Prophecy News Watch provided by Worthy Ministries
Prophecy News Watch is a service hosted by Worthy Ministries to provide Christians daily news from a Biblical, and yet Prophetic worldview. Our news is gathered by our Christian News Service, Worthy News. For more about our vision for how we assemble our daily headlines, please read, "What is Worthy News?"
Around the World
Iran under pressure after fourth mysterious explosion
Iran is under intense pressure after four serious explosions that appear to have damaged key infrastructure linked to its missile and nuclear program, as well as other facilities.
China's Campaign to Systematically Reduce Minorities
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has been conducting a large scale campaign to reduce the Muslim population of the Uighurs and other ethnic minorities in the far western region of Xinjiang, even though the CCP encourages some of the country’s Han majority to have more children. Individual women have warned the world about forced birth control, yet the practice is far more widespread and systematic than previously realized. This information is based on government statistics, state documents, and interviews with various sources such as ex-detainees, family members, and a former detention camp instructor. Some experts are calling this "demographic genocide" and have denounced the campaign over the past four years.
France and Other Governments Pressured over Coronavirus Response
A French court has launched an inquiry into the alleged mishandling by the outgoing French government of the coronavirus pandemic. The announcement comes while elsewhere in Europe, and the former Soviet Union, tensions also rise over the way leaders deal with the crisis.
US Embassy says Afghan leaders are close to talks with Taliban on ending war
The US Embassy in Pakistan announced Thursday that Afghanistan’s political leaders are close to starting negotiations with the Taliban about the future of the country, the Military Times reports. The development follows a peace agreement signed between the US and the Taliban in February this year. As part of the deal, US Peace Envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is in the region to help facilitate intra-Afghan negotiations.
The Swastika - A Symbol of anti-Semitism or Nobility?
To most of the world, the swastika is a diabolical symbol for sure - one that conjures images of Adolph Hitler, Nazism, and anti-Semitism. But what is a swastika? And what is the significance? The word swastika comes from the Sanskrit for well-being or luck. It has been used for thousands of years in Indian cultures and worldwide, and became a fashionable motif in the West in the early 20th Century.
France Governments Resigns Over Coronavirus Economic Concerns
France was to name a new prime minister later Friday after Edouard Philippe and his cabinet resigned amid mounting concerns about the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation.
Iran Warns Israel After Nuclear Facility Blast And Fire
Iran has warned Israel and other “foes” against “hostile actions” after an explosion and fire damaged the Natanz nuclear complex.
Former Assemblies of God leader becomes President of Malawi
The former head of the Assemblies of God denomination in Malawi has now been elected president of the country. Lazarus Chakwera was sworn in Sunday, having won 58% of the vote to beat incumbent Peter Mutharika, Evangelical Focus reported.
Israel-Palestinian Conflict
American protestors chant 'Death to Israel' at US Day of Rage
Calls have been made to end Israel's existence at a series of rallies held across America and Canada.
Hamas founder calls on PA, Fatah to join forces in armed resistance
A senior member of Hamas has called on Palestinian militant groups to join forces, abandon peace negotiations, and engage in armed resistance against Israel.
Messianic channel Shelanu considering legal action against chairman of Israel’s broadcasting council
The directors of GOD TV’s Messianic channel Shelanu are considering legal action against Israel’s media oversight council for falsely and publically accusing them of using deception to obtain their broadcasting license. Shelanu’s license was revoked after the chairman of Israel’s Council for Cable and Satellite Broadcasting wrongly stated the channel had presented its target audience as Christians when its actual purpose was to reach Jewish audiences with the Gospel.
Inside the United States
Unemployment Falls as US Adds 4.8M New Jobs
The U.S. economy added 4.8 million jobs in June as it struggles to recover from the business closures forced by the coronavirus pandemic, the government reported Thursday, even as it said another 1.4 million laid-off workers filed for unemployment benefits last week.
Background Checks, a Metric for Gun Sales, Hit All-Time High
Historic numbers of background checks to purchase or possess a firearm were done in June, a trend in a year marked by uncertainty over the coronavirus pandemic, a subsequent economic recession, protests over racial injustice and calls to reduce police funding.
Portland police declare ‘riot’ again – as city sees 38th straight day of unrest
Police in Portland, Ore., declared a riot around 11 p.m. local time Saturday as Independence Day marked the 38th consecutive day of civil unrest in the city.
Trump’s Taxes, Birth Control Top Supreme Court’s Closing Agenda
The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to cap a term like no other with potentially blockbuster decisions covering birth control, religious rights and President Donald Trump’s efforts to keep his financial records private.
Rapper Kanye West To Run For US President
U.S. rapper and entrepreneur Kanye West, who claims to be a born-again Christian, says he will run for president this year.
Justice department has charged 150 people with committing crime during protests
The Acting US Attorney for Washington DC said Thursday that the Justice Department has charged 150 people with committing criminal acts during protests that followed the police killing of George Floyd, the Washington Examiner reports. Prosecutor Michael Sherwin made the announcement during an interview with Fox News on Thursday.
Numerous protests planned for Washington DC on Independence Day
Activists are planning major protests and demonstrations in Washington DC over Independence Day weekend, the Washington Examiner reports. Summing up the reason for the protests, one activist told the Examiner: “What is Independence Day to black folks? What was Independence Day to honestly anyone but the white economic elite on [July 4, 1776]? Poor folks and women couldn’t even vote. It’s a hoax.”
Democrat-controlled House approves large infrastructure bill
The Democrat-controlled House approved a $1.5 trillion infrastructure plan Wednesday that would not only rebuild failing roads, railways, ports and transit systems but also fund schools, health care, public utilities, and housing, PBS reported.
Christian News
National Security law is a 'threat to Christians' in Hong Kong
The imposition of a draconian national security law in Hong Kong this week has given rise to fears over the fate of Christians.
Iran Detains, Threatens, Dozens of Christian Converts’
Iran has detained or intimidated dozens of devoted Christians in recent days as part of government efforts to halt the spread of Christianity in the Islamic nation, investigators say.
Iran under pressure after fourth mysterious explosion
Iran is under intense pressure after four serious explosions that appear to have damaged key infrastructure linked to its missile and nuclear program, as well as other facilities.
China's Campaign to Systematically Reduce Minorities
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has been conducting a large scale campaign to reduce the Muslim population of the Uighurs and other ethnic minorities in the far western region of Xinjiang, even though the CCP encourages some of the country’s Han majority to have more children. Individual women have warned the world about forced birth control, yet the practice is far more widespread and systematic than previously realized. This information is based on government statistics, state documents, and interviews with various sources such as ex-detainees, family members, and a former detention camp instructor. Some experts are calling this "demographic genocide" and have denounced the campaign over the past four years.
France and Other Governments Pressured over Coronavirus Response
A French court has launched an inquiry into the alleged mishandling by the outgoing French government of the coronavirus pandemic. The announcement comes while elsewhere in Europe, and the former Soviet Union, tensions also rise over the way leaders deal with the crisis.
US Embassy says Afghan leaders are close to talks with Taliban on ending war
The US Embassy in Pakistan announced Thursday that Afghanistan’s political leaders are close to starting negotiations with the Taliban about the future of the country, the Military Times reports. The development follows a peace agreement signed between the US and the Taliban in February this year. As part of the deal, US Peace Envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is in the region to help facilitate intra-Afghan negotiations.
The Swastika - A Symbol of anti-Semitism or Nobility?
To most of the world, the swastika is a diabolical symbol for sure - one that conjures images of Adolph Hitler, Nazism, and anti-Semitism. But what is a swastika? And what is the significance? The word swastika comes from the Sanskrit for well-being or luck. It has been used for thousands of years in Indian cultures and worldwide, and became a fashionable motif in the West in the early 20th Century.
France Governments Resigns Over Coronavirus Economic Concerns
France was to name a new prime minister later Friday after Edouard Philippe and his cabinet resigned amid mounting concerns about the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the nation.
Iran Warns Israel After Nuclear Facility Blast And Fire
Iran has warned Israel and other “foes” against “hostile actions” after an explosion and fire damaged the Natanz nuclear complex.
Former Assemblies of God leader becomes President of Malawi
The former head of the Assemblies of God denomination in Malawi has now been elected president of the country. Lazarus Chakwera was sworn in Sunday, having won 58% of the vote to beat incumbent Peter Mutharika, Evangelical Focus reported.
Israel-Palestinian Conflict
American protestors chant 'Death to Israel' at US Day of Rage
Calls have been made to end Israel's existence at a series of rallies held across America and Canada.
Hamas founder calls on PA, Fatah to join forces in armed resistance
A senior member of Hamas has called on Palestinian militant groups to join forces, abandon peace negotiations, and engage in armed resistance against Israel.
Messianic channel Shelanu considering legal action against chairman of Israel’s broadcasting council
The directors of GOD TV’s Messianic channel Shelanu are considering legal action against Israel’s media oversight council for falsely and publically accusing them of using deception to obtain their broadcasting license. Shelanu’s license was revoked after the chairman of Israel’s Council for Cable and Satellite Broadcasting wrongly stated the channel had presented its target audience as Christians when its actual purpose was to reach Jewish audiences with the Gospel.
Inside the United States
Unemployment Falls as US Adds 4.8M New Jobs
The U.S. economy added 4.8 million jobs in June as it struggles to recover from the business closures forced by the coronavirus pandemic, the government reported Thursday, even as it said another 1.4 million laid-off workers filed for unemployment benefits last week.
Background Checks, a Metric for Gun Sales, Hit All-Time High
Historic numbers of background checks to purchase or possess a firearm were done in June, a trend in a year marked by uncertainty over the coronavirus pandemic, a subsequent economic recession, protests over racial injustice and calls to reduce police funding.
Portland police declare ‘riot’ again – as city sees 38th straight day of unrest
Police in Portland, Ore., declared a riot around 11 p.m. local time Saturday as Independence Day marked the 38th consecutive day of civil unrest in the city.
Trump’s Taxes, Birth Control Top Supreme Court’s Closing Agenda
The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to cap a term like no other with potentially blockbuster decisions covering birth control, religious rights and President Donald Trump’s efforts to keep his financial records private.
Rapper Kanye West To Run For US President
U.S. rapper and entrepreneur Kanye West, who claims to be a born-again Christian, says he will run for president this year.
Justice department has charged 150 people with committing crime during protests
The Acting US Attorney for Washington DC said Thursday that the Justice Department has charged 150 people with committing criminal acts during protests that followed the police killing of George Floyd, the Washington Examiner reports. Prosecutor Michael Sherwin made the announcement during an interview with Fox News on Thursday.
Numerous protests planned for Washington DC on Independence Day
Activists are planning major protests and demonstrations in Washington DC over Independence Day weekend, the Washington Examiner reports. Summing up the reason for the protests, one activist told the Examiner: “What is Independence Day to black folks? What was Independence Day to honestly anyone but the white economic elite on [July 4, 1776]? Poor folks and women couldn’t even vote. It’s a hoax.”
Democrat-controlled House approves large infrastructure bill
The Democrat-controlled House approved a $1.5 trillion infrastructure plan Wednesday that would not only rebuild failing roads, railways, ports and transit systems but also fund schools, health care, public utilities, and housing, PBS reported.
Christian News
National Security law is a 'threat to Christians' in Hong Kong
The imposition of a draconian national security law in Hong Kong this week has given rise to fears over the fate of Christians.
Iran Detains, Threatens, Dozens of Christian Converts’
Iran has detained or intimidated dozens of devoted Christians in recent days as part of government efforts to halt the spread of Christianity in the Islamic nation, investigators say.
Around the World
Iran may be developing missiles that can reach Europe
According to analysis by the Breaking Defense digital magazine, Iran may be developing a type of missile that can reach targets in the middle of Europe, Israel Hayom reported Tuesday. Breaking Defense believes the Iranians may be disguising a missile program as the space launch vehicle development.
Russia's Putin Can Rule Till 2036, Voters Say
Russia’s long-ruling President Vladimir Putin could remain in power until 2036 after voters backed controversial changes to the constitution, official results showed Wednesday.
Russia votes to define marriage in constitution as between man and woman
Russians voted in favor of a referendum on Wednesday for a series of constitutional amendments, one of which would define marriage as between a man and a woman.
Mexico celebrates start of new trade accord with US, Canada
Mexico celebrated the implementation of a new free trade agreement with Canada and the United States that it hopes will lead to more investment in its struggling economy.
Hundreds arrested in Hong Kong after China imposes new national security law
More than 300 people have been arrested in Hong Kong protests Wednesday, including nine accused of violating a new national security law that Western powers argue takes away the territory’s semi-autonomous status and gives China unprecedented power over the city.
Israel-Palestinian Conflict
Top Democrat announces $500 million funding for Israel defense
The top Democrat on the US Senate Armed Services Committee has announced a funding package of $500 million for Israel’s missile defense as part of a key US defense bill, the Time of Israel (ToI) reports. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand made the announcement Tuesday even as four progressive Congressional Democrats are demanding cuts in US aid to Israel if it proceeds to annex parts of the West Bank.
Netanyahu ally confirms delays in West Bank annexation plan
A confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that the premier’s plan to annex parts of the West Bank would not start on Wednesday, the original target date.
Knesset approves law allowing Shin Bet virus tracking to resume for 3 weeks
The Knesset on Wednesday passed legislation authorizing the Shin Bet security service to use controversial phone surveillance measures to help track down potential coronavirus carriers for a three-week period.
Inside the United States
Assault weapons parts smuggled from China to US
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers intercepted a shipment of 10,800 assault weapon parts that was smuggled from China and destined for Florida last month, GreatgameIndia.com reported. The shipment was seized by border officials in Louisville, Kentucky on May 22.
More than 100 injured or killed in 83 shootings over nine days in NYC as city cuts $1B from NYPD
A spike in shootings in New York City has left more than 100 people wounded or killed during a nine-day span.
House Democrats pass $1.5 trillion 'green' infrastructure bill filled with climate policies
The House passed a $1.5 trillion “green” infrastructure package on a partisan basis Wednesday by a 233-188 vote, as Democrats signaled their commitment to combating climate change through multiple avenues, a key issue for their voting base.
Seattle Mayor Orders Protesters to Vacate CHOP Zone; Police Arresting Those Refusing to Leave
On Wednesday, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan issued a Proclamation of Civil Emergency declaring the Capitol Hill Organized Protest (CHOP) zone gathering an “unlawful assembly” requiring immediate action from city agencies, including the Seattle Police Department.
House passes bill rebuking China over Hong Kong security law
The House on Wednesday joined the Senate in approving a bill to rebuke China over its crackdown in Hong Kong by imposing sanctions on groups that undermine the city’s autonomy or restrict freedoms promised to its residents.
Christian News
Christian Converts Sentenced In Iran
Seven people who turned from Islam to Christianity have received prison terms, fines, or work restrictions in Iran for “propaganda against the state,” trial observers confirmed Wednesday.
Iran may be developing missiles that can reach Europe
According to analysis by the Breaking Defense digital magazine, Iran may be developing a type of missile that can reach targets in the middle of Europe, Israel Hayom reported Tuesday. Breaking Defense believes the Iranians may be disguising a missile program as the space launch vehicle development.
Russia's Putin Can Rule Till 2036, Voters Say
Russia’s long-ruling President Vladimir Putin could remain in power until 2036 after voters backed controversial changes to the constitution, official results showed Wednesday.
Russia votes to define marriage in constitution as between man and woman
Russians voted in favor of a referendum on Wednesday for a series of constitutional amendments, one of which would define marriage as between a man and a woman.
Mexico celebrates start of new trade accord with US, Canada
Mexico celebrated the implementation of a new free trade agreement with Canada and the United States that it hopes will lead to more investment in its struggling economy.
Hundreds arrested in Hong Kong after China imposes new national security law
More than 300 people have been arrested in Hong Kong protests Wednesday, including nine accused of violating a new national security law that Western powers argue takes away the territory’s semi-autonomous status and gives China unprecedented power over the city.
Israel-Palestinian Conflict
Top Democrat announces $500 million funding for Israel defense
The top Democrat on the US Senate Armed Services Committee has announced a funding package of $500 million for Israel’s missile defense as part of a key US defense bill, the Time of Israel (ToI) reports. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand made the announcement Tuesday even as four progressive Congressional Democrats are demanding cuts in US aid to Israel if it proceeds to annex parts of the West Bank.
Netanyahu ally confirms delays in West Bank annexation plan
A confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that the premier’s plan to annex parts of the West Bank would not start on Wednesday, the original target date.
Knesset approves law allowing Shin Bet virus tracking to resume for 3 weeks
The Knesset on Wednesday passed legislation authorizing the Shin Bet security service to use controversial phone surveillance measures to help track down potential coronavirus carriers for a three-week period.
Inside the United States
Assault weapons parts smuggled from China to US
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers intercepted a shipment of 10,800 assault weapon parts that was smuggled from China and destined for Florida last month, GreatgameIndia.com reported. The shipment was seized by border officials in Louisville, Kentucky on May 22.
More than 100 injured or killed in 83 shootings over nine days in NYC as city cuts $1B from NYPD
A spike in shootings in New York City has left more than 100 people wounded or killed during a nine-day span.
House Democrats pass $1.5 trillion 'green' infrastructure bill filled with climate policies
The House passed a $1.5 trillion “green” infrastructure package on a partisan basis Wednesday by a 233-188 vote, as Democrats signaled their commitment to combating climate change through multiple avenues, a key issue for their voting base.
Seattle Mayor Orders Protesters to Vacate CHOP Zone; Police Arresting Those Refusing to Leave
On Wednesday, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan issued a Proclamation of Civil Emergency declaring the Capitol Hill Organized Protest (CHOP) zone gathering an “unlawful assembly” requiring immediate action from city agencies, including the Seattle Police Department.
House passes bill rebuking China over Hong Kong security law
The House on Wednesday joined the Senate in approving a bill to rebuke China over its crackdown in Hong Kong by imposing sanctions on groups that undermine the city’s autonomy or restrict freedoms promised to its residents.
Christian News
Christian Converts Sentenced In Iran
Seven people who turned from Islam to Christianity have received prison terms, fines, or work restrictions in Iran for “propaganda against the state,” trial observers confirmed Wednesday.
Around the World
U.S. cuts high-tech sales to China to protest Hong Kong crackdown
The Trump administration said it was now blocking transfers of sensitive U.S. technology to Hong Kong after China on Tuesday formally put in place a harsh new national security law on the former British territory.
US envoy: Military action against Iranian nuclear program ‘always on the table’
The Trump administration’s envoy for Iran said Tuesday that the White House was willing to take military action against Tehran to prevent the regime from acquiring nuclear weapons.
India Tests New COVID-19 Vaccine on Humans in July
Bharat Biotech is now approved for human trials, and slated to start human vaccine testing for COVID-19 in July. It will be India's first domestic pharmaceutical candidate to receive the go-ahead from the government's drug regulator as cases are sky-rocketing in the 1.3 billion population.
Doubts Over Hungary‘s Support For Persecuted Christians
Hungary’s right-wing government has come under pressure amid reports that it spends more on anti-migration propaganda than on support for persecuted Christians.
EU extends sanctions on Russia
The European Union has decided to extend sanctions it imposed on Russia in 2014 following Russian military action against Ukraine. The decision to extend the economic measures was made by the Council of the European Union on June 29.
Pentagon lists twenty top companies as owned or backed by Chinese military
The US Defense Department has published a list of twenty major companies, including Huawei, that it has determined are owned or backed by the Chinese military, BBC News reported Thursday. A result of this determination, the US may apply new sanctions against the companies listed.
Israel-Palestinian Conflict
Palestinian factions call for 'day of rage' to foil annexation
Palestinian factions in the Gaza Strip have called for a “day of popular rage” on Wednesday to protest Israel’s plan to apply its sovereignty to parts of the West Bank.
Israeli Archaeologists Find Ancient Artifacts from the Time of Ezra, Nehemiah
The Israel Antiquities Authority on Tuesday announced that it has uncovered remnants from Babylon’s destruction of Jerusalem during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah.
Inside the United States
Supreme Court strikes down state ban on public aid to religious schools
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that religious schools can qualify for a state tax credit program even when the state constitution explicitly bans public aid to religious entities.
Senate passes extension of application deadline for PPP small-business loans
The Senate on Tuesday cleared legislation to extend the deadline for businesses to apply for coronavirus aid under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which will expire at the end of Tuesday.
Supreme Court limits First Amendment rights of US companies’ foreign affiliates
The US Supreme Court ruled 5-3 Monday that requiring foreign groups to have explicit policies opposing prostitution and sex trafficking in order to receive federal funds applies to US companies’ foreign affiliates because they do not possess First Amendment rights.
Amid Coronavirus Cases Rising, Fatalities at Lowest Level in Months, Pence Emphasizes
Amid continuing concern among members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force he leads, U.S. Vice President Mike Pence is emphasizing the positives.
Almost half the US population was unemployed in May 2020
Almost half the US population was jobless last month, CNBC reported Monday. According to the Bureau of Labor data for May 2020, the number of employed people as a percentage of the US adult population was 52.8% last month, meaning 47.2% of Americans had no job. The figures for June will be published on Thursday this week.
U.S. cuts high-tech sales to China to protest Hong Kong crackdown
The Trump administration said it was now blocking transfers of sensitive U.S. technology to Hong Kong after China on Tuesday formally put in place a harsh new national security law on the former British territory.
US envoy: Military action against Iranian nuclear program ‘always on the table’
The Trump administration’s envoy for Iran said Tuesday that the White House was willing to take military action against Tehran to prevent the regime from acquiring nuclear weapons.
India Tests New COVID-19 Vaccine on Humans in July
Bharat Biotech is now approved for human trials, and slated to start human vaccine testing for COVID-19 in July. It will be India's first domestic pharmaceutical candidate to receive the go-ahead from the government's drug regulator as cases are sky-rocketing in the 1.3 billion population.
Doubts Over Hungary‘s Support For Persecuted Christians
Hungary’s right-wing government has come under pressure amid reports that it spends more on anti-migration propaganda than on support for persecuted Christians.
EU extends sanctions on Russia
The European Union has decided to extend sanctions it imposed on Russia in 2014 following Russian military action against Ukraine. The decision to extend the economic measures was made by the Council of the European Union on June 29.
Pentagon lists twenty top companies as owned or backed by Chinese military
The US Defense Department has published a list of twenty major companies, including Huawei, that it has determined are owned or backed by the Chinese military, BBC News reported Thursday. A result of this determination, the US may apply new sanctions against the companies listed.
Israel-Palestinian Conflict
Palestinian factions call for 'day of rage' to foil annexation
Palestinian factions in the Gaza Strip have called for a “day of popular rage” on Wednesday to protest Israel’s plan to apply its sovereignty to parts of the West Bank.
Israeli Archaeologists Find Ancient Artifacts from the Time of Ezra, Nehemiah
The Israel Antiquities Authority on Tuesday announced that it has uncovered remnants from Babylon’s destruction of Jerusalem during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah.
Inside the United States
Supreme Court strikes down state ban on public aid to religious schools
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that religious schools can qualify for a state tax credit program even when the state constitution explicitly bans public aid to religious entities.
Senate passes extension of application deadline for PPP small-business loans
The Senate on Tuesday cleared legislation to extend the deadline for businesses to apply for coronavirus aid under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which will expire at the end of Tuesday.
Supreme Court limits First Amendment rights of US companies’ foreign affiliates
The US Supreme Court ruled 5-3 Monday that requiring foreign groups to have explicit policies opposing prostitution and sex trafficking in order to receive federal funds applies to US companies’ foreign affiliates because they do not possess First Amendment rights.
Amid Coronavirus Cases Rising, Fatalities at Lowest Level in Months, Pence Emphasizes
Amid continuing concern among members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force he leads, U.S. Vice President Mike Pence is emphasizing the positives.
Almost half the US population was unemployed in May 2020
Almost half the US population was jobless last month, CNBC reported Monday. According to the Bureau of Labor data for May 2020, the number of employed people as a percentage of the US adult population was 52.8% last month, meaning 47.2% of Americans had no job. The figures for June will be published on Thursday this week.