CHPP On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XX, Number 16

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970


On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XX, Number 16a

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

May 13 - 17, 2013

"My God of mercy shall come to meet me; God shall let me see my desire on my enemies."
(Psalm 59:10)


PLEASE NOTE: THE DOMESTIC NEWS OF OUR OCAP EDITION WILL BE POSTED TUESDAY MORNING. THANK YOU.

	News from Israel

News from Israel

1. NETANYAHU TALKS TO OBAMA FOR FIRST TIME SINCE VISIT
2. NETANYAHU TO VISIT PUTIN IN A BID TO STOP HIS S-300 MISSILE SALE TO SYRIA
3. PALESTINIAN-SYRIAN GROUP SAYS FORMING UNITS TO FIGHT FOR THE GOLAN
4. HAGEL: US STRATEGY IS TO REINFORCE ISRAEL, ALLIES
5. KERRY TALKS PEACE WITH TONY BLAIR
6. TEMPLE MOUNT DISTURBANCE
7. PROTESTERS HURL ROCKS IN CLASHES OVER WOMEN OF THE WALL PRAYER SERVICE AT KOTEL
8. ASHTON CRITICIZES ISRAEL OVER BEIT EL AND TEMPLE MOUNT

1. NETANYAHU TALKS TO OBAMA FOR FIRST TIME SINCE VISIT

WASHINGTON-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to US President Barack Obama on Wednesday [May 8] night, for the first time since the latter's visit in Israel, Netanyahu's office said. "Tonight I spoke to President Obama after having spoken to Chinese leaders and President Putin discussing a wide range of regional and international issues," the statement said.

Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reported that Israel had warned the US that a Russian deal is imminent to sell advanced ground-to-air missile systems to Syria. US officials said on Wednesday that they are analyzing the information Israel provided about the suspected sale of S-300 missile batteries to Syria, but wouldn't comment on whether they believed such a transfer was near.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Bashar Assad's government has been seeking to purchase S-300 missile batteries-which can intercept both manned aircraft and guided missiles-from Moscow going back to the George W. Bush administration. Western nations have lobbied President Vladimir Putin's government not to go ahead with the sale. If Syria were to acquire and deploy the systems, it would make any international intervention in Syria far more complicated, according to US and Middle East-based officials.

Should Russia go ahead with the sale, it would mark a significant escalation in the battle between Moscow and Washington over Syria. Earlier this week, US Secretary of State John Kerry met with President Putin in Moscow in an effort to convince Russia to back a diplomatic solution to the Syrian crisis. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced in a joint press conference with Kerry of the establishment of an international conference involving both regime and opposition representatives that will seek a compromise.

Source (By Yitzhak Benhorin, Ynetnews, May 9, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]

Read article:
- Thank the Lord that the details of Russia's proposed arm sale to Syria have been brought to light. Pray that these advanced weapons will not be provided to Syria.

- I will deliver you from the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem you from the grip of the terrible. (Jeremiah 15:21)

2. NETANYAHU TO VISIT PUTIN IN A BID TO STOP HIS S-300 MISSILE SALE TO SYRIA

Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu sets off for the Black Sea town of Sochi early next week for a personal call on President Vladimir Putin. This was confirmed Saturday, May 11 by the Russian president's spokesman Dmitry Peskov, who declined to explain the urgency of the unplanned meeting. debkafile's Moscow sources report that Netanyahu asked to meet Putin without delay for a last-ditch attempt to persuade him to call off the sale to Syria of advanced S-300 anti-aircraft missiles. Our sources now add that the prime minister's chances of averting the sale are extremely slim. A series of prominent figures have already tried talking the Russian president out of the sale and failed, starting with US Secretary of State John Kerry on May 7, followed Friday May 10 by British premier David Cameron who saw Putin in Sochi and German Foreign Minister Guido Westernwelle who met his Russian opposite number Sergei Lavrov in Warsaw.

They all warned the Russian leader that the delivery of S-300 missiles to Syria would touch off an arms race in Syria and the Middle East with disastrous consequences. Lavrov told reporters: "Russia is not planning to sell S-300 to Syria. Russia has already sold them a long time ago. It has signed the contracts and is completing deliveries in line with them of equipment which is anti-aircraft technology."

Rejecting all their arguments, Putin said his government would stand by all its commitments to the Syrian ruler Bashar Assad and defend his regime. After Israel's air strike against Damascus on May 5, nothing would now stop the S-300 deliveries.

The Russian president, in a phone call he put in to the Israeli premier on May 7 when the latter was visiting Shanghai, warned Israel against any further attacks on Syria.

He later spurned the approaches by Western leaders by stating that Moscow would never permit another US-led NATO air campaign against Assad like the one that overthrew Muammar Qaddafi in Libya in 2011. He added that Russian arms sales to Syria and Iran were Moscow's response to the large arms packages US Defense Minister Chuck Hagel brought to Israel and US Gulf allies in the last week of April. The S-300 is designed to shoot down planes and missiles at 200-km ranges.

Read article:
- O heavenly Father, Putin of Russia is not listening to any of the nations speaking about this, but is continuing to honor his prior agreement to Syria as to the S-300 missile sales. Putin also stated this was in response to the large arms packages given by the US via Hagel in April to Israel and US allies. Lord, we know in one sense this makes sense but we plead with You to be in the midst of all of these plans - and any escalation of tensions - so that any actions are driven by Your will and timing only! In Jesus' name we pray, Amen and Amen.

- The eyes of the Lord are in every place; keeping watch on the evil and the good. (Proverbs 15:3)

3. PALESTINIAN-SYRIAN GROUP SAYS FORMING UNITS TO FIGHT FOR THE GOLAN

BEIRUT (Reuters) - A militant Palestinian group in Damascus said it is forming combat units to try to recapture Israeli-occupied territory, in particular the Golan Heights, after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Hezbollah that they would support such operations. The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC) said it was preparing for new operations after nearly 40 years of quiet on the Israel-Syria border. The group, designated terrorists by the United States and others in the West, was most active in the 1970s and 80s but retains influence with Palestinians in Syria and Lebanon.

"The leadership of the PFLP-GC announces that it will form brigades to work on liberating all violated (Israeli-occupied) territories, first and foremost the occupied Golan," it said in a statement late on Friday. "The Popular Front's leaders have opened the door to all Syrian citizens to volunteer in the formation of the resistance."

Israel launched a series of air strikes around Damascus last week that inflamed regional tensions already on the rise as Syria's two-year civil war slowly seeps across its increasingly chaotic and porous borders. Intelligence sources said Israel was trying to take out "game-changing" Iranian weapons destined for Lebanon's Shi'ite militant and political group Hezbollah.

But following last week's strikes, which shook the Syrian capital and set its skyline alight with flames, Assad was quoted by state media as saying he would turn the Golan into a "resistance front" and would allow combatants to attack Israel from the area.

Read article:
- It appears that an ugly war is brewing, Lord, and it is just a matter of when it will occur. Lord, if this is not to be, we ask that You do a miracle and stop it. If it is to happen, Lord, raise up Your right hand and extend Your arm against the enemies of Your special land Israel and her people, in Jesus' name, Amen and Amen.

- Do they not go astray who devise evil? But mercy and truth belong to those who devise good. (Proverbs 14:22)

4. HAGEL: US STRATEGY IS TO REINFORCE ISRAEL, ALLIES,

WASHINGTON - US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel said reinforcing Israel's edge and bolstering security relationships with neighbors like Egypt were both US priorities. Hagel, speaking Thursday to the Washington Institute for Near East Policy's annual Soref Symposium, described his recent visit to Israel and the region, his first since assuming the defense secretary post in February.

"Beyond rocket and missile defense cooperation, DoD has been working for more than a year to increase Israel's ability to confront and respond to a range of other threats," Hagel said, using the abbreviation for the Department of Defense. "These efforts culminated in our announcement last month that the United States has agreed to release a package of advanced new capabilities, including anti-radiation missiles and more effective radars for its fleet of fighter jets, KC-135 refueling aircraft and the V-22 Osprey," he said. "Along with Israel's status as the only Middle Eastern nation participating in the Joint Strike Fighter program, this new capabilities package will significantly upgrade their qualitative military edge."

Hagel also outlined US defense sales to Israel's neighbors, and said that these too served the Israeli-US alliance. "Israel's security is further enhanced by America's defense cooperation with other regional allies," he said. "In my consultations with Israeli leadership, I emphasized that strong US security relationships with Arab nations - including Egypt and Jordan, and our partners in the Gulf - are not only in our strategic interests, they are also in Israel's security interests."

He called the relationship with Egypt "among the most important of these relationships."

Read article:
- Lord, we are thankful for the US assistance to Israel as to military aid, considering what is currently happening in the middle east. We do have to pause as to the US aid to Egypt, per Hagel. Father, watch over Your land Israel and its people, and over Egypt - confronting any threats against Israel. In Jesus name, Amen and Amen.

- Every prudent man acts with knowledge but a fool lays open his folly. (Proverbs 13:16)

5. KERRY TALKS PEACE WITH TONY BLAIR

As part of his ongoing efforts to get Israel and the Palestinian Authority back to the negotiating table, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry on Thursday hosted talks with special Middle East envoy Tony Blair, The two men met privately for more than two hours in the U.S. ambassador's residence in Rome, after Kerry also talked earlier in the day with Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, reported AFP. "For 30 years or so there has been a pent-up demand to try to resolve the issues of the Middle East and it is clear when left to a vacuum or when left to delay, bad things happen, things happen that work against the possibilities of peace," Kerry earlier told a press conference after meeting with his Italian counterpart Emma Bonino. "People who are denied peace can ultimately find other means to try to satisfy their aspirations," he added, according to AFP.

On Wednesday, Kerry also met in Rome with Justice Minister Tzipi Livni as he pursues efforts to kick-start the talks stalled since 2010. During the meeting he announced that he will be returning to Israel in late May. Kerry told reporters that he believed both Israel and the PA were serious about peace. "Israel needs guarantees for security, the Palestinians need guarantees for a state that they can be proud of, that is a contiguous state," he said.

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu said last week that the conflict is rooted in the Arabs' refusal to accept Israel's existence as a Jewish State. "The root of the conflict is not territorial. It started a long time before 1967," Netanyahu said. "The Palestinians' lack of will to recognize the state of Israel as the national state of the Jewish people is the root of the conflict," he added.

In proof, he pointed to the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005, which included the forced removal of thousands of Jewish residents of the area. Israel got rocket attacks in exchange. However, Netanyahu said, Israel remains willing to restart negotiations with no preconditions.

Read article:
- Abba Father, You know how Israel was betrayed when they gave up Gaza for peace. Taking more of their land, which Your Word states is Israel's land only, is not the solution. We know from Your Word that tumult will continue until Yeshua's return, but we ask that You keep Your warrior angels all around Israel, and thank you for being in the midst of her until that time. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen and Amen.

- Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven, with the saving strength of His right hand. (Psalm 20:6)

6. TEMPLE MOUNT DISTURBANCE

The mufti of Jerusalem, Mohammed Hussein, the most senior cleric who is in charge of the city's Islamic holy places, was questioned on suspicion of involvement in a disturbance and throwing chairs at Jews on the Temple Mount on Wednesday [May 8] was released without charges.

The incident coincided with Jerusalem Day, which marks the reunification of the city during the Six-Day War in 1967. Thousands of Israelis celebrated the victory by holding marches and rallies throughout the city, bringing public transport to a grinding halt in the evening.

To secure the event and minimize the opportunity for disturbance, thousands of police were deployed and Muslim worshippers were limited from the Temple Mount on Tuesday. However, since Jews were permitted to visit the compound to commemorate Jerusalem Day, Jordanian Members of Parliament [MPs] demanded in a symbolic gesture that their government expel the Israeli ambassador to Jordan and to recall the Jordanian ambassador in Israel.

Source (By Karen Gazley, Bridges for Peace, May 8, 2013)
- Pray that the situation will not escalate further and cause any deterioration in Israel's relationship with Jordan. Thank God that the Israeli police forces were able to maintain order.

- But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and Your salvation all the day(Psalm 71:14-15)

7. PROTESTERS HURL ROCKS IN CLASHES OVER WOMEN OF THE WALL PRAYER SERVICE AT KOTEL

Riot police were out in full force Friday at the Western Wall trying to contain ultra-Orthodox demonstrators attempting to break through barricades to approach Women of the Wall supporters and activists holding their monthly prayer service in the women's section. Three people were arrested and two police officers were injured in the protests, in which demonstrators at several points threw water bottles and chairs in the direction of the women's section, while calling the police "Nazis" and shouting at them "Go back to Germany."

Police formed a human barricade to hold back the protesters when the women exited the prayer plaza after they had concluded their service. After they had passed through Dung Gate, a group of ultra-Orthodox protesters began throwing rocks in their direction. They continued to throw rocks at buses that delivered the women away from the violent protests.

On their way out to the gate, the women and their supporters sang and clapped, occasionally throwing kisses in direction of the jeering ultra-Orthodox protestors. Police exhibited considerable restraint throughout the morning's events and did not resort to tear gas or other crowd dispersal measures. Several ultra-Orthodox demonstrators were detained by police.

Although unplanned, Women of the Wall held their prayer service this month together with a group of male supporters. A ring of police surrounded them in order to protect them from the ultra-Orthodox demonstrators. It was the first time an egalitarian service of this sort had been held at the women's section by the organization.

Read article:
- O Heavenly Father, how sad this must make You! This is happening at the Kotel, a special place of prayer to You, yet anger and hostility is being so openly expressed. Speak into their angry hearts, Lord, and awaken them to how You view these actions. In Jesus' name, Amen and Amen.

- A wise man fears and departs from evil, but a fool rages and is self confident. (Proverbs 14:16)

8. ASHTON CRITICIZES ISRAEL OVER BEIT EL AND TEMPLE MOUNT

EU foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton joined the U.S. on Friday in criticizing Israel, both over its plan to build in Beit El as well as over the tensions this week on the Temple Mount, AFP reports. "The High Representative is concerned by developments over the past week in East Jerusalem and the West Bank which have increased tensions on the ground and risk undermining current efforts to re-launch peace talks," Ashton's office in Brussels said in a statement quoted by AFP.

"It is important that those concerned exercise maximum restraint and refrain from any actions which could drive the sides to the conflict further apart," added the statement. The communiqué said Ashton was "disturbed by recent events in East Jerusalem such as those that took place at Orthodox Easter, the unrest in the area of the Haram al Sharif/Temple Mount and the temporary detention of the Mufti of Jerusalem and Palestine on Wednesday."

Israeli police had questioned and released Jerusalem's most senior Muslim cleric, Mufti Mohammed Hossein, for suspected involvement in throwing chairs at a group of Jews on the Temple Mount. Ashton's statement underlined that it was "essential that access to the holy sites in Jerusalem for peaceful worship for all denominations is fully respected." It made no mention of the fact that the Waqf, which was left in charge of the Temple Mount after it was liberated by Israel in 1967, has removed every sign of ancient Jewish presence at the Jewish holy site and has consistently destroyed Jewish antiquities on the Temple Mount in a direct violation of a ruling by the Supreme Court.

AFP reported that Ashton also railed against the approval of 300 new homes in the Binyamin town of Beit El. The Civil Administration gave its preliminary approval for the construction of 296 homes in Beit El, based on an agreement that was reached with the residents of the town's Ulpana neighborhood. The residents agreed to leave their homes non-violently last year, after the Supreme Court ordered that they be demolished, with the government promising in return to build 300 new homes in Beit El. "The EU has repeatedly declared settlements to be illegal under international law and to constitute an obstacle to peace," the statement said, according to AFP.

Read article:
- Abba Father, it is truly amazing how it is considered okay to judge and condemn Israel, but the illegal actions of the Palestinians Arabs are excused. Open the spiritual eyes of this woman from the EU as to the truth of what Your Word says, and as to the destruction carried out on the Temple Mount by the Waqf. Fill her and those around her with the mighty fear of You, into every cell of their bodies. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen and Amen.

- There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death. (Proverbs 14:12)

	More International News

More International News

1. 'WE HAVE NO HOPE IN AMERICA': CHRISTIANS FROM EGYPT
2. KREMLIN: NETANYAHU TO MEET PUTIN IN RUSSIA
3. RUSSIAN PACIFIC FLEET WARSHIPS TO ENTER MEDITERRANEAN
4. U.S. CARRIER JOINS SOUTH KOREA DRILL DESPITE NORTH ANGER
5. PASTOR SAEED ABEDINI RELEASED FROM SOLITARY CONFINEMENT;
6. LIJIAN STEALTH DRONE PREPARES FOR TEST FLIGHT
7. CUBANS MARCH AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA IN HAVANA

1. 'WE HAVE NO HOPE IN AMERICA': CHRISTIANS FROM EGYPT REVEAL THE DARKER SIDE OF 'MODERATE' ISLAM IN EGYPT

While the Obama administration would like Americans to believe that Egypt's new government and its new president Morsi are the culmination of the freedom movement and the Arab Spring in the country, Coptic Christians there are telling a very different story. The Blaze TV aired the compelling stories on Wednesday of several Christians who live in fear, have been told to convert to Islam, and are living a much harsher reality than the one promised after the revolution. For example, meet the sisters who were told that after Morsi came to power all women would have to wear a veil - and the wife told she should leave her husband and convert to Islam:

(The Blaze)
- Father, we pray for the Christians in Egypt. We speak favor upon them. May all evil pass them by. Keep them and protect them in all their ways.

- The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)

2. KREMLIN: NETANYAHU TO MEET PUTIN IN RUSSIA

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Russia, likely next week, amid concerns that Russia could deliver advanced air defense missiles to the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad, the Kremlin confirmed on Saturday, according to AFP.

According to a diplomatic source, Netanyahu will meet Putin at his residence in Sochi on the Black Sea coast. "The visit is currently at the stage of active preparations," AFP quoted the source as saying to Russian media.

Russia on Friday denied media reports that it plans to sell Syria an advanced air defense system to Syria. The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that Israel had informed the United States a Russian deal is imminent to sell advanced ground-to-air missiles that would significantly boost Syria's ability to stave off intervention in the conflict.

The newspaper quoted US officials as saying they were analyzing the information, but would not comment on whether they believed the sale of S-300 missile batteries was near.

Itar-Tass news agency quoted Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as saying Russia would be fulfilling contracts it has already concluded with Damascus but that this did not include sales of the S-300 system.

On Thursday, US Secretary of State John Kerry said the United States does not want Russia to sell weapons to Syria and has opposed transfers of missile systems to the country in the past because of the threat to Israel. Pressed about the report, Kerry suggested he may have raised the issue with Putin and Lavrov, whom he met in Moscow on Tuesday.

After those meetings, the two countries agreed to seek new peace talks to end the conflict. The White House also sidestepped the issue. "We are aware of the reports. But I have no further information for you on it. We have consistently called on Russia to cut off the Assad regime's supply of Russian weapons, including air defense systems that are destabilizing to the region," White House spokesman Jay Carney told reporters aboard Air Force One as US President Barack Obama headed to Texas.

The government of Assad has been seeking to purchase the advanced S-300 missile batteries, which can intercept both manned aircraft and guided missiles, from Moscow for many years.

Western nations have repeatedly urged Russia to block the sale, which they argue could complicate any international intervention in Syria's escalating civil war.

While the effectiveness of Syria's aging air force is unclear, most experts believe that its air-defense missile system, which was upgraded after a 2007 Israeli strike on a suspected nuclear site, remains quite potent.

(The Jerusalem Post)
- Keep paying attention to learn exactly when this meeting will take place this coming week. Pray that any weapon agreement between Syria and Russia cannot be fulfilled. Pray that Netanyahu will encounter honesty in his meeting with Putin.

- "but that You will keep them and protect them from the evil one." ( John 17: 15)

3. RUSSIAN PACIFIC FLEET WARSHIPS TO ENTER MEDITERRANEAN

"A group of warships from Russia's Pacific Fleet is about to deploy to the Mediterranean Sea for the first time in decades, fleet spokesman Roman Martov said on Monday.

The group has entered the Red Sea and is preparing to transit the Suez Canal, and should reach the Mediterranean by mid-May, he said.

The group, including the destroyer Admiral Panteleyev, the amphibious warfare ships Peresvet and Admiral Nevelsky, the tanker Pechenga and the salvage/rescue tug Fotiy Krylov left the port of Vladivostok on March 19 to join Russia's Mediterranean task force.

The task force currently includes the large anti-submarine ship Severomorsk, the frigate Yaroslav Mudry, the salvage/rescue tugs Altai and SB-921 and the tanker Lena from the Northern and Baltic Fleets, as well as the Ropucha-II Class landing ship Azov from the Black Sea Fleet.

The task force may be enlarged to include nuclear submarines, Navy Commander Admiral Viktor Chirkov said on Sunday.

(RIA Novosti)
- Father, we surround this development of Russian warships to the Mediterranean Sea with prayer. Keep this from escalating to an attack. Bring a solution to the Syrian civil war. We pray Russia will stop supplying weapons to Syria. We break the strongholds of this region which are stirring up these hostilities. In Jesus Name.

- 12) Then he continued, "Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. 13) But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. (Daniel 10:12-13)

4. U.S. CARRIER JOINS SOUTH KOREA DRILL DESPITE NORTH ANGER

"South Korea and a US strike force led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz kicked off Monday a joint naval drill slammed by North Korea as a 'wanton' provocation and rehearsal for war.

The two-day exercise began with the departure of the 97,000-tonne Nimitz, one of the world's largest warships, from the southern South Korean port of Busan where it had been docked over the weekend, the US navy said in a statement.

'The operations include integrated flight operations, air defense events, surface warfare training events, precision ship maneuvers, and liaison officer exchanges,' it said.

A number of other naval ships including guided-missile cruisers and a guided-missile destroyer will also take part in the drill designed to 'reinforce regional security and stability', it added.

The exercise comes as the Korean peninsula is only just emerging from a period of highly elevated military tensions triggered by North Korea's nuclear test in February.

Angered by UN sanctions imposed after the test and by a series of large South Korean-US military drills, Pyongyang spent much of March and April issuing dire warnings including threats of nuclear strikes against Seoul and Washington.

(SpaceDaily.com)
- Father, we pray North Korea will stand down on their threats. We pray you surround Pyongyang with wise counselors who influence him to remain calm during these drills. We speak PEACE to this situation, In Jesus Name.

- Whenever God's spirit came to Saul, David took the lyre and strummed a tune. Saul got relief [from his terror] and felt better, and the evil spirit left him. (I Samuel 16:23) God's Word Translation

5. PASTOR SAEED ABEDINI RELEASED FROM SOLITARY CONFINEMENT; WIFE PRAISES 'SMALL VICTORY'

After spending his 33rd birthday inside the "small dark hole" of solitary confinement, U.S. Pastor Saeed Abedini has been returned to the general prison population of Evin Prison in Iran.

"His release from solitary is a direct result of the multitudes praying. I am relieved my husband is out of solitary, but still am deeply concerned about Saeed's health. While this is a small victory, I am still demanding justice be done and that Saeed be released," Abedini's wife, Naghmeh, said in a statement posted by The American Center for Law and Justice.

The pastor, who has been in jail in Tehran since September 2012 and was sentenced to eight years in prison in January, supposedly for endangering national security, had been in solitary confinement for more than a week.

The ACLJ, which represents his wife and two children back in the U.S., has warned that Abedini is in need of medical attention for a number of health issues, but so far prison officials have refused to provide him with that care.

(Global Dispatch)
- Father, we give You praise for the release of Saeed from solitary confinement. We ask that You send the medical care he needs. We surround him with the angels of God to minister to his every need. In Jesus Name.

- Then the devil left him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him. (Matthew 4:11)

6. LIJIAN STEALTH DRONE PREPARES FOR TEST FLIGHT

The Lijian is described as the world's third stealth combat drone by the Chinese tabloid Global Times. A newly designed Chinese stealth drone is ready for its first flight test after completing its taxi test last December at an unknown airfield in the southeastern province of Jiangxi, reports Duowei News, an outlet operated by overseas Chinese.

Designed jointly by the Hongdu Aviation Industry Group and Shenyang Aviation Corporation, the Lijian ("sharp sword") is China's first stealth drone and the third in the world after the X-47 designed by Northrop Grumman of the United States and France's Dassault nEUROn. The Lijian program was launched in 2009 and the drone's ground test was conducted on Dec. 13 last year. China Aviation News reports that the Lijian is now ready for flight testing. The drone is set to be used by the PLA Air Force and Navy Air Force for combat missions, and also for tracking and reconnaissance purposes.

The prototype means China is ahead of several nations in the development of stealth drones, including Britain. Russia, India, Sweden, Italy, Iran and Israel, which also have their own stealth unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) programs.

(WANT China News)
- Has China copied the USA's development of the drone? Pray that the prototype crashes during the test. Countries who associate with China know that drone will be used to spy on them, such as Taiwan. Americans do not want the drones to be used in our own country. Trouble is brewing over the use of drones.

- You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day." (Psalm 91: 5)

7. CUBANS MARCH AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA IN HAVANA

Hundreds of Cubans have staged a protest against homophobia and for gay rights, in the capital, Havana. The march was led along Havana's central streets by Cuban gay rights campaigner Mariela Castro is the head of Cuba's National Sexual Education Centre - an organizer of the march - and daughter of Cuban President Raul Castro.

Before Raul Castro came to power in 2008, no gay rights marches had been allowed in Cuba. Forming a long line and dancing the conga, the marchers wound their way through Havana. Many were carrying rainbow banners and chanting "Homophobia, no! Socialism, yes!". One marcher, 29-year-old Jesus Rios, told the Associated Press news agency that Cuba "had made great progress over the past years". Mr Rios credited Mariela Castro and the work of the National Sexual Education Centre for that change in what he referred to as Cuba's "macho culture". Ms Castro said she was optimistic that Cuba would eventually legalize gay marriage, but that the hardest part would be overcoming prejudice.

In the 1960s and 70s, gay men and lesbians in Cuba were fired, imprisoned or sent to "re-education camps". There has been a growing acceptance of homosexuality in Latin America, with Uruguay last month becoming the second country after Argentina to legalize gay marriage.

(BBC news)
- The homosexual agenda is on move throughout the world, and people's minds are certainly deluded. Pray for the populas of Cuba, so that they protest this move against this agenda. Cut the link between Ms. Castro and the life she has known without the Lord. Pray for her to find salvation in Jesus Christ.

- "Who has delivered us from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son." (Colossians 1:3) 

 

Volume XX, Number 3b

DOMESTIC ISSUE

	The Benghazi Hearings

The Benghazi Hearings

1. BENGHAZI POLITICS: WHY NOT DO WHAT IS RIGHT?
2. ABC NEWS CATCHES WHITE HOUSE IN BENGHAZI LIE
3. HUCKABEE: BENGHAZI COVER-UP OFFERS IMPEACHMENT RISK
4. WHISTLEBLOWERS: BENGHAZI A "PREMEDITATED TERRORIST ATTACK"
5. HILLARY "THE ONLY PERSON" WHO COULD'VE AUTHORIZED MORE BENGHAZI SECURITY
6. BENGHAZI - WHAT'S NEXT?

1. BENGHAZI POLITICS: WHY NOT DO WHAT IS RIGHT?

Charles Babington of Associated Press has written a story that if true should make the blood boil of every American. Babington's headlines say it all: GOP ready to push Benghazi case into 2014 and beyond. The story outlines how Democratic and Republican political strategists are trying to turn the narrative on the White House Benghazi murders to their respective political advantages in the next elections. The Democrats are trying to figure out ways to minimize damage from the murders and subsequent cover up, and the Republicans are positioning the story to gain political advantage. What ever happened to the four murdered Americans and finding out who was responsible?

There likely was something of a deal cut by the occupant of the Oval Office and his Administration that went awry. Four Americans were murdered because of it. The occupant and his servants tried to cover it up. But instead of confession and repentance from the leaders, the American people are seeing nothing but spin, lies coving lies, and professional political strategists jockeying for position for the next election. Some front-runners like Kentucky Senator Rand Paul are saying that the occupant should have fired Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. No. She and the president should be tried for high crimes and misdemeanors both civilly and criminally.
People like Rand Paul, Senator Mitch McConnell, House Speaker John Boehner and the cast of both Democratic and Republican leaders should put all this crazy politicking aside and start acting like Americans. Moreover, they claim to be Christians. They should behave as such. If the Administration won't come clean on what went on in Benghazi, America's leadership should hold them accountable just as the Lord through Nathan held David accountable. Where is the courage? Where is the righteousness? Oh, that's right. Everyone is playing the game that religion and government should be separated so as Hillary Clinton told Congress, "What difference at this point does it make?" We should all be asking, "Why not just do the right thing?" (Daily Jot)

2. ABC NEWS CATCHES WHITE HOUSE IN BENGHAZI LIE

The scapegoat may be Hillary Clinton and the ultimate consequence may be her designs on the White House, but the Benghazi murders of a US Ambassador and three other courageous Sons of America reaches deep into the heart of the occupant of the Oval Office. Whether the spineless wonders in Congress such as House Speaker John Boehner have enough good old fashioned American audacity to find the truth no matter what it takes to implicate the occupant, is yet another matter. But even ABC News--one of the left-leaning lapdogs of the Democratic Party--is weighing into the fray as it exposes the details of another White House lie that most of us knew, and ABC is just now figuring out.

In what it calls an "exclusive" ABC is now reporting: "When it became clear last fall that the CIA's now discredited Benghazi talking points were flawed, the White House said repeatedly the documents were put together almost entirely by the intelligence community, but White House documents reviewed by Congress suggest a different story. ABC News has obtained 12 different versions of the talking points that show they were extensively edited as they evolved from the drafts first written entirely by the CIA to the final version distributed to Congress and to US Ambassador to the U.N. Susan Rice before she appeared on five talk shows the Sunday after that attack."
ABC says this "would appear" to contradict the White House narrative of Press Secretary Jay Carney who said in a White House press briefing on November 28, 2012: "Those talking points originated from the intelligence community. They reflect the IC's best assessments of what they thought had happened. The White House and the State Department have made clear that the single adjustment that was made to those talking points by either of those two institutions were changing the word 'consulate' to 'diplomatic facility' because 'consulate' was inaccurate." There is no "would appear" to contradict about it. Carney lied. He is the spokesperson for the occupant. The occupant also lied. (Daily Jot) Read more.

- Pray that justice is fully rendered on behalf of the four brave American citizens that were murdered in Benghazi on Sept. 11, 2012. Our Omniscient God knows all the facts; let's call upon His Name as the inquiries proceed. Bind the spirit of deception; loose the Spirit of truth. Pray!

- "Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses." (I Timothy 6:12)

3. HUCKABEE: BENGHAZI COVER-UP OFFERS IMPEACHMENT RISK

Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee tells Newsmax that the Obama administration is guilty of disseminating "deliberate misinformation" regarding the Benghazi attack and continues to "stonewall" efforts to uncover the facts behind the tragedy. The 2008 Republican presidential candidate also reiterates his earlier prediction that the Benghazi affair could lead to President Barack Obama's impeachment.

". . . if the White House continues to stonewall and this information ekes out little by little because reporters and members of Congress have to uncover it rather than it being opened up by the administration, then it could [lead to impeachment].

"I'm not saying it necessarily will lead to an impeachment, and without the Senate changing it probably wouldn't lead to a conviction. But it could be that his term is over, not so much that he resigns or is impeached, but that he becomes just a completely inept president with no power, because once you lose credibility, you lose the power to govern.

"Rather than being a lame duck, he could well be a dead duck sitting in office, basically biding his time and not able to move anything forward." (Newsmax) Read more.
- Oh, Lord, we are humbled by how you are in the process of correcting the wrongs that have been perpetrated against the American people. We pray for every hidden motive and agenda to be revealed in a way that it cannot be denied or excused. In the name of Jesus, we command all wickedness associated with the Benghazi attack to be revealed to the public. Praise You for your actions in this area.

- "Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of the workers of iniquity." (Psalms 64:2)

4. WHISTLEBLOWERS: BENGHAZI A "PREMEDITATED TERRORIST ATTACK"

. . . not a response to anti-Muslim video

For weeks after the attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, in which U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other operatives were killed, President Obama and his administration told the American people and the world that it all went down because of an anti-Muslim video made by a hapless California man.

"While the United States rejects efforts to denigrate the religious beliefs of others, we must all unequivocally oppose the kind of senseless violence that took the lives of these public servants," Obama said immediately following news that the ambassador and some of his security staff had been killed on the eleventh anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

(Note: historical dates have significance in the world of Islamic terrorism).
In the days that followed, the administration circled its wagons around the narrative that the video, titled, "Innocence of Muslims," was responsible. (InfoWars) Read more

- Father in heaven, we trust that the mighty hand of God will shake everything that can be shaken regarding the Benghazi slaughter of four Americans and rally the forces of justice that the guilty parties will be punished. This attack occurred on the eleventh anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and historical dates have significance in the world of Islamic terrorism. God, punish those who agreed with this stance by committing murder of four innocent Americans. In Jesus' Name.

God "Whose voice then shook the earth: but now He has promised, saying,Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And this Word, Yet once more, signifying the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain." (Hebrews 12:26-27)

5. HILLARY WAS "THE ONLY PERSON" WHO COULD'VE AUTHORIZED MORE BENGHAZI SECURITY

Benghazi whistleblower Eric Nordstrom said the Benghazi consulate was listed as "high threat" before the attacks and the only person who could add more security personnel to a facility that does not meet standards is the Secretary of State - Hillary Clinton - at the time.

Nordstrom was asked: "By statute, Mr. Nordstrom, who has the authority to place personnel in a facility that does not meet the minimum OSPB standards?"

"The OSPB standards go in tandem with SECA, which is Secure Embassy Construction," Nordstrom testified. "It's my understanding that, since we were the occupants of both facilities- Benghazi and Tripoli- the only person who could grant waivers or exceptions to those are the Secretary of State," Nordstrom said. (Hebrew Nation News) Read more.
- Lord God, You have Your own chain of command, and it fails not. We call upon the High Court of Heaven to see justice rendered in this case, and all who were complicit in the decisions that led to the deaths of these four American heroes be held accountable. Thank You, God, for hearing our prayer, yet once again, in Jesus' Name, amen.

- "Let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end, but establish the just." (Psalm 7:9)

6. BENGHAZI - WHAT'S NEXT?

To gain a perspective of where we have been now in these hearings, and what may lie ahead, we recommend this excellent summary by Gary Bauer. In this article, Mr. Bauer begins by stating: "It's a busy news day in Washington with a lot to digest. The Obama Administration is on its heels -- defending itself against two scandals with tremendous implications and each one striking at the administration's credibility. . . After last week's hearings, many are wondering "what's next?" Here are some things to watch for. (Read more)
- We offer praise to the Lord for placing other, excellent watchmen on the wall here in Washington, D.C. who each help us sort through the whirlwind of activity and to reach the "heart of the matter" for prayer. Lift up Gary Bauer, Tony Perkins, Jay Sekulow and others who may come to mind, asking our Lord to bless them with His continued strength and provision. In these latter days, we need "all hands on deck" to get this job done! Amen!

- "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus. Amen." (Phil. 4:19)

	Religious Freedom and the Pentagon

Religious Freedom and the Pentagon

1. RELIGIOUS FREEDOM: EVERYWHERE BUT IN FOXHOLES
2. THE PENTAGON'S PROBLEM WITH PROSELYTIZING
3. DOD RENEGES ON PENTAGON "RELIGIOUS FREEDOM" POLICY
4. PENTAGON BEGAN RELATIONSHIP WITH MIKEY WEINSTEIN IN 2009
5. LAWMAKER: MILITARY DEVELOPING CULTURE HOSTILE TO RELIGION
6. DOD RENEGES ON PENTAGON "RELIGIOUS FREEDOM" POLICY
7. PARENTS OF SLAIN SEAL: WHITE HOUSE IS RESPONSIBLE

1. RELIGIOUS FREEDOM: EVERYWHERE BUT IN FOXHOLES

President Obama's supporters were outraged when the actor portraying Satan during the recent TV miniseries "The Bible" had more than a passing resemblance to Mr. Obama. Now, however, those same supporters seem determined to remove all doubt about the anti-religious bigotry underlying this administration's every official pronouncement.

In the latest outrage, a virulently anti-Christian advocacy group - with the Orwellian name of the Religious Freedom Foundation - met privately with Pentagon officials to demand that current regulations be expanded to make the proselytizing of religious beliefs a court-martial offense for anyone in uniform.
As reported by Todd Starnes in a Fox News commentary, the group's leader said, "Until the [armed services punish] a member of the military for unconstitutional religious proselytizing and oppression, we will never have the ability to stop this horrible, horrendous, dehumanizing behavior." The potential stakes included that worst of all possible worlds: "a tidal wave of fundamentalists." (Washington Times) Read more.

- Pray for our military leaders. Pray for the U.S. Military Joint Chiefs of Staff as they weigh the importance of having a military that represents the nation and its dependence upon God. Our official national motto "In God We Trust" expresses this truth clearly.

- "Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance." (Psalm 33:12)

2. THE PENTAGON'S PROBLEM WITH PROSELYTIZING

Evangelicals lately have detected worrying signals from the military.

So is the case about Pentagon policy closed? Not at all, say some religious-liberty advocates. For one thing, the Pentagon statement clarifying that military personnel would not be court-martialed if they 'evangelize' also said that 'proselytization' is considered a Uniform Code of Military Justice offense. Yet the definitions of those two words are almost identical: Merriam-Webster defines proselytization as 'to recruit or convert especially to a new faith, institution, or cause' and evangelize as 'to preach the gospel to or to convert to Christianity.'

The ambiguity of how these regulations are defined and enforced . . . could lead men and women in the military to fear retribution and choose to remain silent: 'After all, who defines what is proselytizing and what is evangelism? What could seem to be a friendly conversation about spiritual matters to one serviceperson could be perceived or deliberately mischaracterized as 'proselytizing' to the person on the receiving end. The fact that this has been raised at all in such a subjective fashion could have a chilling effect on service personnel sharing their faith at all.'
If the Pentagon wants to reassure soldiers that they won't be persecuted for sharing their faith, the fact that military leaders have met with Mikey Weinstein, founder of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation isn't helping. Launched in 2006 and with $700,000 in reported donations in 2011, the foundation fights what Mr. Weinstein decries as the undue influence of evangelical Christians in the U.S. military. . . . The Pentagon is still struggling to contain the rumors that unsettled so many evangelicals in recent weeks. The erroneous reports do need to be corrected. But military leaders should recognize that the rumors spread far and fast in part because they were so believable. (Wall Street Journal) (Read more)
- Holy Father, we want to let our voice ring out in repentance and an apology to Almighty God for those who decry Your great and righteous Name. Who is man that they speak against God in heaven, who find fault with, or speak disapproval of the Lord YHVH? We lift up in prayer the Pentagon that they reassure soldiers that they will not be persecuted for sharing their faith. We trust You to continuously move 24/7 regarding this matter and show how unbelievably powerful You are, Lord God. In Jesus' Name.

- "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." (Hebrews 4:12-13)

3. DOD RENEGES ON PENTAGON "RELIGIOUS FREEDOM" POLICY

It's been a long two weeks for the Pentagon's PR department. As if the Benghazi fiasco weren't enough, Defense officials have been trying to suppress the outrage over a Washington Post piece that put a spotlight on the military's policy on faith. After a private meeting with Defense Department brass, Mikey Weinstein bragged about the conversation to the Post's Sally Quinn, who reported that the Pentagon had agreed to start cracking down on religious expression in the ranks.

On April 30, the DOD confirmed as much in a public statement that said, "Religious proselytization is not permitted within the Department of Defense. Court martials and non-judicial punishments are decided on a case-by-case basis." The country's shock was soon replaced by anger, as Americans started flooding the agency with calls and emails demanding answers. The Pentagon tried to put out the fire - unsuccessfully -- with a vague nod toward faith on May 2. "The Department of Defense places a high value on the rights of members of the Military Services to observe the tenets of their respective religions," Lt. Cmdr. Nate Christensen said.

When that did nothing to satisfy the basic question -- would the Pentagon punish people for sharing the Gospel? -- Christensen released a third statement that same day. "Service members can share their faith (evangelize), but must not force unwanted, intrusive attempts to convert others of any faith or no faith to one's beliefs (proselytization)." Neither side knew how to interpret the DOD's "clarification," since the two words are virtually interchangeable. The American people, 160,000 of whom had signed our petition calling on Secretary Chuck Hagel to intervene, weren't satisfied--and neither were we.
Finally, on Wednesday of this week, the DOD issued its fourth statement -- one that shows some significant progress. "There is no effort within the Department to make religious proselytizing a specific offense within the [Uniform Code of Military Justice]," Christensen told The Hill newspaper. "Service members may exercise their rights under the First Amendment regarding the free exercise of religion unless doing so adversely affects good order, discipline, or some other aspect of the military mission. Even then, the Department seeks a reasonable religious accommodation for the service member."

After weeks of contradictory press releases, the military is rejecting the position of anti-Christian extremist Mikey Weinstein and embracing the rights that every service member is fighting for. And while the Pentagon's evolution is a welcome one, we recognize that the military isn't governed by press releases, but policies. It will be up to Congress to lock the DOD into this position with regulations affirming the religious liberty of every man and woman in uniform.

The final victory for service members will come when Congress enacts a more permanent solution to the growing problem of religious hostility in the military. Until then, FRC will continue to pursue a meeting with Defense officials. Just last week, FRC's Lt. Gen. Jerry Boykin sent a letter to Secretary Hagel requesting a time to discuss these concerns and hopefully pave the way for a DOD-wide policy that fully protects religious expression for our troops. (Family Research Council)
- We salute the Family Research Council and the millions of Americans who would not back down when the Pentagon first released this announcement. And now, after four tries, it does seem that the Pentagon has now "got it right" in allowing our men and women in uniform the freedom to openly share their faith with others. Praise the Lord.

We agree, too, that it is not until Congress writes and enforces a policy for our Department of Defense, defining and protecting religious freedom in the military, that this battle will finally be won. Until then, remain vigilant in prayer and in action to see that this issue not surface again. Let's fight for our soldiers, while they fight for us.

- ". . . fight the good fight of faith . . ." (I Timothy 6:12)

4. PENTAGON BEGAN RELATIONSHIP WITH MIKEY WEINSTEIN IN 2009

The Obama-Hagel Pentagon is trying to minimize Breitbart News' blockbuster story last week of top brass meeting with anti-Christian extremist Mikey Weinstein, whom we reported calls Christians 'monsters' imposing a 'rapacious reign of theocratic terror' and says sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in the military is an act of 'sedition and treason' that must be punished. . . . The New York Times reported on Mar. 1, 2009, in a story entitled, 'Questions Raised Anew About Religion in Military,' that Weinstein met with the Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. Norton Schwarz, on Feb. 24, 2009. The story noted this was the first time Weinstein and his Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF) had 'gotten an audience with a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.'" (Breitbart) Read more.
- Father God, we lift up Mikey Weinstein, founder of Military Religious Freedom Foundation, and we ask that he be delivered of a powerful evil demonic spirit of deception and turn from his wicked ways and find Jesus as Savior of his soul through the Blood of Jesus.

We cancel and sever all ties between this deceived man and the leadership at the Pentagon, and declare his influence in the military to be null and void, from this day forward, through the Blood of Jesus. We ask this in Your Name, amen.

- "The Lord is faithful, He has severed asunder the cords of the wicked." (Psalm 129:4)

5. LAWMAKER: MILITARY DEVELOPING CULTURE HOSTILE TO RELIGION

Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-CO) is circulating a letter on Capitol Hill seeking assurances from the Department of Defense that the religious freedoms of service members are protected. He also wants to know who the Pentagon has been consulting with on revisions to religious freedom regulations.

"Congress deliberately included religious freedom protections in the NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act) to address this growing pattern of hostility and to protect the constitutionality guaranteed right of religious freedom for our service members and chaplains," Lamborn wrote in a letter obtained by Fox News. President Obama took the unusual step of noting that the conscience protections were "unnecessary and ill-advised." Lamborn said the president's statement - along with reports of Christianity under attack have raised "concerns that the military is developing a culture that is hostile to religion." (Fox News) Read more.
- Offer praise for the courageous men and women who are serving us in Congress, and who pour all of their energy and talent into upholding our traditional values, and in finding creative ways to bring the nation forward in these challenging times.

We thank our Lord for giving us Rep. Doug Lamborn, and many others of like mind, who are indeed representing our interests in the Halls of Congress. Please lift them up; they need our prayers. Amen.
- "He will be . . . a strength to them that turn back the battle at the gate." (Isaiah 28:6)

6. PARENTS OF SLAIN SEAL: WHITE HOUSE IS RESPONSIBLE

Imam Speaks Curses over Bodies of Slain SEALS during "ramp ceremony"

The grieving parents of a Navy SEAL killed in Afghanistan say major blunders by the U.S. military and the White House led to his death - and described how his body and the bodies of other soldiers were "desecrated'' in an Islamic ceremony at an American base. "As our son's body lay there [with the other soldiers], their first amendment rights and freedom of religion were violated,'' an emotional Bill Vaughn told "The Steve Malzberg Show'' on Newsmax TV.

The couple are pressing for their own Congressional investigations into the downing of the chopper - why it happened and what mistakes were made. Aaron Carson Vaughn, an elite Navy SEAL died on Aug. 6, 2011 when a helicopter carrying 30 American troops was blasted out of the sky.

Since then Vaughn and his wife Karen said they have discovered many disturbing facts about the circumstances of their son's death. "The fact is that Afghans are in from the top to bottom on all of the special ops missions. They know everything that's going on,'' Vaughn said. "After the chopper was shot down, here again, because of the rules of engagement, the men who fired . . . were not taken down.'' (To read their entire testimony, go here.)
- In the midst of all the other headline news items that took place last week, this story seems to have been dropped. Please do not drop this in your prayers! The good news is that the families did hold a press conference at the National Press Club on this issue last Thursday, May 9. Standing with them were several (enraged) members of Congress, retired military generals, and others knowledgeable in this field (including Brigitte Gabriel). To see a video of this press conference, go here. (Source: BeforeItsNews)
- Pray that this issue not be swept under a rug, but instead receives the full attention it deserves. Call forth a congressional investigation of the details of this travesty. Give our Lord no rest, in prayer, until these fallen ones receive the honor they deserve from our nation. And finally, ask our Lord to comfort the hearts of these parents, as only He knows how to do. Pray!

- "Do not be afraid of them, for nothing is hidden that will not be revealed . . " (Matthew 10:26)

	More Domestic News for Prayer

More Domestic News for Prayer

1. ALERT! TERRORIST SUPER-AXIS TO STRIKE WITHIN U.S.
2. MCCONNELL DEMANDS PROBE OF IRS FOR TARGETING TEA PARTY, OTHERS
3. MEDICAID EXPANSION: UNDECIDED IN MANY STATES
4. OBAMA DEFENDS HEALTH LAW AS DEMOCRATS FRET OVER 2014
5. BIRTH CONTROL STANDS TEST OBAMA'S LIBERAL BASE
6. OBAMA'S COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS: TYRANNY IS NOT LURKING AROUND THE CORNER
7. GOSNELL GUILTY ON THREE COUNTS; CONGRESS ASKS QUESTIONS
8. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT SECRETLY OBTAINED AP PHONE RECORDS
9. JIHADIS, HACKERS JOIN FORCES IN CYBER ATTACKS ON U.S
10. RUSSIAN MILITARY FLIES STRATEGIC BOMBERS NEAR ALASKA

1. BREAKING! TERRORIST SUPER-AXIS TO STRIKE WITHIN U.S.!

Imminent attacks planned by al-Qaida, Quds Forces, Hezbollah

Iran has given the go-ahead to operatives of three terrorist groups that have infiltrated the United States to carry out missions, including what is expected to be a Mumbai-style attack on a hotel where innocent bystanders would be killed, WND has learned.

A full report with many details of the missions has been passed on to U.S. officials and to a congressional intelligence committee.

Three targets have been chosen within America for imminent attack, and the terror teams have now cut communications with the operational center in Iran, a sign that they are moving ahead with the attacks, according to a high-level intelligence officer within the Islamic regime.

If only one of the attacks occurs, the regime will consider the operation a success, the source said. Tehran believes, he said, an attack would not be traced back to Iran due to the nationalities of the operators. (WND)Read more.
-For your own protection, listen very carefully to the leading of the Lord in the days ahead. If you leave for a certain destination, and the Spirit gives you a warning to not proceed, then STOP. And next, pray a protection of Psalm 91 over your intended destination and over any other "targets" our Lord would quicken to you. Pray without ceasing . . . pray.

- "My God of mercy shall come to meet me; God shall let me see my desire on my enemies." (Psalm 59:10)

2. MCCONNELL DEMANDS PROBE OF IRS FOR TARGETING TEA PARTY, OTHERS

The Associated Press reported on Saturday that a federal watchdog's upcoming report says senior Internal Revenue Service officials knew agents were targeting tea party groups in 2011.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., is demanding President Obama order a complete review of his administration in the light of the IRS revealing Friday that it had targeted conservative groups that included the words "tea party" or "patriot" in their tax documents during the 2012 election, reports Politico.

"I call on the White House to conduct a transparent, government-wide review aimed at assuring the American people that these thuggish practices are not underway at the IRS or elsewhere in the administration against anyone, regardless of their political views," McConnell said.

"Last year, amid reports that the Obama administration was using the levers of executive power to harass conservative political groups in Kentucky and elsewhere, I issued a very public warning to the administration that the targeting of private citizens on the basis of their political views would not be tolerated.
"Today's apology by the IRS is proof that those concerns were well founded. But make no mistake; an apology won't put this issue to rest. Now more than ever we need to send a clear message to the Obama Administration that the First Amendment is non-negotiable, and that apologies after an election year are not an sufficient response to what we now know took place at the IRS. This kind of political thuggery has absolutely no place in our politics." (Newsmax) Read more.

- Precious Lord, we are so disturbed at the revelations coming forth so often now, but are grateful to You for what is coming to light in areas of our government where it is out of line with what our Founding Fathers envisioned. We pray for continued pressure to reveal just how deep and wide this wrongdoing is in high places. We seek Your protection for those groups who are patriotic and loyal to this country. Thank you, Father, for watchdogs in our legislative branch.

- "Hold not thy peace, O God of my praise; For the mouth of the wicked and mouth of the deceitful are opened against me: they have spoken against me with a lying tongue." (Psalms 109:1-2)

3. MEDICAID EXPANSION: UNDECIDED IN MANY STATES

Medicaid is funded jointly by the federal government and the states. In most states, it is available only to children, pregnant women and extremely impoverished adults, but the law will allow states to include anyone making up to 138 percent of the poverty level, or $26,951 for a family of three in 2013 dollars.

Altogether, the states that have decided to expand Medicaid would add nearly 5 million people to the rolls, based on figures collected by the Urban Institute, though critics say the number could be much higher.

The Obama administration had intended for the expansion to be mandatory. But the Supreme Court ruled last year that states could opt out, leading many Republican governors to do so. The governors, including Texas's Rick Perry and Louisiana's Bobby Jindal, have opposed the expansion as an outgrowth of their objections to the law as a whole. They are against the idea of expanding a government entitlement program that they say is ineffective, encourages dependency and contributes to the national debt.
In Ohio, for example, Ted Stevenot, president of the Ohio Liberty Coalition, said "We promised these legislators that if they voted to accept money from the federal government takeover of health care in our state that we would do all we could to replace them." Stevenot's group went door-to-door, collecting Republican signatures in individual legislative districts to prove to lawmakers that their reelection efforts would be thwarted if they voted for the expansion. Their efforts appear to be paying off; the Ohio General Assembly last month rejected Republican Gov. John Kasich's budget line item that would have allowed Ohio to accept the money. Democrats are hoping to bring the issue back for an up-or-down vote before the session ends this summer. (Washington Post) Read more.

- Pray that the United States will come to fully realize that the Obamacare mandates that force its citizens to pay for abortion funding is evil and contrary to God's Word. Pray that the remaining states that have not made decisions regarding Obamacare will choose to honor God and would be granted supernatural wisdom, discernment and caution regarding the Obamacare sanctions.

- "I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him." (Deuteronomy 30:19-20)

4. OBAMA DEFENDS HEALTH LAW AS DEMOCRATS FRET OVER 2014

President Obama on Friday sought to quell Democratic apprehension and public misconceptions about his healthcare law, months before its biggest provisions are set to take effect.

Members of Obama's own party have relentlessly criticized the administration for not doing enough to sell the public on ObamaCare, especially as new coverage options are about to come online. Some Democrats fear a rough rollout could cost them in the 2014 midterms.

"Undoubtedly, there will be some mistakes and hiccups" as major pieces of the law fall into place later this year, Obama said Friday. But he said the law's supporters "have an obligation to now make sure that full implementation moves forward the way it needs to."

Most of the law's biggest provisions will take effect between Oct. 1 and Jan. 1, 2014.

Public polling shows the healthcare law remains unpopular - just 35 percent of those polled in the most recent Kaiser Family Foundation tracking poll said they have a favorable opinion of the law, while 40 percent had an unfavorable view. That's a major concern for Democrats ahead of a midterm election that historically goes against the president's party. Republicans are hoping to add to their advantage in the House, and to retake the Senate. (The Hill) Read more.

- Father, all those in government are receiving Your message from heaven, i.e., the entire Obamacare package was turned to sawdust in Your hands two years ago. It was destroyed in the hands of the Lord and will never stand. Thank You, Lord God, for Your mighty power. When You act, it remains. When You speak, nothing can be added. What You do stands forever. Glory. In Jesus' Name.

- "O Lord God, You have begun to show Your servant - "Your greatness and Your mighty hand: for what God is there in heaven or in earth, that can do according to Your works, and according to Your might?" (Deuteronomy 3:24)

5. BIRTH CONTROL STANDS TEST OBAMA'S LIBERAL BASE

The debate over minors' access to contraceptives is testing the loyalty of groups traditionally among the biggest supporters of President Obama, who said Thursday he is "comfortable" with his administration's efforts to find a middle ground on the issue.

Reproductive rights groups Thursday lambasted the administration's decision to appeal a federal ruling that would have made the morning-after pill Plan B One-Step available to all ages without a prescription. But conservatives cheered the move - an indication that traditional battle lines over contraception have blurred, at least for a few days.

The National Organization for Women, which praised Mr. Obama's re-election in November as a "truly pivotal election," said the Democratic president should have practiced what he preached during a speech last week before Planned Parenthood, when he promoted a woman's right to make her own health decisions. (Washington Times) Read more.
- Pray that this move to include 15-year-olds in the legal use of morning-after pill availability would be denied in any form. These pills are another form of abortion and have no part in the design by God's Word to protect and cherish life. Pray that this nation will not compromise with the free use of such drugs. Pray that God's Word will be honored.

- "My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body." (Psalm 139:15-16)
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10)
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)

6. OBAMA'S COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS: TYRANNY IS NOT LURKING AROUND THE CORNER

Obama: Reject Voices Warning About Government Tyranny

President Barack Obama gives the commencement address to the graduating class of The Ohio State University at Ohio Stadium on May 5, 2013 in Columbus, Ohio.

PRESIDENT OBAMA: "Unfortunately, you've grown up hearing voices that incessantly warn of government as nothing more than some separate, sinister entity that's at the root of all our problems. Some of these same voices also do their best to gum up the works. They'll warn that tyranny always lurking just around the corner. You should reject these voices." (Hebrew Nation News)

- Lord God, this personal revelation spells admission of being a tyrant, and it has been obvious to all the world that this holds true and the record acclaims its truth by what he has done. Lord, let him reap what he has sown. We cry out to God that righteousness will rule this nation and unrighteousness will fall under the Blood of Jesus and be gone. In Jesus' Name.

- "How is the faithful city become a harlot! it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; but now murderers. But the Lord of hosts shall be exalted in judgment, and God that is holy shall be sanctified in righteousness." (Isaiah 1:21, 5:16)

7. GOSNELL GUILTY ON THREE COUNTS; CONGRESS ASKS QUESTIONS

Congress Seeks Information about Abortion Regulations

UPDATE: Dr. Kermit Gosnell, 72, was convicted of first-degree murder and could face execution in the deaths of three babies who authorities say were delivered alive and then killed with scissors at his grimy clinic, in a case that became a flashpoint in the nation's debate over abortion.

Gosnell was cleared in the death of a fourth baby, who prosecutors say let out a soft whimper before he snipped its neck.

Gosnell was also found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the drug-overdose death of a patient who had undergone an abortion. (Fox News)

Congress Investigates Abortion Industry Practices

Two House committees have launched nationwide investigations to learn what state officials have done to makes sure a Gosnell-type atrocity does not happen in their state.

The Energy & Commerce Committee send a letter to public health officials Wednesday requesting information outlining how states regulate and monitor abortion centers "and protect the health and safety of women."

On Tuesday, the House Judiciary Committee sent a letter to state attorneys general asking for information about state law's in place to help prevent "atrocities" similar to the Gosnell case. (CitizenLink) Read more.
Take Action: Support Pro-Life Resolution in U.S. Senate

On May 6, 2013, Sen. Mike Lee (Utah) introduced a resolution calling on Congress and state governments to investigate abortion industry practices that allow illegal activities as well as dangerous and unsanitary conditions. Lee wants Congress to hold hearings on topics including the number of post-viability abortions in the U.S. and how many babies are born alive.

Please contact your two U.S. Senators and ask them to support the Lee resolution and Congressional hearings into the abortion industry.

- We praise You, Father, that the light of public scrutiny is being shone on this gruesome activity against the pre-born and newborn in America. Lord, we ask that more and more focus would be made on this industry which cares not for its patients, whether mother or living aborted child, as its mission is death and not life. We pray for healing of all who have had abortions and that they might play a vital part in the march against this business of death. We call for those involved in the abortion industry to begin to speak out about the horrors they have witnessed. Thank You, Precious Lord. In Jesus' Name, amen!

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

8. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT SECRETLY OBTAINED AP PHONE RECORDS

The Justice Department secretly obtained two months of telephone records of reporters and editors for The Associated Press in what the news cooperative's top executive called a "massive and unprecedented intrusion" into how news organizations gather the news.

The records obtained by the Justice Department listed outgoing calls for the work and personal phone numbers of individual reporters, for general AP office numbers in New York, Washington and Hartford, Conn., and for the main number for the AP in the House of Representatives press gallery, according to attorneys for the AP. It was not clear if the records also included incoming calls or the duration of the calls.

In all, the government seized the records for more than 20 separate telephone lines assigned to AP and its journalists in April and May of 2012. The exact number of journalists who used the phone lines during that period is unknown, but more than 100 journalists work in the offices where phone records were targeted, on a wide array of stories about government and other matters. (Fox News) Read more.
- As more and more illegal activities are now being exposed and brought to light, perpetrated by the current administration, offer praises to our God that, in the end, justice shall be done. We do not live in a land ruled by the iron fist of tyranny, but by a United States Constitution that guarantees our rights as a free people. Continue to pray protection for whistleblowers now appearing, far and wide, who are reporting truth to our people instead of the lies of a deceptive administration. Pray!

- "The scepter of the wicked shall not rest upon the land of the righteous."
(Psalm 125:3)

9. JIHADIS, HACKERS JOIN FORCES IN CYBER ATTACKS ON U.S.

Middle East- and North Africa-based criminal hackers were preparing cyber attacks last week against the websites of high-profile U.S. government agencies, banks and other companies, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

The attacks, dubbed #OpUSA, for Operation USA, began Tuesday, the department said in a warning bulletin circulated to the private sector last week. The bulletin was first obtained and posted online by blogger and cybercrime expert Brian Krebs.

The attacks are called for in the name of Anonymous, the leaderless coalition of hackers whose trademark Guy Fawkes mask has become a global symbol for their anarchistic spirit.

"OpUSA poses a limited threat of temporarily disrupting U.S. websites," the homeland security bulletin states, saying the attackers will likely use commercial hacking tools in a variety of "nuisance-level" strikes, defacing websites or temporarily knocking them offline.
The bulletin notes that the attacks are being promoted by the moderators of websites and discussion forums that host al Qaeda and other Islamic extremist material, in addition to calls through more conventional hacker channels like the bulletin board Pastebin. (Washington Times) Read more.

- Pray for the protection of our nation's Internet communications. Pray that security will be increased in our national infrastructure, especially in the banking, public utilities, military, and corporate network systems. Pray that these U.S. institutions will cry out to the Lord for His mighty hand of protection and wisdom.

- "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you."
(1 Peter 5:6-7)

10. RUSSIAN MILITARY FLIES STRATEGIC BOMBERS NEAR ALASKA

Russian strategic bombers conducted flights within the U.S. defense zone close to northern Alaska and the Aleutian Islands last week in Moscow's latest incident of nuclear saber rattling against the United States, according to defense and military officials. Two Bear H nuclear-capable bombers were detected flying into the military's Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) near the Aleutians, where a strategic missile defense radar is located, and Alaska's North Slope region by the Arctic and Chukchi Seas on April 28 and 29, military officials told the Washington Free Beacon.

Lt. Cmdr. Bill Lewis, a spokesman with the U.S. Northern Command, confirmed the fighter intercept of the latest bomber incursion but declined to provide details. "Two U.S. F-22′s from Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, were launched and visually identified Russian aircraft on the night of April 28, as the Russian Air Force flew standard out of area flights near Alaska," Lewis said. The bombers did not enter U.S. airspace, he said.
U.S. officials say the stepped-up Russian bomber flights are part of Moscow's attempt to influence U.S. missile defense policies. Russia, along with China, for years opposed U.S. missile defense programs through propaganda and influence operations. Both states want the defenses curtailed to protect their strategic offensive missiles, which are currently being expanded. (Washington Free Beacon) Read more.

- Pray that the U.S. and Russian administrations find ways to further their mutual advantages in working with each other in an atmosphere that pursues peace. Pray for creative ways for these two nations to work out their differences.

- "Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." (Psalm 34:14)

	JONATHAN CAHN SPEAKS ON CAPITOL HILL

JONATHAN CAHN SPEAKS ON CAPITOL HILL

Some of our readers were aware that Jonathan Cahn, the messianic rabbi and author of "The Harbinger," spoke last Wednesday night in the Capitol Building, in the old House Chamber (now Statuary Hall).

We are pleased to share his report with you, in part, below, and by following this link for the entire message. Thank you for praying for Jonathan Cahn. His is a voice that must be heard in our nation today.

Report on What Happened on Capitol Hill

From Jonathan Cahn

The event took place in the original House of Representatives, where Lincoln and Adams met. Michele Bachmann spoke, and during her address, lifted up a copy of The Harbinger. Others like Newt Gingrich, Tony Perkins, also spoke. Near the end, they asked me to come up.
As I was speaking, I thought someone was shouting against it. Then I realized the man's voice was coming from the sound system. Then I realized it was the enemy. It only happened at that time, that night. So I spoke even louder and more forcefully. The distraction then stopped. I spoke of the connection of America to Israel, of America's spiritual descent, of the warnings of judgment, of the call to repentance. The Lord was there and I felt His power.
I ended with a call for national prayer and revival. As I finished, the gathering erupted in a standing ovation. As I came back to my seat, I was greeted by a Member of Congress who congratulated me and gave me a big embrace.
At the end of the event, they called me up again. I told them about the Aaronic Blessing. Then instead of simply doing it, I asked for everyone to turn around, lift up their hands, and join me in the Aaronic Blessing - to go forth from Capitol Hill to America. They all did. I sang the Aaronic Blessing & then spoke it in English - It had to be the first time that happened there.
In a nutshell, the Lord showed up. It was incredibly powerful. And most of all, thank you for your prayers. I believe that makes the difference.

Feel free to forward this to others who were praying with us when it happened.

The Lord greatly bless you!

In Messiah's love and service,

Jonathan  

 

	This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

MY GOD OF MERCY
(Eh-lo-hay Khahs-dee)

"It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. " (Lamentations 3:22,23)
Thank You that You are my God of mercy. You surround me with mercy all the days of my life. Thank You for the mercy that You give to Your children; how measureless is Your love. Help me today to be a vessel of Your love and mercy, in gratitude for all that You have done for me.

( Source: THE NAME- HaShem: Daily Devotional Worship by Dr. Barri Cae Mallin)
Available on Amazon.com by going here:

http://www.amazon.com/THE-NAME-HaShem-Devotional-Worship/dp/1439263396