President Donald Trump has said he will decide “within two weeks” whether the United States will become directly involved in the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. His press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, cited the possibility of upcoming negotiations with Iran as a reason for delaying immediate action. Trump has often used two-week deadlines in past political decisions, many of which passed without resolution. While the administration is maintaining “strategic ambiguity,” it has reiterated concerns that Iran is closer than ever to developing a nuclear weapon - despite intelligence suggesting otherwise. New satellite imagery has confirmed significant damage to Iran’s nuclear reactor at Arak, intensifying global concern. The US remains publicly non-committal, with Leavitt declining to address hypotheticals about potential strikes or regime change. Diplomacy may yet gain ground as European and American officials pursue back-channel discussions with Tehran. However, Trump’s unpredictability has left many allies uncertain, and the global community is watching closely for any sudden shift in American policy toward military engagement.

In Chemmani, near Jaffna, police are now guarding the site of a newly unearthed mass grave, where so far 19 bodies (including three infants) have been discovered. This grim finding has reopened deep wounds for the Tamil community, long scarred by the brutal 26-year civil war. Allegations persist of mass killings and forced disappearances by the state; Amnesty International estimates up to 100,000 disappearances since the 1980s. Chemmani holds particular significance due to the 1996 rape and murder of schoolgirl Krishanthi Kumaraswamy, which led to the first meniton of mass graves in the area. Archaeologist Raj Somadeva, leading the excavation, says that less than 40% of the site has been examined; more graves may exist. Tamil families, desperate for justice, are actively supporting the investigation. It is hoped that the discovery of mass graves like the one found in Chemmani could finally bring closure for them.

On 15 June Catholics in Goma and across the Congo rejoiced as Floribèrt Bwana Chui Bin Kositi, a Congolese customs official, was beatified by Pope Leo XIV in Rome. Kositi was kidnapped and killed in 2007 after bravely refusing a bribe to allow rancid rice from Rwanda into the country - food which would have harmed vulnerable citizens. At just 26, he chose integrity over self-preservation, knowing the dangers of rejecting corruption. His family and community marked this occasion with pride, viewing his recognition as a powerful symbol of justice and moral courage. Local diocese leaders and churchgoers held prayer sessions and celebrations in Goma, where posters and commemorative cloths featuring his image honoured his legacy. Célestin Kanyabiriri, who led the beatification events locally, called Kositi’s example a divine call for financial honesty and spiritual integrity. Many regard him as a national hero and a martyr who upheld truth even to death.

In a northern region of Brazil known as the Equatorial Margin, where the Amazon River meets the Atlantic, a major environmental and political debate is unfolding. After researching the possibility of offshore oil reserves, the government decided to hold auctions to sell exploration rights in this area. President Lula da Silva, known for his environmental pledges, including a promise of ‘zero deforestation’ in 2023, now supports allowing drilling ‘to fund our energy transition’ and bolster the economy. Critics argue this contradicts his public stance and undermines Brazil’s credibility as it prepares to host COP30. Environmental organisations and even the federal prosecutor’s office challenged the oil auctions, citing inadequate environmental reviews and community consultation. Despite their efforts, they went ahead, with major corporations like Chevron and Petrobras securing exploration rights. Brazil’s environmental agency had initially rejected drilling permits, but its decision was overruled by its own director under government pressure. The outcome reflects Brazil’s struggle to reconcile economic needs with ecological stewardship.

The critical Aukus defence pact, agreed by Australia in 2021 with the USA and UK, to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, faces uncertainty as Donald Trump’s administration reviews its alignment with the ‘America First’ agenda. Valued at over $230 billion, Aukus promises Australia a strategic leap in military capability. However, some US officials are sceptical about the value of sharing its premier defence technology, and have cast doubt on allies ‘pulling their weight’. Australia's leaders are publicly calm, but anxieties are growing. Some warn that the deal was always fragile, while others urge Australia to reassess its dependence on the USA. With the Pentagon citing domestic submarine shortages and economic priorities, questions loom over whether Australia will ever receive the promised Virginia-class subs. Despite the turbulence, the alliance's strategic value in countering China remains. Experts argue that Australia could still defend itself independently, given its geography and resources, but emotional ties to the USA and fear of abandonment persist in national defence thinking.

A draft peace agreement has been reached between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, aiming to end decades of deadly conflict in eastern DR Congo. Mediated by the US and Qatar, the deal outlines disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration of armed groups, including the M23 rebels — whose recent territorial gains have displaced hundreds of thousands and cost many lives. Rwanda denies backing the M23, while accusing DR Congo of supporting the FDLR, a militia linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The deal includes provisions for a joint security mechanism to prevent future hostilities and could pave the way for substantial Western investment in the mineral-rich region. However, significant uncertainties remain: Will the M23 fully withdraw? Will Rwanda acknowledge its troop presence and pull back? Can the FDLR be disarmed effectively this time? A formal signing is expected next week, witnessed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Observers are cautiously hopeful, recalling past failed accords. True peace will require political will, accountability, and lasting humanitarian access for displaced civilians.

We warmly invite you to take part in the Global Day of Prayer for the Jewish World on Sunday 8th June 2025 from 7am Jerusalem time (UTC+3), for a worldwide call for believers everywhere to unite in intercession for the salvation of Israel and the Jewish people.

This special day of global prayer coincides with Pentecost Sunday, a profoundly significant moment in the biblical calendar when the Holy Spirit was poured out in Jerusalem. What better time to lift our voices together on behalf of the Jewish people, through whom this blessing first came? 

We believe the Lord is calling His Church to stand in the gap and pray for a fresh outpouring of His Spirit over Israel -

“until all Israel is saved” (Romans 11:26).

This year’s downloadable guide is packed with Scripture-based prayers, key teaching points, and a simple yet powerful BLESS card to help us pray daily for five friends who don’t yet know Jesus.

More Info about the Day of Prayer Download the Guide Register

10 Days of Prayer: Prayer Guides

To help us prepare our hearts for this Global Day of Prayer, we invite you to take part in 10 Days of Prayer for the Jewish World, running from Friday 30th May to Sunday 8th June.

Two specially crafted guides are available:

For Adults – "Watchmen Arise"

This devotional-style guide is designed to lead you day-by-day through powerful themes such as God’s covenant, revival, reconciliation, and the return of the King. Each day includes Scripture, a short teaching, focused prayer points, and opportunities to engage in watchman-style intercession.

Explore Watchmen Arise

For Children – "Children’s Pentecost Adventure"

Created especially for children aged 6–12, this colourful, interactive prayer guide helps young hearts understand God’s love for the Jewish people.

Each day includes a Bible story, prayer, memory verse, worship song, 'Justin's Thought' and fun family action idea. It’s a brilliant resource for families, schools, and churches.

Discover the Children’s Guide

Special Article: The Great Commission and Israel by Dr Jason Hubbard

Why Pray for Israel and the Jewish People?

The Great Commission is not complete without Israel. In this powerful article, Dr. Jason Hubbard unpacks the deep biblical connection between God's call to reach the nations and His covenant purposes for the Jewish people. From the promises to Abraham to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, God has always intended to bless the nations through Israel—and bring Israel into her full inheritance through the Gospel.

As we prepare for the Global Day of Prayer for the Jewish World on 8th June, we invite you to explore this teaching and join with believers around the world in prayer. Let us cry out together for the salvation of Israel, the fullness of the Gentiles, and the glory of God to cover the earth.

“All Israel will be saved.” — Romans 11:26

Let’s pray it in!

Read / Download the Full Article

Let’s Pray in Unity – Young and Old Together

As we look toward Pentecost 2025, we believe this is a divine moment to gather in united, global prayer for the Jewish people. Whether you’re a prayer leader, a parent, a pastor, or a child who loves Jesus - your prayers matter. The Lord is stirring hearts across generations to cry out for the destiny of Israel to be fulfilled.

Let’s pray together:

• For the eyes of the Jewish people to be opened to Yeshua, their Messiah.
• For a great harvest of souls among Jewish communities worldwide.
• For the Church to arise in love, humility, and fervent intercession.

Mark your calendar, download the guides, and invite others to join.

Let’s make Sunday 8th June a historic day of global, united prayer - young and old, from every tribe and tongue - crying out for Israel and the nations.

For the Glory of the Lamb!

Dr Jason Hubbard – Director
International Prayer Connect
www.ipcprayer.org

We’re excited to invite you to be part of something powerful - 21 Days of Prayer for France!

Following the incredible Love France 2024 initiative during the games, believers across France and around the world are keeping the momentum going. This special prayer guide, produced by Impact France, has been designed to help Christians from every nation join together in praying for God’s blessing, renewal, and transformation across France.

For 21 days, you’ll journey through daily topics focused on the Church, families, youth, communities, culture, and those in need. Each day offers short Bible verses, focused prayer points, and stories that will encourage your faith. Whether you pray on your own, as a family, in your church, or with a small group, this guide is your invitation to stand in prayer alongside our brothers and sisters in France.

We believe this is a time to:

Bless France with our prayers, asking God to pour out His love, healing, and power.

Celebrate the unity and creativity emerging among churches, ministries, and believers across the nation.

Connect with the amazing ways God is working through sports, arts, music, and outreach — and discover how you can be part of it!

No matter your age, location, or experience with prayer, you are welcome. We’re calling on young people, families, seniors, prayer groups, and churches everywhere to lift their voices for France - a nation with a rich Christian history and a great need for revival today.

How to Get Involved:

• Read / Download the 21-day guide
• Set aside a few minutes each day to pray
• Share this invitation with friends and your church

Let’s believe together for a wave of blessing over France that touches and transforms hearts, homes, and cities!

READ / DOWNLOAD the 21 Days ‘Regeneration!’ Prayer Guide

May God bless you as you uphold our dear nation.

In Him,

Matthew Glock - Coordinator
Love France

In 2024, Alpha International experienced its most fruitful year since launching in 1977, with over two million people worldwide participating in Alpha courses. The globally recognised programme, known for its welcoming small-group format and open discussions about faith, was delivered through more than 81,000 courses across 146 countries, supported by 43,000 churches and organisations. A significant milestone was the launch of the Alpha Youth Series in November, which quickly drew over 250,000 young participants across 53 nations. Remarkably, one-third of all attendees were under 25, signalling a growing hunger for spiritual truth among younger generations. The strongest regional growth occurred in Africa, where participation surged by 47%. CEO Miles Toulmin attributes Alpha’s success to localised video content which allows people to hear the Gospel in their own language and context. With increasing numbers of young people seeking answers to issues like loneliness and mental health, Alpha continues to offer a space for spiritual encounter and gospel transformation in this season of Quiet Revival. See