My Way News - Police clash with Baltimore protesters for a second night
My Way News reports: "A line of police behind riot shields hurled tear gas canisters and
fired pepper balls at as many as 200 protesters Tuesday night to enforce
a citywide curfew, imposed after the worst outbreak of rioting in
Baltimore since 1968. [...] Monday's outbreak of looting, arson and rock- and bottle-throwing by mostly black rioters erupted just hours after Gray's funeral."
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Monday, April 27, 2015
Rumors of War - Kings of the East
My Way News - In US-Japan talks, China is the elephant in the room
My Way News reports: "Ahead of Tuesday's talks, Japanese and U.S. foreign and defense ministers approved revisions to the U.S.-Japan defense guidelines that boost Japan's military capability amid growing Chinese assertiveness in disputed areas in the East and South China Sea claimed by Beijing. The changes, which strengthen Japan's role in missile defense, mine sweeping and ship inspections, are the first revisions in 18 years to the rules that govern U.S.-Japan defense cooperation."
My Way News reports: "Ahead of Tuesday's talks, Japanese and U.S. foreign and defense ministers approved revisions to the U.S.-Japan defense guidelines that boost Japan's military capability amid growing Chinese assertiveness in disputed areas in the East and South China Sea claimed by Beijing. The changes, which strengthen Japan's role in missile defense, mine sweeping and ship inspections, are the first revisions in 18 years to the rules that govern U.S.-Japan defense cooperation."
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Earthquakes
My Way News - Nepal quake: Over 1,000 dead, history razed, Everest shaken
My Way News reports: "Tens of thousands of people prepared to spend the night in the open under a chilly and thundery sky after a powerful earthquake shook Nepal on Saturday, killing more than 1,180 people, collapsing modern houses and centuries-old temples, and triggering a landslide on the slopes of Mount Everest. Officials said the death toll will rise as more reports from far-flung areas come in. The magnitude 7.8 earthquake, which originated outside the capital Kathmandu, was the worst tremor to hit the poor South Asian nation in over 80 years."
My Way News reports: "Tens of thousands of people prepared to spend the night in the open under a chilly and thundery sky after a powerful earthquake shook Nepal on Saturday, killing more than 1,180 people, collapsing modern houses and centuries-old temples, and triggering a landslide on the slopes of Mount Everest. Officials said the death toll will rise as more reports from far-flung areas come in. The magnitude 7.8 earthquake, which originated outside the capital Kathmandu, was the worst tremor to hit the poor South Asian nation in over 80 years."
Friday, April 24, 2015
Persecution
My Way News - Armenians around the world mark 1915 genocide
My Way News reports: "Around the world on Friday, tens of thousands of people of Armenian descent commemorated the genocide 100 years ago of 1.5 million Armenians by Ottoman Turks. [...] An estimated 1.5 million died in massacres, deportations and forced marches that began in 1915 as Ottoman officials worried that the Christian Armenians would side with Russia, its enemy in World War I. The event is widely viewed by historians as genocide."
My Way News reports: "Around the world on Friday, tens of thousands of people of Armenian descent commemorated the genocide 100 years ago of 1.5 million Armenians by Ottoman Turks. [...] An estimated 1.5 million died in massacres, deportations and forced marches that began in 1915 as Ottoman officials worried that the Christian Armenians would side with Russia, its enemy in World War I. The event is widely viewed by historians as genocide."
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Fearsome Events
My Way News - Chilean village a ghost town after Calbuco's twin eruptions
My Way News reports: "The volcano, which had been dormant for 42 years, erupted Wednesday, spewing a plume of ash more than 6 miles (10 kilometers) high. A second, spectacular outburst came early Thursday, with lightning crackling through a dark sky turned reddish orange by the explosion."
My Way News reports: "The volcano, which had been dormant for 42 years, erupted Wednesday, spewing a plume of ash more than 6 miles (10 kilometers) high. A second, spectacular outburst came early Thursday, with lightning crackling through a dark sky turned reddish orange by the explosion."
Finale Empire - World Government
My Way News - EU leaders commit ships, aid to address migrant crisis
My Way News reports: "For several years as death tolls have mounted, EU leaders have done little more than deplore the loss of lives and mark tragedies with moments of silence and wreaths instead of fundamental action. [...] On Thursday, EU leaders pledged to do more, committing at least nine vessels to monitor the waters for traffickers and intervene in case of need. Other member states, from France to Latvia, also lined up more ships, planes and helicopters that could be used to rescue migrants. The member states agreed to triple funding to 9 million euros ($9.7 million) a month for the EU's border operation that patrols the Mediterranean. They also assigned EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini to line up the diplomatic options that would allow EU militaries to strike against the boats used by traffickers."
My Way News reports: "For several years as death tolls have mounted, EU leaders have done little more than deplore the loss of lives and mark tragedies with moments of silence and wreaths instead of fundamental action. [...] On Thursday, EU leaders pledged to do more, committing at least nine vessels to monitor the waters for traffickers and intervene in case of need. Other member states, from France to Latvia, also lined up more ships, planes and helicopters that could be used to rescue migrants. The member states agreed to triple funding to 9 million euros ($9.7 million) a month for the EU's border operation that patrols the Mediterranean. They also assigned EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini to line up the diplomatic options that would allow EU militaries to strike against the boats used by traffickers."
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Earthquakes
My Way News - Scientists: Over 143M Americans live in quake-prone areas
My Way News reports: "More than 143 million people in the Lower 48 states now live on shaky ground, earthquake scientists say. That's because more people have moved into the quake-prone West Coast and some quake zones were recently expanded, according to researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey."
My Way News reports: "More than 143 million people in the Lower 48 states now live on shaky ground, earthquake scientists say. That's because more people have moved into the quake-prone West Coast and some quake zones were recently expanded, according to researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey."
Rumors of War
My Way News - New Pentagon strategy warns of cyberwar capabilities
My Way News reports: "A new Pentagon cybersecurity strategy lays out for the first time publicly that the U.S. military plans to use cyberwarfare as an option in conflicts with enemies. [...] The strategy also, for the first time, includes a small section on U.S. concerns about continued cyberespionage by China against U.S. companies and agencies. It says the U.S. will continue to try to work with Beijing to bring greater understanding and transparency of each nation's cyber missions to 'reduce the risks of misperception and miscalculation.'"
My Way News - NATO to hold major cyber defense drill in Estonia
My Way News reports: "About 400 computer experts will participate in a major cybersecurity drill in Estonia this week as part of NATO's efforts to upgrade its capability to counter potentially debilitating hacker attacks. Teams from 16 nations will take part in the Locked Shields 2015 exercise at NATO's cyberdefense center in Tallinn. The annual drill is one of the largest of its kind."
My Way News reports: "A new Pentagon cybersecurity strategy lays out for the first time publicly that the U.S. military plans to use cyberwarfare as an option in conflicts with enemies. [...] The strategy also, for the first time, includes a small section on U.S. concerns about continued cyberespionage by China against U.S. companies and agencies. It says the U.S. will continue to try to work with Beijing to bring greater understanding and transparency of each nation's cyber missions to 'reduce the risks of misperception and miscalculation.'"
My Way News - NATO to hold major cyber defense drill in Estonia
My Way News reports: "About 400 computer experts will participate in a major cybersecurity drill in Estonia this week as part of NATO's efforts to upgrade its capability to counter potentially debilitating hacker attacks. Teams from 16 nations will take part in the Locked Shields 2015 exercise at NATO's cyberdefense center in Tallinn. The annual drill is one of the largest of its kind."
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Earthquakes
My Way News - Study links swarm of quakes in Texas to natural gas drilling
My Way News reports: "With real-time monitors, scientists have linked a swarm of small earthquakes west of Fort Worth, Texas, to nearby natural gas wells and wastewater injection. [...] This adds to other studies that linked injecting wastewater from energy wells to a tremendous jump in earthquakes in Oklahoma and southern Kansas, where there have been more than 950 magnitude 2 or higher quakes so far this year, according to the USGS."
My Way News reports: "With real-time monitors, scientists have linked a swarm of small earthquakes west of Fort Worth, Texas, to nearby natural gas wells and wastewater injection. [...] This adds to other studies that linked injecting wastewater from energy wells to a tremendous jump in earthquakes in Oklahoma and southern Kansas, where there have been more than 950 magnitude 2 or higher quakes so far this year, according to the USGS."
Holy Place - Temple Mount
My Way News - Replacing carpet at Jerusalem shrine reveals religious rift
My Way News reports: "Ancient Jewish traditions say the gold-cased Ark of the Covenant, which contained the Ten Commandments, may have been hidden away in a chamber when the First Jewish Temple was destroyed some 2,500 years ago. It's an Indiana Jones-type mystery that touches upon a holy grail for biblical enthusiasts. While Jerusalem may be the most excavated city in the world, the Dome of the Rock and its hilltop plaza are an archaeological gold mine that has never been properly dug because of the political sensitivities surrounding the site, which is considered Judaism's holiest spot and Islam's third holiest."
My Way News reports: "Ancient Jewish traditions say the gold-cased Ark of the Covenant, which contained the Ten Commandments, may have been hidden away in a chamber when the First Jewish Temple was destroyed some 2,500 years ago. It's an Indiana Jones-type mystery that touches upon a holy grail for biblical enthusiasts. While Jerusalem may be the most excavated city in the world, the Dome of the Rock and its hilltop plaza are an archaeological gold mine that has never been properly dug because of the political sensitivities surrounding the site, which is considered Judaism's holiest spot and Islam's third holiest."
Monday, April 20, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - US warship heads to Yemeni waters; could block Iran weapons
My Way News reports: "In a stepped-up response to Iranian backing of Shiite rebels in Yemen, the Navy aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt is steaming toward the waters off Yemen to beef up security and join other American ships that are prepared to intercept any Iranian vessels carrying weapons to the Houthi rebels."
My Way News - Obama open to 'creative negotiations' on Iran sanctions
My Way News reports: "Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani insisted last week that they would not sign a deal unless it lifts all sanctions on its first day. Obama initially portrayed their comments as a reflection of internal political pressure, while pointing out that the initial framework agreement reached earlier this month allows for sanctions to be phased out once international monitors verify that Tehran is abiding by the limitations."
My Way News - Obama invites Mideast leaders to White House, Camp David
My Way News reports: "President Barack Obama has invited the heads of Gulf Cooperation Council countries to the White House and then to Camp David. Negotiations over Iran's nuclear capabilities and the turmoil in Yemen are topics high on the agenda. The White House said Obama will meet with the leaders of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates in the White House on May 13 and then at Camp David, the presidential mountaintop retreat in Maryland, on May 14. "
My Way News - Lawyer: Washington Post reporter in Iran faces 4 charges
My Way News reports: "A Washington Post reporter jailed for nearly nine months in Iran faces charges of espionage and three other crimes, his lawyer revealed Monday following her first in-depth meeting with the journalist."
My Way News reports: "In a stepped-up response to Iranian backing of Shiite rebels in Yemen, the Navy aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt is steaming toward the waters off Yemen to beef up security and join other American ships that are prepared to intercept any Iranian vessels carrying weapons to the Houthi rebels."
My Way News - Obama open to 'creative negotiations' on Iran sanctions
My Way News reports: "Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani insisted last week that they would not sign a deal unless it lifts all sanctions on its first day. Obama initially portrayed their comments as a reflection of internal political pressure, while pointing out that the initial framework agreement reached earlier this month allows for sanctions to be phased out once international monitors verify that Tehran is abiding by the limitations."
My Way News - Obama invites Mideast leaders to White House, Camp David
My Way News reports: "President Barack Obama has invited the heads of Gulf Cooperation Council countries to the White House and then to Camp David. Negotiations over Iran's nuclear capabilities and the turmoil in Yemen are topics high on the agenda. The White House said Obama will meet with the leaders of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates in the White House on May 13 and then at Camp David, the presidential mountaintop retreat in Maryland, on May 14. "
My Way News - Lawyer: Washington Post reporter in Iran faces 4 charges
My Way News reports: "A Washington Post reporter jailed for nearly nine months in Iran faces charges of espionage and three other crimes, his lawyer revealed Monday following her first in-depth meeting with the journalist."
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Persecution
The Washington Post - Purported ISIS video shows militants killing groups of Ethiopian Christians
The Washington Post reports: "Islamic State militants in Libya shot and beheaded two groups of Ethiopian Christians, a video purportedly from the extremists showed Sunday, according to the Associated Press. [...] The new 29-minute video showing captured Ethiopian Christians starts with what it called a history of Christian-Muslim relations and includes scenes of militants destroying churches, graves and icons. [...] The video alternates between footage of the captives in the south being shot dead and the captives in the east being beheaded on a beach, the AP report says."
Comment: Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in Libya, that the Holy Spirit will guide them in perseverance, faith, grace and forgiveness.
The Washington Post reports: "Islamic State militants in Libya shot and beheaded two groups of Ethiopian Christians, a video purportedly from the extremists showed Sunday, according to the Associated Press. [...] The new 29-minute video showing captured Ethiopian Christians starts with what it called a history of Christian-Muslim relations and includes scenes of militants destroying churches, graves and icons. [...] The video alternates between footage of the captives in the south being shot dead and the captives in the east being beheaded on a beach, the AP report says."
Comment: Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in Libya, that the Holy Spirit will guide them in perseverance, faith, grace and forgiveness.
Friday, April 17, 2015
Future Fear - Roaring Waves
My Way News - The globe's record heat keeps on broiling into this year
My Way News reports: "There's been no break from the globe's record heat — the first three months of 2015 have set new high temperature marks. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said last month's average temperature of 56.4 degrees (13.6 degrees Celsius) was the hottest March on record, averaging 1.5 degrees above the average for the 20th century. It broke a record set in 2010. For the first three months of 2015, the globe was 55.6 degrees (13.1 degrees Celsius), breaking the record set in 2002. Records go back to 1880."
My Way News reports: "There's been no break from the globe's record heat — the first three months of 2015 have set new high temperature marks. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said last month's average temperature of 56.4 degrees (13.6 degrees Celsius) was the hottest March on record, averaging 1.5 degrees above the average for the 20th century. It broke a record set in 2010. For the first three months of 2015, the globe was 55.6 degrees (13.1 degrees Celsius), breaking the record set in 2002. Records go back to 1880."
Rumors of War - War
My Way News - Australia arrests 5 on charges of plotting ANZAC Day attack
My Way News reports: "Five Australian teenagers were arrested Saturday on suspicion of plotting an Islamic State-inspired terrorist attack at a Veterans' Day ceremony that included targeting police officers, officials said. [...] Police said they believe the plot was inspired by the Islamic State group, also known as ISIS, and was to have involved 'edged weapons'."
My Way News reports: "Five Australian teenagers were arrested Saturday on suspicion of plotting an Islamic State-inspired terrorist attack at a Veterans' Day ceremony that included targeting police officers, officials said. [...] Police said they believe the plot was inspired by the Islamic State group, also known as ISIS, and was to have involved 'edged weapons'."
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Persecution
My Way News - Police: Muslims threw Christians overboard during Med voyage
My Way News reports: "Italy's migration crisis took on a deadly new twist Thursday as police in Sicily reported that Muslim migrants had thrown 12 Christians overboard during a recent crossing from Libya, and an aid group said another 41 were feared drowned in a separate incident."
My Way News reports: "Italy's migration crisis took on a deadly new twist Thursday as police in Sicily reported that Muslim migrants had thrown 12 Christians overboard during a recent crossing from Libya, and an aid group said another 41 were feared drowned in a separate incident."
Rumors of War - War - Persia
My Way News - Saudi-Iran rivalry over Yemen deepens Mideast sectarianism
My Way News reports: "Saudi Arabia's government insists it is not at war with Iran despite its three-week air campaign against Tehran-backed rebels in Yemen, but the kingdom's powerful clerics, and its regional rival's theocratic government, are increasingly presenting the conflict as part of a region-wide battle for the soul of Islam. [...] The Saudi government says its coalition of 10 Arab countries is bombing the Houthi rebels in Yemen to restore the country's internationally recognized president, who was forced to seek refuge in Saudi Arabia. The Saudis and the U.S. accuse Iran of arming the Houthis, but Tehran says it only provides aid and political support."
My Way News reports: "Saudi Arabia's government insists it is not at war with Iran despite its three-week air campaign against Tehran-backed rebels in Yemen, but the kingdom's powerful clerics, and its regional rival's theocratic government, are increasingly presenting the conflict as part of a region-wide battle for the soul of Islam. [...] The Saudi government says its coalition of 10 Arab countries is bombing the Houthi rebels in Yemen to restore the country's internationally recognized president, who was forced to seek refuge in Saudi Arabia. The Saudis and the U.S. accuse Iran of arming the Houthis, but Tehran says it only provides aid and political support."
Gospel Preached to All Nations
My Way News - Tennessee plan to make Bible 'official' book derailed
My Way News reports: "The Bible usually unites Republicans in conservative Tennessee, but lately it is proving to be — as an epistle writer put it — more powerful and sharper than a double-edged sword. Legislators here are deeply divided over a proposal to make the holy text an official state book, with some saying it's far too sacred to be trivialized like the state fruit (tomato), the state amphibian (Tennessee cave salamander) and several state songs ('Tennessee Waltz' and 'Rocky Top'). [...] House lawmakers on Wednesday voted 55-38 in favor of the plan. On Thursday, the proposal was derailed when the Senate voted 22-9 to send it back to a committee that has been closed, effectively killing it for the year."
My Way News reports: "The Bible usually unites Republicans in conservative Tennessee, but lately it is proving to be — as an epistle writer put it — more powerful and sharper than a double-edged sword. Legislators here are deeply divided over a proposal to make the holy text an official state book, with some saying it's far too sacred to be trivialized like the state fruit (tomato), the state amphibian (Tennessee cave salamander) and several state songs ('Tennessee Waltz' and 'Rocky Top'). [...] House lawmakers on Wednesday voted 55-38 in favor of the plan. On Thursday, the proposal was derailed when the Senate voted 22-9 to send it back to a committee that has been closed, effectively killing it for the year."
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Israel premier likens Iran to Nazis at Holocaust remembrance
My Way News reports: "As Israel marked its Holocaust memorial day, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu compared Iran to the Nazis on Wednesday and warned the Islamic Republic must be prevented from obtaining nuclear weapons. Netanyahu linked the Nazi genocide of 6 million Jews in World War II to Iran's contested nuclear program and some of the Islamic Republic leaders' repeated references to the destruction of Israel."
My Way News reports: "As Israel marked its Holocaust memorial day, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu compared Iran to the Nazis on Wednesday and warned the Islamic Republic must be prevented from obtaining nuclear weapons. Netanyahu linked the Nazi genocide of 6 million Jews in World War II to Iran's contested nuclear program and some of the Islamic Republic leaders' repeated references to the destruction of Israel."
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia - King of the North - Gog Alliance
My Way News - Iran expects delivery of Russian missiles by end of the year
My Way News reports: "Russia said Tuesday that it would be at least six months before it could deliver the S-300 air defense missile system to Iran, but the Kremlin confirmed that a barter deal to supply Russian goods in exchange for Iranian oil was already being implemented. Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed his move in a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, telling him that Israel shouldn't be worried about the 'purely defensive' weapon."
My Way News reports: "Russia said Tuesday that it would be at least six months before it could deliver the S-300 air defense missile system to Iran, but the Kremlin confirmed that a barter deal to supply Russian goods in exchange for Iranian oil was already being implemented. Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed his move in a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, telling him that Israel shouldn't be worried about the 'purely defensive' weapon."
Monday, April 13, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia - King of the North - Gog Alliance
My Way News - Russia lifts ban on delivery of S-300 missiles to Iran
My Way News reports: "President Vladimir Putin on Monday sanctioned the delivery of a highly capable Russian air defense missile system to Iran, a game changer move that would significantly bolster the Islamic republic's military capability and fuel Israel's concerns. [...] The S-300 missile system, which has a range of up to 200 kilometers (125 miles) and the capability to track down and strike multiple targets simultaneously, is one of the most potent air defense weapons in the world. [...] Deployed in big numbers, the system could provide a strong deterrent against any air attack. If Israel decides to attack Iran's nuclear facilities, the S-300s would further complicate the already daunting task."
My Way News reports: "President Vladimir Putin on Monday sanctioned the delivery of a highly capable Russian air defense missile system to Iran, a game changer move that would significantly bolster the Islamic republic's military capability and fuel Israel's concerns. [...] The S-300 missile system, which has a range of up to 200 kilometers (125 miles) and the capability to track down and strike multiple targets simultaneously, is one of the most potent air defense weapons in the world. [...] Deployed in big numbers, the system could provide a strong deterrent against any air attack. If Israel decides to attack Iran's nuclear facilities, the S-300s would further complicate the already daunting task."
False Christs
My Way News - HBO scientology film proves popular for network:
My Way News reports: "If the Church of Scientology was hoping that HBO's withering documentary on the religion's practices would pass by with little notice, that turned out to be a miscalculation. 'Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief' has been seen by more than 5.5 million people since its debut two weeks ago. It is likely to wind up being second only to a 2013 movie on Beyonce as the premium cable network's most-watched documentary of the past decade, HBO said Monday."
My Way News reports: "If the Church of Scientology was hoping that HBO's withering documentary on the religion's practices would pass by with little notice, that turned out to be a miscalculation. 'Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief' has been seen by more than 5.5 million people since its debut two weeks ago. It is likely to wind up being second only to a 2013 movie on Beyonce as the premium cable network's most-watched documentary of the past decade, HBO said Monday."
Friday, April 10, 2015
Pestilence
My Way News - UN: Ebola still global emergency despite big drop in cases
My Way News reports: "The World Health Organization says the year-long Ebola outbreak in West Africa still qualifies as an international emergency even though the number of cases has plummeted. Last August, the U.N. health agency declared the epidemic of the lethal virus to be a global emergency after the deaths of nearly 1,000 people, mostly in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia."
My Way News reports: "The World Health Organization says the year-long Ebola outbreak in West Africa still qualifies as an international emergency even though the number of cases has plummeted. Last August, the U.N. health agency declared the epidemic of the lethal virus to be a global emergency after the deaths of nearly 1,000 people, mostly in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia."
Future Fear
My Way News - Researchers say permafrost carbon release will be gradual
My Way News reports: "As the climate warms and permafrost thaws, microbes decompose organic material in permafrost, releasing carbon dioxide or more potent methane. Those greenhouse gases create additional warming. In the last 30 years, permafrost in Alaska, Russia and other Arctic regions has warmed nearly 11 degrees, climbing from an average temperature just under 18 degrees to just over 28 degrees Fahrenheit, according to research cited."
My Way News reports: "As the climate warms and permafrost thaws, microbes decompose organic material in permafrost, releasing carbon dioxide or more potent methane. Those greenhouse gases create additional warming. In the last 30 years, permafrost in Alaska, Russia and other Arctic regions has warmed nearly 11 degrees, climbing from an average temperature just under 18 degrees to just over 28 degrees Fahrenheit, according to research cited."
Thursday, April 09, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Iran aims high ahead of push for final nuclear deal
My Way News reports: "Iran is staking out a tough bargaining stance for the final phase of nuclear negotiations, with both its supreme leader and its moderate president saying Thursday that any deal must include an immediate lifting of withering sanctions. While that might be popular domestically, it could be setting the bar too high for what negotiators will be able to deliver in the final deal they hope to reach by June 30."
My Way News reports: "Iran is staking out a tough bargaining stance for the final phase of nuclear negotiations, with both its supreme leader and its moderate president saying Thursday that any deal must include an immediate lifting of withering sanctions. While that might be popular domestically, it could be setting the bar too high for what negotiators will be able to deliver in the final deal they hope to reach by June 30."
Wednesday, April 08, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Iran sends navy vessels to waters off Yemen, raising stakes
My Way News reports: "Iran dispatched a destroyer and another naval ship to waters off Yemen on Wednesday, raising the stakes amid a Saudi-led air campaign targeting Iranian-backed Shiite rebels fighting forces loyal to the country's embattled president."
My Way News reports: "Iran dispatched a destroyer and another naval ship to waters off Yemen on Wednesday, raising the stakes amid a Saudi-led air campaign targeting Iranian-backed Shiite rebels fighting forces loyal to the country's embattled president."
Tuesday, April 07, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Analysis: Iran nuke deal tough - but could be circumvented
My Way News reports: "Iran can afford to bide its time — it resisted efforts to demolish its nuclear infrastructure, leaving it intact. That allows it to quickly expand to dimensions dwarfing its present capacities once constraints are lifted, starting 10 years after any accord takes hold. Obama on Tuesday acknowledged as much, telling NPR News that Iran could have the capacities to build a nuclear bomb within roughly 13 years of the emerging nuclear deal. As negotiators try to turn a sketchy understanding into a comprehensive deal by June 30, Tehran's nuclear history cannot be ignored."
My Way News - Obama says Iran time to build nuke could drop after 13 years
My Way News reports: "Under the framework announced last week, Iran would be kept at least one year away from a bomb for the first decade of the deal, Obama said as he sought to sell the deal to skeptics. Yet that constraint would stay in place only for 10 years, at which point some restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities would be eased. [...] House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, reacted tersely to Obama's comments, arguing that the president had confirmed what critics of the deal have long feared. He said Tehran was taking the long view and cautioned that the Iranian regime could exploit the easing of restrictions to fulfill its ambitions of exporting revolution across the globe."
My Way News reports: "Iran can afford to bide its time — it resisted efforts to demolish its nuclear infrastructure, leaving it intact. That allows it to quickly expand to dimensions dwarfing its present capacities once constraints are lifted, starting 10 years after any accord takes hold. Obama on Tuesday acknowledged as much, telling NPR News that Iran could have the capacities to build a nuclear bomb within roughly 13 years of the emerging nuclear deal. As negotiators try to turn a sketchy understanding into a comprehensive deal by June 30, Tehran's nuclear history cannot be ignored."
My Way News - Obama says Iran time to build nuke could drop after 13 years
My Way News reports: "Under the framework announced last week, Iran would be kept at least one year away from a bomb for the first decade of the deal, Obama said as he sought to sell the deal to skeptics. Yet that constraint would stay in place only for 10 years, at which point some restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities would be eased. [...] House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, reacted tersely to Obama's comments, arguing that the president had confirmed what critics of the deal have long feared. He said Tehran was taking the long view and cautioned that the Iranian regime could exploit the easing of restrictions to fulfill its ambitions of exporting revolution across the globe."
Monday, April 06, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Israel prepares lobbying strategy against Iran deal
My Way News reports: "Israel's prime minister on Sunday urged world powers to step up pressure on Iran as they finalize a nuclear deal in the coming months, saying there was still time to improve what he said was a deeply flawed framework agreement reached last week."
My Way News - Israel official: Military action against Iran still possible
My Way News reports: "A senior Israeli government minister on Monday warned that taking military action against Iran's nuclear program is still an option — despite last week's framework deal between world powers and the Islamic Republic. "
My Way News reports: "Israel's prime minister on Sunday urged world powers to step up pressure on Iran as they finalize a nuclear deal in the coming months, saying there was still time to improve what he said was a deeply flawed framework agreement reached last week."
My Way News - Israel official: Military action against Iran still possible
My Way News reports: "A senior Israeli government minister on Monday warned that taking military action against Iran's nuclear program is still an option — despite last week's framework deal between world powers and the Islamic Republic. "
Wednesday, April 01, 2015
War - Doomed Damascus
My Way News - IS enters Palestinian camp in Damascus; Jordan closes border
My Way News reports: "Islamic State militants infiltrated a Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus on Wednesday and were clashing with a Palestinian group, the deepest foray yet by the extremist group into the Syrian capital, seat of President Bashar Assad's power, according to opposition activists and Palestinian officials."
My Way News reports: "Islamic State militants infiltrated a Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus on Wednesday and were clashing with a Palestinian group, the deepest foray yet by the extremist group into the Syrian capital, seat of President Bashar Assad's power, according to opposition activists and Palestinian officials."
Gospel Preached to All Nations
My Way News - 'A.D. The Bible Continues' goes beyond the biblical epic
My Way News reports: "Politics in Jerusalem 33 A.D. was just as complex and dangerous as it is today and NBC's new series, 'A.D. The Bible Continues' fuses the biblical epic with the current rage for taut political dramas — 'House of Cards' in sandals. The first of the 12 episodes airs at 9 p.m. EDT Easter, picking up where its predecessor, the wildly popular 'The Bible' series from the History Channel left off and going on to tell the story of what happened to Christ's disciples after the crucifixion. It is choosing this time period that makes 'A.D.' such a departure from past Bible stories, most of which end with the resurrection."
Comment: I'm keeping an open mind. This series has the potential to teach millions of people about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. It could inspire curiosity among those who are unfamiliar with Christianity and lead them to a spiritual epiphany. On the other hand, it could also be a series heavy with secular themes told in a manner to titillate modern audiences without sharing the message of salvation. I'm hoping for the former, but would not be at all surprised by the latter.
My Way News reports: "Politics in Jerusalem 33 A.D. was just as complex and dangerous as it is today and NBC's new series, 'A.D. The Bible Continues' fuses the biblical epic with the current rage for taut political dramas — 'House of Cards' in sandals. The first of the 12 episodes airs at 9 p.m. EDT Easter, picking up where its predecessor, the wildly popular 'The Bible' series from the History Channel left off and going on to tell the story of what happened to Christ's disciples after the crucifixion. It is choosing this time period that makes 'A.D.' such a departure from past Bible stories, most of which end with the resurrection."
Comment: I'm keeping an open mind. This series has the potential to teach millions of people about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. It could inspire curiosity among those who are unfamiliar with Christianity and lead them to a spiritual epiphany. On the other hand, it could also be a series heavy with secular themes told in a manner to titillate modern audiences without sharing the message of salvation. I'm hoping for the former, but would not be at all surprised by the latter.
Pestilence
My Way News - 10 Ebola cases found during Sierra Leone's shutdown
My Way News reports: "Sierra Leone found 10 new Ebola cases during a three-day countrywide shutdown, an official said Wednesday, declaring that the West African country is now at the 'tail end' of the epidemic."
My Way News reports: "Sierra Leone found 10 new Ebola cases during a three-day countrywide shutdown, an official said Wednesday, declaring that the West African country is now at the 'tail end' of the epidemic."
Wickedness Increases - Love Grows Cold
My Way News - 11 former Atlanta educators convicted in cheating scandal
My Way News reports: "In one of the biggest cheating scandals of its kind in the U.S., 11 former Atlanta public school educators were convicted Wednesday of racketeering for their role in a scheme to inflate students' scores on standardized exams. The defendants, including teachers, a principal and other administrators, were accused of falsifying test results to collect bonuses or keep their jobs in the 50,000-student Atlanta school system."
Comment: These "educators" demonstrated an incredible betrayal of trust and a total disregard for the welfare of their students.
My Way News reports: "In one of the biggest cheating scandals of its kind in the U.S., 11 former Atlanta public school educators were convicted Wednesday of racketeering for their role in a scheme to inflate students' scores on standardized exams. The defendants, including teachers, a principal and other administrators, were accused of falsifying test results to collect bonuses or keep their jobs in the 50,000-student Atlanta school system."
Comment: These "educators" demonstrated an incredible betrayal of trust and a total disregard for the welfare of their students.
Monday, March 30, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Iran nuclear talks near deadline; differences remain
My Way News reports: "With Tuesday's target date for a framework accord just hours away, the top diplomats from the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council and Germany were meeting with Iran to try to bridge remaining gaps and hammer out an understanding that would serve as the basis for a final accord to be reached by the end of June. [...] Officials in Lausanne said the sides were advancing on limits to aspects of Iran's program to enrich uranium, which can be used to make the core of a nuclear warhead."
My Way News reports: "With Tuesday's target date for a framework accord just hours away, the top diplomats from the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council and Germany were meeting with Iran to try to bridge remaining gaps and hammer out an understanding that would serve as the basis for a final accord to be reached by the end of June. [...] Officials in Lausanne said the sides were advancing on limits to aspects of Iran's program to enrich uranium, which can be used to make the core of a nuclear warhead."
False Christs
LA Times - Review: HBO's 'Going Clear' a remarkable glimpse into Scientology
The LA Times reports: "It's well-known that Hubbard started out as a writer of pulp fiction, including science fiction; but, notwithstanding his oft-repeated assertion that (as given here in the words of his unacknowledged second wife Sara Northrup) 'the only way to make any real money was to have a religion, a religion where he could have an income and the government wouldn't take it away from him in the form of taxes,' he seems to have truly believed that he had discovered a force for world-changing good. [..] from the outside, the rites and rituals of the church can seem a little absurd, including the "e-meter' that supposedly measures 'the mass of thoughts'; the 'billion-year' contract signed by members of the inner-circle Sea Organization; the unquestioning reverence for Hubbard as the sole source of these revelations."
The LA Times reports: "It's well-known that Hubbard started out as a writer of pulp fiction, including science fiction; but, notwithstanding his oft-repeated assertion that (as given here in the words of his unacknowledged second wife Sara Northrup) 'the only way to make any real money was to have a religion, a religion where he could have an income and the government wouldn't take it away from him in the form of taxes,' he seems to have truly believed that he had discovered a force for world-changing good. [..] from the outside, the rites and rituals of the church can seem a little absurd, including the "e-meter' that supposedly measures 'the mass of thoughts'; the 'billion-year' contract signed by members of the inner-circle Sea Organization; the unquestioning reverence for Hubbard as the sole source of these revelations."
Friday, March 27, 2015
Rumors of War - Jerusalem Surrounded
My Way News - Arabs inch closer to old dream of joint Arab force
My Way News reports: "Arab leaders meeting this weekend in this Egyptian Red Sea resort are moving closer than ever to creating a joint Arab military force, a sign of a new determination among Saudi Arabia, Egypt and their allies to intervene aggressively in regional hotspots, whether against Islamic militants or spreading Iranian power."
Comment: Stopping the spread of Iranian power is a good thing, but what happens when they turn their attention to Israel?
My Way News reports: "Arab leaders meeting this weekend in this Egyptian Red Sea resort are moving closer than ever to creating a joint Arab military force, a sign of a new determination among Saudi Arabia, Egypt and their allies to intervene aggressively in regional hotspots, whether against Islamic militants or spreading Iranian power."
Comment: Stopping the spread of Iranian power is a good thing, but what happens when they turn their attention to Israel?
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Wickedness Increases - Love Grows Cold
My Way News - Co-pilot deliberately slams plane in Alps; families ask why
My Way News reports: "Passengers with moments to live screamed in terror and the pilot frantically pounded on the locked cockpit door as a 27-year-old German co-pilot deliberately and wordlessly smashed an Airbus carrying 150 people into an Alpine mountainside."
My Way News - Filing: Teen says mom killed her siblings found in freezer:
My Way News reports: "A teenager told authorities that her mother killed two siblings and forced her to put one of the bodies in the freezer of their Detroit home where both were found by an eviction crew. [...] In a court filing, the state said the teen described a house of horror, where she and her surviving brother were beaten with an extension cord and piece of wood, hit with a hot curling iron and burned with a clothing iron."
CNN - No murder charge in Craigslist case baby cut from womb
CNN reports: "A former nurse's aide will not face murder charges for allegedly cutting and removing an unborn baby from the mother's womb, Boulder County, Colorado, prosecutor Stanley Garnett said Thursday. "
My Way News reports: "Passengers with moments to live screamed in terror and the pilot frantically pounded on the locked cockpit door as a 27-year-old German co-pilot deliberately and wordlessly smashed an Airbus carrying 150 people into an Alpine mountainside."
My Way News - Filing: Teen says mom killed her siblings found in freezer:
My Way News reports: "A teenager told authorities that her mother killed two siblings and forced her to put one of the bodies in the freezer of their Detroit home where both were found by an eviction crew. [...] In a court filing, the state said the teen described a house of horror, where she and her surviving brother were beaten with an extension cord and piece of wood, hit with a hot curling iron and burned with a clothing iron."
CNN - No murder charge in Craigslist case baby cut from womb
CNN reports: "A former nurse's aide will not face murder charges for allegedly cutting and removing an unborn baby from the mother's womb, Boulder County, Colorado, prosecutor Stanley Garnett said Thursday. "
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Wars - Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - President of Yemen flees by sea; Saudis begin airstrikes
My Way News reports: "President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi fled Yemen by sea Wednesday as Shiite rebels and their allies moved on his last refuge in the south, captured its airport and put a bounty on his head, officials said. Hours later, Saudi Arabia announced it had begun airstrikes against the Houthi rebels. [...] The White House said in a statement late Wednesday that the U.S. was coordinating military and intelligence support with the Saudis but not taking part directly in the strikes. [...] Saudi Arabia and its Gulf allies believe the Shiite rebels, known as Houthis, are tools for Iran to seize control of Yemen and say they intend to stop the takeover. The Houthis deny they are backed by Iran."
My Way News - US conducting airstrikes to help Iraq retake Tikrit
My Way News reports: "At Iraq's request, the U.S. began airstrikes in Tikrit on Wednesday in support of a stalled Iraqi ground offensive to retake the city from Islamic State fighters. The bombing marked a significant expansion of the U.S. military role in Iraq. [...] U.S. airstrikes in Tikrit raise highly sensitive questions about participating in an Iraqi campaign that has been spearheaded by Iraqi Shiite militias trained and equipped by Iran, a U.S. adversary."
My Way News reports: "President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi fled Yemen by sea Wednesday as Shiite rebels and their allies moved on his last refuge in the south, captured its airport and put a bounty on his head, officials said. Hours later, Saudi Arabia announced it had begun airstrikes against the Houthi rebels. [...] The White House said in a statement late Wednesday that the U.S. was coordinating military and intelligence support with the Saudis but not taking part directly in the strikes. [...] Saudi Arabia and its Gulf allies believe the Shiite rebels, known as Houthis, are tools for Iran to seize control of Yemen and say they intend to stop the takeover. The Houthis deny they are backed by Iran."
My Way News - US conducting airstrikes to help Iraq retake Tikrit
My Way News reports: "At Iraq's request, the U.S. began airstrikes in Tikrit on Wednesday in support of a stalled Iraqi ground offensive to retake the city from Islamic State fighters. The bombing marked a significant expansion of the U.S. military role in Iraq. [...] U.S. airstrikes in Tikrit raise highly sensitive questions about participating in an Iraqi campaign that has been spearheaded by Iraqi Shiite militias trained and equipped by Iran, a U.S. adversary."
Monday, March 23, 2015
Rumors of War - King of the North
France 24 - Putin stages military drills in game of 'brinkmanship' with West
AFP reports: "Since the start of the Ukraine crisis more than a year ago, Russia has flexed its muscles with a series of war games but the scale of the latest military exercises -- including sending nuclear bombers to Crimea and ballistic missiles to Kaliningrad in central Europe -- has triggered a series of new questions. Experts say whatever the purpose of the latest manoeuvres involving tens of thousands of troops, the intent is clear: to show Putin's Russia will stop at nothing to protect its interests."
AFP reports: "Since the start of the Ukraine crisis more than a year ago, Russia has flexed its muscles with a series of war games but the scale of the latest military exercises -- including sending nuclear bombers to Crimea and ballistic missiles to Kaliningrad in central Europe -- has triggered a series of new questions. Experts say whatever the purpose of the latest manoeuvres involving tens of thousands of troops, the intent is clear: to show Putin's Russia will stop at nothing to protect its interests."
Friday, March 20, 2015
Signs in the Sun - Signs in the Heavens
My Way News - Ring of light: Total eclipse over Svalbard islands in Arctic
My Way News reports: "Sky-gazers looked up in awe Friday as the moon blocked the sun in a total solar eclipse that momentarily darkened a slice of northern Europe. The most spectacular viewing came on Norway's Svalbard islands near the North Pole, where a bright clear day and blindingly white snow highlighted the cosmic wonder that used to bring ancient civilizations to a trembling halt. Visitors to the Arctic islands were treated to a full view of the sun's corona — a faint ring of rays surrounding the moon — that is only visible during a total eclipse."
My Way News reports: "Sky-gazers looked up in awe Friday as the moon blocked the sun in a total solar eclipse that momentarily darkened a slice of northern Europe. The most spectacular viewing came on Norway's Svalbard islands near the North Pole, where a bright clear day and blindingly white snow highlighted the cosmic wonder that used to bring ancient civilizations to a trembling halt. Visitors to the Arctic islands were treated to a full view of the sun's corona — a faint ring of rays surrounding the moon — that is only visible during a total eclipse."
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Signs in the Sun
Yahoo News Digest — Friday's solar eclipse is like nothing we'll see for another 19 years
Yahoo News reports: "This Friday, a rare total solar eclipse will be visible across parts of Greenland, Europe, and North Africa. Not only is this the only total solar eclipse in 2015, it’s the last of its kind for another 19 years. Total solar eclipses are pretty rare in themselves, but it’s also the first total solar eclipse of the 21st century that occurs on the same day as the first day of spring. To have the moon block out the sun on the same day as the vernal equinox, the first day of spring, is even more rare. It won’t happen again until the year 2034."
Yahoo News reports: "This Friday, a rare total solar eclipse will be visible across parts of Greenland, Europe, and North Africa. Not only is this the only total solar eclipse in 2015, it’s the last of its kind for another 19 years. Total solar eclipses are pretty rare in themselves, but it’s also the first total solar eclipse of the 21st century that occurs on the same day as the first day of spring. To have the moon block out the sun on the same day as the vernal equinox, the first day of spring, is even more rare. It won’t happen again until the year 2034."
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Covenant With Many
My Way News - Netanyahu victory leaves damage in wake
My Way News reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strong showing in national elections this week has come with a price: He has managed to antagonize friends and foes alike with hard-line rhetoric on the campaign trail. [...] He vowed to increase settlement construction in east Jerusalem, the Palestinians' would-be capital, and rejected the idea of a Palestinian state in current conditions — putting him at odds with U.S. and European positions and reversing his own policy of the past six years."
My Way News reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strong showing in national elections this week has come with a price: He has managed to antagonize friends and foes alike with hard-line rhetoric on the campaign trail. [...] He vowed to increase settlement construction in east Jerusalem, the Palestinians' would-be capital, and rejected the idea of a Palestinian state in current conditions — putting him at odds with U.S. and European positions and reversing his own policy of the past six years."
War
My Way News - Museum attack in Tunisian capital kills 19; 2 gunmen slain
My Way News reports: "Foreign tourists scrambled in panic Wednesday after militants stormed a museum in Tunisia's capital and killed 19 people, 'shooting at anything that moved,' a witness said. [...] Tunisia has been more stable than other countries in the region, but has struggled with violence by Islamic extremists who have sworn allegiance to both al-Qaida and the Islamic State group."
My Way News reports: "Foreign tourists scrambled in panic Wednesday after militants stormed a museum in Tunisia's capital and killed 19 people, 'shooting at anything that moved,' a witness said. [...] Tunisia has been more stable than other countries in the region, but has struggled with violence by Islamic extremists who have sworn allegiance to both al-Qaida and the Islamic State group."
Future Fear
My Way News - Winter sets global heat record despite US East's big chill
My Way News reports: "Federal records show that this winter and the first two months of 2015 were the hottest on record globally, with a chilly U.S. East sticking out like a cold thumb in a toastier world. At nearly 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit above 20th century average, last month was the second warmest February on record globally, slightly behind 1998."
Comment: Although there is a healthy debate going about whether climate change is a result of a natural cycle or due to human activity, or to some combination of the two, there is now little doubt that change is happening. Only the most extreme (and well paid) of the climate deniers dispute that.
My Way News reports: "Federal records show that this winter and the first two months of 2015 were the hottest on record globally, with a chilly U.S. East sticking out like a cold thumb in a toastier world. At nearly 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit above 20th century average, last month was the second warmest February on record globally, slightly behind 1998."
Comment: Although there is a healthy debate going about whether climate change is a result of a natural cycle or due to human activity, or to some combination of the two, there is now little doubt that change is happening. Only the most extreme (and well paid) of the climate deniers dispute that.
Pestilence
My Way News - Sierra Leone plans another shutdown to stop Ebola's spread
My Way News reports: "Sierra Leone is planning another three-day, countrywide shutdown later this month to ferret out Ebola cases, remind people how to protect themselves from the disease and control its transmission. The West Africa Ebola outbreak that has killed more than 10,000 people is declining but the disease has remained stubbornly entrenched in parts of Guinea and Sierra Leone. Liberia, the third country severely affected, currently has no Ebola cases."
Comment: Although the media moved on to the next sensational story, Ebola is still a thing.
My Way News reports: "Sierra Leone is planning another three-day, countrywide shutdown later this month to ferret out Ebola cases, remind people how to protect themselves from the disease and control its transmission. The West Africa Ebola outbreak that has killed more than 10,000 people is declining but the disease has remained stubbornly entrenched in parts of Guinea and Sierra Leone. Liberia, the third country severely affected, currently has no Ebola cases."
Comment: Although the media moved on to the next sensational story, Ebola is still a thing.
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Signs in the Sun
St. Patrick's Day Solar Storm Sets Off Green Northern Lights - NBC News.com
NBC News reports: "A massive solar storm is bombarding Earth now, and it could supercharge the northern lights to offer a better chance of seeing dancing green auroras just in time for St. Patrick's Day, weather permitting. The surprisingly strong solar storm — ranked as a G4 geomagnetic storm by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center — could trigger brilliant auroras for people in dark areas as far south as Tennessee on Tuesday night if the space storm continues."
My Way News - Major solar storm hits Earth, may pull northern lights south
My Way News reports: A severe solar storm smacked Earth with a surprisingly big geomagnetic jolt Tuesday, potentially affecting power grids and GPS tracking while pushing the colorful northern lights farther south, federal forecasters said. So far no damage has been reported."
NBC News reports: "A massive solar storm is bombarding Earth now, and it could supercharge the northern lights to offer a better chance of seeing dancing green auroras just in time for St. Patrick's Day, weather permitting. The surprisingly strong solar storm — ranked as a G4 geomagnetic storm by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center — could trigger brilliant auroras for people in dark areas as far south as Tennessee on Tuesday night if the space storm continues."
My Way News - Major solar storm hits Earth, may pull northern lights south
My Way News reports: A severe solar storm smacked Earth with a surprisingly big geomagnetic jolt Tuesday, potentially affecting power grids and GPS tracking while pushing the colorful northern lights farther south, federal forecasters said. So far no damage has been reported."
Monday, March 16, 2015
Covenant With Many
My Way News - Netanyahu promises no Palestinian state if he is re-elected
My Way News reports: "In a frenzied last day of campaigning, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday ruled out the establishment of a Palestinian state and vowed to keep building east Jerusalem settlements as he appealed to hard-line voters on the eve of Israel's closely contested general election. [...] The international community overwhelmingly supports the establishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip, areas captured by Israel in 1967, and opposes settlement construction. Netanyahu's tough new position is likely to worsen his already strained ties with his western allies if he is re-elected."
Comment: Is it any wonder they are out to get him?
My Way News reports: "In a frenzied last day of campaigning, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday ruled out the establishment of a Palestinian state and vowed to keep building east Jerusalem settlements as he appealed to hard-line voters on the eve of Israel's closely contested general election. [...] The international community overwhelmingly supports the establishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip, areas captured by Israel in 1967, and opposes settlement construction. Netanyahu's tough new position is likely to worsen his already strained ties with his western allies if he is re-elected."
Comment: Is it any wonder they are out to get him?
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Persecution
My Way News - Suicide bombers kill 15 people outside Pakistani churches
My Way News reports: "A pair of suicide bombers attacked two churches in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore on Sunday as worshippers prayed inside — killing 15 people in the latest assault against religious minorities in this increasingly fractured country, officials said. [...] Life in Pakistan is increasingly dangerous for religious minorities, especially Christians. They have been targeted by extremist Sunni Muslim militants and are also discriminated against in the wider society, where they are often limited to menial jobs like garbage collection."
Comment: Please join me in praying for believers in Pakistan, that the Holy Spirit will comfort them in their grief and strengthen their faith in the midst of persecution, giving them a forgiving heart and not one bent on revenge.
My Way News reports: "A pair of suicide bombers attacked two churches in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore on Sunday as worshippers prayed inside — killing 15 people in the latest assault against religious minorities in this increasingly fractured country, officials said. [...] Life in Pakistan is increasingly dangerous for religious minorities, especially Christians. They have been targeted by extremist Sunni Muslim militants and are also discriminated against in the wider society, where they are often limited to menial jobs like garbage collection."
Comment: Please join me in praying for believers in Pakistan, that the Holy Spirit will comfort them in their grief and strengthen their faith in the midst of persecution, giving them a forgiving heart and not one bent on revenge.
Saturday, March 14, 2015
Fearsome Events - Roaring Seas & Waves
My Way News - Vanuatu struggles to account for cyclone damage, deaths
My Way News reports: "Officials struggled on Sunday to determine the scale of the devastation wrought by a monstrous cyclone that tore through the tiny South Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu, with death counts varying in the single digits but expected to rise once communications are restored with outlying islands. Packing winds of 270 kilometers (168 miles) per hour, Cyclone Pam tore through Vanuatu early Saturday, leaving a trail of destruction and unconfirmed reports of dozens of deaths."
My Way News reports: "Officials struggled on Sunday to determine the scale of the devastation wrought by a monstrous cyclone that tore through the tiny South Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu, with death counts varying in the single digits but expected to rise once communications are restored with outlying islands. Packing winds of 270 kilometers (168 miles) per hour, Cyclone Pam tore through Vanuatu early Saturday, leaving a trail of destruction and unconfirmed reports of dozens of deaths."
Friday, March 13, 2015
Rumors of War - War - Persia
My Way News - Iraq militia leader hails Iran's 'unconditional' support
My Way News reports: "The U.S. has failed to live up to its promises to help Iraq fight Islamic State extremists, unlike the 'unconditional' assistance being given by Iran, the commander of Iraq's powerful Shiite militias alleged Friday. [...] The Iranian-backed Shiite militias have played a crucial role in regaining territory from the Sunni extremists of the Islamic State group, supporting Iraq's embattled military and police forces."
Comment: This has done nothing except strengthen Iran, it does not bode well for the future of the region.
My Way News reports: "The U.S. has failed to live up to its promises to help Iraq fight Islamic State extremists, unlike the 'unconditional' assistance being given by Iran, the commander of Iraq's powerful Shiite militias alleged Friday. [...] The Iranian-backed Shiite militias have played a crucial role in regaining territory from the Sunni extremists of the Islamic State group, supporting Iraq's embattled military and police forces."
Comment: This has done nothing except strengthen Iran, it does not bode well for the future of the region.
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Earthquakes
My Way News - Report: Chance of mega-quake hitting California increases
My Way News reports: "Scientists are virtually certain that California will be rocked by a strong earthquake in the next 30 years. Now they say the risk of a mega-quake is more likely than previously thought. The chance of a magnitude-8 quake striking the state in the next three decades jumped to 7 percent from 4.7 percent, mainly because scientists took into account the possibility that several faults can shake at once, releasing seismic energy that results in greater destruction."
My Way News reports: "Scientists are virtually certain that California will be rocked by a strong earthquake in the next 30 years. Now they say the risk of a mega-quake is more likely than previously thought. The chance of a magnitude-8 quake striking the state in the next three decades jumped to 7 percent from 4.7 percent, mainly because scientists took into account the possibility that several faults can shake at once, releasing seismic energy that results in greater destruction."
Friday, March 06, 2015
Temple Mount - Jerusalem Security
My Way News - Palestinian assailant wounds 5 Israelis in car attack
My Way News reports: "A Palestinian rammed his car into a group of Israeli pedestrians near a border police station in east Jerusalem on Friday, injuring four officers and a bystander, police said. [...] Friday's attack mirrored a spate of similar assaults on Israelis involving cars late last year, in the same part of Jerusalem. The attacks were linked to tensions over the city's most sensitive holy site, revered by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and by Jews as the Temple Mount."
My Way News reports: "A Palestinian rammed his car into a group of Israeli pedestrians near a border police station in east Jerusalem on Friday, injuring four officers and a bystander, police said. [...] Friday's attack mirrored a spate of similar assaults on Israelis involving cars late last year, in the same part of Jerusalem. The attacks were linked to tensions over the city's most sensitive holy site, revered by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and by Jews as the Temple Mount."
Kings of the East
My Way News - China defense spending to grow 10.1 percent in 2015
My Way News reports: "China said Thursday it will boost defense spending by 10.1 percent, a smaller rise than last year but in line with large annual increases that have drawn concern among the country's neighbors over Beijing's military and territorial ambitions. Beijing says the higher spending is needed to modernize equipment and improve conditions for the 2.3 million-member People's Liberation Army, the world's largest standing military."
My Way News reports: "China said Thursday it will boost defense spending by 10.1 percent, a smaller rise than last year but in line with large annual increases that have drawn concern among the country's neighbors over Beijing's military and territorial ambitions. Beijing says the higher spending is needed to modernize equipment and improve conditions for the 2.3 million-member People's Liberation Army, the world's largest standing military."
Thursday, March 05, 2015
Pestilence
My Way News - WHO to begin large-scale testing of Ebola vaccine in Guinea
My Way News reports: "The World Health Organization will start large-scale testing of an experimental Ebola vaccine in Guinea on Saturday to see how effective it might be in preventing future outbreaks of the deadly virus."
My Way News reports: "The World Health Organization will start large-scale testing of an experimental Ebola vaccine in Guinea on Saturday to see how effective it might be in preventing future outbreaks of the deadly virus."
Rumors of War - Jerusalem Security
My Way News - PLO calls for ending security coordination with Israel
My Way News reports: "A top body in the Palestine Liberation Organization has called for ending security coordination with Israel — a step that could lead to an escalation of tensions. It is not clear if Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will implement Thursday's resolution by the PLO's Central Council."
My Way News reports: "A top body in the Palestine Liberation Organization has called for ending security coordination with Israel — a step that could lead to an escalation of tensions. It is not clear if Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will implement Thursday's resolution by the PLO's Central Council."
Tuesday, March 03, 2015
Global Community
My Way News - Google, Facebook update contrasting plans to connect world
My Way News reports: "Google and Facebook want more people online, searching around and clicking on ads. And they are finding new ways to make it happen — from selling smartphone data plans, to using solar-powered drone aircraft as floating cell towers to partnering with telecom providers in the developing world to get people hooked on apps. [...] they are taking very different approaches to getting the world connected."
My Way News reports: "Google and Facebook want more people online, searching around and clicking on ads. And they are finding new ways to make it happen — from selling smartphone data plans, to using solar-powered drone aircraft as floating cell towers to partnering with telecom providers in the developing world to get people hooked on apps. [...] they are taking very different approaches to getting the world connected."
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Netanyahu warns US 'bad deal' would put Iran on nuclear path
My Way News reports: "In a direct challenge to the White House, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stood before Congress on Tuesday and bluntly warned the U.S. that an emerging nuclear agreement with Iran 'paves Iran's path to the bomb.' President Barack Obama pushed back sternly, saying the U.S. would never sign such a deal and Netanyahu was offering no useful alternative."
My Way News reports: "In a direct challenge to the White House, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stood before Congress on Tuesday and bluntly warned the U.S. that an emerging nuclear agreement with Iran 'paves Iran's path to the bomb.' President Barack Obama pushed back sternly, saying the U.S. would never sign such a deal and Netanyahu was offering no useful alternative."
Monday, March 02, 2015
Roaring Waves
My Way News - The big melt: Antarctica's retreating ice may re-shape Earth
My Way News reports: "Water is eating away at the Antarctic ice, melting it where it hits the oceans. As the ice sheets slowly thaw, water pours into the sea — 130 billion tons of ice (118 billion metric tons) per year for the past decade, according to NASA satellite calculations. That's the weight of more than 356,000 Empire State Buildings, enough ice melt to fill more than 1.3 million Olympic swimming pools. And the melting is accelerating. In the worst case scenario, Antarctica's melt could push sea levels up 10 feet (3 meters) worldwide in a century or two, recurving heavily populated coastlines."
My Way News reports: "Water is eating away at the Antarctic ice, melting it where it hits the oceans. As the ice sheets slowly thaw, water pours into the sea — 130 billion tons of ice (118 billion metric tons) per year for the past decade, according to NASA satellite calculations. That's the weight of more than 356,000 Empire State Buildings, enough ice melt to fill more than 1.3 million Olympic swimming pools. And the melting is accelerating. In the worst case scenario, Antarctica's melt could push sea levels up 10 feet (3 meters) worldwide in a century or two, recurving heavily populated coastlines."
Jerusalem Peace and Security
My Way News - Netanyahu assails Iran deal, touts US-Israel ties
My Way News reports: "Seeking to lower tensions, Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. officials cast their dispute over Iran as a family squabble on Monday, even as the Israeli leader claimed President Barack Obama did not — and could not — fully understand his nation's vital security concerns."
Comment: I received a prayer request today from For Zion's Sake Ministries. They are asking for prayer on the eve of Netanyahu's speech tomorrow. Here is what they wrote:
My Way News reports: "Seeking to lower tensions, Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. officials cast their dispute over Iran as a family squabble on Monday, even as the Israeli leader claimed President Barack Obama did not — and could not — fully understand his nation's vital security concerns."
Comment: I received a prayer request today from For Zion's Sake Ministries. They are asking for prayer on the eve of Netanyahu's speech tomorrow. Here is what they wrote:
In light of the enormous political pressure that is currently placed upon Israel and especially Benyamin Netanyahu in this critical hour, I would like to request a global call to prayer for a powerful anointing upon Netanyahu as he delivers his speech before congress on March 3rd. Please also pray for his protection and the many closed door meetings he will have. Pray that many deaf ears would be opened to the truth and the warning will be heeded by many. Perhaps also you can join with the Jewish people in the traditional “Esther Fast” from dawn until dusk on Purim eve if you are able? Thank you for standing with Israel and the Jewish people in their time of need!Would you join me in praying for Netanyahu and for the peace of Jerusalem?
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
War
My Way News - Obama asks fresh war powers, says IS group 'going to lose'
My Way News reports: "Vowing that Islamic State forces are 'going to lose,' President Barack Obama urged Congress on Wednesday to authorize military action against terrorists who are cutting a swath across the Middle East. Yet he ruled out large-scale U.S. ground combat operations reminiscent of Iraq and Afghanistan."
My Way News reports: "Vowing that Islamic State forces are 'going to lose,' President Barack Obama urged Congress on Wednesday to authorize military action against terrorists who are cutting a swath across the Middle East. Yet he ruled out large-scale U.S. ground combat operations reminiscent of Iraq and Afghanistan."
Friday, February 06, 2015
Wars & Rumors of War
My Way News - Islamic State says airstrike killed US hostage, US skeptical
My Way News reports: "Islamic State extremists claimed that an American woman held hostage by the group was killed Friday in a Jordanian airstrike in northern Syria, but the government of Jordan dismissed the statement as 'criminal propaganda' and the U.S. said it had not seen any evidence to corroborate the report."
My Way News - Putin, Ukraine leader to hold 4-way phone call on peace plan
My Way News reports: "Talks among the leaders of Russia, France and Germany on a peace initiative for Ukraine ended early Saturday with an announcement that Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart would discuss a proposal to end the fighting in a four-way telephone call this weekend. [...] The resurgent fighting has fueled fears the conflict is threatening Europe's overall security and has prompted the U.S. to consider giving lethal weapons to Ukraine, an option opposed by European nations."
My Way News - Jordan's king thrusts country to center of Islamic State war
My Way News reports: "King Abdullah II has thrust Jordan to the center of the war against the Islamic State group with his pledge of relentless retaliation for the killing of one of his pilots. [...] The military carried out airstrikes on Islamic State weapons depots and training sites on Thursday and Friday."
Reuters - Iran is using Israel to distract from its real aims in the Persian Gulf
Reuters reports: "This Iranian threat is as real and serious to the Arab Gulf states — and to the flow of petroleum exports to the global economy — as its nuclear threat. It is the reason why Saudi Arabia and the other Arab Gulf states — as well as the United States, Britain, and France — have built up their naval, air, mine warfare, and missile forces in the Gulf."
My Way News reports: "Islamic State extremists claimed that an American woman held hostage by the group was killed Friday in a Jordanian airstrike in northern Syria, but the government of Jordan dismissed the statement as 'criminal propaganda' and the U.S. said it had not seen any evidence to corroborate the report."
My Way News - Putin, Ukraine leader to hold 4-way phone call on peace plan
My Way News reports: "Talks among the leaders of Russia, France and Germany on a peace initiative for Ukraine ended early Saturday with an announcement that Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart would discuss a proposal to end the fighting in a four-way telephone call this weekend. [...] The resurgent fighting has fueled fears the conflict is threatening Europe's overall security and has prompted the U.S. to consider giving lethal weapons to Ukraine, an option opposed by European nations."
My Way News - Jordan's king thrusts country to center of Islamic State war
My Way News reports: "King Abdullah II has thrust Jordan to the center of the war against the Islamic State group with his pledge of relentless retaliation for the killing of one of his pilots. [...] The military carried out airstrikes on Islamic State weapons depots and training sites on Thursday and Friday."
Reuters - Iran is using Israel to distract from its real aims in the Persian Gulf
Reuters reports: "This Iranian threat is as real and serious to the Arab Gulf states — and to the flow of petroleum exports to the global economy — as its nuclear threat. It is the reason why Saudi Arabia and the other Arab Gulf states — as well as the United States, Britain, and France — have built up their naval, air, mine warfare, and missile forces in the Gulf."
Thursday, February 05, 2015
War and Rumors of War
My Way News - Jordan launches new airstrikes after vowing harsh war on IS
My Way News reports: "Dozens of Jordanian fighter jets bombed Islamic State training centers and weapons storage sites Thursday, intensifying attacks after the militants burned to death a captured Jordanian pilot. As part of the new campaign, Jordan is also attacking targets in Iraq, said Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh. Up to now, Jordan had struck IS targets in Syria, but not Iraq, as part of a U.S.-led military coalition."
My Way News - French, German leaders push new peace plan for east Ukraine
My Way News reports: "The trip by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande, who will follow by meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday in Moscow, came as concerns rose about whether the U.S. would grant lethal aid to Ukraine and as NATO formed a quick-reaction force of 5,000 soldiers in response to Russia's increased military muscle-flexing. [...] More than 5,300 people have been killed since the fighting started in April."
My Way News - NATO beefs up response force to face Russia, Islamic threats
My Way News reports: "NATO defense ministers agreed Thursday to more than double the size of the alliance's Response Force and create a new quick-reaction force of 5,000 troops to meet simultaneous challenges from Russia and Islamic extremists. [...] NATO's total Response Force was increased from 13,000 to 30,000 troops and its new rapid reaction force should start to deploy within 48 hours, Stoltenberg said."
My Way News reports: "Dozens of Jordanian fighter jets bombed Islamic State training centers and weapons storage sites Thursday, intensifying attacks after the militants burned to death a captured Jordanian pilot. As part of the new campaign, Jordan is also attacking targets in Iraq, said Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh. Up to now, Jordan had struck IS targets in Syria, but not Iraq, as part of a U.S.-led military coalition."
My Way News - French, German leaders push new peace plan for east Ukraine
My Way News reports: "The trip by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande, who will follow by meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday in Moscow, came as concerns rose about whether the U.S. would grant lethal aid to Ukraine and as NATO formed a quick-reaction force of 5,000 soldiers in response to Russia's increased military muscle-flexing. [...] More than 5,300 people have been killed since the fighting started in April."
My Way News - NATO beefs up response force to face Russia, Islamic threats
My Way News reports: "NATO defense ministers agreed Thursday to more than double the size of the alliance's Response Force and create a new quick-reaction force of 5,000 troops to meet simultaneous challenges from Russia and Islamic extremists. [...] NATO's total Response Force was increased from 13,000 to 30,000 troops and its new rapid reaction force should start to deploy within 48 hours, Stoltenberg said."
Wednesday, February 04, 2015
War
My Way News - Jordan says IS can be defeated; uproar over burn video
My Way News reports: "Jordan called Wednesday for a decisive battle against the Islamic State group, declaring "this evil can and should be defeated," after the militants burned a Jordanian pilot to death in a cage and gleefully broadcast the horrific images on outdoor screens in their stronghold."
My Way News reports: "Jordan called Wednesday for a decisive battle against the Islamic State group, declaring "this evil can and should be defeated," after the militants burned a Jordanian pilot to death in a cage and gleefully broadcast the horrific images on outdoor screens in their stronghold."
Tuesday, February 03, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - AP Exclusive: US, Iran discussing nuclear talks compromise
My Way News reports: "With time for negotiations running short, the U.S and Iran are discussing a compromise that would let Iran keep much of its uranium-enriching technology but reduce its potential to make nuclear weapons, two diplomats tell The Associated Press. [...] Experts warn that any reduction in centrifuge efficiency is reversible more quickly than a straight decrease in the number of machines, an argument that could be seized upon by powerful critics of the talks in the U.S. Congress."
Comment: Could it be that Obama needs a deal more than Iran needs to compromise?
My Way News reports: "With time for negotiations running short, the U.S and Iran are discussing a compromise that would let Iran keep much of its uranium-enriching technology but reduce its potential to make nuclear weapons, two diplomats tell The Associated Press. [...] Experts warn that any reduction in centrifuge efficiency is reversible more quickly than a straight decrease in the number of machines, an argument that could be seized upon by powerful critics of the talks in the U.S. Congress."
Comment: Could it be that Obama needs a deal more than Iran needs to compromise?
Monday, February 02, 2015
Temple Mount
My Way News - Jordan says its ambassador will return to Israel after spat
My Way News reports: "A spokesman for Jordan's government says its ambassador will return to Israel after he was pulled over growing confrontations at a hilltop site in Jerusalem holy to both Jews and Muslims. Mohammad al-Momani told journalists Monday that the ambassador would return to Tel Aviv. The trapezoid-shaped compound, known to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and to Jews as the Temple Mount, is at the heart of the territorial and religious conflict between Israel and its Arab neighbors."
My Way News reports: "A spokesman for Jordan's government says its ambassador will return to Israel after he was pulled over growing confrontations at a hilltop site in Jerusalem holy to both Jews and Muslims. Mohammad al-Momani told journalists Monday that the ambassador would return to Tel Aviv. The trapezoid-shaped compound, known to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and to Jews as the Temple Mount, is at the heart of the territorial and religious conflict between Israel and its Arab neighbors."
Saturday, January 31, 2015
War
My Way News - Japan outraged as video purportedly shows hostage beheaded
My Way News reports: "Japan and other nations condemned with outrage and horror on Sunday the beheading purportedly by the Islamic State group of Kenji Goto, a journalist who sought through his coverage of Syria to convey the plight of refugees, children and other victims of war."
My Way News - Islamic State fighters admit defeat in Syrian town of Kobani
My Way News reports: "The Islamic State group has acknowledged for the first time that its fighters have been defeated in the Syrian town of Kobani and vowed to attack the town again. [...] The failure to capture and hold Kobani was a major blow to the extremists. Their hopes for an easy victory dissolved into a costly siege under withering airstrikes by coalition forces and an assault by Kurdish militiamen."
My Way News reports: "Japan and other nations condemned with outrage and horror on Sunday the beheading purportedly by the Islamic State group of Kenji Goto, a journalist who sought through his coverage of Syria to convey the plight of refugees, children and other victims of war."
My Way News - Islamic State fighters admit defeat in Syrian town of Kobani
My Way News reports: "The Islamic State group has acknowledged for the first time that its fighters have been defeated in the Syrian town of Kobani and vowed to attack the town again. [...] The failure to capture and hold Kobani was a major blow to the extremists. Their hopes for an easy victory dissolved into a costly siege under withering airstrikes by coalition forces and an assault by Kurdish militiamen."
Mark of the Beast
The Telegraph - An office block in Sweden is micro-chipping its employees
The Telegraph reports: "Epicenter, a new hi-tech office block in Sweden, is ditching swipe cards and implanting chips in its employees. People working at Epicenter, a new hi-tech office block in Sweden, simply have to hold their hands against the front door to gain entry. They can also wave their hand to operate the photocopier, the BBC's Rory Cellan-Jones reports. In time, they will also be able to pay for coffee and sandwiches in the cafe with a touch of a hand. It's because some employees have a tiny RFID (radio-frequency identification) chip, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted. A handful of staff currently have the chip, but soon others among the 400 workers will be given the chance."
Comment: "The Borg? Sounds Swedish." But seriously, it's an interesting development that may or may not be MOTB related and although I can't see this becoming a trend, it's worth keeping an eye on.
The Telegraph reports: "Epicenter, a new hi-tech office block in Sweden, is ditching swipe cards and implanting chips in its employees. People working at Epicenter, a new hi-tech office block in Sweden, simply have to hold their hands against the front door to gain entry. They can also wave their hand to operate the photocopier, the BBC's Rory Cellan-Jones reports. In time, they will also be able to pay for coffee and sandwiches in the cafe with a touch of a hand. It's because some employees have a tiny RFID (radio-frequency identification) chip, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted. A handful of staff currently have the chip, but soon others among the 400 workers will be given the chance."
Comment: "The Borg? Sounds Swedish." But seriously, it's an interesting development that may or may not be MOTB related and although I can't see this becoming a trend, it's worth keeping an eye on.
Friday, January 30, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Hezbollah warns Israel it won't tolerate more attacks
My Way News reports: "The leader of the militant Hezbollah group said Friday that this week's deadly cross-border attack on Israeli soldiers was a message that it will no longer tolerate any Israeli attacks against its members. [...] The Hezbollah threat comes as the group, which has an arsenal of tens of thousands of missiles and rockets, is currently preoccupied with the war in neighboring Syria — where it is aiding Syrian President Assad's forces."
My Way News reports: "The leader of the militant Hezbollah group said Friday that this week's deadly cross-border attack on Israeli soldiers was a message that it will no longer tolerate any Israeli attacks against its members. [...] The Hezbollah threat comes as the group, which has an arsenal of tens of thousands of missiles and rockets, is currently preoccupied with the war in neighboring Syria — where it is aiding Syrian President Assad's forces."
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Hezbollah fires missile salvo, killing 2 Israeli soldiers
My Way News reports: "The Lebanese militant Hezbollah group fired a salvo of missiles at an Israeli military convoy in a disputed border area Wednesday, killing two soldiers and triggering deadly clashes that marked the most serious escalation since the sides' 2006 war. [...] Netanyahu said that Iran, through Hezbollah, was working to establish a base in southern Syria from which to launch attacks against Israel."
Comment: While our American media remains focused on the weather (!) tensions are increasing in the Middle East.
My Way News reports: "The Lebanese militant Hezbollah group fired a salvo of missiles at an Israeli military convoy in a disputed border area Wednesday, killing two soldiers and triggering deadly clashes that marked the most serious escalation since the sides' 2006 war. [...] Netanyahu said that Iran, through Hezbollah, was working to establish a base in southern Syria from which to launch attacks against Israel."
Comment: While our American media remains focused on the weather (!) tensions are increasing in the Middle East.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Rumors of War - Jerusalem Security
My Way News - Israel says 2 rockets from Syria strike Golan Heights
My Way News reports: "At least two rockets launched from Syria struck the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights on Tuesday and Israel responded with artillery fire, the military said. The exchange came after an airstrike last week in Syria attributed to Israel killed six members of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah and an Iranian general. Israel has braced for a response to that strike, beefing up its air defenses and increasing surveillance along its northern frontier."
My Way News reports: "At least two rockets launched from Syria struck the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights on Tuesday and Israel responded with artillery fire, the military said. The exchange came after an airstrike last week in Syria attributed to Israel killed six members of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah and an Iranian general. Israel has braced for a response to that strike, beefing up its air defenses and increasing surveillance along its northern frontier."
Monday, January 26, 2015
Fearsome Events
My Way News - Snowstorm threatens to paralyze the crowded Northeast US
My Way News reports: "Tens of millions of people along the Philadelphia-to-Boston corridor rushed to get home and settle in Monday as a fearsome storm swirled in with the potential for hurricane-force winds and 1 to 3 feet of snow that could paralyze the Northeast for days."
My Way News reports: "Tens of millions of people along the Philadelphia-to-Boston corridor rushed to get home and settle in Monday as a fearsome storm swirled in with the potential for hurricane-force winds and 1 to 3 feet of snow that could paralyze the Northeast for days."
Friday, January 23, 2015
Rumors of War - King of the North
My Way News - Pro-Russian rebels reject peace deal, launch new offensive
My Way News reports: "Pro-Russian rebels in eastern Ukraine rejected a previously signed peace deal Friday and launched a new multipronged offensive against Ukrainian government troops, upending recent European attempts to mediate an end to the fighting.[...] U.S. Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove said air-defense and electronic-warfare equipment have been detected in eastern Ukraine — hardware that, in the past, coincided with the incursion of Russian troops into Ukraine."
My Way News reports: "Pro-Russian rebels in eastern Ukraine rejected a previously signed peace deal Friday and launched a new multipronged offensive against Ukrainian government troops, upending recent European attempts to mediate an end to the fighting.[...] U.S. Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove said air-defense and electronic-warfare equipment have been detected in eastern Ukraine — hardware that, in the past, coincided with the incursion of Russian troops into Ukraine."
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Peace and Security of Jerusalem
My Way News - UN meeting challenges world to stand up to anti-Semitism
My Way News reports: "The assembly met at the request of 37 mainly Western countries including the United States who urged the world body to address the 'alarming outbreak of anti-Semitism worldwide.' It was an informal meeting, attended by about half the 193 member states, so no resolution could be adopted. But 40 mainly Western countries issued a joint statement afterward urging all nations to 'declare their categorical rejection of anti-Semitism,' strengthen laws to combat discrimination, and prosecute those responsible for anti-Semitic crimes."
My Way News reports: "The assembly met at the request of 37 mainly Western countries including the United States who urged the world body to address the 'alarming outbreak of anti-Semitism worldwide.' It was an informal meeting, attended by about half the 193 member states, so no resolution could be adopted. But 40 mainly Western countries issued a joint statement afterward urging all nations to 'declare their categorical rejection of anti-Semitism,' strengthen laws to combat discrimination, and prosecute those responsible for anti-Semitic crimes."
Pestilence
My Way News - Measles outbreak casts spotlight on anti-vaccine movement
My Way News reports: "A major measles outbreak traced to Disneyland has brought criticism down on the small but vocal movement among parents to opt out of vaccinations for their children. In a rash of cases that public health officials are rushing to contain, at least 70 people in six states and Mexico have fallen ill since mid-December, most of them from California. The vast majority of those who got sick had not gotten the measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR, vaccine."
My Way News reports: "A major measles outbreak traced to Disneyland has brought criticism down on the small but vocal movement among parents to opt out of vaccinations for their children. In a rash of cases that public health officials are rushing to contain, at least 70 people in six states and Mexico have fallen ill since mid-December, most of them from California. The vast majority of those who got sick had not gotten the measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR, vaccine."
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Boehner defies Obama on Iran sanctions, invites Netanyahu
My Way News reports: "Defying President Barack Obama, House Speaker John Boehner announced on Wednesday that he's invited Israel's prime minister to stand before Congress and push for new sanctions against its archenemy Iran. [...] Obama has threatened to veto any new sanctions legislation, saying it could scuttle ongoing nuclear talks with Iran and heighten the risk of a military showdown."
My Way News reports: "Defying President Barack Obama, House Speaker John Boehner announced on Wednesday that he's invited Israel's prime minister to stand before Congress and push for new sanctions against its archenemy Iran. [...] Obama has threatened to veto any new sanctions legislation, saying it could scuttle ongoing nuclear talks with Iran and heighten the risk of a military showdown."
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Israel on high alert for possible Hezbollah retaliation
My Way News reports: "Israel has gone on high alert for possible attacks by Hezbollah, Israeli defense officials said Wednesday, beefing up its air defenses and increasing surveillance along its northern frontier following an airstrike in Syria that killed six members of the Lebanese militant group and an Iranian general."
Comment: Will the cold war between Israel and Iran turn hot? Stay tuned.
My Way News reports: "Israel has gone on high alert for possible attacks by Hezbollah, Israeli defense officials said Wednesday, beefing up its air defenses and increasing surveillance along its northern frontier following an airstrike in Syria that killed six members of the Lebanese militant group and an Iranian general."
Comment: Will the cold war between Israel and Iran turn hot? Stay tuned.
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Persecution
My Way News - Charlie Hebdo protests leave at least 10 dead in Niger
My Way News reports: "President Mahamadou Issoufou said that five deaths were reported after demonstrations in Niamey, the capital, on Saturday. Another five people died Friday in the town of Zinder following prayer services there. The victims were inside churches and bars that were set ablaze, he said.
My Way News reports: "President Mahamadou Issoufou said that five deaths were reported after demonstrations in Niamey, the capital, on Saturday. Another five people died Friday in the town of Zinder following prayer services there. The victims were inside churches and bars that were set ablaze, he said.
Friday, January 16, 2015
Future Fear & Roaring Waves
My Way News - The heat is on; NOAA, NASA say 2014 warmest year on record
My Way News reports: "For the third time in a decade, the globe sizzled to the hottest year on record, federal scientists announced Friday. Both the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and NASA calculated that in 2014 the world had its hottest year in 135 years of record-keeping. Earlier, the Japanese weather agency and an independent group out of University of California Berkeley also measured 2014 as the hottest on record. [...] This was the 38th year in a row that the world was warmer than the 20th Century average, according to NOAA data. Most people in the world and the United States were born after 1976 and have never lived in a cooler than normal year."
My Way News - GO FIGURE: Figuring the odds of Earth's global hot streak
My Way News reports: "Nine of the 10 hottest years on record have occurred in the 21st century. The odds of that being random are 650 million to 1, the statisticians said. Thirteen of the 15 the hottest years on record have occurred in the last 15 years. The odds of that being random are more than 41 trillion to 1, the statisticians said. All 15 years from 2000 on have been among the top 20 warmest years on record. They said the odds of that are 1.5 quadrillion to 1. A quadrillion is a million billion. "
My Way News reports: "For the third time in a decade, the globe sizzled to the hottest year on record, federal scientists announced Friday. Both the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and NASA calculated that in 2014 the world had its hottest year in 135 years of record-keeping. Earlier, the Japanese weather agency and an independent group out of University of California Berkeley also measured 2014 as the hottest on record. [...] This was the 38th year in a row that the world was warmer than the 20th Century average, according to NOAA data. Most people in the world and the United States were born after 1976 and have never lived in a cooler than normal year."
My Way News - GO FIGURE: Figuring the odds of Earth's global hot streak
My Way News reports: "Nine of the 10 hottest years on record have occurred in the 21st century. The odds of that being random are 650 million to 1, the statisticians said. Thirteen of the 15 the hottest years on record have occurred in the last 15 years. The odds of that being random are more than 41 trillion to 1, the statisticians said. All 15 years from 2000 on have been among the top 20 warmest years on record. They said the odds of that are 1.5 quadrillion to 1. A quadrillion is a million billion. "
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Pestilence
My Way News - UN: At least 50 Ebola hotspots remain, but new cases falling
My Way News reports: "At least 50 Ebola hotspots remain in the three hardest-hit West African countries but new cases are declining and the deadly disease will be defeated, the U.N.'s Ebola chief said Thursday."
My Way News - Flu vaccine not working well; only 23 percent effective
My Way News reports: "Indeed, the flu season is shaping up to a bad one. Health officials are comparing it to the nasty flu season two winters ago, and this one may prove to be worse. Hospitalization rates in people 65 and older are higher than they were at the same point in the 2012-2013 season, according to CDC data."
My Way News reports: "At least 50 Ebola hotspots remain in the three hardest-hit West African countries but new cases are declining and the deadly disease will be defeated, the U.N.'s Ebola chief said Thursday."
My Way News - Flu vaccine not working well; only 23 percent effective
My Way News reports: "Indeed, the flu season is shaping up to a bad one. Health officials are comparing it to the nasty flu season two winters ago, and this one may prove to be worse. Hospitalization rates in people 65 and older are higher than they were at the same point in the 2012-2013 season, according to CDC data."
Wars and Rumors of War
My Way News - Belgian police kill 2 in anti-terror raid during shootout
My Way News reports: "With Europe dreading more terror, Belgian authorities moved swiftly to pre-empt what they called a major attack by as little as hours Thursday, killing two suspects in a firefight and arresting a third in a vast anti-terrorism sweep that stretched into the night."
My Way News - France sees 19,000 cyberattacks since terror rampage
My Way News reports: "Hackers have targeted about 19,000 French websites since a rampage by Islamic extremists left 20 dead last week, a top French cyberdefense official said Thursday as the president tried to calm the nation's inflamed religious tensions."
My Way News reports: "With Europe dreading more terror, Belgian authorities moved swiftly to pre-empt what they called a major attack by as little as hours Thursday, killing two suspects in a firefight and arresting a third in a vast anti-terrorism sweep that stretched into the night."
My Way News - France sees 19,000 cyberattacks since terror rampage
My Way News reports: "Hackers have targeted about 19,000 French websites since a rampage by Islamic extremists left 20 dead last week, a top French cyberdefense official said Thursday as the president tried to calm the nation's inflamed religious tensions."
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Roaring Waves and Seas
My Way News - Study: Sea level rise accelerating more than once thought
My Way News reports: "The current sea level rise rate — which started in 1990 — is 2.5 times faster than it was from 1900 to 1990, according to a study published Wednesday in the journal Nature. Scientists say that faster pace of sea level rise is from melting ice sheets in Greenland and West Antarctica and shrinking glaciers, triggered by man-made global warming."
My Way News reports: "The current sea level rise rate — which started in 1990 — is 2.5 times faster than it was from 1900 to 1990, according to a study published Wednesday in the journal Nature. Scientists say that faster pace of sea level rise is from melting ice sheets in Greenland and West Antarctica and shrinking glaciers, triggered by man-made global warming."
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Wars and Rumors of Wars
My Way News - Defiant Charlie Hebdo fronts Muhammad, drawing more threats
My Way News reports: "In an emotional act of defiance, Charlie Hebdo resurrected its irreverent and often provocative newspaper Tuesday, featuring a caricature of the Prophet Muhammad on the cover that drew immediate criticism and threats of more violence [...] criticism and threats immediately appeared on militant websites, with calls for more strikes against the newspaper and anonymous threats from radicals, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, a U.S.-based terrorism monitor."
My Way News - Israel buries 4 Jewish victims of Paris attack
My Way News reports: "Thousands of mourners joined Israeli leaders and the families of the four Jewish victims of a Paris terror attack on a kosher supermarket for an emotional funeral procession on Tuesday, reflecting the deep sense of connection and concern in Israel over the safety of fellow Jews in Europe. The ceremony, broadcast live on all Israeli TV channels, turned into a nationwide expression of mourning and solidarity."
My Way News reports: "In an emotional act of defiance, Charlie Hebdo resurrected its irreverent and often provocative newspaper Tuesday, featuring a caricature of the Prophet Muhammad on the cover that drew immediate criticism and threats of more violence [...] criticism and threats immediately appeared on militant websites, with calls for more strikes against the newspaper and anonymous threats from radicals, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, a U.S.-based terrorism monitor."
My Way News - Israel buries 4 Jewish victims of Paris attack
My Way News reports: "Thousands of mourners joined Israeli leaders and the families of the four Jewish victims of a Paris terror attack on a kosher supermarket for an emotional funeral procession on Tuesday, reflecting the deep sense of connection and concern in Israel over the safety of fellow Jews in Europe. The ceremony, broadcast live on all Israeli TV channels, turned into a nationwide expression of mourning and solidarity."
Monday, January 12, 2015
Persecution
My Way News - IS affiliate claims abduction of 21 Christians in Libya
My Way News reports: "A Libyan affiliate of the Islamic State has claimed the abduction of 21 Coptic Christians and released pictures of the captives. The claim and photos were posted Monday on jihadi forums used by Islamic State supporters. The Egyptian workers were seized last month in the central Libyan city of Sirte."
My Way News reports: "A Libyan affiliate of the Islamic State has claimed the abduction of 21 Coptic Christians and released pictures of the captives. The claim and photos were posted Monday on jihadi forums used by Islamic State supporters. The Egyptian workers were seized last month in the central Libyan city of Sirte."
Wars and Rumors of War
My Way News - Paris attack rallies Islamic extremists, may boost support
My Way News reports: "For Islamic State group militants, it is a welcome 'success' in global jihad, or holy war, as they struggle to maintain momentum in the face of U.S.-led airstrikes targeting their positions in Syria and Iraq, where the group seized large swaths of territory last year. For al-Qaida, the attack can serve to demonstrate that the group is still relevant and able to strike in the heart of Western civilization, more than a decade after the Sept. 11 attacks on United States."
My Way News reports: "For Islamic State group militants, it is a welcome 'success' in global jihad, or holy war, as they struggle to maintain momentum in the face of U.S.-led airstrikes targeting their positions in Syria and Iraq, where the group seized large swaths of territory last year. For al-Qaida, the attack can serve to demonstrate that the group is still relevant and able to strike in the heart of Western civilization, more than a decade after the Sept. 11 attacks on United States."
Global Community
Comment: I'm posting the above news video for two reason. First, as the news headline says, it's a great representation of an event impacting the "global community" and one in which millions of people all over the world have become personally involved thanks to the immediacy of the mobile internet and social networks. When people send each other their comments and catchy hashtags go viral, it's a great example of the kind of connectivity foretold by John in the Book of Revelation. I use the tag "global community" to archive such news reports, you can find the link over on the right side of the page.
The second reason I'm posting this is to demonstrate the perverse and willful blindness of our news guardians who have bought into the Palestinian narrative of victim-hood. Instead of highlighting the dangers of radical Islam to France's Jewish population, the AP editor sent their reporter to talk to a Palestinian, who speciously decried the burden of terrorism on the Palestinians. That comment, of course, goes unexamined and is presented as a self-evident truth. There indeed have been Palestinian victims of terrorism. For example, there are numerous documented incidents of Palestinian bomb-makers accidentally blowing themselves up before attacking their Jewish targets. That, I suspect, is not what the interviewee had in mind. They sought, rather, to redefine the terms (as all activists do) to suggest that Israeli actions towards the Palestinians (in retaliation of missile attacks perhaps?) constitute terrorism. As I said, the statement was presented without elaboration or context, simply sent out by the AP to confirm the bias of those already infected by groupthink. It's a brilliant example of how our Western news media have become co-opted by those who wish us harm.
Friday, January 09, 2015
Wars and Rumors of War
My Way News - France to hold emergency meeting to avert terror attacks
My Way News reports: "Key members of the French government will meet Saturday morning to decide on new measures aimed at thwarting a repeat of the attacks in Paris that culminated in a massacre of 12 people at a satirical newspaper, and a supermarket bloodbath that left four hostages dead. [...] With explosions and gunfire, security forces Friday ended the three days of terror, killing the two al-Qaida-linked brothers who staged a murderous rampage at the Charlie Hebdo newspaper and an accomplice who seized hostages at a kosher supermarket to try to help the brothers escape."
My Way News - Al-Qaida member in Yemen says group directed Paris attack
My Way News reports: "Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula directed the attack against the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris 'as revenge for the honor' of Islam's Prophet Muhammad, a member of the group told The Associated Press on Friday."
My Way News reports: "Key members of the French government will meet Saturday morning to decide on new measures aimed at thwarting a repeat of the attacks in Paris that culminated in a massacre of 12 people at a satirical newspaper, and a supermarket bloodbath that left four hostages dead. [...] With explosions and gunfire, security forces Friday ended the three days of terror, killing the two al-Qaida-linked brothers who staged a murderous rampage at the Charlie Hebdo newspaper and an accomplice who seized hostages at a kosher supermarket to try to help the brothers escape."
My Way News - Al-Qaida member in Yemen says group directed Paris attack
My Way News reports: "Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula directed the attack against the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris 'as revenge for the honor' of Islam's Prophet Muhammad, a member of the group told The Associated Press on Friday."
Thursday, January 08, 2015
Global Community
My Way News - Massive manhunt for 2 suspects in Paris attack
My Way News reports: "The worst spasm of terror violence in more than a half-century stunned France. The lights of the Eiffel Tower went out Thursday night in a tribute to the dead from the elegant iron lady that symbolizes France to the world. At noon, the Paris Metro came to a standstill and a crowd fell silent near the Notre Dame Cathedral. The attack struck a chord beyond French borders and similar tributes were held around Europe and elsewhere."
My Way News - No living in fear: 'I Am Charlie' rallies back free speech
My Way News reports: "From Berlin to Bangkok, tens of thousands took a stand against living in fear, as rallies defended the freedom of expression and honored the victims of a Paris newspaper attack. [...] Many held placards proclaiming "Je Suis Charlie" — 'I am Charlie' — a slogan that went viral on social media within hours of Wednesday's terror attack on the French satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo that left 12 people dead. [...] European capitals including Madrid, London and Brussels and cities in the U.S. saw large demonstrations and candlelit vigils late Wednesday. More rallies were held Thursday from Sarajevo to Athens, where some formed a line and held up a letter each spelling out in Greek: 'I do not hate, I am not afraid.'"
Comment: As people tune in on their mobile devices to keep up with the breaking news, this the first global news event of the new year, drawing in millions of people all over the world who are showing their support on social media and mass public gatherings. Global news events are common in our time, but not in John's time when he wrote Rev. 11:9-12.
My Way News reports: "The worst spasm of terror violence in more than a half-century stunned France. The lights of the Eiffel Tower went out Thursday night in a tribute to the dead from the elegant iron lady that symbolizes France to the world. At noon, the Paris Metro came to a standstill and a crowd fell silent near the Notre Dame Cathedral. The attack struck a chord beyond French borders and similar tributes were held around Europe and elsewhere."
My Way News - No living in fear: 'I Am Charlie' rallies back free speech
My Way News reports: "From Berlin to Bangkok, tens of thousands took a stand against living in fear, as rallies defended the freedom of expression and honored the victims of a Paris newspaper attack. [...] Many held placards proclaiming "Je Suis Charlie" — 'I am Charlie' — a slogan that went viral on social media within hours of Wednesday's terror attack on the French satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo that left 12 people dead. [...] European capitals including Madrid, London and Brussels and cities in the U.S. saw large demonstrations and candlelit vigils late Wednesday. More rallies were held Thursday from Sarajevo to Athens, where some formed a line and held up a letter each spelling out in Greek: 'I do not hate, I am not afraid.'"
Comment: As people tune in on their mobile devices to keep up with the breaking news, this the first global news event of the new year, drawing in millions of people all over the world who are showing their support on social media and mass public gatherings. Global news events are common in our time, but not in John's time when he wrote Rev. 11:9-12.
Wednesday, January 07, 2015
Wars and Rumors of War
My Way News - Hunt for 2 in French shooting that killed 12; 1 surrenders
My Way News reports: "France raised its terror alert system to the maximum — Attack Alert — and bolstered security with more than 800 extra soldiers to guard media offices, places of worship, transport and other sensitive areas. Fears had been running high in France and elsewhere in Europe that jihadis trained in warfare abroad would stage attacks at home."
Comment: There are many in the West who believe the politically correct narrative that Islam is a religion of peace. I wonder if such continued attacks will at some point undermine that narrative?
My Way News reports: "France raised its terror alert system to the maximum — Attack Alert — and bolstered security with more than 800 extra soldiers to guard media offices, places of worship, transport and other sensitive areas. Fears had been running high in France and elsewhere in Europe that jihadis trained in warfare abroad would stage attacks at home."
Comment: There are many in the West who believe the politically correct narrative that Islam is a religion of peace. I wonder if such continued attacks will at some point undermine that narrative?
Tuesday, January 06, 2015
King of the North
My Way News - Despite pressure, EU's sanctions against Russia could last
My Way News reports: "EU sanctions against Russia over the crisis in Ukraine are cutting both ways: hurting Russia as well as pinching some big European companies. But economic relief isn't likely any time soon, diplomats and analysts say, since EU divisions make the sanctions tough to overturn."
My Way News - For some Russians, mortgage costs soaring due to ruble slide
My Way News reports: "Russia's energy-dependent economy has suffered a severe shock over the past few months, largely because oil prices have tanked. Western sanctions over Moscow's course on Ukraine also have had a negative effect, particularly on the banks."
My Way News - Putin foe Navalny defies house arrest by going to buy milk
My Way News reports: "Russian anti-corruption crusader Alexei Navalny defied his house arrest on Tuesday by walking to his local store to buy milk, and said he was quickly intercepted by three men — presumably police — who escorted him home. "
My Way News reports: "EU sanctions against Russia over the crisis in Ukraine are cutting both ways: hurting Russia as well as pinching some big European companies. But economic relief isn't likely any time soon, diplomats and analysts say, since EU divisions make the sanctions tough to overturn."
My Way News - For some Russians, mortgage costs soaring due to ruble slide
My Way News reports: "Russia's energy-dependent economy has suffered a severe shock over the past few months, largely because oil prices have tanked. Western sanctions over Moscow's course on Ukraine also have had a negative effect, particularly on the banks."
My Way News - Putin foe Navalny defies house arrest by going to buy milk
My Way News reports: "Russian anti-corruption crusader Alexei Navalny defied his house arrest on Tuesday by walking to his local store to buy milk, and said he was quickly intercepted by three men — presumably police — who escorted him home. "
Monday, January 05, 2015
Temple Mount
My Way News - Islamic leader urges Muslims to visit Jerusalem holy site
My Way News reports: "The head of the world's largest Islamic organization on Monday paid a rare visit to Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque, urging Muslims to follow suit to strengthen Palestinian claims to the holy site. [...] The hilltop compound housing Al-Aqsa lies at the heart of the dispute over Jerusalem. Known to Jews as the Temple Mount, it is their most sacred place, revered as the home to the ancient Hebrew temples."
My Way News reports: "The head of the world's largest Islamic organization on Monday paid a rare visit to Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque, urging Muslims to follow suit to strengthen Palestinian claims to the holy site. [...] The hilltop compound housing Al-Aqsa lies at the heart of the dispute over Jerusalem. Known to Jews as the Temple Mount, it is their most sacred place, revered as the home to the ancient Hebrew temples."
Jerusalem Security
My Way News - Israeli group files war crimes claim against Palestinians
My Way News reports: "An Israel-based rights organization said Monday that it has filed a war crimes complaint against three top Palestinian leaders it accuses of terrorism, torture and civil rights violations. [...] The move [...] comes a week after the Palestinians announced they would be joining the international court to pursue war-crimes charges against Israel. The gambit opened them up to their own set of potential war crimes allegations over rocket attacks by the extremist group Hamas on Israeli population centers and other violence against Jewish targets."
My Way News reports: "An Israel-based rights organization said Monday that it has filed a war crimes complaint against three top Palestinian leaders it accuses of terrorism, torture and civil rights violations. [...] The move [...] comes a week after the Palestinians announced they would be joining the international court to pursue war-crimes charges against Israel. The gambit opened them up to their own set of potential war crimes allegations over rocket attacks by the extremist group Hamas on Israeli population centers and other violence against Jewish targets."
Pestilence
My Way News - UN: Ebola kills 8,153 people in West Africa, infects 20,650
My Way News reports: "The World Health Organization says at least 8,153 people have died in the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. The Geneva-based body said Monday that the total number of confirmed, probable and suspected deaths from the disease comes from 20,656 cases in the three most affected countries — a mortality rate of 39 percent."
My Way News reports: "The World Health Organization says at least 8,153 people have died in the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. The Geneva-based body said Monday that the total number of confirmed, probable and suspected deaths from the disease comes from 20,656 cases in the three most affected countries — a mortality rate of 39 percent."
Saturday, January 03, 2015
Rumors of War - Persia
My Way News - Iran, 6 powers move closer to nuclear talks deal
My Way News reports: "Iran and the U.S. have tentatively agreed on a formula that Washington hopes will reduce Tehran's ability to make nuclear arms by committing it to ship to Russia much of the material needed for such weapons, diplomats say.[...] The diplomats said differences still dominate ahead of the next round of Iran-six power talks on Jan. 15 in Geneva. But they suggested that even agreement to create a to-do list would have been difficult previously because of wide gaps between the sides."
Comment: So, reading between the lines, the U.S. still has very high hopes and very little to show for it except an agreement to keep talking. I suspect that Iran realizes that time is on their side. All they have to do is keep talking and continue to convince the U.S. that talking is a sign of progress.
My Way News reports: "Iran and the U.S. have tentatively agreed on a formula that Washington hopes will reduce Tehran's ability to make nuclear arms by committing it to ship to Russia much of the material needed for such weapons, diplomats say.[...] The diplomats said differences still dominate ahead of the next round of Iran-six power talks on Jan. 15 in Geneva. But they suggested that even agreement to create a to-do list would have been difficult previously because of wide gaps between the sides."
Comment: So, reading between the lines, the U.S. still has very high hopes and very little to show for it except an agreement to keep talking. I suspect that Iran realizes that time is on their side. All they have to do is keep talking and continue to convince the U.S. that talking is a sign of progress.
Friday, January 02, 2015
Rumors of War
My Way News - US slaps sanctions on North Korea after Sony hack
My Way News reports: "Opening a new front in its cyber spat with North Korea, the United States slapped new sanctions Friday on government officials and the North's defense industry in its first public act of retribution for a cyberattack against Sony. Despite lingering doubts by the cyber community, the U.S. insisted that North Korea was to blame."
Comment: This is the very definition of a rumor of war, isn't it? Even though Obama has confidence in the intelligence community's conclusion that North Korea is to blame, tech analysts aren't so sure. Stay tuned for North Korea's response. Will it be the usual bluster? Or, perhaps, will they continue the cyberattacks? In many ways, a declared cyberwar is new territory for us all, and very alarming, given that the U.S. and North Korea are still technically in a state of war stemming from the unresolved Korean War.
My Way News reports: "Opening a new front in its cyber spat with North Korea, the United States slapped new sanctions Friday on government officials and the North's defense industry in its first public act of retribution for a cyberattack against Sony. Despite lingering doubts by the cyber community, the U.S. insisted that North Korea was to blame."
Comment: This is the very definition of a rumor of war, isn't it? Even though Obama has confidence in the intelligence community's conclusion that North Korea is to blame, tech analysts aren't so sure. Stay tuned for North Korea's response. Will it be the usual bluster? Or, perhaps, will they continue the cyberattacks? In many ways, a declared cyberwar is new territory for us all, and very alarming, given that the U.S. and North Korea are still technically in a state of war stemming from the unresolved Korean War.
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
I'm off for my holiday break and wanted to wish you all a happy and joyous Christmas. I know that the news we link to here is often grim but I'm sure that most of you who visit this site are Christians who understand that beyond the headlines we know that God is sovereign and always in control. We know that this effort to be watchful has a purpose and a focus, and that focus is on Jesus Christ.
We watch the signs of His return, but this season is all about the First Coming, not the Second Coming, so as we turn to our families and friends to celebrate the holidays we offer thanks and praise to God and above all, celebrate Jesus as the reason for the season.
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
lyrics by Charles Wesley
Hark the herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled"
Joyful, all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With the angelic host proclaim:
"Christ is born in Bethlehem"
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"
Christ by highest heav'n adored
Christ the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come
Offspring of a Virgin's womb
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see
Hail the incarnate Deity
Pleased as man with man to dwell
Jesus, our Emmanuel
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"
Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings
Ris'n with healing in His wings
Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"
Friday, December 19, 2014
Rumors of War
My Way News - Obama says North Korea hacked Sony, vows response
My Way News reports: "President Barack Obama declared Friday that Sony "made a mistake" in shelving a satirical film about a plot to assassinate North Korea's leader, and he pledged the U.S. would respond "in a place and manner and time that we choose" to the hacking attack on Sony that led to the withdrawal. The FBI blamed the hack on the communist government. [...] the U.S. detected communications between computer Internet addresses known to be operated by North Korea and hacking tools left behind at the crime scene, which the FBI said contained subtle clues linking them to that country's government."
Comment: Will this become the first openly declared cyberwar? There have been lots of secret and not-so-secret cyberwar events since the dawn of the information age (like the attacks on Estonia in 2007 assumed to have been made by Russia), but this seems unprecedented.
My Way News reports: "President Barack Obama declared Friday that Sony "made a mistake" in shelving a satirical film about a plot to assassinate North Korea's leader, and he pledged the U.S. would respond "in a place and manner and time that we choose" to the hacking attack on Sony that led to the withdrawal. The FBI blamed the hack on the communist government. [...] the U.S. detected communications between computer Internet addresses known to be operated by North Korea and hacking tools left behind at the crime scene, which the FBI said contained subtle clues linking them to that country's government."
Comment: Will this become the first openly declared cyberwar? There have been lots of secret and not-so-secret cyberwar events since the dawn of the information age (like the attacks on Estonia in 2007 assumed to have been made by Russia), but this seems unprecedented.
Jerusalem Security
My Way News - Israel carries out airstrike on Hamas site in Gaza
My Way News reports: "Israel's military struck a Hamas site in the Gaza Strip early Saturday in its first airstrike on the Palestinian territory since this summer's war. The Israeli military said the airstrike on what it called a 'Hamas terror infrastructure site' in the southern Gaza Strip was in response to a rocket fired from Gaza into southern Israel on Friday."
Comment: Isn't that nice, the Palestinians are expressing their support for peace with Israel again with another gift of rockets. It's the little gestures that mean so much.
My Way News reports: "Israel's military struck a Hamas site in the Gaza Strip early Saturday in its first airstrike on the Palestinian territory since this summer's war. The Israeli military said the airstrike on what it called a 'Hamas terror infrastructure site' in the southern Gaza Strip was in response to a rocket fired from Gaza into southern Israel on Friday."
Comment: Isn't that nice, the Palestinians are expressing their support for peace with Israel again with another gift of rockets. It's the little gestures that mean so much.
Thursday, December 18, 2014
King of the North
My Way News - Putin: West wants to defang, declaw Russian bear
My Way News reports: "The mixture of blistering anti-Western rhetoric and constructive signals appeared to indicate that Putin is eager to negotiate a face-saving solution to the Ukrainian crisis, but has no intention of conceding defeat in his standoff with the West. In his first public appearance since the crash of the ruble's value this week, Putin accepted responsibility for the economic crisis."
My Way News reports: "The mixture of blistering anti-Western rhetoric and constructive signals appeared to indicate that Putin is eager to negotiate a face-saving solution to the Ukrainian crisis, but has no intention of conceding defeat in his standoff with the West. In his first public appearance since the crash of the ruble's value this week, Putin accepted responsibility for the economic crisis."
Covenant With Many
My Way News - Palestinian leader supports more talks on UN bid
My Way News reports: "Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas said Thursday that he supports further negotiations on a proposed U.N. Security Council resolution that sets a 2017 deadline for an Israeli withdrawal from war-won lands the Palestinians seek for their state. His comments indicated that he is trying to avoid a clash with Washington at the council."
My Way News - US prepared to veto UN plan for Israeli occupation
My Way News reports: "The U.S. is prepared to veto a United Nations Security Council proposal that calls for an end to Israel's occupation of Palestinian lands in 2017. State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said the resolution, offered by Jordan and pushed by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, is unlikely to face an immediate vote."
Comment: Why are the Palestinians setting the agenda? We know that there will be no serious efforts on the Mideast peace front until after the Israeli elections, but the media seems more then willing to make it appear that the Palestinians are now driving the peace process. The Palestinians have no credibility (thanks to Hamas) or standing (a non-state can't make valid demands of a state), and yet just from media reports, you would think they are the dominant player. It's very strange.
My Way News reports: "Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas said Thursday that he supports further negotiations on a proposed U.N. Security Council resolution that sets a 2017 deadline for an Israeli withdrawal from war-won lands the Palestinians seek for their state. His comments indicated that he is trying to avoid a clash with Washington at the council."
My Way News - US prepared to veto UN plan for Israeli occupation
My Way News reports: "The U.S. is prepared to veto a United Nations Security Council proposal that calls for an end to Israel's occupation of Palestinian lands in 2017. State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said the resolution, offered by Jordan and pushed by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, is unlikely to face an immediate vote."
Comment: Why are the Palestinians setting the agenda? We know that there will be no serious efforts on the Mideast peace front until after the Israeli elections, but the media seems more then willing to make it appear that the Palestinians are now driving the peace process. The Palestinians have no credibility (thanks to Hamas) or standing (a non-state can't make valid demands of a state), and yet just from media reports, you would think they are the dominant player. It's very strange.
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Covenant With Many
My Way News - Palestinians set deadline for Israeli occupation
My Way News reports: "Israel suffered back-to-back diplomatic setbacks in Europe on Wednesday, while the Palestinians at the United Nations set a deadline for an Israeli withdrawal from lands captured nearly 50 years ago by the end of 2017. In Geneva, the international community delivered a stinging rebuke to Israel's settlement construction in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, saying the practice violates Israel's responsibilities as an occupying power."
Comment: How about Israel setting a deadline for the Palestinians to disarm Hamas? I mean, if the Palestinians want peace so much, they should deal with the faction of their people who have come out violently against the peace process.
My Way News reports: "Israel suffered back-to-back diplomatic setbacks in Europe on Wednesday, while the Palestinians at the United Nations set a deadline for an Israeli withdrawal from lands captured nearly 50 years ago by the end of 2017. In Geneva, the international community delivered a stinging rebuke to Israel's settlement construction in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, saying the practice violates Israel's responsibilities as an occupying power."
Comment: How about Israel setting a deadline for the Palestinians to disarm Hamas? I mean, if the Palestinians want peace so much, they should deal with the faction of their people who have come out violently against the peace process.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Covenant With Many
My Way News - France seeking support for Mideast plan
My Way News reports: "France on Tuesday tried to overcome resistance and rally international support for a draft U.N. plan setting a two-year deadline for peace talks on Palestinian statehood. [...] The French, seeking a higher-profile role in Middle East diplomacy, see their draft as more palatable than a Jordanian-backed resolution also under discussion."
My Way News reports: "France on Tuesday tried to overcome resistance and rally international support for a draft U.N. plan setting a two-year deadline for peace talks on Palestinian statehood. [...] The French, seeking a higher-profile role in Middle East diplomacy, see their draft as more palatable than a Jordanian-backed resolution also under discussion."
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