US report highlights global religious freedom concerns, with focus on India

(Photo: Unsplash/Joshua Olsen) The United States government on 26 June 2024 released its annual report on religious freedom worldwide, offering a rare criticism of India, a close US partner, while also highlighting growing concerns about religious intolerance globally, particularly against Jews and Muslims. Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, presented the report, pointing out … Read more

Former Israeli Liaison: Don't Slow Israel's Deterrence, Hezbollah's Real Focus is 'Great American Satan'

JERUSALEM, Israel – Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is in Washington for talks with officials about Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, and the prospect of opening a second full-on war with Hezbollah in the north. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his appreciation for America’s support for Israel on Sunday, but he explained his charge that … Read more

War Focus Shifting from Gaza to Northern Israel as Hezbollah Barrages Accelerate, Israel Strikes Enemy Commanders

JERUSALEM, Israel – Israel’s battlefront seems to be shifting to focus on Hezbollah in the north, as fighting continues in the Gaza Strip.  As the battles heat up, Iran’s new acting foreign minister warned Israel not to launch a war, saying, “Ramifications could backfire against Zionists as a result of that conflict.” Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein … Read more

Tens of Thousands Attend Jerusalem Annual Passover Priestly Blessing, Focus on Hostages, Families

JERUSALEM, Israel – Despite war and rumors of war, tens of thousands of Jewish people came to the Western Wall during the intermediary days of Passover to pray and receive an annual blessing. Unsurprisingly, this year’s focus was the hostages and their families. More than 30,000 people came to take part in the Birkat Hacohenim, which … Read more

Israelis Turn Focus on UNRWA as Scope of Gaza Terror Activities Is Revealed

JERUSALEM, Israel – As Israel looks beyond the war with Hamas, Israel wants to see a major revamping or complete dismantling of UNRWA – the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. Israeli government leaders accuse the UN organization of using American tax dollars to fuel hatred and terror against the Jewish state. “After the 7th of October, … Read more

Faith focus: Navigating the New Year with help from the Bible

(Photo: Unsplash/Aaron Burden) As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, a wave of anticipation sweeps across the globe. For many, the transition from one year to the next symbolises a fresh start, a blank canvas upon which aspirations and resolutions are painted. In the Christian tradition, this annual reset can hold a particular … Read more