected Russian Spies

Questions remained Wednesday after three suspected spies for Russia in Britain were detained and charged in a major national security investigation, several sources said.

UK: Heart attack hospitalizations at record level since pandemic

Record numbers of people have been hospitalized with heart attacks in the wake of the pandemic, official figures show.

North Korea Says Detained U.S. Soldier Admits ‘Illegally’ Entering Nation

Pyongyang has, for the first time, commented on the detention of Travis King, saying the detained U.S. soldier admitted to illegally entering North Korea on July 18.

Latest World News Headlines

UN: Islamic State still has thousands of fighters in Syria/Iraq – August 15, 2023

EU’s New Internet Law Raises Censorship Concerns – August 14, 2023

Ukraine’s President Fires ‘Corrupt Officials’ As Battles Rage (Worthy News Radio) – August 14, 2023

‘Black Day’ For India’s Suffering Dalits – August 14, 2023

Dozens of Migrants Drown Near Italy – August 14, 2023

Norwegian Dam Collapses In Deadly Flooding – August 14, 2023

Russia Speeding To Moon In Space Race – August 13, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Israel “will cease to exist” if there is a new war, Hezbollah leader says

Amid heightened tensions on Israel’s border with Lebanon, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah announced Monday that Israel will “cease to exist” if a new conflict between the Israeli military and the Iran-backed Lebanese terror group should ignite, the Times of Israel (TOI) reports.

Netanyahu, Levin said seeking to freeze overhaul for a year to focus on Haredi draft law

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Justice Minister Yariv Levin are leading a push to freeze any future legislation of the judicial overhaul for an entire year, the Israel Hayom news site reports, citing senior coalition officials.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israel may uproot ancient Christian mosaic, send it to US Evangelical museum – August 15, 2023

Israel’s Military Cohesion, Preparedness Threatened as Judicial Reform Sparks Backlash – August 14, 2023

Netanyahu calls off vacation, holds IDF preparedness meeting – August 13, 2023

Iranian munitions storage facility destroyed in attack attributed to Israel – August 13, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Trump faces at least 9 legal battles ahead of and through 2024 election after Georgia indictment

Former President Donald Trump is facing numerous legal battles before the 2024 presidential election and argues he’s being charged with offenses during campaign season.

Pro-life leaders press GOP candidates to defend abortion limits as state ballot fights loom

Last week’s constitutional amendment vote in Ohio is just the start of a wide-ranging plan to obliterate abortion limits in red states, say pro-life advocates, who are urging Republican leaders, starting with the presidential primary candidates, to fight back.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

DC dealt more harshly with pro-life protesters than Black Lives Matter, federal court rules – August 15, 2023

Trump and 18 others indicted in Georgia for conspiring to overturn 2020 election result – August 15, 2023

Judge upholds Nebraska law banning abortion at 12 weeks, Transgender Restrictions for Children – August 14, 2023

Suspected terrorism funder arrested after being released into U.S. at border – August 14, 2023

Scores Killed In “Catastrophic” Hawaii Wildfires – August 14, 2023

Maui Wildfires Now Deadliest US Fire in Past Century – August 13, 2023

US to Invest $1.2 Billion on Facilities to Pull Carbon From Air – August 13, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Indonesia: Muslims demonstrators damage, disrupt two churches

Muslim protestors blocked worship services from taking place at two separate churches in northern Indonesia earlier this month, Morning Star News (MSN) reports. While Christianity is legal under the Indonesian Constitution, the Muslim-majority country ranks 33rd on the US Open Doors World Watch List 2023 of the top 50 countries where Christians are persecuted.

Eritrea: 13 Christians released after 10 years in jail, 300 more believers still imprisoned

Thirteen Christians in Eritrea were released from jail late last month, after being wrongfully imprisoned without charge for 10 years, the Christian Post (CP) reports.

Nigeria: 21 villagers murdered by Islamic militants in Plateau state

Suspected Islamic Fulani extremists murdered 21 people during an attack in northern Nigeria’s Plateau state last week, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports. Islamic extremists, including radicalized Fulani herdsmen and members of the Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa terror groups, have murdered over 52,000 Christians in Nigeria since 2015.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Christians concerned as Pakistan passes even harsher laws against non-Muslims – August 14, 2023

India: Christian teacher charged with human trafficking for escorting students to Bible institute – August 14, 2023

‘Forever Marked by God’: 12,000 Youth from 230 Churches Seek God Together Before School Year – August 14, 2023

TN MegaChurch Experiences ‘Genuine Move of God’ as 136 Get Spontaneously Baptized – August 14, 2023

Iran Detains Scores Of Christians Ahead Of Anniversary – August 13, 2023

Canadian Supreme Court refuses to hear appeals over worship restrictions on churches – August 13, 2023

Indonesia: East Jakarta church threatened with closure by Islamic authorities – August 10, 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; 7/27/23

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

Russia, China Increasing Cooperation With North Korea

Russia and China stepped up their cooperation with nuclear-armed autocratically North Korea on Wednesday as East-West relations rapidly worsened.

Ukraine Steps Up Military Offensive

Ukraine has stepped up its counteroffensive against invading Russian troops, with several sources confirming Ukrainian advances in the south and east of the country.

US F-35 fighters arrive in Middle East to deter Iran, assist mission in Syria

American F-35 fighter jets arrived in the Middle East to beef up deterrence against Iran amid a string of ship seizures in the Strait of Hormuz.

Latest World News Headlines

Russia, U.S. Inch Toward Direct Conflict in Middle East – July 25, 2023

Russia Raises Conscript Age Ahead of More Mobilizations – July 25, 2023

Europe’s Heatwave Death Toll Rising – July 25, 2023

Kyiv: ‘Russia Strikes Cathedral, Building, Killing 1, Injuring 22’ (Worthy News Radio) – July 24, 2023

Al Qaeda and Islamic State gaining ground in Afghanistan, UN reports – July 24, 2023

As Iran launches air force drill, US beefs up plane fleet in Persian Gulf – July 24, 2023

Center Right Wins Spain Elections – July 24, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Netanyahu: ‘All agree that Israel must remain a strong democracy’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again called for broad agreement on his government’s plans in an address to the nation following the unilateral passing of key judicial reform legislation.

Hamas agrees to join PA for national unity talks after arrested official is released

Hamas agreed to join talks on forming a new unity government with the leaders of other main Palestinian factions after the Palestinian Authority on Sunday released a senior Hamas official who had been arrested on charges of slandering the PA and stirring up sectarian strife, the Jerusalem Post reports.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israeli researchers succeed in producing “green” hydrogen – July 25, 2023

Israel Passes Controversial Court Law Despite Protests – July 24, 2023

Coalition passes 1st judicial overhaul law, limiting review of government decisions – July 24, 2023

Likud, protest leaders reject labor union’s compromise overhaul bill – July 23, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Federal Reserve Raises Interest Rates to Highest Level in 22 Years

The Federal Reserve raised the federal funds rate by 25 basis points at the July Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) policy meeting, lifting the target range to 5.25 and 5.50 percent. Rate-setting Committee members voted unanimously for the policy decision.

Mitch McConnell Abruptly Stopping Speech Sparks Health Questions

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s bizarre press conference has sparked fresh speculations about the 81-year-old’s health.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Alliance of Democratic Governors plan expansion to abortion access – July 26, 2023

Federal court blocks Biden rule limiting asylum for migrants, a major blow to administration – July 25, 2023

Justice Department sues Texas over a floating barrier in Rio Grande intended to deter migrant crossings – July 25, 2023

US scientists working on ground-breaking “fountain of youth” treatment – July 25, 2023

Bill introduced in Senate to ban sex-change surgeries, hormone treatments for minors – July 24, 2023

Biden admin allocates $5 billion for new COVID vaccines with little manufacturing guidance – July 24, 2023

Amazon Rolls Out Palm Payments Despite Concern – July 23, 2023

Breaking Christian News

New Language Created by Wycliffe Associates Being Used in Africa’s Public and Private Schools to Teach Deaf Students

Wycliffe Associates, an international organization that empowers mother-tongue Bible translators and partners with local churches in the advancement of Bible translation, has developed a new language for the Deaf and Deaf-Blind community, which is now being used in both public and private schools in Africa.

India: Seven Christians brutally attacked by Hindu extremists

Seven Christians in India’s Chhattisgarh state have suffered severe injuries following a brutal attack on them by Hindu nationalists earlier this month, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports.

Some EU states discriminate against religious minorities at home while promoting religious freedom abroad, report finds

The US Commission on International Religious Freedom  (USCIRF) reported on Monday that a number of European Union nations have been discriminating against their own religious minority communities while advocating religious freedom abroad, the Washington Times reports.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Fewer than 60% of US young adults believe in God, poll shows – July 25, 2023

Nigeria: Genocidal attacks on Christians continue in Benue state – July 24, 2023

China’s Communist Party has rewritten parts of the Bible to suppress Christianity, US lawmaker reports – July 24, 2023

India Premier Condemns Sexual Assault Of Christian Women (Worthy News-Investigation) – July 23, 2023

Idaho college town to pay $300,000 to Christians arrested for having an outdoor church service – July 23, 2023

Iran: More than 50 Christians rounded up and detained on unknown charges – July 20, 2023

Pakistan Christians Fleeing After Blasphemy Allegations – July 20, 2023

Weekly News Brief 7/12/23

Nigeria Gunmen Release Priest and 3 Others

A Catholic priest and three other persons abducted by suspected Islamic gunmen in southeastern Nigeria this week have been released, several sources confirmed Wednesday.

Spain: ‘Hundreds of Migrants Lost At Sea’

Spain’s coastguard said Tuesday it was searching for three boats carrying hundreds of migrants reported lost at sea after it managed to rescue scores of people from another vessel.

Burkina Faso gripped by terror: 22 civilians killed by jihadist insurgents

Continuing a years-long reign of terror, suspected Islamic jihadist insurgents murdered 22 civilians in Burkina Faso on July 7, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports. The government of Burkina Faso was overthrown during a military coup led by Capt. Ibrahim Traoré in September last year, following accusations that then-President Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba was ineffectual in dealing with Islamic terrorism gripping the West African country.

Latest World News Headlines

Tensions Emerging Between Ukraine, NATO, Over Membership (Worthy News Radio) – July 11, 2023

Belgian Young Woman Euthanized After Mental Suffering, Raising Questions (Worthy News In-Depth) – July 11, 2023

Dozens Killed In India Devastating Rains – July 11, 2023

Six Killed In China Kindergarten Attack – July 10, 2023

Netherlands Returning Hundreds Of Stolen Artifacts To Indonesia, Sri Lanka – July 10, 2023

Turkey Halts Opposition To Sweden’s NATO Entry – July 10, 2023

Dutch Prime Minister Rutte Leaves Politics – July 10, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Israel: Archaeologists unearth mosaic at Roman-era synagogue in Galilee

American archaeologists in Israel have unearthed a mosaic at a Roman-era synagogue of the ancient Jewish village of Huqoq in the Lower Galilee, i24News reports.

Jews Join Mourning Over Srebrenica Massacre

Tens of thousands of mourners from around Bosnia and abroad gathered in the town of Srebrenica on Tuesday for the annual commemoration of the 1995 massacre here, Europe’s worst atrocity since World War Two.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israel: “Day of Disruption” kicks off with major protests against government’s judicial reform plans – July 11, 2023

Palestinians reject Israel’s demands to save PA – July 10, 2023

Knesset set to vote on judicial reform bill – July 10, 2023

A threat to Iran: IDF and US military team up for joint drill – July 10, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Gallup: Confidence in Higher Education Falls to 36%

According to a Gallup survey of institutions, Americans’ confidence in higher education has fallen to 36%, sharply lower than in two prior readings in 2015 (57%) and 2018 (48%).

Texas Starts Building Floating Border Wall

Construction crews on Monday began putting a floating border barrier in place near Eagle Pass, Texas, with the project expected to deter large numbers of illegal migrant border crossings in the area.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Fifth Circuit Court dismisses anti-BDS lawsuit, upholding Texas’ stand against discrimination – July 10, 2023

Judge maintains ban on fed censorship communication with social media – July 10, 2023

US economy added roughly 200,000 jobs in June, Labor Department report – July 9, 2023

New study finds PFAS “forever chemicals” in drinking water from 45% of faucets across U.S. – July 9, 2023

Christian School Asks 11th Circuit to Strike Down Prayer Ban at Football Games – July 6, 2023

‘Sound of Freedom’ skyrockets at box office opening day – July 6, 2023

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

Breaking Christian News

Church of England working to finalize Prayer and Pastoral Guidance for clergy who want to bless same-sex unions

The Church of England is working on finalizing its Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) and Pastoral Guidance documents to be used by clergy who choose to hold blessing ceremonies in church for same-sex civil unions, the Christian Post (CP) reports.

Sudan: Christians face severe danger as violent conflict continues

Together with their fellow citizens, Christians in Sudan are facing great danger as the country appears to be descending into a violent, protracted civil war, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports.

Indonesia: Religion minister plans to ease permit system for houses of worship

In a positive move for religious minorities in Indonesia, the country’s Minister of Religion has announced a plan to ease the burdensome permit regulations for houses of worship by allowing approval with only one recommendation, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports. 

Latest Christian News Headlines

Christians in Pakistan receive credible terror threat following Quran-burning in Sweden, “no Christian in Pakistan is safe” – July 10, 2023

Typhoon Destroys TWR Transmitter; ‘Millions Without Gospel’ – July 7, 2023

Belarus Destroys New Life Church As Part Of ‘Witch-Hunt,’ Christians Say (Worthy News In-Depth) – July 7, 2023

Indonesia City Reopens Church Building, But Concerns Remain – July 7, 2023

Nigeria: Plateau state Christians receive written threats of impending attacks on specific communities by Fulani jihadists – July 6, 2023

China: Four Christians imprisoned without charge following raid on church – July 6, 2023

Nigeria: Jihadist slaughter of Christians continues; “We enjoin all Christians to cry for God’s mercy” – July 4, 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

Follow us to receive our Weekly News Brief right in your mailbox!

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

*Podcast* Leviticus Chapter 26- Rome, Idolatry, & The Last Days

As we near the close of our study on Leviticus, we read about idolatry in it’s different forms, what role Rome has played in promoting idolatry in the past and present, symbolism and the Cross, and more.

Also, a announcement on what we are moving onto in our studies after this book!

Listen here: