On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XX, Number 6 February 18 - 22, 2013

Both the House and the Senate are out of session this week, for their Presidents' Day District Work Period. This single-edition of our "OCAP" will focus on international issues, only.


Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
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On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XX, Number 6

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

February 18 - 22, 2013

". . . and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven."
(Luke 21:11)

	News from Israel

News from Israel

1. U.N. PASSES NINE ANTI-ISRAEL RESOLUTIONS IN ONE DAY
2. ISRAELI AMBASSADOR URGES EUROPE TO CLASSIFY HEZBOLLAH AS TERRORISTS
3. NETANYAHU ADDRESSES CONFERENCE OF MAJOR AMERICAN JEWISH ORGANIZATIONS
4. ISRAEL, HAMAS HOLDING SECRET TALKS THROUGH EGYPT
5. TROOPS SEIZE 275KG OF DRUGS NEAR ISRAEL-EGYPT BORDER
6. US COULD CUT $300 MILLION IN MILITARY AID TO ISRAEL
7. ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES SETS UP WAR ROOM TO BATTLE HACKERS
8. PALESTINIAN PROTEST FOR HUNGER STRIKERS TURNS VIOLENT
9. WAQF CONTINUES TO DESTROY TEMPLE-MOUNT ANTIQUITIES
10. 5 SYRIANS HURT IN FIGHTING NEAR BORDER TREATED IN ISRAEL

1. U.N. PASSES NINE ANTI-ISRAEL RESOLUTIONS IN ONE DAY

From the Simon Wiesenthal Center: DECEMBER 18, 2012: UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADOPTS NINE ANTI-ISRAEL RESOLUTIONS

Here is the tally:UNITED NATIONS RESOLUTIONS Anti-Israel = 22 Anti-Hamas = 0

After years of refusing to condemn Hamas' serial missile attacks targeting Israeli civilians, the UN General Assembly mustered the collective will to pass nine resolutions condemning Israel in one day, while refusing to even condemn Hamas, bringing the total number of UNGA anti-Israel resolutions for 2012 to 22.
- Heavenly Father, the UN continues to prove it is not a fair body to enact justice, but is caught up with its secular humanism and socialistic agendas. We come before You, Lord, to repent for the actions of the UN and ask for mercy for our nation, the US, that participates in this unjust evilness that arises from the UN actions. We ask that those nations voting for accusations against Israel that arise from falsehoods and spirits of vengeance and envy be confronted by Your mighty power and that Your justice will fall upon each one of them, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.

- Redeem Israel, O God, out of all their troubles. (Psalm 25:22)

2. ISRAELI AMBASSADOR URGES EUROPE TO CLASSIFY HEZBOLLAH AS TERRORISTS

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Ron Prosor called upon the European Union [EU] to add Hezbollah to its list of recognized terror groups on Tuesday [February 12], slamming those European states who still classify Hezbollah as a charity. "Not since Napoleon invaded Russia has the European continent seen such an astonishing lack of foresight," Prosor was quoted by the Israeli foreign ministry as saying of the charity designation. "Calling Hezbollah a charity is like calling al Qaida an urban-planning organization because of its desire to level tall buildings."The impassioned speech by Prosor to the UN Security Council follows the recent determination by EU member Bulgaria that Hezbollah was behind a bus bombing attack last July in Burgas that killed five Israelis and one Bulgarian.

Some European states do characterize at least some aspect of Hezbollah as terrorists, including the UK, which labels the military wing of the group as such. Hezbollah has members in the Lebanese government and currently is a key player in the ruling Lebanese coalition. Prosor, without mentioning the UK directly, said breaking down the Lebanese group into political and military wings is "an exercise in futility - The only 'difference' between these two wings is that the political wing negotiates the sum of drug cartel money that the military wing later uses to purchase weaponry," said Prosor. "It does not take a Nobel Peace Prize laureate to realize that we are not exactly dealing with a selfless humanitarian organization."

Aside from Israel, Canada and the US have spoken out about the need to take a tougher stance on Hezbollah. Following Bulgaria's announcement on its investigation, US Secretary of State John Kerry called upon Europe to "take immediate action to crack down on Hezbollah," although he did not explicitly call for the terrorist designation at the time. The US has classified Hezbollah as a terror group.

Prosor was clear in calling for the designation in his speech. "One does not need the fortitude of Richard the Lionheart to do the right thing here. The EU must find the moral and political courage to place Hezbollah on its list of terrorist organizations," said the Israeli diplomat - Today I urge this Council to heed the simple yet immortal words of Edmund Burke (and I quote): 'The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.'"

Source (By Joshua Spurlock, The Mideast Update, February 13, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]

- Pray that no nation will approve of, or endorse terrorist activity. Pray that Hezbollah will not receive any support for their terrorist activities.

- The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth . (Psalm 34:16)

3. NETANYAHU ADDRESSES CONFERENCE OF MAJOR AMERICAN JEWISH ORGANIZATIONS

Unity is what we are trying to achieve here. This is what you do all the time. You have diverse organizations. Somehow you are able to put aside your differences and find common ground and, Malcolm, that's almost as hard as forming a national unity government in Israel

The three external challenges that we face begin with Iran. I spoke about Iran's plan to develop nuclear weapons. Its nuclear weapons program continues unabated. The second challenge we face is in Syria. Syria is not one of the great economies of the world. But this undeveloped country has the world's most developed weapons there. I believe that the framework for this peace is what I outlined in my speech in Bar Ilan University: two states for two peoples-a demilitarized Palestinian state that recognizes the Jewish state. I think to reach this solution we have to negotiate in good faith. Negotiating in good faith means you don't place preconditions.

We also have great internal challenges. The first one is to continue the economic growth, the economic stability of the State of Israel. Challenge number two is sharing the burden more equally, the burden of national service and military service, the burden of jobs The third, of course, is to bring down the cost of living-bring down the cost of living and especially the cost of housing. That too can be done. These are important tasks. I don't think they're formidable. I think they're tough, but they're doable.

We'll achieve a government here that maximizes unity, and I know that we'll work together with you to maximize Jewish unity, in the United States, in the Jewish communities around the world and here in Israel to secure the future of the one and only Jewish state. I thank you for what you've done; I thank you for what you'll be doing. Thank you very much. Thank you all.

Source (Excerpts of speech, Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, February 11, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]


- Pray that Netanyahu has godly wisdom and counsel as he leads Israel as Prime Minister. Pray that God will supply him with the government coalition that glorifies God.

- I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye. ( Psalm 32:8)

4. ISRAEL, HAMAS HOLDING SECRET TALKS THROUGH EGYPT

Israel has been holding secret negotiations with the Hamas terror movement since the end of its Operation Pillar of Defense, Channel 2 News reported on Friday.According to the report, the Egyptian-mediated talks are being held as part of the ceasefire reached between the sides at the end of counterterrorism operation in November and which said that both sides will refrain from attacking one another and the sides will work to reach understandings.

Despite the constant claims by Gaza's terrorist rulers that Israel is imposing a "siege" on the region, Israel has consistently allowed humanitarian aid into Gaza, approving internationally funded and monitored projects in the region. Since 2011, 235 projects have been approved. In September 2012 alone, 16 new projects were approved.

Hamas, however, has not been satisfied with the aid it receives from Israel and has been trying to punish the residents of Gaza by attempting to reduce the scope of Israeli goods entering the region. With Israel tightly supervising the materials which enter Gaza through its border crossings and with the borders with Egypt being closed, Hamas has smuggled in materials, including weapons and explosives, through underground tunnels which connect between Gaza and Egypt.

The terror group is making at least a million dollars a day in "tax" money from Gaza smugglers, providing "protection" to smugglers and collecting payments for the service, then using the smugglers to order goods for their own use.


- Abba Father, these talks are another attempt by Israel to be open and fair with Hamas. Unfortunately Hamas appears to believe no criminal action should result in prison or judgment, and that smuggling of weapons and explosives into Gaza that are then used against Israel is acceptable. Lord, how does one establish peace with such a treacherous and lawless enemy? Lord, rise up and protect Israel, we pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.

- Indeed, let no one who waits on You be ashamed; let those be ashamed who deal treacherously without cause. (Psalm 25:3)

5. TROOPS SEIZE 275KG OF DRUGS NEAR ISRAEL-EGYPT BORDER

The Border Guard foiled a large drug smuggling operation on the Israel-Egypt border Thursday night, as part of the military's ongoing fight against drug trafficking in the area. According to a statement by the Border Guard Command, troops patrolling in the area spotted two suspects trying to cross the border fence. Once the troops announced their presence the suspects began fleeing the scene. At one point they turned their vehicle around and attempted to run the soldiers over. No injuries were noted among the troops.

The soldiers opened fire at the vehicles' wheels, disabling it. The suspects then began fleeing on foot. One was apprehended, but the other one got away. Both suspects are local Bedouins known to the police. The man who was arrested was remanded to the Southern District Police's custody. The search of the vehicle turned up 275kg of marijuana, with an estimated street value of over NIS 1 million (roughly $270,000). The last drug shipment seized by the border included 21kg of heroin.

Border Guard Commander Amos Yaakov lauded the troops' resolve and professionalism. Meanwhile, the Police Naval Unit intercepted an illegal cigarette shipment off the coast of Tel Aviv. The officers seized thousands of cartons of cigarettes aboard a Cypriot fishing Two Israelis and seven foreign nationals were arrested on connection to the case.


- O Heavenly Father, all through human history there has been drug use, and acts of smuggling continues. Israeli troops have been battling this demonic driven activity at the Egyptians border. We thank You Lord, that none of the Israeli troops were injured and that the drugs were confiscated. We know, Lord, that if the drug users knew You, they would not need the drugs. We stand in the gap and repent for these lost souls. Have mercy, Father, and in some way may the lost souls caught in this drug driven hell be confronted with all that You are so that they might be saved. In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen and Amen.

- For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and He ponders all his paths. (Proverbs 5:21)

6. US COULD CUT $300 MILLION IN MILITARY AID TO ISRAEL

WASHINGTON (AP) - From Syria to Somalia and across the Mideast down to Mali, looming US budget cuts are creating potentially tough choices for American diplomacy. No part of the US budget for diplomacy, foreign aid or security assistance would be left untouched. But the administration can decide which countries and which programs should be spared major pain and which should face bigger cuts.

The cuts would shave $200 million in humanitarian assistance for places like Syria and Somalia, and $300 million in foreign military financing for close US partners including Israel, Jordan and Egypt. Security at US embassies and consulates, an incredibly sensitive topic since the September attack in Benghazi, Libya, would also be affected, as would international peacekeeping operations in Mali. It's unclear how the US would handle foreign military financing if, amid the push-and-pull of budget negotiations, Democrats and Republicans fail to reach a deal.

The cuts have the Obama administration fearing that America's claim to global diplomatic pre-eminence could take a major hit. And in a more immediate sense, the so-called sequestration would demand tough foreign policy decisions for new Secretary of State John Kerry, and potentially undercut his early message that America cannot retreat from the world stage.

And the possibility of a significantly reduced purse comes as the US tries to engage in a series of difficult diplomatic endeavors: "pivoting" American power and resources toward booming Asia; maintaining stability in a chaotic Middle East; leaving behind a secure Afghanistan after more than a decade of war; and refocusing attention on the lawless parts of North Africa while not abandoning old allies in Europe.


- Abba Father, we come before You and admit that the US must try to cut back on its expenses and make painful cuts in their aid programs. However, Lord, we ask that will not be used as an excuse to 'betray' Israel. Direct us, Lord, how to pray so that our alliance with Israel stays open and does not lead to betrayal. In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen and Amen.

- I will lift up my eyes to the hills - from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.(Psalm 121:1-2)

7. ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES SETS UP WAR ROOM TO BATTLE HACKERS

Syrian hackers are working for President Bashar Assad's regime, criminal elements worldwide are trying to down banks' websites, and Israel has also recently experienced an unprecedented cyber attack as retaliation for the Israel Defense Forces' [IDF's] Operation Pillar of Defense in Gaza. The IDF's Computer Services Directorate responded to the rise in the number of cyber attacks in Israel by setting up a special cyber war room meant to protect its computer systems by detecting virtual attacks by hostile elements and launching a counter attack.

The initiative makes the IDF one of the only militaries in the world to operate such a war room. "We definitely feel a significant increase in the number of attempts to challenge our systems," an army source said. According to him, the threat ranges from lone hackers "to the recruitment of an army of hackers and the planting of malicious computer programs, which are activated when the order is given in order to shut down the systems.

The new war room will be manned 24 hours a day by some 20 soldiers who graduated from the IDF's Cyber Shield course. The war room will allow the IDF to monitor and respond to any hacking attempt at all levels-from tank computers to the IDF chief of staff's personal computer.

Source (By Yoav Zitun, Ynetnews, February 12, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]


- Pray that God will protect all of Israel's assets. Pray that anyone trying to infiltrate Israel through electronic means will be stopped.

- Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; defend me from those who rise up against me.(Psalm 59:1)

8. PALESTINIAN PROTEST FOR HUNGER STRIKERS TURNS VIOLENT

Protesters at a Palestinian demonstration in support of prisoners on a hunger strike clashed on Friday with Israeli troops and Border Guard officers. The IDF said that during the protest, held at the Bituniya crossing near Ofer Prison, about 200 Palestinians threw rocks at the soldiers who responded with tear gas during the rally in the West Bank. One soldier was lightly wounded by stones hurled in his direction. A number of Palestinians were also injured in the altercation. The protesters specifically called for the release of Samer Issawi, who has been on an on-and-off hunger strike for several months.

Issawi was released in 2011 as part of the Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange. He was re-arrested last year for violating his release terms. Israeli Prison Service spokeswoman Sivan Weizman said Issawi was under medical supervision and has not been on a consistent hunger strike since he eats periodically.

Knesset Member Ahmad Tibi (United Arab List-Ta'al) also took part in the demonstration, as did Khader Adnan, the administrative detainee who was released by Israel a few months ago after he launched a hunger strike that put his life in danger. Tibi told the protesters that should one of the striking prisoners die, the "entire region will burn, and the occupation will be held accountable for the results."


- Lord Jesus, again Israel is having to deal with a mindset from the Arabs that their lawlessness does not deserve judgment, and this mindset feeds the crowd with lies of how Israeli jails are so evil. These are just blatant falsehoods festering up violent mob actions. Lord, direct Israel as to how they are to deal with this ongoing set of false beliefs and violence driven reactions. In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen and Amen.

- When the wicked spring up like grass, and when all the workers of iniquity flourish, it is that they may be destroyed forever. (Psalm 92:7)

9. WAQF CONTINUES TO DESTROY TEMPLE-MOUNT ANTIQUITIES

Dozens of Jews who ascended the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City were horrified, Monday, to see tractors removing stones and remains from the eastern side of the holy site. Temple Mount organizations said this was renewal of activity that the Supreme Court prohibited before representatives of the Public Committee for the Prevention of Destruction of Antiquities on the Temple Mount could view the finds. Employees of the Waqf Muslim Authority for the Temple Mount explained that the stones were needed for renovations to the Al-Amria Islamic School on the Temple Mount.

The Temple Mount organizations recalled that the Waqf's wholesale removal of artifacts, about two months ago, was only stopped by a demonstration at the Tribes Gate (Sha'ar Hashevatim), next to the Lions' Gate. They said the most recent activity should be a call to all the political parties to make correction of the situation a guideline for the next government which is formed. The organizations said, in a statement, that the Temple Mount, "must not continue to be abandoned to tractors and workers of the Islamic Waqf, who are trying hard to destroy every Jewish trace on the Temple Mount."
 

- Lord Father, we know in our hearts why the Waqf took those stones. They may have been used for the school repairs, but that was just a cover of the spiritual purposes for taking them. The enemy of our souls wants all evidence of the Jewish ownership of this temple mount to be destroyed, so that he can establish his purposes there to counter You and Your purposes for the land of Israel. Lord, we rise up and drive the stake of the cross of Christ through the plots and schemes being acted out here, to cause them to cease and desist, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.

- Do not envy the oppressor, and choose none of his ways; for the perverse person is an abomination to the Lord, but His secret counsel is with the upright. (Proverbs 3:31-32)

10. 5 SYRIANS HURT IN FIGHTING NEAR BORDER TREATED IN ISRAEL

Five Syrians injured in fighting between government forces and armed opposition members in the Golan Heights near the border with Israel were evacuated by the IDF to Ziv Hospital in Safed on Saturday, the IDF Spokesman's Office stated. The incident marked the first time that Syrians have been taken to Israel for medical treatment since the uprising against Syrian President Bashar Assad erupted some two years ago. The IDF soldiers treated the injured Syrians on the scene before transporting them to the hospital for further treatment. The incident came as Syrian troops bombarded the demilitarized zone near Israel on Saturday in reprisal for rebel attacks, according to AFP.

The continuing violence in Syria has spilled over into Israeli territory on several occasions. During fighting between Syrian army forces and rebels in November several mortar shells and stray bullets landed in Israel, drawing Israeli return fire.

The IDF stated at the time that they did not believe the shelling over the border was deliberate.

 
- Abba Father, here again Your chosen people show their compassion and the value they place on life, by helping these injured Syrians. We thank You Lord, and give You praise that this value for life is so often expressed by Israel towards both foe and friend alike. In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen and Amen.

- When a man's ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. (Proverbs 16:7)

	More International News

More International News

1. IRANIAN COMPANY TRIED TO SMUGGLE NUCLEAR PARTS FROM CHINA
2. CHINA, IRAN BOOST CYBER ATTACKS ON U.S., LAWMAKER SAYS
3. IRANIAN ELITES, SCHOLARS URGE MURSI TO FOSTER UNITY
4. EGYPT APPROVES NEW CONTROVERSIAL PROTEST LAW
5. KERRY: SYRIA DEATH TOLL MAY HAVE REACHED 90,000
6. SYRIAN CHRISTIANS "RUNNING OUT OF PLACES TO SURVIVE"
7. SOUTH KOREA TO STEP UP MISSILE DEFENSE
8. AIR FORCE SAYS RUSSIAN JETS CIRCLED U.S. TERRITORY OF GUAM
9. FRANCE MOVES ONE STEP CLOSER TO LEGALIZING EUTHANASIA
10. VATICAN SAYS CONCLAVE TO ELECT NEXT POPE COULD BE MOVED UP
11. SIGNS THE NEW SARS-LIKE VIRUS CAN SPREAD BETWEEN PEOPLE
12. RUSSIA STARTS CLEANUP AFTER METEOR STRIKE

1. IRANIAN COMPANY TRIED TO SMUGGLE NUCLEAR PARTS FROM CHINA

THE Western-led effort to slow or halt Iran's nuclear development has suffered two significant setbacks. A US report shows that Tehran tried to smuggle thousands of specialised magnets through China to speed its path to reaching nuclear weapons capability. And UN inspectors have returned from Tehran without securing access to suspected nuclear sites or setting a date for further negotiations.

Yesterday's report, by a renowned American nuclear scientist, says the smuggling operation highlights the importance of China as a transit point for Iran's nuclear program, and calls for sanctions against the firms involved. The ISIS report by US scientist David Albright suggests the operation means Iran is trying to "greatly expand" its number of first-generation centrifuges even as it is building more advanced machines. "China needs to do more to show that it is a responsible member of the global economy," the report claims. "In particular, it should crack down on the efforts of Iranian smuggling networks."

The ISIS report came a day after the chief UN atomic inspector said that talks with Iran had failed again to reach a deal on enhanced inspections of Tehran's nuclear program, two weeks before a major meeting with world powers. "We had discussions on the structured approach document, but could not finalise the document," Herman Nackaerts of the International Atomic Energy Agency said on Thursday after returning from Tehran. "Our commitment to continued dialogue is unwavering. We will work hard now to resolve the remaining differences, but time is needed to reflect on the way forward," he said."We haven't agreed yet on a date for the next meeting."

This latest failure comes less than two weeks before talks between Iran and six world powers - the US, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany - in Almaty, Kazakhstan, on February 26. (The Australian) 

- Lord, we ask you to further expose this smuggling operation so that the whole world (including the U.N.) will see these facts and Iran will be held accountable for its actions. We ask, too, that You make a way for the inspectors of the IAEA to enter into Iran's nuclear facilities to assess its status.

- "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you." (John 15:7)

2. CHINA, IRAN BOOST CYBER ATTACKS ON U.S., LAWMAKER SAYS

China and Iran are intensifying cyber assaults against the U.S., the head of the House Intelligence Committee said as he pressed for legislation to encourage companies to share information on hacker threats. China's cyber espionage effort targeting U.S. industrial secrets "has grown exponentially both in terms of its volume and damage it's doing to our economic future," the intelligence panel's chairman, Mike Rogers, said at a hearing yesterday. "We have no practical deterrents in place today."

In a separate report on cyber risks to government computers, the Government Accountability Office said yesterday that cybersecurity incidents reported by U.S. agencies increased almost ninefold, to 48,562 in fiscal 2012 from 5,503 in 2006. The incidents have "placed sensitive information at risk, with potentially serious impacts on federal and military operations; critical infrastructure; and the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive government, private sector, and personal information," the report said.

The GAO report found continuing weaknesses in the government's ability to assess cybersecurity risks and develop effective controls. The Homeland Security Department has made "incremental progress" in coordinating the federal response to cyber incidents, while challenges remain in disseminating information among federal agencies and critical-infrastructure owners, and developing analysis and warning capability, the report said. (Bloomberg) 

- Dear God, we call for the exposure of the people who have been derailed regarding their responsibility to oversee and protect any and all incidents that have "placed sensitive information at risk, with potentially serious impacts on federal and military operations; critical infrastructure; and the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive government, private sector, and personal information."

God, there is an insidious plan to destroy America from within regarding cybersecurity incidents going unreported. We therefore ask that the mighty God in heaven send mighty warring angels to surround this area in our government and block all sinister plots by the blood of Jesus and save our nation from the wiles of evil. In Jesus' Name.

- "The Lord stands up to plead, and stands to judge the people." (Isaiah 3:13)

3. IRANIAN ELITES, SCHOLARS URGE MURSI TO FOSTER UNITY
Want to Implement Islamic Law

A group of renowned Iranian elites and scholars in a letter to Egyptian President Mohammad Mursi stressed the Islamic community's high capacity to save the world, and asked Mursi to implement Islamic governing system in his revolutionary state. "There are great capacities in the Islamic world which can blossom salvage, expedience and prosperity in the world. Creating religious and sectarian strife in the Islamic world is a great plot hatched and provoked by the common enemies of Islam and Muslims," said 17 Iranian elites and scholars in their letter to Mursi on the occasion of the second anniversary of the victory of the Egyptian revolution which ousted Egyptian dictator, Hosni Mubarak in 2011.

They pointed to the invaluable experiences of Iran's Islamic Revolution in state building based on the principles of Islamic Shariah (law) as well as Iran's great achievements in different fields under the theocratic ruling system and massive public participation, and called on Mursi to manage his country based on Islamic laws. "We call upon Your Excellency as a person who enjoys profound faith, wisdom and thought and is on the top of a country which has inherited great Islamic civilization, to set the dear Islam as the definite and practical basis and paradigm for the administration of your country," added the Iranian elites and urged the Egyptian president not to give in to international pressures and the so-called intellectual streams who want a separation of the state and the church. They further said that they are ready to provide the Egyptian government and nation with their scientific experience and power. (Fars News Agency) 

- Father God, as we see these leaders trying to forge an alliance between the Sunni and the Shiite branches of Islam, we see another page in Your prophetic Word being revealed. The great desire of the Moslem world is to see the Ottoman Empire ("the caliphate") revived in the end time. Lord God, this would bring the peoples of the nations into slavery, under Sharia law.

Lord God, we thank You for Your perfect plan for the nations, and we now look up to You to see Your plan fulfilled. Help us, Lord, to reach the nations with the Good News of Jesus Christ, while there is yet time; and help us to forgive the wicked, for they know not what they do. Grant us Your grace, O Lord, we pray. Amen.

- "And they sang a new song: 'You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.'" (Revelation 5:9)

4. EGYPT APPROVES NEW CONTROVERSIAL PROTEST LAW

Egypt's cabinet on Wednesday approved a new draft law regulating public demonstrations that was swiftly slammed by rights groups as restrictive, AFP reports. The law, which needs the ratification of the upper house of parliament, was created 'to ensure the peaceful nature of demonstrations,' Justice Minister Ahmed Mekki told reporters. The law aims 'to protect the right (to demonstrate) and prevents mixing peaceful protests, which the state vows to protect, and attacks on people and property as well as disrupting public order,' he said, according to AFP.

The text stipulates that organizers must inform authorities of plans to protest in advance and the interior ministry has the right to reject a demonstration. Protests will be restricted to a specific location in each province to be decided by the governor, according to the official MENA news agency. The law also prohibits the setting up of platforms for speakers and the use of tents during sit-ins, as well as the carrying of banners or the chanting of slogans deemed defamatory or insulting to religion or state institutions. The draft law was criticized as restrictive by rights groups. (Israel National News)

- Thank the Lord that this law is not finalized, but is only in draft form. We have time to pray against its completion. Morsi is clearly interested only in his own power, and not in the rights of Egypt's citizens. Pray that this bill is "killed" in Parliament, and that the rights of the citizens of Egypt be protected under this new regime.

- "This far you may come, but no farther, And here your proud waves must stop!" (Job 38:11)

5. KERRY: SYRIA DEATH TOLL MAY HAVE REACHED 90,000

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said on Thursday the death toll in Syria may have reached 90,000, citing figures given to him by his Saudi counterpart Prince Saud al-Faisal. "I had occasion . . . to speak this morning with the foreign minister of Saudi Arabia. The first thing he mentioned to me was in his estimate perhaps as many as 90,000 people who have been killed in Syria," Kerry told reporters, according to AFP. The figure is much higher than estimates given this week by UN rights chief Navi Pillay who said the death toll from the civil war was "nearing 70,000." (Israel National News)

- If this figure is true, it is absolutely indefensible that nothing is being done to correct this situation. This is an example of the out and out genocide of these people, many of whom are Christians. Not all those who have perished, however, have been killed by Asssd'a troops; but instead, al Qaeda, Iran, and the Moslem Brotherhood have been active in this area, too. Once again, pray in the spirit over the civil war in Syria. This killing must stop.

- "And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it." (John 14:13,14)

6. SYRIAN CHRISTIANS "RUNNING OUT OF PLACES TO SURVIVE"

Human-rights activists say the situation for Christians in Syria is growing more intense and that the ever-shrinking Christian population is near the breaking point. Middle East Forum fellow and analyst Raymond Ibrahim is one who holds that opinion, and adds U.S. support for the rebels is the major reason for Christians fleeing Syria. "In Syria, again in the name of democracy, the U.S. is supporting jihadis who are eradicating the nation's Christians," Ibrahim said. "U.S.-backed freedom-fighters are driving away Syria's indigenous Christians." Which, he said, leaves Christians few options. "Christians in the Middle East are running out of places to survive," Ibrahim said." (WorldNetDaily)

- Oh, Lord, hear our cry for our persecuted brethren in Syria! We ask that You would shelter them and protect them from those who want to harm and kill them. Make them invisible to those who hate You and may they find safe places to dwell. May they have supernatural supply of all their needs. Cover them with Your Blood. We ask in Your Name, Amen.

- "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." (Psalms 91:1)

7. SOUTH KOREA TO STEP UP MISSILE DEFENSE AFTER NORTH KOREA TEST

South Korea said Wednesday it would accelerate the development of longer-range ballistic missiles that could cover the whole of North Korea in response to a third nuclear test by Pyongyang. 'We will speed up the development of ballistic missiles with a range of 800 kilometres (500 miles),' Defence Ministry spokesman Kim Min-Seok told reporters.

In October last year, South Korea reached a deal with the United States to almost triple the range of its missile systems -- with Seoul arguing it needed an upgrade to counter the North's missile and nuclear programmes. The United States has 28,500 troops in South Korea and guarantees a nuclear 'umbrella' in case of any atomic attack. In return, Seoul accepts limits on its missile capabilities. Prior to the October agreement, the South was restricted to missiles with a range of 300 kilometres.

The extension will not only bring the whole of North Korea within reach of Seoul's rockets, but also parts of China and Japan. (SpaceDaily.com) 

- Father, all things are moving toward wars and rumors of wars and we trust everything regarding missiles and nuclear programs to be held back and not erupt into a world clash of nation against nation. We pray for God's timing to be the guidepost on a day-to-day happening. In the Name of Jesus.

- "Who is he that says and it comes to pass, when the Lord commanded it not? Let us search and try our ways and turn again to the Lord." (Lamentations 3:37,40)

8. AIR FORCE CONFIRMS RUSSIAN JETS CIRCLED U.S. TERRITORY OF GUAM

Two Russian nuclear-armed bombers circled the western Pacific island of Guam this week in the latest sign of Moscow's growing strategic assertiveness toward the United States. The Russian Tu-95 Bear-H strategic bombers were equipped with nuclear-tipped cruise missiles and were followed by U.S. jets as they circumnavigated Guam on Feb. 12 local time-hours before President Barack Obama's state of the union address.

The bomber incident was considered highly unusual. Russian strategic bombers are not known to have conducted such operations in the past into the south Pacific from bomber bases in the Russian Far East, which is thousands of miles away and over water.

John Bolton, former U.N. ambassador and former State Department international security undersecretary, said the Russian bomber flights appear to be part of an increasingly threatening strategic posture in response to Obama administration anti-nuclear policies. "Every day brings new evidence that Obama's ideological obsession with dismantling our nuclear deterrent is dangerous," Bolton said. "Our national security is in danger of slipping off the national agenda even as the threats grow."

Guam is one of the key strategic U.S. military bases under the Obama administration's new "pivot" to Asia policy. As a result, it is a target of China and North Korea. Both have missiles capable of hitting the island, located about 1,700 miles east of the Philippines in the Mariana island chain. This week's bomber flights are a sign the Russians are targeting the island as well, one defense official said. (Fox News)

- Offer praise that this incident did not flare up into a major conflagration. Why was Russia inclined to take this action? What prompted them to send nuclear-tipped cruise missiles over this U.S. territory? Something is up behind the scenes, for sure. Pray in the Spirit over this report; our Omniscient God knows all the details, and He has a plan for the nations. Pray!

- "Pray without ceasing." (I Thessalonians 5:17)

9. FRANCE MOVES ONE STEP CLOSER TO LEGALIZING EUTHANASIA

Using the term 'assisted death' rather than euthanasia, the council invoked a 'duty to humanity' to allow a patient 'suffering from an ailment for which the treatment has become ineffective' to die. A medical team, not a sole doctor, would take the decision.

The council's conclusions came after President François Hollande asked it to examine the precise circumstances under which such steps could be authorised, with a view to tabling draft legislation by June. Changes were necessary, he said, as, 'the existing legislation does not meet the legitimate concerns expressed by people who are gravely and incurably ill'.

A 2005 law already authorises doctors to administer painkilling drugs at levels they know will, as a secondary effect, shorten a patient's life. 'However, the law can offer no solution to certain cases of prolonged agony or to psychological and/or physical pain that, despite the means employed, remain uncontrollable,' said the council. In these rare cases, the patient should be allowed to be administered 'suitable, deep and terminal sedation', it said. (The Telegraph.co.uk)

- Dear Lord, we cry out for this and all countries, including our own, who are focusing in on "death" instead of "life." We bind up all spirits that would cause people to choose death by euthanasia or abortion instead of life, which is given by You to bring others into the Kingdom of God. Lord, may the knowledge of You cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

- "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:" (Deuteronomy 30:19)

10. VATICAN SAYS CONCLAVE TO ELECT NEXT POPE COULD BE MOVED UP

The Vatican raised the possibility Saturday that the conclave to elect the next pope might start sooner than March 15, the earliest date possible under current rules that require a 15-20 day waiting period after the papacy becomes vacant.

Vatican spokesman The Rev. Federico Lombardi said that the Vatican rules on papal succession are open to interpretation and that "this is a question that people are discussing." "It is possible that church authorities can prepare a proposal to be taken up by the cardinals on the first day after the papal vacancy" to move up the start of conclave, Lombardi said. He explained that the 15-20 day rule is in place to allow time for the arrival of "all those (cardinals) who are absent" to take part in the conclave in the usual circumstances of convening after a pope dies. But in this case, the cardinals already know that this pontificate will end on Feb. 28 with the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, and therefore can get to Rome in plenty of time to take part in the conclave, Lombardi said.

The date of the conclave's start is important because Holy Week begins March 24, with Palm Sunday Mass followed by Easter Sunday on March 31. In order to have a new pope in place in time for the most solemn liturgical period on the church calendar, he would need to be installed as pope by Sunday, March 17. Given the tight time-frame, speculation has mounted that some sort of arrangement would be made to start the conclave earlier than a strict reading of the law would allow. (AP) 

- Father God, we pray for Your divine and perfect will regarding who You allow to become the next Pope and trust Your wisdom and foreknowledge regarding this placement and all that will follow his term in this office. God, may all the timing be in your perfect will and block anyone being assigned this position that would compromise God's appointed man in God's appointed time. In the Name of Jesus we pray.

- "The Lord of hosts has sworn, saying, Surely as I have thought, so shall it come to pass; and as I have purposed, so shall it stand." (Isaiah 14:24)

11. SIGNS THE NEW SARS-LIKE VIRUS CAN SPREAD BETWEEN PEOPLE

Health officials in the UK believe they have the strongest evidence yet that a new respiratory illness similar to the deadly Sars virus can spread from person to person. Cases of the infection may come from contact with animals. However, if the virus can spread between people it poses a much more serious threat. One person in the UK is thought to have caught the infection from a relative. However, officials say the threat to the whole population remains very low. (BBC)

- Father in Heaven, we appeal to You to supernaturally put a stop to this dreadful virus being transmitted from person to person. We also ask that it would stop from being transmitted from animal to person. Lord, have mercy on those who have been afflicted and may all look to You as their Healer. In Your Name we pray, amen.

- "And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him." (Matthew 8:7)

12. RUSSIA STARTS CLEANUP AFTER METEOR STRIKE

A day after a spectacular meteor blast shook Russia's Urals region, the clean-up operation got under way Saturday in the hard-hit Russian city of Chelyabinsk. Although some buildings were unscathed when the sonic waves from the Friday morning explosion reverberated through the region, others lost some or most windows or had walls come tumbling down. More than 1,000 people were injured, including more than 200 children, according to news reports. Many of them were hit by flying glass. Most of those hurt were in the Chelyabinsk region; the majority of injuries are not thought to be serious. However, one woman was flown to Moscow to be treated for a spinal injury resulting from the shock wave from the blast, state media reported. About 50 people were still hospitalized Saturday. Altogether more than 4,000 buildings, mostly apartment blocks, were damaged and 200,000 square kilometers (77,220 square miles) of glass were broken, the state-run RIA Novosti news agency cited the Chelyabinsk regional emergencies ministry as saying Saturday. (CNN)

- Lord God, it has been reported that, when this meteorite hit this city, many panicked and cried out "it is the end of the world!" Praise God that mankind knows that we ARE indeed, living in the end of the age. May their hearts be pierced to receive You as their Messiah, while there is yet time; and may believers bring the Good News to each one who needs to know You as their Savior. We call this forth in Your Name, amen.

- "Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen. He is my Beloved, who pleases me. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. . . . And his name will be the hope of all the world." (Matthew 12:18-21)

	PRAY FOR KENYA

PRAY FOR KENYA!

National Election Will Take Place on March 3rd

Dear Saints of the Most High God,

Four years ago, the nation of Kenya experienced an election, whose aftermath turned extremely violent. In March, 2008, there was bloodshed in the streets for weeks after that event.
This year, friends in Kenya have asked us to come alongside them and to partner in prayer for their next presidential election, to be held on Sunday, March 3rd.

We agree with our friends for NO BLOODSHED in the aftermath of this election, for no corruption at the polls, and for peace to reign in the nation of Kenya in the days ahead.
Please find below several items to help you to pray for this very special nation "in the Spirit and with understanding," according to I Corinthians 14:15. Thank you for lifting up Kenya in her hour of need.

In His Grace,

Sara Ballenger, Founder

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners

1. FACTS ABOUT THE ELECTION IN KENYA

There are eight Presidential candidates contesting for the Presidential seat. Three of them are the main contenders. The others are likely to fade away as the election date nears.

The three contenders are:

1) Raila Odinga the cousin to Barack Obama, and Kenya's Prime minister who got the position by the peace negotiations that "Kofi Anan" led after Kenya's post-election violence of 2008. A man Africa does not trust as a result of what position he took during the Rwanda massacre. Raila is a strong candidate who last election signed an MOU (Memo of Understanding) with the Muslims. This then put him in confrontation with the Church. This time around some of the Muslims have disowned him saying that when he became the Prime Minister he disowned them. He is leading a coalition of 3 parties called CORD.

2) The other coalition of parties is led by Uhuru Kenyatta the son of the first President of Kenya. This is a coalition of former protagonists turned to friends. The two main tribes involved in this coalition are the Kikuyu and the Kalenjin. The good thing is they have done a lot of work in reconciling the two tribes. They seem to have an edge in this race.

3) Amani coalition is the third coalition of small tribal parties that have come together under Musalia Mudavadi. A humble man who is campaigning on a platform of peace. He does not command a following that can win this election. So short of a miracle from God, I don't see him win.

The other contenders are Lone Ranger politicians who have no chance in the contest.

(Submitted by Apostle Stephen Kamau)

2. "A CALL FOR PRAYER FOR KENYA"

The LORD is calling upon humble servants who fear Him to constitute the army. ii) He (The LORD) is interested with few men (women) included. They are to set a watch day and night over the nation of Kenya. This Call to Prayer equips the saints to do just that. We ask our Prayer Partners to join them in prayers of agreement, and to lift up the intercessors in the nation of Kenya, that they be strengthened to stand in this critical time for their nation.

Written by:
Pastor David Njeru
shalomnjeru@gmail.co

3. CONCERNS FOR THE ELECTION PERIOD AND BEYOND

Another Guideline to Prayer

Quoting: "There is need to understand that the stake is not just the presidency, but there is need for a team of godly leaders at all levels! While the focus could be on one position, the enemy could be busy working on the other positions." (Mat 13:25.)

	Meteorites Falling Around the Globe

Meteorites Falling Around the Globe

Russia was not the only nation to see a fireball in the sky

While most of us were busy with our own lives last week, a lot was happening in the heavens. The citizens of the city of Chelyabinsk, Russia, were not the only ones to behold a flaming fireball crashing to the earth. In less than one week,citizens of many other nations experienced this phenomenon, too.
Here is a list of only a few of them, with links included:
SOUTH AFRICA
CUBA
EUROPE: BELGIUM, GERMANY, THE NETHERLANDS
[One enormous fireball seen by all three.]
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
 


> > > Pray that, as the peoples of the earth continue to view these celestial phenomena, they will "look up" to Him who is the Creator of this all. May each one repent and come to know Him as their Savior, while there is yet time. In His Name, amen and amen.
 
"Even so, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near." (Luke 21:31)

	This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

LORD, MY ROCK
(Adoni Tsuree)

"Praise be to the LORD, my Rock, who trains my hands for war." (Psalm 144:1)

How blessed I am to know that You are my Rock, and my fortress. You are the One who equips me to do Your work. Thank You that you equip the called - not call the equipped. Today, help me to realize that You have provided for my every need.- one step at a time.