Weekly News Brief: 10/18/23

Jordan, Egypt Don’t Accept Gaza Refugees; 1 Million Face Uncertainty

Hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians faced an uncertain future Wednesday in wartorn Gaza after Jordan’s king Jordan told them they weren’t welcome in Jordan or Egypt.

Biden admin set to allow Iran UN sanctions on ballistic missile program to expire: ‘Huge victory for Tehran’

The Hamas war against Israel is slated to be given a potent shot in the arm if the U.S. and its European allies allow U.N. sanctions to be lifted on Iran’s capability to purchase and supply missiles to enemies of the U.S. and Israel, according to experts on Tehran.

Protesters Storm Israeli Embassy In Jordan; Fires Seen

Protesters have stormed the Israeli Embassy in Jordan’s capital, Amman, as violence broke out throughout the Middle East, and witnesses said they attempted to torch the building.

Latest World News Headlines

Jordanian King says Mideast on brink of “abyss” but Gazan refugees cannot flee to Jordan – October 17, 2023

UNSC rejects Russian resolution on Israel-Hamas war which does not condemn Hamas  – October 17, 2023

Belgian Police Kill Suspected Islamist Gunman; ‘Attack Possible Linked To Gaza Conflict’ – October 17, 2023

Iran can’t access $6 billion from hostage deal, Biden official tells Dems – October 16, 2023

Man Shouting “Allahu Akbar” Kills Two In Brussels – October 16, 2023

Poland Opposition Claims Victory In Elections – October 16, 2023

Iran: US ‘can NOT renege’ on deal to transfer $6 billion through Qatar for hostages – October 15, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Lebanon Rockets Target Israel As Frontlines Spread

With sirens wailing in northern Israel, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said Wednesday that “nine rocket launches from Lebanon” were detected.

US, Israel Agree On Limited “Life-Saving” Aid To Gaza

U.S. President Joe Biden said Wednesday that Israel had agreed to let “life-saving” humanitarian aid into Gaza, but the Jewish nation’s government made clear it was limited in scope and would be allowed only to enter from Egypt.

Latest Israel News Headlines

IDF says Hamas terrorists may be hiding in Israel’s Negev desert – October 18, 2023

PA to give families of Hamas terrorists nearly $3 million in “pay for slay” scheme – October 18, 2023

US President Joe Biden Praises Israel’s Bravery And Blames Militants For Hospital Massacre – October 18, 2023

Israel Prepares for Biden’s Arrival as the War with Hamas Continues – October 17, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

US Defense Department to pay $1.8 in settlement of vaccine mandate cases

A Florida District Court has ordered the US Defense Department to pay $1.8 million in legal fees as settlement for two lawsuits that challenged a former requirement that all American troops be vaccinated against COVID-19, Military.com reports.

Jordan fails to win House speakership in second round of voting

Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, failed in the second round of voting in the House speaker election on the House floor Wednesday.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Republicans Fail to Elect Jim Jordan as House Speaker on First Ballot – October 17, 2023

House drafts bill to strike Iran proxies amid Israel-Hamas war – October 17, 2023

Trump is appealing gag order in 2020 election interference case – October 17, 2023

Israel war: Sixty-three Democrats demand Biden take stronger stance against Iran – October 17, 2023

U.S. selects roughly 2,000 troops for potential deployment to support Israel – October 16, 2023

Prior to recent attack on Israel, antisemitic incidents in US at historic levels – October 16, 2023

Biden to Push Israel, Ukraine Aid Package Well Over $2 Billion This Week – October 16, 2023

Breaking Christian News

India: Christians face intensified persecution, imprisonment

The International Christian Concern (ICC) aid organization reports that Christians in India’s Uttar Pradesh state are on high alert; emboldened by upcoming state elections, radicalized Hindus have intensified their attacks on believers, imprisoning a greater number of them. 

Jordan, Egypt Don’t Accept Gaza Refugees; 1 Million Face Uncertainty

Hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians faced an uncertain future Wednesday in wartorn Gaza after Jordan’s king Jordan told them they weren’t welcome in Jordan or Egypt.

Indonesia: Permit for Christian school withdrawn following pressure from Islamic groups

A Christian in school in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, has been told its permit will be withdrawn following pressure applied on local officials by Muslims, including members of the banned Islamic Defenders Front (IDF), Morning Star News (MSN) reports.

Latest Christian News Headlines

11 Church of England Bishops Reject Denominational Blessings for Same-Sex Couples – October 16, 2023

India: Radical Hindus attack, hospitalize Christians in Chhattisgarh state – October 16, 2023

Texas church reports “record-breaking” number of baptisms this year – October 12, 2023

Nigeria: Jihadists continue onslaught against Christians in Kaduna state, 30 abductions in one attack – October 12, 2023

Nepal: Pastor to spend year in jail for allegedly converting Hindus to Christianity – October 11, 2023

US Christian anti-trafficking ministry has rescued more than 40,000 women and children from sexual predators – October 11, 2023

Chinese government continues crackdown on Christianity – October 10, 2023

Weekly News Brief: 9/28/23

African leaders tell UNGA: Africa must be treated as a global partner, not sidelinedAfrican leaders delivered an unequivocal message to the UN General Assembly last week that Africa is a global power that deserves to be treated by the West as an equal partner and not sidelined as a charity case, the Associated Press reports.Mexico: Increased femicide rate directly related to organized crime, experts say

Lethal violence against women in Mexico has steadily increased in recent years, and experts believe that the phenomenon is directly related to Mexican militarization and organized crime, Global Citizen reports. According to data released by Mexico’s National Public Security System, 43,000 women were killed in the country between 2006 and 2021.Ethiopia: Tigray conflict has left more than 10,000 survivors of sexual violence

The UN-backed international commission of human rights experts on Ethiopia reported this week that the recent conflict in the country’s Tigray region has left at least 10,000 survivors of rape and sexual violence, the Associated Press reports. The commission added that all sides in the war had committed atrocities, including mass killings, rape, starvation, and destruction of schools and medical facilities.

Latest World News Headlines

20 Killed In Nagorno-Karabakh Depot Blast; Thousands Of Armenian Christians Flee (Worthy News In-Depth) – September 26, 2023Iran and Turkey’s proxies may back tribes against US in Syria – September 25, 2023Hungary Not Rushing To Back Sweden’s NATO Membership – September 25, 2023Belarus Jails Journalist Vyacheslau Lazarau For ‘Extremism’ – September 25, 2023Several Killed As Clashes Rock Kosovo Monastery – September 25, 2023Netherlands Asks Pakistan To Halt Death Threats Against Anti-Islam Politician, Judge – September 25, 2023France Withdraws Ambassador, Troops From Niger After Coup; Impact On Christians Unclear – September 25, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Germany, U.S. slam Netanyahu’s Middle East map presented at UNGerman Foreign Ministry spokesperson Sebastian Fischer on Monday, expressed the country’s reservations over a map exhibited by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his address to the UN General Assembly.‘2030 is when the merge happens,’ OpenAI president tells Netanyahu of coming man-machine merger

In a recent discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, OpenAI President Greg Brockman expressed his belief that 2029 will see the emergence of artificial general intelligence (AGI) — AI that reaches and then far surpasses human-level intelligence. He further stated that in 2030, humanity and artificial intelligence will merge.

Latest Israel News Headlines

IDF strikes Hamas post in Gaza after multiple provocations over Yom Kippur holiday – September 25, 2023WSJ: Israel cooperating with US on Saudi bid to enrich uranium – September 24, 2023Saudis: Peace must include Palestinian state, east Jerusalem as capital – September 24, 2023Israel unveils IDF’s new AI-powered ‘Barak’ super tank – September 24, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Federal judge rules Texas ‘drag ban’ unconstitutionalA bill conservative Texas lawmakers said they passed to protect children from obscene drag performances is an unconstitutional restraint on speech, a federal judge ruled Tuesday.

North Carolina passes bipartisan bill requiring age verification for access to pornography websitesWith overwhelming bipartisan support, the North Carolina Legislature passed a bill Thursday that requires age verification on websites that publish pornography and other material considered harmful to minors under the age of 18, the Associated Press (AP) reports.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Federal court strikes down California ban on gun magazines for second time – September 26, 2023Credit card losses are rising at the fastest pace since the Great Financial Crisis – September 26, 2023Congress faces looming government shutdown – September 25, 2023Biden makes border history with most immigrant encounters in August ever recorded – September 24, 2023Biden issues veto threat against DHS funding bill – September 24, 2023Newsom Vetoes Bill Allowing Judges To Consider Whether A Parent ‘Affirms’ Child’s Gender Identity During Custody Disputes – September 24, 2023Pro-life group warns federal 15-week abortion ban may pressure states to ‘water down’ restrictions – September 24, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Less than half of religious refugees can gain U.S. entry, Christian groups report

The U.S. is no longer a “safe haven” for people fleeing religious persecution, according to a new report noting massive declines in U.S. arrivals by Christian, Jewish and Muslim refugees, among others.‘50,000 Mosques Closed In Iran’ As Christianity Spreads

Recent comments by a senior Iranian cleric that around 50,000 of Iran’s 75,000 mosques are closed highlight the growth of Christianity in Iran and disillusion with “the regime’s use of Islam to justify its authoritarian rule,” a prominent human rights activist told Worthy News on Monday.India: More than 500 attacks Hindu nationalist attacks against Christians recorded in 2023

There have been 525 attacks by Hindu nationalists against Christians across India this year alone, Christian Today (CT) reports. Ruled by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, India ranks 11TH on the US Open Doors World Watch List 2023 of the top 50 countries where Christians are persecuted.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Nigeria: Fulani herdsmen continue slaughter of Christians – September 25, 2023Mozambique: 11 Christians murdered by Islamic State-affiliated terrorists, “only prayer can sustain us” – September 25, 2023India: Pastor kept in jail for 23 days on anti-conversion charges with no witnesses – September 25, 2023Over 1,000 students attend Texas A&M Corpus Christi worship event; 124 baptized – September 22, 2023California Baptist church considering AI to protect itself against shooters – September 21, 2023Pakistan Christian Couple Longer In Jail Despite Doubts Over Blasphemy – September 21, 2023India: Christian orphanage denied renewed operating permit in Madhya Pradesh state – September 20, 2023

Weekly News Brief: 9/20/23

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

Azerbaijan says it broke through Armenian military lines in Nagorno-Karabakh

The Azerbaijani military on Tuesday broke through lines of Armenian troops in Nagorno-Karabakh in an effort to drive Armenian forces out of the region, Reuters reports. While Nagorno-Karabakh is internationally recognized as Azerbaijani territory, its mostly ethnic Armenian population claims the area is their ancestral homeland and has actively resisted Azerbaijani control of it for over 100 years.

U.N. chief warns A.I. may lead world into ‘more danger than we can control’

World leaders should quickly consider creating a global organization akin to the International Atomic Energy Agency to address both the benefits and the dangers of artificial intelligence — specifically, those associated with the fast-emerging realm of “generative A.I.” capable of creating text, images and videos.

European Union suspends aid to Somalia after UN reports widespread theft

The European Union has temporarily halted its funding for the World Food Program (WFP) in Somalia after a United Nations investigation revealed widespread theft of aid intended for Somalis facing famine, Reuters reported. The European Commission received donations of over $1 billion last year, and gave around $7 million in aid to the WFP in Somalia.

Latest World News Headlines

Afghanistan: Taliban detain 18 members of international humanitarian aid NGO – September 19, 2023

Ukraine To Sue Neighbors Over Grain Ban – September 19, 2023

Russia Defends Invasion Of Ukraine At UN Court – September 19, 2023

India Expels Canada Diplomat Over Murder Row – September 19, 2023

Five Americans Jailed In Iran Fly Home – September 18, 2023

Russia Firing Nuclear-Capable Cruise Missiles Near US – September 18, 2023

Summit Appeals For More Children As Demographic Winter Hits Industrialized World – September 18, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Israel Pro-Life Leaders, Lay People to Gather at First National Prayer Event for Unborn During ‘Ten Days of Awe’

Pro-life leaders in Israel will hold a first-ever “National Prayer for Life” event in central Israel this Friday during the “Ten Days of Awe” between the Jewish Feast of Trumpets holiday and the Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur, which begins Sunday evening.

Israelis Object as UNESCO Declares Biblical Jericho a ‘Palestinian Heritage Site’

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) has declared ancient Jericho as a “Palestinian Heritage” site, and some say that eradicates the biblical connection to the city.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Saudi-backed EU venture aims to incentivize Israeli-Palestinian peace – September 19, 2023

Wartime Pope Knew Of Holocaust, Letter Shows – September 19, 2023

Netanyahu talks to Elon Musk about antisemitism on X, AI – September 18, 2023

Israel is still ‘Palestine’ on Saudi Arabia’s new map despite peace talks – September 18, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

US household income fell in 2022 for third straight year, Census data shows

American households’ income fell last year as their cost of living jumped higher than it has in over four decades amid soaring inflation and marking the third straight annual decline since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

House fails to advance defense spending bill as government shutdown looms

The House voted against beginning debate on its annual defense appropriations bill, failing to overcome a key procedural hurdle to advance the must-pass legislation through the lower chamber by the end of this week.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

US national debt hits $33T for first time in history – September 19, 2023

Biden admin unleashes 50-year mining, oil drilling ban across thousands of acres in New Mexico – September 19, 2023

McCarthy Aims for 8% Spending Cut, Border Wall in Bid to Avoid Gov’t Shutdown – September 18, 2023

Trump Faces Big Rift with Pro-Lifers After Opposing Heartbeat Laws – September 18, 2023

Uncommitted Christians causing ‘catastrophic decline in biblical worldview in America’: Barna – September 18, 2023

McCarthy announces formal Biden impeachment inquiry – September 17, 2023

Texas AG Paxton acquitted on all 16 articles of impeachment – September 17, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Iran: House-church pastor begins 10-year prison sentence for “disturbing” Islam

An Iranian-Armenian pastor began a 10-year prison sentence in Iran yesterday, after being found guilty of engaging in “propaganda contrary to and disturbing to the holy religion of Islam” through his leading of a house church in Tehran, the Article 18 religious freedom NGO reports.

Uganda: Evangelist murdered after leading Muslims to Christ

A 33-year old evangelist was beaten to death by Islamic extremists in eastern Uganda, right after he led Muslims to faith in Christ at a Gospel event on September 6, Morning Star News (MSN) reports. The killing was the latest of numerous acts of deadly violence committed against Christians in Uganda by Islamic extremists.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Nigeria: Campaign of brutal terror against Christians continues relentlessly – September 19, 2023

Nigeria: Pastor of Evangelical church and two other Christians kidnapped in Plateau state – September 18, 2023

Pakistan: Christian couple detained, charged with blasphemy in Punjab Province – September 18, 2023

Pakistan Police Detain Pastor Over Shooting – September 17, 2023

Indonesia: West Sumatra church congregation threatened by neighbors – September 14, 2023

Nigeria: Fulani terrorists murder 37 Christians in Plateau state, “the siege against Christian communities continues without abating” – September 14, 2023

‘Revival At US Auburn University Sparks Massive Baptisms’ – September 13, 2023

Weekly News Brief: 9/13/23

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

Scientists successfully grow human kidneys inside pig embryos

Scientists in China have successfully grown early-stage human kidneys inside pig embryos, in research that may one day contribute to the supply of much-needed human organs for transplant patients, Live Science reports.

North Korea’s Kim supports Russia as Ukraine hits Black Sea Fleet (Worthy News Radio)

North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, has made clear he backs Russia’s invasion of Ukraine during a Wednesday summit with President Vladimir Putin. The two met to discuss military cooperation despite U.S. warnings and amid reports that Ukraine had attacked the home base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet in Crimea.

‘It Will Free up $6B for Terrorism’: Biden Admin Cuts a Deal with Iran for 5 US Hostages

The U.S. is one step closer to a deal to release five Americans held captive by the Iranian regime.

Latest World News Headlines

EU President Seeks Global Digital ID and AI Authority – September 12, 2023

Thousands Killed In Libya Flooding – September 12, 2023

Trafficking of dangerous methamphetamine drug is skyrocketing in Afghanistan, UN report – September 12, 2023

Dutch Court Gives Pakistani Ex-Cricketer 12 Years Jail For Threatening Anti-Islam Leader – September 12, 2023

Morocco Earthquake Death Toll Nearing 3,000 – September 12, 2023

Ethiopia hails new phase in disputed Blue Nile dam project – September 11, 2023

African Union is joining the G20, a powerful acknowledgement of a continent of 1 billion people – September 11, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Israeli High Court To Decide Fate of Netanyahu’s Cancellation of the ‘Reasonableness Standard’

In a rare televised hearing before an unprecedented 15-judge panel, the Israeli High Court of Justice is set to rule on the legality of the Netanyahu government’s cancellation of the “reasonableness standard,” passed in late July.

Israel has thwarted 27 terror attacks by Iran in 2023, “the time has come to exact a price” Mossad chief says

Announcing that Israel has foiled 27 terror attacks by Iran this year alone, the head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency warned Sunday that if any Jew is harmed at the hands of the Iranians, there will be a price to pay “from deep inside Tehran,” i24News reports. The Iranian Mullah regime has long threatened to wipe Israel off the face of the earth.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Iran building terror airport next to Israel, Defense Minister Gallant reveals – September 11, 2023

Mossad chief vows to target Iran’s ‘highest echelon’ if Israelis, Jews hurt in terror – September 11, 2023

Paris strips Abbas of top medal: ‘You justified the extermination of Europe’s Jews’ – September 10, 2023

Archaeologists uncover longest continuous section of 2nd Temple-era aqueduct – September 10, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

SCOTUS will likely have to weigh in on gender-altering medical treatments for minors, experts say

Amid a flurry of court cases initiated by US trans activists and conservatives who oppose each other on the issue of gender-altering medical treatments for minors, legal experts have concluded that the matter will eventually have to be decided by the United States Supreme Court (SCOTUS), CBN News reports.

Supreme Court to Decide Whether to Kick Trump Off Ballot

The legal debate about whether or not former President Donald Trump should be allowed to appear on the 2024 ballot has made its way before the Supreme Court.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Chicago plans to house influx of migrants in massive military grade tents – September 12, 2023

California passes bill requiring judges to consider whether parents affirm child’s gender identity in custody cases – September 12, 2023

Republicans ponder a replacement for the term ‘pro-life’ – September 11, 2023

States battle over whether parents should be informed on their children’s gender choices – September 11, 2023

Over 215,000 apprehended by Border Patrol agents at southern border in August – September 11, 2023

Biden Under Fire As Tearful US Remembers 9/11 – September 11, 2023

California Assembly names August ‘Transgender History Month,’ becomes nation’s first official recognition – September 10, 2023

Breaking Christian News

36 North Carolina congregations settle disaffiliation lawsuit with United Methodist Church

Thirty-six North Carolina congregations who are separating from the United Methodist Church have resolved a lawsuit they filed against the UMC and will now be able leave the denomination according to a disaffiliation plan approved by church leaders in 2019, the Religion News Service (RNS) reports.

Nigeria: Islamic terrorists kill two Christians, kidnap six in Taraba state

Islamic terrorists murdered two Christians and kidnapped six others in Nigeria’s Taraba state on Sunday, as the years-long genocidal onslaught on Nigerian Christians by Muslim extremists continues unabated, Morning Star News (MSN) reports. With well over 50,000 Christians murdered since 2009, rights groups, US Open Doors, have ranked Nigeria number one in the world for Christians killed on account of their faith.

Beaten Pakistani Christian Activist Dead At 37

Pakistani Christian human rights activist Samuel Inayat, who was in urgent need of a kidney transplant after Muslim extremists beat him, has died, his family told Worthy News on Saturday.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Nigeria Seminarian Burned To Death; Others Kidnapped – September 10, 2023

Pakistan Christian Boy ‘Tortured’ For ‘Blasphemy’; Couple Detained – September 10, 2023

Nepal sees growing violent hostility toward Christians – September 7, 2023

Four Pakistani Youth Face Death Sentence For ‘Blasphemy’ – September 7, 2023

China: CCP continues crackdown on churches – September 7, 2023

Indonesia: House church threatened by Muslim extremists with machete – September 7, 2023

Iraq: Five men sentenced to life imprisonment for killing American Christian – September 7, 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 6/21/23

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

UN Chief: ‘Link Bank Accounts To IDs Globally’

The United Nations secretary general wants to introduce a worldwide digital identity document (ID) system linked to individuals’ bank accounts.

Hungary Receives Ukrainian POWs Sparking Outcry

The arrival of 11 Ukrainian prisoners of war in Hungary freed by Russia in a church-mediated deal without Ukraine’s knowledge has led to tensions between Kyiv and Budapest.

Beijing and Havana in talks about joint military base in northern Cuba

China and Cuba are in talks over building a joint military training facility in northern Cuba that could lead to Beijing having permanently stationed troops close to the United States, thus also expanding the scope for espionage activity, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday. The facility would be located just 100 miles from the US mainland.

Latest World News Headlines

Russia hopes to sign free trade agreement with Iran by end of year – June 20, 2023

Titanic Submarine Goes Missing; Rescue Launched – June 19, 2023

Austria Foils Islamist Attack Against Pride Parade – June 19, 2023

Pakistan Mourns Migrant Shipwreck Deaths As Greece Prosecutes Smugglers – June 19, 2023

Israeli Scientists create synthetic human embryos from stem cells, without an egg or sperm – June 19, 2023

U.S. sends F-22 fighters to Middle East amid ‘unsafe’ Russian behavior in Syria – June 19, 2023

Russia Confirms First Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Belarus (Worthy News Radio) – June 18, 2023

Breaking Israel News

Israel Kills Islamic Jihad Terrorists in Fiery Jenin Raid; Media Fails to Report the Full Facts

The Israeli military launched a counter-terrorism raid in the West Bank city of Jenin on Sunday to arrest terrorists planning deadly attacks against civilians in Israel.

Germany to pay $1.4 billion to Holocaust survivors next year, “this suffering is still being felt deeply”

Continuing its commitment to making reparations for the Holocaust, Germany is set to pay $1.4 billion in 2024 to fund welfare programs and one-time direct compensation payments to survivors, USA Today reports. 

Latest Israel News Headlines

Netanyahu says Israel opposes nuclear ‘mini-agreements’ with Iran – June 19, 2023

Israel unveils first-ever hypersonic missile interceptor – June 19, 2023

Saudi Arabia demands own nuclear program in exchange for ties with Israel – June 19, 2023

Netanyahu: US Pushing for ‘Small’ Iran Nuclear Deal, State Dept Denies – June 15, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Federal judge strikes down Arkansas ban on transgender treatments for minors

A federal judge on Tuesday struck down Arkansas’s ban on transgender-related treatments for minors, including hormone treatments, puberty blockers, or sex reassignment surgeries.

SCOTUS punts on Christian college’s challenge to Biden transgender housing directive

The Supreme Court on Tuesday opted against hearing a Christian college’s challenge to a Biden administration rule that it says infringed on its policy of separating its residence halls by biological sex.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Hunter Biden Pleads Guilty In Deal To Avoid Jail – June 20, 2023

Biden Admin Misses Deadline to Reveal Intelligence Findings on COVID-19 Origins – June 20, 2023

John Durham to Testify on Capitol Hill This Week – June 19, 2023

Vietnam Whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg Dies At 92 – June 19, 2023

Gross national debt hits $32 trillion for first time in U.S. history – June 19, 2023

Iowa Supreme Court blocks six-week abortion ban – June 19, 2023

Federal judge blocks much of Indiana’s ban on gender-transition care for minors – June 19, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Nigeria: Fulani murder 46 Christians in Benue state, “the whole land is thrown into wailing and mourning”

Nigeria’s government came under renewed fire for doing nothing to end the ongoing jihadist slaughter of Christians in the country after Fulani jihadist herdsmen murdered 46 Christians in Benue state earlier this month, Morning Star News (MSN) reports. Islamic jihadists have murdered well over 50,000 Christians in Nigeria since 2009, killing 5,014 last year alone.

Freed US Missionary ‘In Hell’ During Captivity

An evangelical American missionary recently freed after more than six years of captivity by Islamic extremists said Monday he had endured hell in part because he refused to convert to Islam.

Christian Teaching Assistant Wins Appeal Against Sacking Over Transgender Views

A Christian teaching assistant who lost her job in England after publicly opposing transgender books in primary schools has won an appeal in a case seen as crucial for “freedom of belief and freedom of expression,” her advocates told Worthy News.

Latest Christian News Headlines

Indonesian Mayor Opens His Office For Church After Muslim Protests – June 18, 2023

Islamists Kill Dozens of Students In Uganda – June 18, 2023

Indonesia: Muslim protesters prevent church from holding services in rented room – June 15, 2023

Nigeria: Fulani terrorists murder 21 people, including a pastor, in coordinated attacks in Plateau state – June 13, 2023

Manipur, India: Hindu extremists are committing “genocide” against Christians in tribal conflict, Christian leader says – June 13, 2023

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

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; 5/10/23

Breaking World News

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

Russian President Says Nation In War With West

Russian President Vladimir Putin used a Victory Day speech on Tuesday to warn that “a war has been unleashed” against Russia in what seemed an attempt to prepare the nation for a change in the narrative about Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. So far, the Kremlin has described its battle against Ukraine only as no more than a “special military operation” aimed at defending Russian interests but limited in scope.

Cleric Lynched In Pakistan Over Muhammad Remarks

An Islamic cleric has been beaten to death by a Muslim mob in northwestern Pakistan after comparing a political candidate to Islam’s prophet Muhammad, Worthy News learned Tuesday.

China: Changsu city to pay public sector workers entirely in digital yuan

As part of a new phase in promoting China’s currency, the Chinese city of Changsu in Jiangsu province has confirmed it will start paying its public sector employees entirely in digital yuan, Asia Nikkei reports.

Latest World News Headlines

Russia Launches Huge Drone Attack On Ukraine – May 9, 2023

Dutch Government Apologizes For Groningen Earthquakes (Worthy News Radio) – May 9, 2023

Myanmar: Military junta releases over 2,000 political prisoners but many thousands, including Christians, remain imprisoned – May 9, 2023

US providing Ukraine $1.2B in military aid ahead of expected spring offensive against Russia – May 9, 2023

Russia’s Wagner Group Stays In Bakhmut, As Ukraine ‘Launches Attacks’ (Worthy News Radio) – May 8, 2023

Senior US official in Saudi Arabia to discuss massive rail project with UAE, India – May 8, 2023

Britain’s King Charles III Crowned – May 7, 2023

Breaking Israel News

‘No terrorist is immune’: Netanyahu says Gaza fighting could last days

After a tense day following Israel’s initiated Shield and Arrow to eliminate Islamic Jihad’s high command in the Gaza Strip, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned on Tuesday that any escalation on the Palestinians’ part will be “answered with a decisive response.”

Thousands evacuated from Gaza border to Dead Sea hotels

Thousands of Sderot residents were evacuated from the city Tuesday evening, accompanied by members of the Home Front Command as part of Mashav Ruach (Breeze) program, a response to Operation Shield and Arrow launched by the Israel Defense Forces early in the morning. The first phase of the evacuation included hundreds of families leaving on 25 buses. Most of them traveled to hotels in the Dead Sea.

Latest Israel News Headlines

Israeli Defense Systems In Wartorn, Ukraine – May 10, 2023

Israeli Eliminates Senior Gaza Terror Leaders in ‘Operation Shield and Arrow’ – May 9, 2023

Hezbollah builds 27 new bases in Lebanon under cover of fake NGO – May 9, 2023

New polls show Gantz still ahead of Netanyahu and Lapid – May 8, 2023

Breaking U.S. News

Biden under pressure as McCarthy, McConnell align on spending reforms tied to debt limit increase

President Biden is under pressure to negotiate with congressional Republicans over the debt limit as House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell align on spending reforms in exchange for a debt limit increase.

Jury: ‘Ex-President Trump Sexually Abused Columnist’; Trump Denies Charges

A Manhattan jury comprised of six men and three women concluded Tuesday that former U.S. President Donald J. Trump “sexually abused” a columnist and also held him financially liable for “defaming” her.

Latest U.S. News Headlines

Children Among Victims Of Texas Mall Shooting – May 9, 2023

White House says Congress must ‘get to work’ on raising debt ceiling – May 9, 2023

Abbott activates ‘Texas Tactical Border Force,’ 545 more National Guardsmen deployed before Title 42 expires – May 9, 2023

Arizona school district reinstates evangelical student-teachers after Christian university files religious discrimination suit – May 9, 2023

Seven Killed In US As Car Hits Migrants – May 8, 2023

‘Man Who Killed Eight At Mall Identified’ – May 8, 2023

Several Fatalities, Nine Injured In Texas Mall Shooting – May 7, 2023

Breaking Christian News

Nigeria: Two Christian girls abducted by Boko Haram rescued after 9 years in captivity

Two young Christian women in Nigeria have been rescued after being abducted by Boko Haram terrorists over nine years ago, International Christian Concern (ICC) reports.

India: Six killed and 25 churches burned down in Hindu nationalist violence

At least six people were killed and 25 churches burned down during Hindu nationalist violence in India’s Manipur state this month, Christian Headlines (CH) reports.

India: Dramatic escalation of violence in Manipur, 58 dead, 50 churches burned

Christian leaders in India’s Manipur state have accused the Hindu nationalist government of supporting the violent attacks carried out by ethnic Hindu Meitei rioters, which began last week, and which have now resulted in the destruction of 50 churches and the deaths of 58 people, many of whom were Christians, the Christian Post (CP) reports. 

Latest Christian News Headlines

UK: Court rules against Christian parent who claims primary school indoctrinates small children in LGBT issues – May 9, 2023

‘Raise the Alarm’: How Artificial Intelligence Could Further Terrorize Persecuted Christians Across the Globe – May 8, 2023

Thousands Of Christians Flee Deadly Attacks In India; Churches Torched – May 5, 2023

National Day of Prayer to reach 110 million households: ‘We’re praying for an awakening in America’ – May 5, 2023

Presbyterian Church USA sees ongoing decline in membership, new report shows – May 4, 2023

Christian evangelists at Boston’s SatanCon claim about 100 people converted: ‘We’re in a battle’ – May 4, 2023

US Commission on International Religious Freedom publishes annual report, lists worst violators – May 3, 2023