Euro: It's More Than Just a Pretty Penny
In the biggest currency swap in history, more than 300 million Europeans in 12 countries will start using the euro as their day-to-day money on Tuesday, irrevocably casting their old marks, francs, lire, pesetas and other national currencies into the trash can of history. This IHT article is submitted for your mark of the beast files. While certainly not the mark, currency consolidation is but one of many market adjustments and infrastructure upgrades needed for the mark to become a practical reality.

Malka: Iraq To Target Israel if U.S. Attacks
The Jerusalem Post is reporting that outgoing OC Intelligence Maj.-Gen. Amos Malka warned yesterday that if Iraq's Saddam Hussein feels an American strike aims to topple his regime, then he would likely order an attack on Israel. "The strategic warning we give is that, if the Americans decide to attack Iraq in a way that would appear as a strike aimed at toppling the regime as it did in Afghanistan, then the probability that Saddam Hussein will try to involve us is high," Malka said. Submitted for your Jerusalem surrounded files.

Natural Disasters Kill 25,000 Worldwide in 2001
Reuters reports that natural disasters caused at least 25,000 deaths worldwide in 2001, more than double the previous year, the world's largest reinsurer said on Friday. Putting total economic losses at $36 billion, Munich Re said catastrophes related to extreme weather were a result of continued global climate change. It said the 2001 figures -- with 14,000 people killed in an earthquake in India in January alone -- compared with 10,000 deaths the previous year and losses of around $30 billion. Storms and floods dominated this year's statistics, contributing more than two thirds to the 700 major disasters and causing 91 percent of all insured natural disaster losses, Munich Re said. Submitted for your fearful events files.

India and Pakistan Add to War Footing
Tensions continue to rise between the two nuclear rivals over the disputed Kashmir region. The New York Times reports that India has moved short-range ballistic missiles to the border with Pakistan. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

One in Four U.S. Internet Users Seek Spiritual Info Online
One out of four adult American Internet users have sought out religious or spiritual information online, according to a study released Dec. 23 by the Pew Internet and American Life Project. Up from 2 million last year, the number is now more than 3 million - more popular than other online activities such as banking, gambling or stock trading, as reported by Reuters, and Yahoo! News. The numbers are sure to increase as more churches and missionary efforts go online. Submitted for your gospel preached to all files.

Solar Flares, Auroras, the Moon and Saturn
An explosion on the Sun yesterday triggered a solar proton storm around our planet and hurled a bright coronal mass ejection (CME) into space. Although the fast-moving (~1100 km/s) CME was not squarely Earth-directed, it could deliver a glancing blow to Earth's magnetosphere as early as Dec. 28th Universal Time - that is, Thursday night for North Americans, Friday morning for Europeans. NOAA forecasters estimate a 10% chance of severe geomagnetic storms at middle latitudes when the expanding cloud sweeps past Earth. Sky watchers along the northern tier of US states (and similar latitudes) should be alert for auroras during the nights ahead. And, if you find yourself outdoors aurora watching before dawn on Friday morning, look also for a close encounter between the nearly-full Moon and Saturn. The Moon will completely hide the ringed planet from observers in North America. Submitted for your signs in the sun, moon and stars files.

Viral Outbreak in Central Africa Causes Concern for Missions Agency
Gospel.Com cites a report from Mission Network News that despite stepped-up border controls, an outbreak of the Ebola virus has spread from Gabon to neighboring Republic of Congo. Authorities on both sides of the border fear the disease is likely to spread and restrict movement between the two central African nations. Christians in the area are trying to help in any way they can. "I think it has caused the churches to become more concerned, involved in prayer for their country, and I think we need to pray that the Spirit, and an attitude of prayer, would increase just for the sake of the spiritual warmth of the church," a MNN representative said. Submitted for your pestilence and gospel preached to all files.

Christmas Fills China with Joy, Wireless Messages
CNN reports that the Chinese embraced the Christmas spirit this year, sending up to six times the average number of short messages over computers and cell phones. While I hardly call that embracing the true Christmas spirit, it seems the marketeers are succeeding in their effort to ensnare China in capitalist consumerism. While this may be cleverly subversive to China's neo-communist ideology, it is hardly a positive development in such a spiritually impoverished country. Submitted for your wired world/global village files.

Diplomatic Pressure Builds on India & Pakistan
CNN is reporting that with Pakistan's army on high alert -- its medium range missiles deployed and army mobilized -- and with India placing reinforcements along its border, U.S. diplomats are working urgently to avoid the situation from escalating. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Big Troop Buildup Mounted by India and Pakistan
The New York Times is reporting that both countries are mounting large-scale troop buildups along their border in response to rising antagonism since a suicide attack this month on India's Parliament. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Israelis Enter Jordan After Shooting
CNN is reporting that Israeli troops have crossed the Jordan River in pursuit of gunmen who killed one Israeli and wounded two others. For your rumor of war and Jerusalem surrounded files.

India and Pakistan on High Alert
India and Pakistan have put their border troops on high alert as the two South Asian foes trade accusations over this month's suicide attack on the parliament in New Delhi. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Hubble Sends Seasons Greetings from the Cosmos to Earth
Spectacular new space images of the Ghost Head Nebula from the Hubble Space Telescope, just in time for Christmas. Submitted for your signs in the stars files.

Israeli Pullouts Raise Glimmer of Hope in Mideast
According to this Washington Post article, there is a glimmer of hope for peace in the Mideast. Right, sure, until the next suicide bombing.

Microchips Under the Skin Offer ID, Raise Questions
A Reuters report on privacy concerns rising from new identity verification technology. According to the report, Applied Digital will soon begin marketing its implantable VeriChip in South America and Europe, initially as a means to convey information about medical devices to doctors, though the company has plans for future versions designed emit a tracking beacon or serve as a form of personal identification. FDA approval is being sought to market the chip in the United States. Submitted for your mark of the beast files.

Some 100,000 Central American Children Face Hunger
Reuters is reporting that natural disasters and economic crises have left more than 100,000 Central American children malnourished and at risk of starvation in coming months. Submitted for your famine files.

Billy Graham To Be Knighted
Graham is to receive an honorary KBE for his contributions to international religious life. Submitted for your gospel preached to all files.

For Nervous Online Shoppers, a Virtual Credit Card
Some e-commerce news for your mark files.

AOL to Buy Europe Stake
The worlds largest Internet service provider is about to get even larger. Submitted for your world community files.

Bush to Arafat: Rout Out Terrorists
Pressure is building on Arafat to finally deliver on his promise to combat terrorism within Palestinian ranks. An interesting situation, as many consider Arafat and the PLA to be terrorists. Submitted for your war files and your Jerusalem surrounded files.

Rumsfeld Warns of Messy War
An interesting headline, as if war is ever neat and clean. Submitted for your war files.

Jerusalem Suicide Bombers Kill 10
In the latest terrorist attack to hit Israel, a suicide bomber killed at least 10 people. A car bomb exploded moments later, timed to go off as rescue workers arrived at the scene.

Christian Allies of Bush Attack Islam
Attack Islam, whatever for, it's a religion of peace, harmony, and love. Even for infidels, really.

U.S. Bombs Iraqi Air Defense Site
Iraq continues to challenge the no-fly zones, prompting an attack by U.S. and British jets. Submitted for your war files.

40m Living With HIV
And in case you were wondering, HIV is still an epidemic and shows no signs of going away, particularly in developing countries that can't afford treatment and education programs. Submitted for your pestilence files.

Cops Bust Intl Kid-Porn Ring
It is really hard to imagine this sort of thing, maybe it is best not to try and just be glad the cops were on the case. Submitted for your wickedness increases files.

Cops Bust Intl Kid-Porn Ring
It is really hard to imagine this sort of thing, maybe it is best not to try and just be glad the cops were on the case. Submitted for your wickedness increases files.

Christian Leader: Pray to Convert Muslims
The leader of the Southern Baptists is calling on that denominations 16 million members to pray for the conversion of Muslims to Christianity. Submitted for your gospel preached to all files.

AOL Subscriptions Swell to 32 Million
The worlds largest ISP has grown even larger. Submitted for your world community files.

Iraq Defies U.S. Over Arms Inspections
There is increasing speculation that Iraq will be the next target after the Afghan phase of the war is concluded. The U.S. is asking that Iraq allow UN weapons inspectors back into the country to search for weapons of mass destruction. Iraq, of course, refuses. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Mid-East Killings Overshadow Talks
Three Israelis were killed on Tuesday by Palestinian gunmen as a new U.S. peace mission gets underway. Submitted for your covenant with many files.

Patriotic, Religious Web Sites Fly High
According to CNN, the Presidential Prayer Team web page is a hit, receiving over 1 million visitors in October. Submitted for your gospel preached to all files.

Mideast Awaits Bush Policy Initiative
China Daily offers it's take on Mideast peace. Submitted for your covenant with many files.

Dont Be Surprised If Saddam Is Next
So, after the Afghan phase of the war is concluded, what next? This article from the New York Post suggests that the U.S. may choose to go after Saddam. Ya think? Submitted for your rumor of war files

U.S. Set to Retain Smallpox Stocks
Amid concerns over possible bio-terrorism, the U.S. has decided to keep smallpox stocks until new vaccines are created. Submitted for your pestilence files.

Proposed German Law Foresees Biometric IDs
Even as support for a national ID card erodes in the U.S., support has been increasing in Europe. This report from CNN notes that Germany could be the first country to mandate biometric ID cards as an antiterrorism measure.

Nigeria: Clergy Deplores State of Insecurity in Nigeria
A short article on the religious strife in Nigeria, submitted for your persecution files.

Bin Laden Nuke Claim Taken Seriously
More details on the rumors regarding bin Laden's nuclear capability. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

All Must Join Fight Against Terror, Bush Tells U.N
In his first address to the UN General Assembly, Bush rallied member states to the cause, saying that they must act in defense of civilization. If there is one body that represents the idea of world civilization, it is the UN, with the Charter representing the core values all member states have pledged to uphold. Of course, it's worth noting that the Taliban, Hamas, and Islamic Jihad are not members of the United Nations. Submitted for your war files.

New Anthrax Alert In US
An item for your pestilence and rumor of war files, more worries over anthrax.

Cybersecurity Czar Snubs ID plan, Defends Govnet
According to this CNN article, there is on support for a national ID card in the U.S., but there is support for a government intranet to protect sensitive computer networks. Submitted for your mark of the beast files.

DON?T MAKE ISRAEL THE FIRST CASUALTY The ignorance of those who blame Jewish intransigence
This is a well written essay on the current Mideast peace impasse and the desire among many to use the present emergency to pressure Israel. Submitted for your covenant with many files.

Terror Survivor Emerges as Christian Celebrity
An item for your gospel preached to all files, it seems there is a new celebrity on the missionary circuit.

We Put a Man on the Moon, But Try Finding Orions Belt
An item for your signs in the heavens files, this article from the New York Times notes that the aurora borealis were unusually bright this week, sighted as far south as Texas.

Powell Says Iraq May Be Next Target
An item for your rumor of war files, some educated guesses about the next phase of the war on terrorism.

Israel Seizes Palestinian Militants
And, the battle for Jerusalem continues as Israeli security forces continued to target Hamas leadership.

No Progress in Anthrax Probe As 4th Victim Dies
Anthrax has claimed another vicitim, while the authorities are not sure how she contracted the deadly disease.

No Progress in Anthrax Probe As 4th Victim Dies
Anthrax has claimed another vicitim, while the authorities are not sure how she contracted the deadly disease.

No Progress in Anthrax Probe As 4th Victim Dies
Anthrax has claimed another vicitim, while the authorities are not sure how she contracted the deadly disease.

Bush: Fear of bin Laden Nukes
One for your rumor of war files, at least I hope it is a rumor, that bin Laden has nukes, the small portable variety.

Church Massacre: 13 Arrested
That was fast work. I hope they did more than round up the usual suspects.

Hussein: War May Spread, Set World on Fire
A dire warning from the Butcher of Baghdad. This is an interesting situation, as we could interpret this as an attempt to assert leadership of the Islamic jihad, a reflection of his insecurity and fear that bin Laden and al Quida have stolen his thunder and undermined his role as champion of anti-Western forces. I bet he is actually hoping that the allied coalition will attack Iraq so he can rally his disaffected faithful.

Israel Makes Fresh Gaza Incursion
I think it's worth noting amid all the other distractions and rumors of war, that this is all really about Israel, and specifically Jerusalem. The military situation on the ground there is the real bellwether and sign to watch.

POLL: Most Americans Want U.S. to Go After Saddam Hussein
Is Iraq next? Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Yahoo! Enhances Messaging Service
An item for your wired world/global village files. I wonder if perhaps I'm the only one who has seen e-mail and IMs in that Rev prophecy?

Anthrax Scare at State Department
In but one of this days anthrax news stories, anthrax has been found at State Department mailroom. Submitted for your pestilence and rumor of war files.

CAL THOMAS: Bishop Doesnt Think Islam is Peaceful
An item for your persecution files, it seems not everyone agrees that Islam is a warm and huggy religion.

Israel Adds a Complication to Anti-Terror Diplomacy
Well, it's not like we couldn't see this coming a mile (or a few thousand years) away. How is it that the U.S. gets attacked by terroriists and now suddenly Israel is the bad guy for also fighting back?

Spacecraft Enters Orbit Around Mars
And something cool for your signs in the heavens files, NASA finally wins one on Mars. I guess the Mars Defense Forces were having a bad day.

Early Results Are Negative in White House Anthrax Tests
Hey, the President doesn't have anthrax. It's nice to get good anthrax news.

Israel Says Raid Nets Key Suspects
Israel defies U.S., the U.S. softens the tone of the "diplomatic language" while considering introducing a statement in the Security Council condemning Israel. As the saying goes, "with friends like these..."

New Planets Discovered with Solar System-Like Orbits
An item for your signs in the stars files. Eight new extrasolar planets have been discovered. I really love these space science news items.

Saddam Behind Anthrax Outbreak?
And even more info on the possible Saddam connection.

Saddam Criticizes Arab Nations in U.S. Airstrikes
Somehow, I knew we had not heard that last of him. There is even some evidence that a terrorist suspect met with an Iraqi diplomat in Prague in the months leading up to the Sept. 11th terrorist attacks.

Tensions Rise in Kashmir Upon Powells Arrival in India
It looks like these two nuclear rivals may be getting ready for a real fight.How's that for a rumor of war?

Sharon May Accept Palestinian State
Well, this is interesting, isn't it. Have they replaced Sharon with a clone?

Possible new threats may be linked to al Qaeda
An item for your rumor of war files, the FBI has announced a warning that new terrorist attacks may occur in the next few days.

Many Brits Check Off Jedi Knight for Religious Affiliation on Census Form
I can't help myself, it's a new religion. May the Farce be with you.

Experts Worry Over Tiny Nuclear Weapons
There have been rumors for years about missing Russian Cold War era "backpack nukes." Here is some updated info on what portable nuclear weapons may mean to the current conflict.

Al-Qaida Statement Calling Muslims to War
Here is the translation of the full text of the Al Qaida call for holy war against America and its allies.

Internet Hums After Afghanistan Strikes
This could be the world's first Internet war, in which people turn to the net as much as TV or newspapers to find out what is going on.

Signs of Fear, but Not More Anthrax, in Florida
Fear and anxiety over the possible use of anthrax as a weapon continues in Florida. No new cases have been found, authorities have said that this was definitely a malicious attack, though a link with the bin Laden terrorist network has not been established.

Full Text: Bin Ladens Fax
Want to know what bin Laden actually said yesterday? Here is the full text of his fax calling for a holy war against "Jewish and Christian" crusaders.

Viruses Could Make Email System Unusable
An item for your rumor of war files, cyberwar, that is.

Putin Calls for Ideological and Political Isolation of Terrorists
Some timely advice from our good friends, the Russians.

Six Arab States Offer Support
Some news on how the coalition building is going.

U.S. Could Hit Countries Besides Afghanistan
An item for your rumor of warfiles.

President Outlines Vision for New War
A New York Times review of President Bush's address to the Congress.

America Braces For War
For your war files, an article from the Economist on how America readies for war.

Coalition In Quotes
What world leaders have had to say about forming and joining a new international coalition against terrorism.

Pentagon Recommends Use of Nuclear Weapons
Well, this is certainly a sensational headline. I think it would be better to simply say that all options remain in the table.

U.S. Orders Planes to The Gulf
The first post-attack deployment has been ordered, the wheels of war have begun to move.

Iran Launches Missile Attack On Iraq
Call this one a rumor of war because MENL is the only news source that seems to be picking up this story.

Afghans Told to Prepare for Holy War
The latest war news. What would Yoda say about that headline? Wars not make one holy.

It has been said that the Palestinians are not in support of the anti-American terrorist acts. Arafat would have you believe that they are in sympathy with the victims and harbor no ill will towards Americans. Perhaps it would be instructive to look at Palestinian statements made before the terrorist attacks of last week.

A Palestinian Prayer
"Oh Allah, destroy America, for she is ruled by Zionist Jews... Allah will paint the White House black! ... The Muslims say to Britain, to France and to all the infidel nations that Jerusalem is Arab. We shall not respect anyone else's wishes regarding her. The only relevant party is the Islamic nation, which will not allow infidel nations to interfere... Allah shall take revenge on behalf of his prophet against the colonialist settlers who are sons of monkeys and pigs..." (Excerpts from the Friday sermon delivered by the PA-appointed "Mufti of Jerusalem and Palestine" Sheikh Ekrima Sabri at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount on July 11, 1997, broadcast over Voice of Palestine radio).

Congress Authorizes Use of 'All Necessary Force'
Well, it's official, or at least as official as it is going to be short of a formal declaration of war.

U.S. May Wage War on Islamic Militants
Some analysis from Stratfor on possible military options in response to the recent terror attacks. There is no doubt that a military response is coming, within days possibly, certain in the near future.

Sifting Through the News Deluge
As the amount of news generated by recent events has reached almost unprecedented levels, I want to highlight what I consider the four most significant developments in the last 12 hours: (1) a report from Israeli intelligence that Saddam Hussein funded the Bin Laden operation; (2) the solidarity of the NATO military alliance and the prospect of collective international action; (3) the report that there was a threat made to Air Force One as well as the White House, which add the prospect of an assassination attempt to the horrors we have already witnessed; and, (4) the attempt to forge a new international coalition around the goal of antiterrorism efforts. These news items suggest that the Gulf War, never formally concluded, is about to enter a decisive and final phase.

Israeli intelligence: Iraq financed bombings

NATO Allies Back United States

Bush, Possible Target, Calls Attacks 'Acts of War'

Israeli intelligence: Iraq financed bombings
It is a challenge to sift through all the news reports today of the aftermath of the terror attacks. One report stood out among the many, a report from the Middle East Newsline that Israeli intelligence believes that Saddam Hussein financed the Bin Laden operation. The report also suggests that America has informed it's ally that an attack on Iraq and Afghanistan is possible within days. Israeli intelligence believes this will lead to a regional war. Submitted for your war and fearful events files.

What an amazing day, a day of infamy, terror and tragedy. The one question I've been asked the most today in countless e-mails and IMs is: Does this have anything to do with Bible prophecy? Yes. The United States has given the world many gifts and played many different roles, but from the perspective of Bible prophecy, the U.S. has only one real role, and that is to be the defender and protector of Israel. The enemies of Israel hate the U.S. for performing this role. The days events are indeed of prophetic import in that they stem from the conflict over that people and that land that God has chosen and called His own. This was but a battle in the larger war for Jerusalem, the City of God.

News Summary from CNN
-- Sources tell CNN one of two planes that crashed into World Trade Center was an American Airlines 767.
-- President Bush calls plane crashes at World Trade Center a terrorist act.
-- White House evacuated.
-- Fire reported on National Mall in Washington.
-- CNN confirms a plane hit the Pentagon.
-- Significant fire at the Pentagon.
-- One of World Trade Center towers collapses; fire forces evacuation of State Department.
-- United Nations evacuated.
-- Car bombing at the State Department, The Associated Press reports.
-- Pentagon monitoring second suspected hijacked plane.
-- Fighter scrambled amid reports of second plane headed for Pentagon.
-- FAA diverting all U.S.-bound international flights to Canada.
-- Part of Pentagon collapses.
-- Second World Trade Center tower collapses in Manhattan.
-- NTSB confirms plane crashes near Pittsburgh.

News Summary:

Three planes crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City
within a span of one hour, beginning at 8:58 a.m..

The Pentagon has also been hit by a large plane and is being
evacuated. There was a huge fire ball.

The White House has been threatened with a terrorist attack and has
been evacuated. Federal Buildings in Washington have also been
evacuated.

All U.S. flights have been ordered to continue to their
destinations and all others have been grounded. Reuters said all
European flights into the United States have also been grounded.

Israel has evacuated their embassies all over the world.

President Bush evacuated to Air Force One.

American military installations on heightened defense condition.

Iraq Shoots Down U.S. Plane
Reminder, the Gulf War never officially ended. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Day of Terror
The U.S. is under terrorist attack. Planes hijacked by terrorists have crashed into and destroyed the World Trade Center, another crashed into the Pentagon, and there are reports of an explosion on the Mall in D.C. Federal offices and installations have been evacuated, President Bush has been evacuated to Air Force One, and American military installations are on a heightened defense condition. Details continue to emerge.

Despite Plan for Talks, Mideast Violence Explodes
And the violence goes on and on.

Israel to Hold High-Level Talks With Palestinians Despite Violence
An item for your covenant with many files, though I doubt the talks will be held.

Mad Cow Disease Spreads to Asia
An item for your pestilence files, it looks like mad cow disease is truly global in scope, having infected cows in Europe and the Americas, and now Asia.

Many Children Used Sexually, Study Reports
An item for your wickedness increases files.

The Positive Side of Biometrics
Have you been exposed to only the negative side of biometrics? Do you worry that you have not heard from the PR people in the industry? Does this keep you awake at night? Then never fear, Biometrics Digest has the answer, the warm and fuzzy side of biometrics, valiantly saving children and catching terrorists near you. Submitted for your mark of the beast files.

Afghan Taliban Shut Two More Christian Aid Agencies
The Taliban have shut down two more humanitarian relief agencies working in Afghanistan. IAM and SERVE are the latest to come under Taliban suspicion of promoting Christianity. Submitted for your persecution files.

Mideast Bid to Set Up Talks Between Arafat and Peres
It looks like next week might see a meeting between Peres and Arafat, probably to talk about how amazingly well the cease-fire is going.

Afghans to Try Foreign Aid Workers
It looks like the SNI aid workers will be put on trial by the Taliban. While they may face execution, most likely they will be deported. The Afghanis who worked with them and converted to Christianity, on the other hand, almost certainly will be executed. Submitted for your persecution files.

Missionary Shot Dead in Philippines
An item for your believers persecuted and gospel preached to all files.

U.S. Jets Attack Military Targets in Iraq
Another item for your war files, another day, another attack on Iraq.

Israeli Forces Take Over Arab Areas in West Bank
An item for your rumor of war and Jerusalem Strategic Area files, the latest Israeli move in the not-quite-a-ceasefire, not-quite-a-war situation in the Middle East.

Calls For Total Sharia In Nigeria
The imposition of Sharia in Nigeria would be very bad news for believers there. Submitted for your believers persecuted files.

Israel Tests Missile Defense System
An item for your files on the Jerusalem Strategic Area.

Colin Powell Backs Out of U.N. Racism Conference
I'm very happy to see the U.S. standing by Israel. To think that there is still so much international sentiment to declare Israel a racist country is just shocking. Did the world community learn nothing from WWII?

Iraq Shoots Down U.S. Spy Plane
If confirmed, this would be a first for Iraq. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Study Shows Religious Teenagers Have More Self-Esteem
An interesting news item for your gospel preached to all files.

NATO to Start Rebel Weapons Harvest
The most powerful military alliance in the world now has a new mission.

Israel Hits Palestinian Posts in Response to Deadly Raids
Pasestinains attack, Israel responds, and so it goes.

Airstrike Targets Iraqi Radar
An item for your rumor of war files, an allied airstrike on an Iraqi radar station may have wounded one person, according to Iraq.

West Nile Virus Feared Spreading
An item for your pestilence files.

Huge Indian Earthquakes Called Unavoidable
An item for your quake files, scientists predict a huge Indian quake at some point in the future.

Mega Asteroid Is A Record Breaker
An item for your signs in the heavens files, a giant asteroid discovered far out in the solar system.

Modern Missionaries
An item for your gospel preached to all and believers persecuted files, a look at missionary activity in Islamic countries, particularly Afghanistan.

Lawmakers Get First-Hand Look At Bioterrorist Target
A very scary item for your rumor of war and possibly famine files. The threat of agricultural bioterrorism is very real.

Eight Dead in Mid-East Attacks
The Palestinians went on the offensive today, no Israeli response yet, but it is certain.

Palestinians Abandon UN Resolution
Arafat has found he does not have quite as much international support as he had assumed. He also found that the U.S. is still firmly behind Israel. I think this also explains why he quickly ran off to China to huddle with his buddies there and drum up the support of a key member of the Security Council.

Taliban Minister Says Red Cross Can Meet Detainees
A glimmer of hope for the SNI aid workers arrested by the Taliban and charged with promoting Christianity. Let's pray the Red Cross is allowed to meet with them and that they are safe and will be released soon. Submitted for your believers persecuted files.

China Urges Restraint in M.East Before Arafat Talks
Sometimes there is a news item that really brings together strands of prophecy in a powerful way. The above link to a Reuters news story is one of them. Most people don't realize that China has strategic interests in the Middle East, has an ongoing relationship with Israel, and has been asked by Arafat to appoint a peace envoy to the region. Submitted for your covenant with many and kings from the East files.

Hubble Telescope Snaps Best Picture Yet Of Mars
An item for your signs in the heavens files, new Hubble pics of Mars. I really love astronomy, and though some would say this is not really a "sign" of anything, I'd suggest that technology has allowed us to see more of the heavens than ever before, and the heavens proclaim the glory of God.

Anger Over Face-Scanning Cameras
An item for your mark of the beast files, yet another article on the scan cam threat to civil liberties and personal privacy.

U.S. Determines Russia Still Helping Iranian Nukes
An item for your king of the north and Persia files. The Middle East Newsline is reporting that the U.S. has intel that Russia is continuing to help Iran acquire their own nuclear capability. I suppose we could also file this under our Jerusalem Strategic Area category.

Arabs Bash Israel in Security Council
Another item for your ten kings files, this one on how the UN has become a forum for anti-Israel sentiment. Actually, it always has been, but you know what I mean.

Security Council Members Urge Iraq to Cooperate on Issue of Missing Kuwaitis
An item for your ten kings files. Yes, I know, the UNSC has 15 members and only five really matter, but there are always calls to restructure the Council, so you never know.

Lebanese Court Releases Christians
I debated whether or not to post this under the persecution sign, since it is not really what we think of as persecution. Unlike the situation with the Taliban arrests of SNI aid workers, the situation here appears to be primarily political and not so much religious. That is to say, they are Christians in the same way Christian Democrats are Christian, it's a political identifier.

Sharon 'Offers New Peace Deal'
According to the BBC, Sharon has offered to negotiate a new cease-fire with the PLA. Another cease-fire. Well, stay tuned, maybe Arafat will accept this one.

Good for the Soul - And The Bottom Line
This Washington Post article notes the increase in what they call the new "spiritual economics" of corporate spirituality, or a "a quasi-religious movement, one without a god or theological foundation but filled with moral attitudes and guidelines common to all religions." This would seem to be an opportunity for Christians to share their faith alongside co-workers into yoga, meditation and other forms or neo-pagan spiritualism. On the other hand, it could also be a portent of the feel-good ecumenical religion many feel is the shape of religion in the future.

Wakf Digging May Have Damaged Southern Wall of Temple Mount
More evidence of damage due to PLA efforts to physically remove evidence of the Second Temple. It's a crime, against both God and archeology.

Rev. Moon Backs Fast by Catholic Archbishop's Wife
Some news on the Rev. Sun Myung Moon. Did you know that he claims to be the messiah? Submitted for your false Christ files.

Teenager Converts Bible Passages Into Text Messages
An item for your gospel preached to all files, taking the Bible to the masses, once text message at a time.

U.S. Concerned Over Libyan Missile Program
An item for your battle for Jerusalem files, some concerns about Libya's miliatary capabilities. It's always wise to pay attention to those Middle East countries specifically mentioned in prophecy.

Israel Thwarts New Bomb Attack
Israel foils another bomb attack by Islamic Jihad.

Arafat: Israel to build Third Temple on Al-Aksa site
Guess who is talking about the Third Temple - Sharon? Temple Mount Faithful? No, it's Yasser Arafat. Of course, he is talking about the Temple for his own propaganda purposes, but still, it's interesting.

Taliban Will Put Christians On Trial
An update on the international aid workers accused of spreading Christianity. I'm sure the Taliban have a fair and impartial judicial system, no need for concern. I wonder if they allow defense lawyers? Submitted for your believers persecuted and gospel preached to all files.

Vatican: Archbishop Gives Up Wife
Ok, let me see if I can get this right, an archbiship of the RCC becomes a cult member and gets married, someone points out that this is a problem because priests are not supposed to get married (it's written in the Bible somewhere, right?), so he is encouraged to dump the wife. Nice. Ok, and the issue is that he got married, not that he joined the Unification Church? Submitted for your false Christs files.

New technologies may revolutionize war
An interesting article about new technology. Ok, more than interesting, I'd say it's must reading for anyone really considering the shape of wars to come.

U.S. Warplanes Strike Iraqi Missile Site
You know, according to the media, the Gulf War is over, it ended in 1991. Really? Can I see that peace treaty, please?

Bush Defends Mideast Policy, Upbraids Arafat
Anyone else confused? While the State Department condemns Israel, Bush slams Arafat. I think Bush and Powell need to get on the same page.

Israeli Tanks Deploy in West Bank
The latest in today's moves in the Middle East, submitted for your rumor of war and battle for Jerusalem files.

Egypt Prepares for Prospect of Conflict
An item for your rumor of war and battle for Jerusalem files, it seems Egypt is considering options as pressure mounts to actively side with the Palestinians should military intervention be called for.

Afghan Taliban Say Foreign Aid Workers Face Trial
An item for your believers persecuted and gospel preached to all files, the situation for those international aid workers arrested and charged with spreading Christianity has not improved. They have been denied consular access and will be forced to stand trial. Denial of consular access is a violation of the Vienna Convention. Of course, the Taliban never signed that particular convention and they are not the recognized sovereign authority in Afghanistan. One can hardly expect a group of armed thugs to have respect for international law.

'Big Brother' Watching? In Britain, Quite Likely
An item for your mark of the beast files, an article about the extensive use of surveillance cameras in Great Britain.

Armey Wages Privacy Crusade
I would file this under your mark of the beast files, even though it has little to do with biometrics or e-commerce, it has a lot to do with freedom, and freedom from unwelcome surveillance.

NY Confirms First Human West Nile Case of Summer
An item for your pestilence files. More info on the spread of the West Nile virus.

China Reportedly Begins Exercises Close to Taiwan
Submitted for your rumor of war files. You never know when a friendly little exercise can turn into something more.

Israel Defiant Over Jerusalem
I think we have reached a new milestone in the battle for Jerusalem.

15 Wounded by Bomber in Israeli Restaurant
Another day, another bombing.

Allies Hit Hard at Saddams Air Defence Sites
More coverage of the latest allied strike on Iraq, submitted for your war files.

Israeli Police Seize Palestinian Offices
What an inspired move, the perfect political reply to Arafat's continued support for Hamas and Fatah.

Nightline Asks "When is it war?"
"But is it war when F-16 fighters are launching missiles? When tanks are entering towns? Is it war when the enemy headquarters have been occupied? Is it a war when a continuing stream of suicide bombers bring widespread terror to the civilian population? There are certainly many who would say this isn't careening toward war; this is war." Sara Just, Senior Producer, ABC News NIGHTLINE

Terrorism Possible Motive in Creation of Computer Worm Virus, Officials Say
Evidence is mounting that the latest series of computer virus attacks (Code Red, SirCam) may not be the result of your typical antisocial teenage hacker. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

U.S. and British Warplanes Attack Air Defense Targets in Iraq
Submitted for your war and rumor of war files, the latest response by allied forces to Iraqi provocations.

Israel Stunned by Jerusalem Blast
More info on the suicide bombing.

TB Outbreak Strikes 22 Students
An item for your pestilence files, regarding an outbreak of tuberculosis in Japan.

Solar Wind Surfing
An article on the solar wind, for your signs in the sun files.

Taliban Seizes Aid Workers Bibles
More details are emerging on the Taliban arrests of the aid workers accused of spreading Christianity. Submitted for your persecution files.

Saddam Threatens America
An item for your rumor of war files, Saddam continues his PR offensive.

Jerusalem Blast Kills at Least 15
The latest on the amazing ceasefire, submitted for your rumor of war and battle for Jerusalem files.

Saddam Hussein: Intifadas Patron
And more info on the Iraqi connection to the Intifada and the PLA.

Saddams Son Calls for Arms To Be Sent to Palestinians
An item for your rumor of war files, more evidence of Iraqi support for the PLA.

Israeli Intelligence Report Projects War in 2002
An item for your rumor of war and battle for Jerusalem files, a report suggesting that Israeli intelligence is considering war plans. I would hope so.

Afghan Taliban Consider Aid Workers' Fate
A follow up on the arrest of aid workers in Afghanistan accused of spreading Christianity. It does not look good for them and your prayers are needed. Submitted for your believers persecuted files.

Visionics Receives Order for 30 Live Scan Systems to Alabama Bureau of Investigation
An item for your mark of the beast files, a report on biometric technology being purchased by law enforcement officials in the state of Alabama.

Taliban Close Office of U.S. Group
An item for your believers persecuted files, the rulers of much of the country of Afghanistan (if you can call it a country anymore) have closed the office of a U.S. based relief organization and arrested its employees. The charge - propagating Christianity. The Wisconsin based organization has provided food and supplies to impoverished Afghanis for years. Not only have the employees of the organization, Shelter Now, been arrested, those Muslims they came into contact with have also been arrested and sent to religious re-education camps. According to the AP, 24 Shelter Now employees and 64 Afghanis have been arrested and charged with propagating Christianity, a crime punishable by death.

Biometric Technology Aims To Speed Air Travel
An item for your mark of the beast files, some news about biometric technology, specifically, iris scanning ID verification. This article describes the use of iris scanners to speed your way through airline checkout counters and baggage claim.

Iraq Defiant on Anniversary of Kuwait Invasion
More indications that Iraq is feeling a renewed sense of power and influence in the region, especially in light of the collapse of the sanctions and inspections regimes. You just can't keep a good dictator down, it seems.

Iraq-U.S. Sideshow to Mideast Turmoil Heats Up on Gulf War Anniversary
More commentary on the rising tensions between the U.S. and Iraq. People seem amazed at this, especially when I point out that the Gulf War never ended. The U.S. should take care to choose wisely the timing of any attack, and not let Saddam choose it according to his whims and propaganda purposes. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

U.S. Envoy in Israel Casts Doubt on Arafat
In the latest move in the Mideast diplomatic game, the U.S. seeks to place more pressure on Arafat to deliver on his side of the ceasefire.

Cholera Tally Hits 15 as Latest Case Confirmed
An item for your pestilence files, a cholera outbreak in Hong Kong has claimed 15 victims so far this year.

NATOs Move East Outflanks the EU
Of interest to those of you watching the Jerusalem Strategic Area (JSA). In the battle to forge a new European space, it looks as if NATO has the lead, according to this article in the International Herald Tribune, which notes the cultural and institutional problems the EU has encountered in it's expansion efforts.

Jerusalem: City of Fear
Another report on the general mood in Jerusalem as conflict between Palestinians and Israelis continues.

Four in Hospital with Dengue Fever
Another item for your pestilence files, four people have been hospitalised after a dengue fever outbreak in Somoa.

West Nile Virus Surfaces in Ohio
An item for your pestilence files, the West Nile virus has been found in a dead bird in Ohio, the farthest west the disease has progressed, so far.

Gypsies Church Festival Puts Village in Uproar
An item for your gospel preached to all files, a news report about a curious combination of English reserve, born again Christians, and gypsy stereotypes.

China Satellite Targets U.S. Forces Here
According to Japan Today, China (our good friend, trade partner, and Olympic host) is using spy satellites to gather info on U.S. forces in Japan and other targets in Asia. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Two U.S. Carriers Now in Persian Gulf
For your rumor of war files, more evidence that the U.S. is planning an attack on Iraq.

Bush, Pentagon Leaders Discuss Nuclear Forces
The status of American nuclear forces is being debated in the Bush White House. Under consideration, force restructuring aimed at reducing the number of nuclear weapons.

IBM joins crusade to reinvent the internet
For your wired world files, IBM leads the charge to build the next-generation Internet. It's a wired, wired world.

U.S. Seeks Changes To Promote Arms Exports
The world's number one exporter of arms would like to make it even easier to buy American. Gives Made In The USA a whole new meaning. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Arafat Calls for Monitors as Israel Battles Criticism
Arafat visits the Pope and the Italian PM, calls for international observers to go to the Middle East to observe how Hamas builds and distributes car bombs.

Israel Foils Suicide Bombing
The latest ceasefire news, Israeli soldiers were able to prevent a suicide bomber from blowing himself up on a bus crowded with soldiers.

EU OKs Global Network for Secure Web Transactions
An item for your mark of the beast files, some news regarding digital identification technology. A new global system, called Identrus, has been set up by leading banks which allows people to secure business transactions over the Internet.

Turkey Offers Use Of Air Force Base To Egypt
An item of interest to those of you watching the Jerusalem Strategic Area. Turkey has a military alliance with Israel, and Israel has a peace treaty with Egypt, so the three of them would appear to be one big happy family, on the surface at least.

Tatarstan City Fights Outbreak of Cholera
An item for your pestilence files, there has been an outbreak of cholera in Russia, infecting as many as 33 people and may be responsible for the death of one man.

Scientists Say They Have Found Extraterrestrial Life in the Stratosphere But Peers Are Skeptical
An item for your signs in the heavens files, a team of scientists is claiming to have proof of ET microbial life in Earth's atmosphere. Their conclusions are not accepted by some of their colleagues. The debate continues.

Christian Aid helps Afghans Facing Starvation
An item for your famine files, a Christian group is helping to raise funds to feed starving Afghans.

Israel: Threat To Invade Palestinian Territories Is Real
Excellent analysis and commentary from Stratfor (get it while it's still free), more evidence that Israel has solid plans to take the ceasefire to the next level. Submitted for your rumor of war and battle for Jerusalem files.

Cut in interview with Colin Powell vexes Americans
Our good friends (trade partner and Olympic host) the Chinese, have broadcast an edited version of an interview with Colin Powell, leaving out mention of Taiwan and human rights. It seems they promised to show the whole thing. I'm sure it was just an oversight.

Israel Kills 8 in Attack on Leaders of Hamas
Another report on the latest Israeli attack on Hamas HQ, this one from the International Herald Tribune. Subitted for your rumor of war and battle for Jerusalem files.

Palestinian Leader Arafat To Meet Pope
An item for your covenant with many files, the latest moves in the "peace process" find Arafat about to chat with the Pope about the situation in the Middle East.

(18:45) Annan Urges World Leaders Not To Focus On Zionism
Another example of how Israel is made to be a focus of world tension.

Blasts Kill Palestinian Militants
Israel continues to go after Hamas militants.

(13:00) UAE Urges UN to Halt Judaization of Holy Sites
Propaganda really is an art form and you have to appreciate those who do it well, as long as you recognize it for what it is.

(20:10) Turkey Says Ties With Israel Will Not Affect Arabs
I wonder whose side Turkey will be on in the next regional war?

Lava Halts Outside Prayer Town
Looks like a wonderful affirmation of the power of prayer, but to whom are they praying?

Russian missile threatens US space shield
An item for your rumor of war files, a report indicating the Russia may be far along in weapons research compensating for any future American missile defense.

Yahoo! and HSBC pioneer payment system
An item for your e-commerce files, net giant Yahoo will soon offer a new person-to-person payment system to be called Yahoo! PayDirect, similar to the popular PayPal system. Just another step away from cash transactions.

Israeli Helicopters Attack Gaza Police
In this latest attack, Israel strikes back at a Palestinian police headquarters building that was being used to make weapons and mortar bombs.

Arab League meets in Syria To Discuss Reviving Israeli Boycott
Representatives from 13 Arab countries are meeting in doomed Damascus to discuss their next moves in the war process.

Israel Promises To Stop Temple Demo
An a follow up, Israel promises to stop Israeli citizens from being in, on, or around the most sacred site of Judaism. Nothing like looking out for the interests of your own people. Can you believe that the Egyptian foreign minister asked the UN Security Council to intervene? Interesting. Stay tuned.

Arab Leaders Warn Against Temple Demo
An item for your abomination in the holy place files, another bit of evidence that the problem in the Middle East is purely religious, and centered on the Temple Mount, site of past and future prophetic events. Keep watching the Temple Mount.

Church Leaders Launch Controversial Courses
An item for your gospel preached to all files, the Alpha course is getting a new advertising campaign.

Israeli Tanks Respond to Killing
Another rumor of war item, Israel strikes back at Force 17 after Palestinians killed a 17 year old Israeli in the West Bank town of Ramallah.

Source: U.S. to Retaliate for Iraqi Attack
An item for your rumor of war files, CNN is reporting that the U.S. is planning a military response to the latest Iraqi attempt to shoot down Allied planes. On Tuesday, Iraq attempted to shoot down an American U-2 spy plane over the southern no-fly zone. This is but the latest evidence that Iraqi missile technology has made some amazing advances at a time when weapons and technology imports were to have been reduced by UN sanctions.

India Talks Tough on Kashmir
An item for your rumor of war files, tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir increased again today.

U.S. Rejects Anti-Germ Warfare Treaty
Another NO from the U.S., it seems to be our favorite word lately. The treaty is not perfect, few are, I wonder though if an imperfect treaty is better than no treaty at all? Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Us Lawmakers Warned Of Dark Winter In Case Of Bioterrorist Attack
An item for both your rumor of war files and your pestilence files, more proof that the U.S. is not prepared for bioterrorism. It's great that they conduct these simulations, but isn't it time for a national bioterrorism program, a single command structure, and well funded early warning systems?

Pentagon Shuts Down Websites
An item for your rumor of war files, infowar in this case. The Pentagon has shut down department web sites in an effort to prevent attack by the Code Red worm, reportedly originating in China, our great trade partner and Olympic host.

Palestinians Fight Each Other
Well, this is an interesting turn of events, Hamas forces vs. PLA forces. This is a great idea, we should encourage more of this.

Falling Object Lights Up Sky in Eastern U.S.
An item for your Signs in the Heavens files, a rare sighting of a meteor, described as a fireball, hitting the Earth last night.

The Next Middle East Flashpoint?
An item for your rumor of war and Battle for Jerusalem files, Israel is strengthening defenses on its northern border with Lebanon, the front line in the war against Hezbollah. A few weeks ago we noted here the increase in arms shipments from Iran, through Syria, to Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, just one more sign among many that the region is preparing for a major conflict.

Satellite to Detect Solar Flares is Launched
An item for your Signs in the Sun files, thanks to a new environmental satellite just launched today, space weather forecasters will have better data to predict solar storms.

Identity Theft Overlooked
An item for your Mark of the Beast files, not on biometrics this time, but on arguments for more sophisticated ID tech. Identity theft is becoming more common in the financial industry, it seems, and this report suggests that the use of passwords, rather than SS numbers or your mother's maiden name, would afford greater protection.

Report: China Shuts 2,000 Net Cafes
The PRC, our trade partner and Olympic host, is showing just how open and progressive they have become by...restricting access to the Internet. Let a thousand minds be enslaved.

Global Warming Treaty Agreed
An item for your Fear for the Future files, international efforts to combat global warming (even as the phenomenon is still in dispute) have reached a new high.

G-8 Vows to Attack Poverty
One final article on the G8 summit for your Ten Kings files. Aside from important discussions on poverty, AIDS, climate and missile defense, probably the most important thing to note about the summit was the way the U.S., after the failure of the Tenet and Mitchell Mideast peace efforts, accepted the G8's call for international monitors to be sent to the Middle East. This may well be a watershed event in many ways, especially if it means that the U.S. is pulling back from it's role as primary peace mediator and allowing the G8 to step forward as the primary.

Eye for An Eye
This is a much better article on biometrics than the earlier article I noted. This one focuses on iris scanning biometrics and notes that Big Gov is still the primary consumer of this technology. Submitted for your mark of the beast files.

An update on the mail distribution problem: I received a reply from AOL's Customer Service in which they report: "AOL and Yahoo are currently working to resolve an issue with Yahoo groups mail getting to AOL members." So, at least they are aware of the problem and are working on it.

YahooGroups Mail Problem
I have learned that for some of you, me included, mail from YahooGroups is not reaching you. This problem seems to be restricted to AOL members. This problem means that those of you on the End Times News list, Third Watch, and Bible Prophecy list who are AOL users, may want to check list messages from the YahooGroups web page. Mail traffic has continued this weekend, even as you have not been receiving any posts. I have inquired with Yahoo and AOL Customer Service and will let you know when I learn something more.

Israel Prepares For International Call-Up
An item for your Rumor of War files, Israel is getting prepared to call-up citizens to fight, regardless of where they are.

G8 Leaders Ask for Outside Observers in Mideast
An item for your Ten Kings files and your Covenant With Many files, the G8 leaders have called for international observers to be sent to the Mideast. Actually, not really the Mideast, what they mean is Israel specifically. I'm not really sure what they mean by observers either. What are they thinking - "let's send people to observe how the Israelis and Palestinians kill each other, then our statements deploring the violence will have so much more dramatic impact." Or, perhaps they are offering to provide sacrificial substitutes, new targets for the violence. I'm sure that if the G8 suggested that the Israelis and Palstinians target international observers and stop killing each other, that would go a long way toward decreasing tensions in the area.

International Biometric Group Announces BioPrivacy Best Practices
An international biometrics industry group is seeking to address privacy concerns regarding the use of biometric technology by creating a sort of "Good Housekeeping" seal of approval for institutions in order to ensure that consumer privacy is protected. Don't you just love it when an industry regulates itself.

Rabbis Urge Temple Mount Visit
Things are about to get more heated in the Middle East. A rabbinical council has reversed an earlier edict and is now encouraging Israelis to visit the Temple Mount. As you know, they have been forbidden to pray on the Temple Mount (!) and the Palestinians actually have control and administrative authority over the area. This may be the spark that ignites the conflagration.

G8 Ministers Meet
The foreign ministers of the G8 states met today in Genoa, ahead of this weekends summit of the heads of government. On the agenda, Mideast peace and missile defense. The G8 is a possible fulfillment of the Rev 17:12-14 prophecy about the rise of ten kings who empower the beast. The G8 Summit will begin this weekend in Genoa, Italy. As much as this grouping is called the G7 or the G8 (when Russia is included), it really is a G10 or even G11 depending on who you count, as you can see from this "class photo" of the G8 ministers.

Afghan Cholera Epidemic Kills 45
An item for your pestilence files, an outbreak of cholera in Afghanistan.

War Is Coming
Some interesting commentary from Michael Freund of the Jerusalem Post. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

Israel Strikes Bethlehem, Mortars Fired in West Bank
And in Israel, the ceasefire continues, all is quiet. Really.

Western Aircraft Strike Site in Southern Iraq
In this latest chapter of the Gulf War, allied planes have once again sent a message to Saddam, a sort of anniversary message perhaps, the he is not in control of his country.

Syria Ends 20-year Iraq Snub
Well, it looks like this is International Friendship day or something. First China and Russia get all huggy and now Syria and Iraq are ending rifts.

Bomb Blast Ahead of Genoa Summit
Things are heating up ahead of this weeks G8 Summit. Note to anti-globalist protestors: blowing people up with mailbombs does not win anyone to your cause. I suggest you hire a good PR firm, maybe the ones that helped China win the Olympics, they have a good track record in glossing over unpleasantries.

Russia, China Sign Treaty Amid Concerns About U.S

Isn't it nice to see old friends renew their relationship. And of course, it goes without saying that this treaty is not against anyone (say, the U.S.), nor is it a military alliance, just a nice friendly agreement between neighbors.

G-8 Means Comeback to Italian Leader
An item for your Ten Kings files, it looks as if the current and past leader of Italy is hoping the upcoming G-8 Summit will help burnish his image among his peers. Italy hosts the G-8 Summit starting on Friday. This will also be Bush's first G-8 chatfest. And, in an unusual development, the Pope also has some comments on the upcoming summit. And, finally, don't forget those unruly anti-globalists, who are sure to have more of their photo ops, er, I mean, protests in Genoa.

Pentagon Ends Two-War Strategy
Is this really something we should tell everyone? Note to enemies: please don't attack us if you see that we are already engaged in a major conflict, simply wait your turn and we will get back to you.

Test of Missile Shield Set for Tonight
This should be interesting. I mean, whether the test is a success or not, the political fallout will be huge. Submitted for your rumor of war files.

U.S. Tries to Revive Mid-East Peace
It looks as if Bush has not given up on trying to secure peace in the Middle East. Good luck.

Fighting Breaks Out in Kashmir
An item for your rumor of war files, just as a peace summit gets underway between the leaders of India and Pakistan, fighting breaks out in Kashmir. This is of note because India and Pakistan are both nuclear powers.

Tampa Uses New Face Scan Technology
Another article on the use by the city of Tampa of the FaceIt biometric face scanning technology. This article updates the previous info with reports on the efforts of the AG and the ACLU to stop this technology before it is adopted by other cities. Subitted for your Mark of the Beast files.

Beijing Wins Bid for 2008 Olympics
In awarding the People's Republic of China with the 2008 Olympics, the IOC today rewarded one of the worlds only remaining communist totalitarian governments, a government with a terrible and well documented record of human rights abuses, including torture, religious persecution, slave labor, and repression of dissent. Today's action by the IOC represents a fundamental betrayal of the Olympic ideal. The Olympics were founded in ancient Greece, home of Plato and Aristotle, pillars of the Western tradition. Todays international world system is based on that Western tradition, based on the notion that there are fundamental absolute values, and it is upon these values that civilizations rests. The concept of universal human values is enshrined the U.S. Declaration of Independence, the Rights of Man, the Charter of the United Nations, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. China explicitly rejects the notion that there are universal human rights, and asserts it's own brand of nationalist moral relativism. What may be considered wrong by one country is perfectly acceptable in another. This path leads to anarchy and simply can't be tolerated or condoned by the international community. If the term "rogue state" has any meaning, it is only because we have achieved at the dawn of the 21st century, a global moral consensus. World civilization can only exist on the basis of shared moral values. The IOC has rewarded a county that stands in opposition to the fundamental values of the modern international world system. Today then is a sad day for the international community, and a sad day for lovers of freedom and liberty everywhere.

State Department Condemns Human Trafficking Across Globe
An item for your Wickedness Increases files, a report on the trade in humans. That's right, in the 21st Century, people are still sold into slavery.

U.S. Fast-Tracks Missile Defence
An item for your Rumor of War files, the U.S. pushes ahead with missile defense, while Russia warns it will spark a new arms race.

Nepal Installs Young Girl As New Living Goddess
Nepal has a new goddess, just chosen. You have to wonder about the selection process, how fair and impartial is it, does favoritism play a role? After all, it would hardly do to have a corrupt process for choosing goddesses. On a lighter note, the benefits seem nice and the retirement package is attractive, though apparently the ex-goddesses seldom marry, as men are intimidated with the idea of marrying an ex-goddess. So, I'm assuming this means that Nepal has a whole gaggle of retired goddesses just sitting around with nothing much to do, which seems like a terrible waste of ex-godhood. Really.

Please note that Prophecy News Page was unavailable for some time today, due to an AOL server outage. Fortunately, NewsBlogger is back online, so I will try to update this blog more often, and hopefully AOL Hometown will be back online soon.

Dozens Injured in Turkish Quake
An item for your quake files, a 5.4 mag quake has struck eastern Turkey.

Tanaka, Straw Meet Ahead of G-8
An item for your Ten Kings files, some pre-summit G8 news, the English and Japanese foreign ministers consult on the summit agenda.

Strange Cluster Reveals Star Secrets
An item for your Signs In The Stars files, Hubble continues to bring us some amazing images.

Israel On Alert for Suicide Bombings
An item for your Rumor of War & Battle for Jerusalem files. Things are getting a bit tense in the Mideast. It's not a war yet, but it is certainly not peace.

UFO Cult May Sue U.S. FDA Over Human Cloning
The Raelians are really serious about cloning a human and are prepared to go to court in order to do it. If you have never heard of Rael or his cult, check them out, I think you will be very surprised at what you find. Submitted for your False Prophet files.

Jab Campaign to End Polio Across Central Africa
An item for your Pestilence files, some news about polio and the launch of a massive vaccination effort in Africa.

Tampa Scans the Faces in Crowds for Criminals
An item for your mark of the beast files. As America celebrates freedom today, a sobering report on just how tenuous those freedoms are. Calling the Greatest Generation, we need you again, fascism is alive and well in the United States. Are citizens really presumed to be criminals merely by being in public? Is this the freedom patriots died to defend? God bless America, God save America.

Giant world detected in deep space
An item for your Signs in the Heavens files, astronomers have found a very large object at the edge of the solar system. It's orbit is beyond Neptune and the scientists think there may be other large objects out there, as large or larger than Pluto.

Violence Shakes Mideast Truce
More violence in the Mideast. When is a truce not a truce?

First Case of Mad Cow Disease Hits Greece
An item for your Pestilence files, it seems we have not heard the last of those mad cows.

Father Stabs Three Young Sons
An item for your Wickedness Increases files, AP is reporting yet another case of a parent killing their children. Is this a copycat crime? If so, this is one trend we could do without.

Israeli Planes Attack Syrian Positions

And so it begins. Israel strikes back at Syrian supported Hezbollah positions inside Lebanon in response to Hezbollah attacks days ago. How will Syria respond?

WMD To Be Used in the Next Mideast War

Submitted for your Rumor of War files, this report from the Middle East Newsline states that American defense planners are now actively anticipating the use of weapons of mass destruction in the next Middle East war. It would seem that the region is now at a crossroads. Powell has left without securing his seven day ceasefire, the Tenet accord is still not implemented, same for the recommendations of the Mitchell report, and the low level of violence (meaning people are killed every day) continues.

Hubble Finds Mysterious Saturn-Sized Objects

An interesting item for your Signs in the Stars (Luke 21:25) files. Astronomers have spotted objects that are not stars and don't appear to be regular planets since they don't orbit stars. Is that cool, or what?

World's Poor Face Rising Risk of Flood And Famine

An item for your Famine files (Matthew 24:7), just to let you know that famine did not end with Live Aid. This article is also of note because it indicates that the number of natural disasters have been increasing in the last few years.

UN Council Re-Elects Annan's for Top UN Post

An item for your Ten Kings files (Rev 17:12-14), the Security Council voted today to give Kofi Annan a second term as Secretary General. No, I don't think the UN is evil, but I do see the Security Council, presently at 15 members (5 with the veto power) as a potential fulfillment of prophecy, pending structural reform, of course.

Retool Delays Hackers' Free-Speech App

This application will be a must have for your Tribulation Force toolkit. The designers hope that it will allow dissidents in authoritarian countries to speak out online without fear that their identities will be compromised.

Allied Warplanes Strike Iraq

An item for your War files (Matthew 24:6), AP is reporting that U.S. and British warplanes struck targets in southern Iraq on Wednesday, in response to Iraqi "hostile acts." Iraq is claiming to have hit one of the planes, Allies forces deny that.

Electronic Signature Law Working Well, FTC Says

The FTC reported today that the electronic signature law, passed last year, is not a burden on businesses or a privacy risk for consumers. In the report, the FCC cheers, ``The provision facilitates e-commerce and the use of electronic records and signatures while enhancing consumer confidence.'' Perhaps it was just the one-sided reporting of this article, but I would have appreciated reading a bit about what consumer privacy advocates have to say about how the law is doing.

Ok, I have changed the template for this blog in an effort to get the archives restored. So, this is the first post to the new Prophecy News blog. This blog is all about the unfolding of Bible prophecy in current events. If you are not interested in eschatology or in current events, you probably won't find much of interest here. This blog will offer links to news items related to the unfolding of Bible prophecy and usually a short comment or two from me. For a more complete listing of the weeks news, see the Prophecy News home page

It seems that the archives for this blog are missing, and as I've investigated, I've found that archives are a problem on Blogger. I had started with a different template and switched to the one you now see, and that apparently did something to the archives. I've played with the code, and changed the archive settings, but nothing seems to work. So, I am going to change templates, again, and hope that restores the archives. This means I will temporarily lose the changes to the code that I've made in order to personalize this blog (the nice menu of items you see to your left, the wallpaper from Prophecy News). I will keep a copy of the old code and hope to restore those features in the next few days. Because I know that many of you follow events on a daily basis, as I do, archives are particularly important for this blog, so I do hope it will be worth the hassle of changing templates.

Quake Kills At Least 31 In Peru

AP is reporting that a major quake has struck Peru and that region of South America.

Threat Scrambles U.S. Troops in Mideast

And for your Rumor of War files, it looks as if the threat level for American forces in the Mideast has been raised. If you are an American abroad, be warned, be wary, be alert.

Supermarkets Tell Shoppers 'Do It Yourself'

An item for your Mark of the Beast files. No, it does not have to do with biometric technology or m-commerce, but it does say a lot about improvements in scanner tech. This is so easy to do, I saw it today for the first time in my local grocery store. Buy it, bag it, and begone. I feel sorry for all the cashiers and baggers, whose days, apparently, are numbered. Pun intended.

Zoroastrians Gather In Central Iran

An item for your False Christs files: AP reports that thousands of Iranian Zoroastrians have gathered at the mountainous Chakchak temple in central Iran for a five-day pilgrimage to celebrate one of the world's oldest religions.

Christ Picture Defaced

An item for your Wickedness Increases files: this article from the AP reports that vandals stuck axes in a picture of Jesus Christ and sprayed anti-Semitic slogans on the walls of a building next to the former Nazi death camp of Auschwitz, police said on Monday.

Well, it seems that NewsBlogger is still down. If you are not aware of this part of the Blogger empire, check it out, once it is back up, that is. It's a great service, and certainly made updating this blog much easier. More prophecy news updates to follow, as soon as NewsBlogger is back online.

CDC: Tuberculosis Cases Drop to Record Low

An item for your Pestilence files, some good news for a change.

Israel, Palestinians OK Peace Plan

Hey, we all agree on the cease-fire, sort of, except for these few, small, really insignificant details. Not that this will stand in the way of business as usual, of course.

Pentagon: Were Under Heavy Attack

An item for your Rumor of War files, or at least, cyberwar.

Israel Hits Back With Warplanes

Go Israel! I love Sharon's tit-for-tat strategy where every car bombing and suicide bomb attack is met with an immediate reply. Actions have consequences and it's time the PLA learned this lesson.

No Damage Reported in 3.9-Magnitude Quake

An item for your Quake files, another one in CA.

China Beats India By A Head in Buddha Wars

An item for your False Christs files. Build a better Buddha and they will come.

Dow Closes Above 11,000 Mark

An item for your Sign of Noah files, some good news for our commerical and consumerist society. Spend on, happy campers!

Bloodshed on Israel Anniversary

An item for your Rumor of War & Covenant With Many files, the cycle of violence continues in Israel.

Annan in Washington to Seek AIDS Funds

An item for your pestilence files, the UN wants money to fight AIDS on a global scale.

Mobile Commerce Confidence Drops

An item for your Mark files, it looks like m-commerce is not quite ready for prime time.

Flare-up As Israel Buries Slain Boys

This may be a turning point in the war process, I think.

Pentagon to Put General in Charge of Space

An item for your Rumor of War and/or Signs in the Heavens files, it seems the U.S. is making the necessary administrative changes to prepare for war in the heavens.

Improving Our Asteroid Alarm System

And for your Signs In The Heavens files, a report on the threat posed by Near Earth Objects (NEOs).

Report: Pentagon To Abandon Two-War Strategy

An item for your Rumor of War files, it seems that the U.S. is now confident that major war could not break out in two places at the same time. I am relieved to know that my fears regarding the Russian and Chinese "anti-American hegemony" strategy are not well founded. I'm also relieved to know that even though the Korean War is still not formally over, the Defense Department does not expect it to ever resume, even as we maintain thousands of American troops on the DMZ. It's also good to know that even though the Gulf War never officially concluded with a peace treaty, Iraq is not expected to instigate any major conflicts in the near future. In short, we should regard this as very good news and proof of an unprecedented standardization of history and events: one war at a time, please.

Dalai Lama to Start U.S. Visit Next Week

An item for your False Christs files, the spiritual leader of Tibet (and a living god, don't you know) will visit the U.S. next week. Hello Dalai.

Peres urges Bush to condemn Palestinian violence and terrorism

An item for your Covenant With Many files, now that Peres has burned his bridges in the Arab world, he runs to Bush for cover. Somehow, I don't think it will be enough.

UN Removes U.S. From Rights Panel

An item for your Wickedness Increases files, nations that ignore human rights now sit on a panel that investigates abuses, while the U.S. (often critical of human rights abuses, including religious persecution) has been voted off.

Online consumer spending to hit $65 billion this year

An item for your Mark files, it looks as if e-commerce is going fine. Next up, m-commerce.

Israel Anxious for Peace Talks

An item for your Covenant With Many files, it looks as if Peres is going to press for greater American involvement in the peace process. But, is Peres acting on his own, or does he have Sharon's backing?

Astronomers Find Spinning Black Hole

For your Signs in The Stars files, scientists report detecting the first spinning black hole, and it's only 10,000 light years away.

Religious Rights Worsen

And for your persecution files, another news story on the latest U.S. report on religious freedom, this one focused on religious freedom in China.

Schroeder EU Vision Causes Stir

I'd vote for a two speed Europe with an inner core of say, oh I don't know, maybe ten countries?

Government Web sites attacked by hackers

What do you call a Chinese hacker? What, are you waiting for the punchline?

Mid-East blasts cloud peace hopes

And another item for your Rumor of War files, or perhaps your Covenant with Many files, about the latest developments in the Mideast war process, er, no, I mean, peace process. The latest bomb attack was probably planted by the Palestinians and targeted at Israelis, but ended up killing a Palestinian who was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Friendly fire in an unfriendly peace.

Bush Calls for Missile Shield, Saying ABM Pact Is Outdated

An item for your rumor of war files, not that NMD will cause a war, but it will almost certainly cause an arms race. This is good news for arms manufacturers, but bad news for those who hope for reduced conflict in the future.

U.S. Report Details Global Religious Persecution

An item for your persecution files, a U.S. commission has releases a report on violations of religious freedom in many countries, particularly China and Sudan. Yes, the usual suspects.

First Strike: Chinese Hackers Hit U.S. Sites

I'm not sure if this would fall under Rumor of War or not, since it is more than a rumor. It has been confirmed that USGOV sites have been attacked by Chinese hackers. Of course, the reporting and other similar news stories make it sound like the hackers are not associated with the PRC government, as if China has a large civilian computer industry with lots of indie hackers. I'm not sure that is really the case.

Russia and China to Sign Deal

Those of you monitoring the Jerusalem Strategic Area, specifically with regard to the "king of the north" and "kings of the East" may be interested in this report of a new treaty of friendship and cooperation between Russia and China. Yes, the treaty does call for expanded military cooperation, in case you were wondering.

G7 Signals Commitment to Global Free Trade

Another item for your Ten Kings files: the G7 supports free trade. Wow, there's a real news flash.