Saudi Arabia Considers Helping Yemen Battle the Houthis
In 2014, the Houthis—a terrorist group backed by Iran—captured Yemen’s capital and northern regions. They also control Yemen’s shoreline along the Red Sea, which is why the Houthis have been a threat to ships using the Red Sea passageway.
Saudi Arabia is now considering whether to help the weak Yemeni government carry out a ground campaign to remove Houthi forces from the Red Sea coastline. Saudi Arabia has preferred to avoid resorting to full-scale war, but it has become frustrated by the Houthis’ recent attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure and Saudi oil tankers.
Considering the Houthis have had a dozen years to establish deep roots in Yemen, it’ll be difficult to eradicate their presence—much like Israel has had great difficulty eliminating terrorist threats from Gaza (Hamas) and Lebanon (Hezbollah).
In 2014, the Houthis—a terrorist group backed by Iran—captured Yemen’s capital and northern regions. They also control Yemen’s shoreline along the Red Sea, which is why the Houthis have been a threat to ships using the Red Sea passageway.
Saudi Arabia is now considering whether to help the weak Yemeni government carry out a ground campaign to remove Houthi forces from the Red Sea coastline. Saudi Arabia has preferred to avoid resorting to full-scale war, but it has become frustrated by the Houthis’ recent attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure and Saudi oil tankers.
Considering the Houthis have had a dozen years to establish deep roots in Yemen, it’ll be difficult to eradicate their presence—much like Israel has had great difficulty eliminating terrorist threats from Gaza (Hamas) and Lebanon (Hezbollah).
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Hamas to Run for Office in Palestinian Legislative Council
The legislative branch of the Palestinian National Authority has announced it will hold elections on November 28, 2026. The last election was held in 2006, at which time Hamas held 74 out of the 132 seats. The PLC has not convened since 2007.
The election was announced by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who has long overseen Palestinian affairs in the West Bank and refused to hold elections in an effort to keep the Palestinian Authority in a place of power from Hamas.
Hamas took control of Gaza from the Palestinian Authority back in 2007. And the fact Hamas is determined to run for office in the upcoming elections shows their determination to continue to have power not only in Gaza, but also the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
The legislative branch of the Palestinian National Authority has announced it will hold elections on November 28, 2026. The last election was held in 2006, at which time Hamas held 74 out of the 132 seats. The PLC has not convened since 2007.
The election was announced by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who has long overseen Palestinian affairs in the West Bank and refused to hold elections in an effort to keep the Palestinian Authority in a place of power from Hamas.
Hamas took control of Gaza from the Palestinian Authority back in 2007. And the fact Hamas is determined to run for office in the upcoming elections shows their determination to continue to have power not only in Gaza, but also the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
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Words of Encouragement
“In heaven we shall be freed from the inbeing of evil, and be delivered from the tyranny of corruption. Sin, now our thrall, our torment, and our burden, will then enslave, and distress, and oppress us no more. The chain which now binds us to the dead, loathsome body of our humiliation will be broken, and we shall be forever free! To you who cry, ‘O wretched man that I am,’ who know the inward plague, and feel that there is not one moment of the day in which you do not come short of the Divine glory, whose heaviest burden, whose bitterest sorrow, whose deepest humiliation springs from the consciousness of sin—what a glorious prospect is this! ‘It does not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.’”
Octavius Winslow, Grace and Truth (1849), pages 322-323
“In heaven we shall be freed from the inbeing of evil, and be delivered from the tyranny of corruption. Sin, now our thrall, our torment, and our burden, will then enslave, and distress, and oppress us no more. The chain which now binds us to the dead, loathsome body of our humiliation will be broken, and we shall be forever free! To you who cry, ‘O wretched man that I am,’ who know the inward plague, and feel that there is not one moment of the day in which you do not come short of the Divine glory, whose heaviest burden, whose bitterest sorrow, whose deepest humiliation springs from the consciousness of sin—what a glorious prospect is this! ‘It does not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.’”
Octavius Winslow, Grace and Truth (1849), pages 322-323
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Scripture: Our Sure Foundation and Hope
In 2 Timothy 2:3-4, Paul exhorted Timothy, “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.”
This passage is packed to overflowing with wisdom for the day in which we live! Here are some immediate practical applications:
Endure hardship. A soldier’s life isn’t easy. It requires sacrifice. He or she has a single focus: to stay on task and fulfill the duty to which he or she has been called. We will face hardship because the world in which we live is a spiritual battlefield.
Don’t get entangled by distractions. A soldier is devoted to the mission and sets aside the preoccupations of civilian life. To engage in warfare, we must be ready with our weapon, which is God’s Word. We are to prioritize eternal pursuits and not be weighed down by temporal ones.
Please Him who enlisted you. Jesus said we cannot serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). When we love Christ, “we make it our aim to please him” (2 Corinthians 5:9). Our desire should be to serve in a way that, when we stand face to face with our commander, we hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).
Yes, being a soldier is difficult. But when we fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith, like Paul, we will be rewarded with the crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
In 2 Timothy 2:3-4, Paul exhorted Timothy, “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.”
This passage is packed to overflowing with wisdom for the day in which we live! Here are some immediate practical applications:
Endure hardship. A soldier’s life isn’t easy. It requires sacrifice. He or she has a single focus: to stay on task and fulfill the duty to which he or she has been called. We will face hardship because the world in which we live is a spiritual battlefield.
Don’t get entangled by distractions. A soldier is devoted to the mission and sets aside the preoccupations of civilian life. To engage in warfare, we must be ready with our weapon, which is God’s Word. We are to prioritize eternal pursuits and not be weighed down by temporal ones.
Please Him who enlisted you. Jesus said we cannot serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). When we love Christ, “we make it our aim to please him” (2 Corinthians 5:9). Our desire should be to serve in a way that, when we stand face to face with our commander, we hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).
Yes, being a soldier is difficult. But when we fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith, like Paul, we will be rewarded with the crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
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One Year Ago—Putin and Trump Summit in Alaska
A year ago, on August 15, President Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska. Trump hoped to persuade Putin to bring an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Putin declined to agree to any kind of deal and even refused to commit to a ceasefire. Both Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have since made additional attempts to persuade Putin to stop. Clearly, Putin is not interested in peace, nor any kind of agreement that could possibly lead to the perception that he had to compromise in some way to bring an end to the war.
A year ago, on August 15, President Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska. Trump hoped to persuade Putin to bring an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Putin declined to agree to any kind of deal and even refused to commit to a ceasefire. Both Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have since made additional attempts to persuade Putin to stop. Clearly, Putin is not interested in peace, nor any kind of agreement that could possibly lead to the perception that he had to compromise in some way to bring an end to the war.
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Iran-US Memorandum of Understanding Expires Today
The memorandum of understanding signed by the US and Iran back on June 17 had a 60-day window for negotiations, and that window has expired today.
No progress at all has been made on the two biggest issues that were to be addressed: Iran’s cessation of its nuclear program, and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz.
As of now, there are no official reports about extending the deadline.
The memorandum of understanding signed by the US and Iran back on June 17 had a 60-day window for negotiations, and that window has expired today.
No progress at all has been made on the two biggest issues that were to be addressed: Iran’s cessation of its nuclear program, and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz.
As of now, there are no official reports about extending the deadline.
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Michigan Democratic Senate Nominee Abdul El-Sayed to Speak at Islamic Conference
Abdul El-Sayed is the Democratic nominee running for the US Senate in the upcoming midterm election.
He is slated to speak at the upcoming Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) Conference in Detroit, Michigan, the first week of September.
The ISNA is known for having hosted a number of controversial Islamic speakers in the past. And one of the ISNA’s former vice presidents, Imam Siraj Wahhaj, is among them.
In 1991, Wahhaj was captured on video speaking to a gathering of Muslims, in which he said, “Brothers and sisters, in my opinion what the Muslims do in America will have a profound effect on Muslims everywhere on this earth. As long as you remember that if you get involved with politics, you have to be very careful that your leader is for Allah. You don’t get in politics because it’s the American thing to do. You get involved in politics because politics can be a weapon to use in the cause of Islam.”
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani also has associations with Imam Siraj Wahhaj. It was for this reason that Muslim scholar Dalia Ziada of Washington, DC said, “I am particularly concerned to see mosques used as political rallying platforms in the free and democratic United States. By embracing Wahhaj, Zohran Mamdani is sidelining moderate Muslims and normalizing an extremist ideology that once inspired terror on American soil and still fuels radicalization within segments of the Muslim community today.”
In response to the news that El-Sayed will speak at the ISNA conference, his campaign organization worked quickly to attempt to put distance between El-Sayed and other controversial speakers at ISNA.
According to conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro, “El-Sayed’s campaign says he does not endorse other conference participants and [he] is appearing on a separate panel.”
Abdul El-Sayed is the Democratic nominee running for the US Senate in the upcoming midterm election.
He is slated to speak at the upcoming Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) Conference in Detroit, Michigan, the first week of September.
The ISNA is known for having hosted a number of controversial Islamic speakers in the past. And one of the ISNA’s former vice presidents, Imam Siraj Wahhaj, is among them.
In 1991, Wahhaj was captured on video speaking to a gathering of Muslims, in which he said, “Brothers and sisters, in my opinion what the Muslims do in America will have a profound effect on Muslims everywhere on this earth. As long as you remember that if you get involved with politics, you have to be very careful that your leader is for Allah. You don’t get in politics because it’s the American thing to do. You get involved in politics because politics can be a weapon to use in the cause of Islam.”
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani also has associations with Imam Siraj Wahhaj. It was for this reason that Muslim scholar Dalia Ziada of Washington, DC said, “I am particularly concerned to see mosques used as political rallying platforms in the free and democratic United States. By embracing Wahhaj, Zohran Mamdani is sidelining moderate Muslims and normalizing an extremist ideology that once inspired terror on American soil and still fuels radicalization within segments of the Muslim community today.”
In response to the news that El-Sayed will speak at the ISNA conference, his campaign organization worked quickly to attempt to put distance between El-Sayed and other controversial speakers at ISNA.
According to conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro, “El-Sayed’s campaign says he does not endorse other conference participants and [he] is appearing on a separate panel.”
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Islamic Foot-Washing Stations Controversy At DFW Airport
Last week, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport announced plans to add Islamic foot-washing stations in some restrooms by the end of this year.
The backlash was immediate—and it didn’t take long for the airport to cancel the plans.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott intervened immediately, issuing a statement on Friday. Below is a key excerpt, in which he mentions both DFW and Houston international airports:
“These ablution facilities appear designed to single out one subset of the population for special treatment based on religion. That is illegal. Both airports are government-owned facilities. The federal and state constitutions prohibit government from facilitating this sort of discrimination. Just as the government cannot favor the secular over the sacred, it also cannot favor one religious view over all others.”
Abbott has since referred both airports to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy “for federal investigations.” He also threatened to withhold state grants from DFW airport, which announced it “has determined not to proceed with the project.”
Last week, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport announced plans to add Islamic foot-washing stations in some restrooms by the end of this year.
The backlash was immediate—and it didn’t take long for the airport to cancel the plans.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott intervened immediately, issuing a statement on Friday. Below is a key excerpt, in which he mentions both DFW and Houston international airports:
“These ablution facilities appear designed to single out one subset of the population for special treatment based on religion. That is illegal. Both airports are government-owned facilities. The federal and state constitutions prohibit government from facilitating this sort of discrimination. Just as the government cannot favor the secular over the sacred, it also cannot favor one religious view over all others.”
Abbott has since referred both airports to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy “for federal investigations.” He also threatened to withhold state grants from DFW airport, which announced it “has determined not to proceed with the project.”
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The Iran Dilemma: How Will It Finally Be Resolved?
On Monday, the 60-day Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran expired, with no progress whatsoever in the negotiations between the two nations.
Remember too that Trump declared a ceasefire with Iran back on April 7. More than two months went by before Trump could get Iran to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on June 17.
So from the time the ceasefire began on April 7 to the expiration of the Memorandum of Understanding on August 17, Iran was able to stall for 132 days without budging on the points of contention between the US and Iran. That’s more than four months.
This is not the outcome the Trump administration wanted, but it should have been predictable. Iran has a one-page playbook: Stall, stall, and stall more until you get your way or there is a change of administration. Along the way, accuse your opponent of violating the agreement you’ve already broken.
Iran has run this play countless times and will continue to do so. And it has trained its terrorist proxies to do the same. We’ve lost track of how many times Hamas has stalled during the hostage negotiations and the ongoing peace talks in Gaza.
In the meantime, Iran’s terrorist proxy in Lebanon, Hezbollah, is still attacking Israel—three IDF soldiers were seriously wounded by a drone last Friday night.
And Iran’s terrorist proxy in Yemen, the Houthis, has escalated its attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure and ships.
Iran leaves no stone unturned when it comes to fomenting instability in the Middle East. The ruling regime has made it clear it is NOT interested in peace. And as Ezekiel 38 forewarns us, a day is coming when Iran will rise up with other military forces in an effort to wipe out Israel once and for all.
Only then will Iran face the defeat it so greatly deserves. The prophet Ezekiel tells us that God Himself will pour out His fierce wrath upon the Russian-Turkish-Iranian military alliance and crush it into oblivion.
When the time comes for God to show up at the negotiating table, Iran will finally discover a scenario in which its playbook is no good anymore.
On Monday, the 60-day Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran expired, with no progress whatsoever in the negotiations between the two nations.
Remember too that Trump declared a ceasefire with Iran back on April 7. More than two months went by before Trump could get Iran to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on June 17.
So from the time the ceasefire began on April 7 to the expiration of the Memorandum of Understanding on August 17, Iran was able to stall for 132 days without budging on the points of contention between the US and Iran. That’s more than four months.
This is not the outcome the Trump administration wanted, but it should have been predictable. Iran has a one-page playbook: Stall, stall, and stall more until you get your way or there is a change of administration. Along the way, accuse your opponent of violating the agreement you’ve already broken.
Iran has run this play countless times and will continue to do so. And it has trained its terrorist proxies to do the same. We’ve lost track of how many times Hamas has stalled during the hostage negotiations and the ongoing peace talks in Gaza.
In the meantime, Iran’s terrorist proxy in Lebanon, Hezbollah, is still attacking Israel—three IDF soldiers were seriously wounded by a drone last Friday night.
And Iran’s terrorist proxy in Yemen, the Houthis, has escalated its attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure and ships.
Iran leaves no stone unturned when it comes to fomenting instability in the Middle East. The ruling regime has made it clear it is NOT interested in peace. And as Ezekiel 38 forewarns us, a day is coming when Iran will rise up with other military forces in an effort to wipe out Israel once and for all.
Only then will Iran face the defeat it so greatly deserves. The prophet Ezekiel tells us that God Himself will pour out His fierce wrath upon the Russian-Turkish-Iranian military alliance and crush it into oblivion.
When the time comes for God to show up at the negotiating table, Iran will finally discover a scenario in which its playbook is no good anymore.
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Christ’s Message to Philadelphia: You Have Kept My Word
Our study of the seven churches in Revelation 2-3 continues—this time, with a look at the wonderful church in Philadelphia. Listen in, and share the podcast with others!
https://stevemillerresources.com/podcast/
Our study of the seven churches in Revelation 2-3 continues—this time, with a look at the wonderful church in Philadelphia. Listen in, and share the podcast with others!
https://stevemillerresources.com/podcast/
Stevemillerresources
Foreshadows Report Podcast -
Foreshadows Report Podcast by Steve Miller Practical insights on current events and Bible prophecy. Keep watch and find hope!
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IDF Has Sealed Two Hamas Tunnels
Earlier this morning, the IDF announced that Israeli troops have sealed two Hamas terrorist tunnels that together ran nearly 1.25 miles long. The tunnels are in the Yellow Line region and were packed using sandbags.
Strait of Hormuz Traffic Slows
The number of commercial ships transiting through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped due to uncertainty about whether it has truly reopened. Shipping companies are still avoiding the international waterway as much as possible, and it’s reported only six cargo vessels went through on Tuesday.
Earlier this morning, the IDF announced that Israeli troops have sealed two Hamas terrorist tunnels that together ran nearly 1.25 miles long. The tunnels are in the Yellow Line region and were packed using sandbags.
Strait of Hormuz Traffic Slows
The number of commercial ships transiting through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped due to uncertainty about whether it has truly reopened. Shipping companies are still avoiding the international waterway as much as possible, and it’s reported only six cargo vessels went through on Tuesday.
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US to Begin Withdrawal of Troops?
No official announcement has been made, but The Washington Post reports that Pentagon officials have told the newspaper that US Command Central and the Joint Staff of Chiefs are now evaluating whether a troop drawdown should begin soon. One source—yet to be verified—said that Central Command’s chief Admiral Brad Cooper is in support of relocating some US troops.
If true, the reduction would include troops that are currently stationed at 20 different bases in the region. Currently, there are now 50,000 US military personnel stationed in the Middle East.
No official announcement has been made, but The Washington Post reports that Pentagon officials have told the newspaper that US Command Central and the Joint Staff of Chiefs are now evaluating whether a troop drawdown should begin soon. One source—yet to be verified—said that Central Command’s chief Admiral Brad Cooper is in support of relocating some US troops.
If true, the reduction would include troops that are currently stationed at 20 different bases in the region. Currently, there are now 50,000 US military personnel stationed in the Middle East.
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Israel: Tensions Rising with Turkey
In response to what Israel perceived as a threat posed by Turkish forces, the IDF carried out strikes against targets in northwestern Syria at the Abu al-Duhur military airfield.
Israel said Turkey was conducting “dangerous adventures in Syria” and said the strikes were necessary to prevent a Turkish military buildup along its borders. The Israeli prime minister’s office said Syria “was on the verge of breaching” a security agreement with Israel “by permitting Turkish troops to deploy at an airbase near Aleppo.”
Syria claims there were no hostile intentions, and Turkey objected to Israel’s actions, claiming that “there was no Turkish presence at the airbase.”
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned, “Israel will not allow any entity to threaten its security. It is preferable for Erdogan to continue delivering empty, delusional speeches against Israel in the Turkish parliament rather than testing Israel’s resolve to defend itself.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had told Syria not to allow Turkish forces to use the airbase: “Our message was very clear: Don’t. I guess they didn’t quite understand the message.”
While Turkey claims it does not intend to use the airbase, Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, had admitted that Turkish military officials had visited the base recently. But he said the reason was for “ongoing military cooperation in the areas of training and the exchange of expertise.”
Turkey already has a significant military presence in other parts of Syria. And it is a major ally of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
So Israel has every reason to express concerned.
In response to what Israel perceived as a threat posed by Turkish forces, the IDF carried out strikes against targets in northwestern Syria at the Abu al-Duhur military airfield.
Israel said Turkey was conducting “dangerous adventures in Syria” and said the strikes were necessary to prevent a Turkish military buildup along its borders. The Israeli prime minister’s office said Syria “was on the verge of breaching” a security agreement with Israel “by permitting Turkish troops to deploy at an airbase near Aleppo.”
Syria claims there were no hostile intentions, and Turkey objected to Israel’s actions, claiming that “there was no Turkish presence at the airbase.”
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned, “Israel will not allow any entity to threaten its security. It is preferable for Erdogan to continue delivering empty, delusional speeches against Israel in the Turkish parliament rather than testing Israel’s resolve to defend itself.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had told Syria not to allow Turkish forces to use the airbase: “Our message was very clear: Don’t. I guess they didn’t quite understand the message.”
While Turkey claims it does not intend to use the airbase, Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, had admitted that Turkish military officials had visited the base recently. But he said the reason was for “ongoing military cooperation in the areas of training and the exchange of expertise.”
Turkey already has a significant military presence in other parts of Syria. And it is a major ally of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
So Israel has every reason to express concerned.
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Economic D-Day Against Iran
On Wednesday, Trump warned that any country that provides “any type of lifeline to Iran” would face consequences. Trump has said he will impose an “unprecedented” level of financial sanctions and isolation against Iran in what he has called an “economic D-Day.”
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent did not provide details about the Trump administration’s plans, but said that the US will take action against countries that still do business with Iran: “If you insist on doing business with them, then the US Treasury and US government will put its full might and force against you. It’s time for our allies and the rest of the world to make a decision.”
Earlier today, Iran promised that it would bring a “devastating” response upon the US for its toughest-ever financial restrictions. Major General Ali Abdollahi, the chief of staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, said, “With preparedness across land, sea, air, air defense and cyberspace, Iran’s armed forces will respond to the enemy’s new threats with crushing, punishing and devastating responses.”
And Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said, “We must make plans to deal with the unjust sanctions so that we can overcome them.”
Trump’s plan is seen as an attempt to bring an end to the “Iran problem” before the fast-approaching midterm elections, which could determine whether or not Republicans are able to preserve their narrow majorities in Congress.
On Wednesday, Trump warned that any country that provides “any type of lifeline to Iran” would face consequences. Trump has said he will impose an “unprecedented” level of financial sanctions and isolation against Iran in what he has called an “economic D-Day.”
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent did not provide details about the Trump administration’s plans, but said that the US will take action against countries that still do business with Iran: “If you insist on doing business with them, then the US Treasury and US government will put its full might and force against you. It’s time for our allies and the rest of the world to make a decision.”
Earlier today, Iran promised that it would bring a “devastating” response upon the US for its toughest-ever financial restrictions. Major General Ali Abdollahi, the chief of staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, said, “With preparedness across land, sea, air, air defense and cyberspace, Iran’s armed forces will respond to the enemy’s new threats with crushing, punishing and devastating responses.”
And Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said, “We must make plans to deal with the unjust sanctions so that we can overcome them.”
Trump’s plan is seen as an attempt to bring an end to the “Iran problem” before the fast-approaching midterm elections, which could determine whether or not Republicans are able to preserve their narrow majorities in Congress.
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Words of Encouragement
In Revelation 3:8, Jesus told the church at Philadelphia, “I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut.” While teaching on this passage, Bible teacher Ray Stedman made this observation:
“It is the Word of God that enables us to know the character of Jesus, to have fellowship with Him, to build His character into our own lives. His name is to be the identifying mark upon our lives. As non-Christians watch us live out our faith amid the stress and pressure of the real world, they are to see the imprint of the name Jesus in all that we do.
“When Jesus is present with us throughout each day, and when our lives serve to reflect the life and character of Christ, then doors of ministry open before us. This is true of each believer in an individual sense, and it is true of entire churches.”
Ray C. Stedman, God’s Final Word: Understanding Revelation, pages 83-84
In Revelation 3:8, Jesus told the church at Philadelphia, “I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut.” While teaching on this passage, Bible teacher Ray Stedman made this observation:
“It is the Word of God that enables us to know the character of Jesus, to have fellowship with Him, to build His character into our own lives. His name is to be the identifying mark upon our lives. As non-Christians watch us live out our faith amid the stress and pressure of the real world, they are to see the imprint of the name Jesus in all that we do.
“When Jesus is present with us throughout each day, and when our lives serve to reflect the life and character of Christ, then doors of ministry open before us. This is true of each believer in an individual sense, and it is true of entire churches.”
Ray C. Stedman, God’s Final Word: Understanding Revelation, pages 83-84
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Scripture: Our Sure Foundation and Hope
In Psalm 77, we read of a time when the psalmist was in such great despair that he wrote, “My soul refuses to be comforted…I am so troubled that I cannot speak” (verses 2, 4).
So great was his anguish that he asked, “Will the Lord spurn forever, and never again be favorable? Has his steadfast love forever ceased? Are his promises at an end for all time? Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger shut up his compassion?” (verses 7-9).
When we find ourselves in that kind of dark place, where do we find hope?
The psalmist then shares where we can find encouragement:
“Then I said, ‘I will appeal to this, to the years of the right hand of the Most High.’ I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God? You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples” (verses 10-14).
When the future looks uncertain, we can remind ourselves of the ways God has been faithful in the past—not only to us, but to all His people. He has always shown Himself to uphold His own.
God’s faithfulness to us in the past assures us of His continued faithfulness in the future. Psalm 37:24 promises, “Though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.” The Bible never promises that we will be free of suffering or hardships. But we are told the Lord will sustain us in the midst of our pain.
No matter what adversity we face, we can take comfort in the truth that it is temporary. There is coming a day when we will have no more tribulations. As Romans 8:18 says, “The sufferings of the present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed in us.”
So when you’re down and discouraged, take time to remember, ponder, and meditate upon God’s past faithfulness. As you look to Him and His track record, you’ll gain the assurance that He will remain faithful to you into the future.
In Psalm 77, we read of a time when the psalmist was in such great despair that he wrote, “My soul refuses to be comforted…I am so troubled that I cannot speak” (verses 2, 4).
So great was his anguish that he asked, “Will the Lord spurn forever, and never again be favorable? Has his steadfast love forever ceased? Are his promises at an end for all time? Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger shut up his compassion?” (verses 7-9).
When we find ourselves in that kind of dark place, where do we find hope?
The psalmist then shares where we can find encouragement:
“Then I said, ‘I will appeal to this, to the years of the right hand of the Most High.’ I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God? You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples” (verses 10-14).
When the future looks uncertain, we can remind ourselves of the ways God has been faithful in the past—not only to us, but to all His people. He has always shown Himself to uphold His own.
God’s faithfulness to us in the past assures us of His continued faithfulness in the future. Psalm 37:24 promises, “Though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.” The Bible never promises that we will be free of suffering or hardships. But we are told the Lord will sustain us in the midst of our pain.
No matter what adversity we face, we can take comfort in the truth that it is temporary. There is coming a day when we will have no more tribulations. As Romans 8:18 says, “The sufferings of the present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed in us.”
So when you’re down and discouraged, take time to remember, ponder, and meditate upon God’s past faithfulness. As you look to Him and His track record, you’ll gain the assurance that He will remain faithful to you into the future.
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Iran Threatens 45 Tankers with Fines, Confiscation
In an attempt to continue controlling the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has blacklisted 45 tankers that had broken rules set by Iran, and threatened them with fines and having their cargo confiscated.
The Persian Gulf Strait Authority posted the threat on X last night. Iran has demanded that shipowners should obtain clearance from Iran before crossing the Strait, insisting that the vessels pay for Iran’s security services.
Iran has document the names of the ships it claims were in violation of Iran’s rules, and has said the shipping firms that want the names removed from the list must submit a request to Iran’s maritime authorities. Otherwise, non-compliant vessels are in danger of fines and confiscation.
In an attempt to continue controlling the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has blacklisted 45 tankers that had broken rules set by Iran, and threatened them with fines and having their cargo confiscated.
The Persian Gulf Strait Authority posted the threat on X last night. Iran has demanded that shipowners should obtain clearance from Iran before crossing the Strait, insisting that the vessels pay for Iran’s security services.
Iran has document the names of the ships it claims were in violation of Iran’s rules, and has said the shipping firms that want the names removed from the list must submit a request to Iran’s maritime authorities. Otherwise, non-compliant vessels are in danger of fines and confiscation.
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Flashpoint of Contention Between Israel and Turkey
On August 18, Israel carried out a strike against the Abu al-Duhur military airbase in northwestern Syria to warn against a Turkish military presence at the base. Israel says Turkey was setting up arrangements for a Turkish deployment there, at a location that Israel felt is too dangerously close for security purposes.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel refuses to allow a Turkish military buildup at the base “because it threatens us.”
In response, Syrian officials have denied that there are any plans for a Turkish presence at the base.
Since then, Israel’s Mossad chief Roman Gofman has met with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Jordan to discuss “lowering the temperature” over the confrontation between the two countries.
In reference to the conflict, Kobi Michael, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, offered this observation, which was quoted in The Jerusalem Post: “Once the Turks are able to deploy in Syria, at airbases or elsewhere, they could establish air-defense missiles, radars, or other systems that would complicate the situation for the Israeli Air Force.”
Michael added that Turkey has “hegemonic aspirations in the broader Middle East, and they see Israel as the main obstacle to the realization of those aspirations. They want a weak Israel; they do not want a strong Israel.”
On August 18, Israel carried out a strike against the Abu al-Duhur military airbase in northwestern Syria to warn against a Turkish military presence at the base. Israel says Turkey was setting up arrangements for a Turkish deployment there, at a location that Israel felt is too dangerously close for security purposes.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel refuses to allow a Turkish military buildup at the base “because it threatens us.”
In response, Syrian officials have denied that there are any plans for a Turkish presence at the base.
Since then, Israel’s Mossad chief Roman Gofman has met with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Jordan to discuss “lowering the temperature” over the confrontation between the two countries.
In reference to the conflict, Kobi Michael, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, offered this observation, which was quoted in The Jerusalem Post: “Once the Turks are able to deploy in Syria, at airbases or elsewhere, they could establish air-defense missiles, radars, or other systems that would complicate the situation for the Israeli Air Force.”
Michael added that Turkey has “hegemonic aspirations in the broader Middle East, and they see Israel as the main obstacle to the realization of those aspirations. They want a weak Israel; they do not want a strong Israel.”
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US to Step Up the Suffocation of Iran’s Financial Network
Yesterday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the Trump administration is stepping up its sanctions against Iran and those who have business ties with it.
At a press conference, Bessent said, “We are launching an economic onslaught against Iran’s financial connections around the globe. Our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone.”
He added, “We are going to hold everyone accountable, and this is economic asphyxiation of this regime.”
Among the targets of the new plan are “determinations against five critical sectors—digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping—that the Iranian regime uses to try to prop up its failing economy.”
Bessent then warned that any business or country “that facilitates money laundering on behalf of Iran will be removed from the US dollar system.”
At no point did Bessent name the nations that might face sanctions for their dealings with Iran, such as China. When asked specifically about Chinese banks, Bessent simply said that “no one is above the reach of US sanctions.”
President Xi of China is scheduled to visit the US for a summit with Trump on September 24, 2026. China is currently one of Iran’s biggest economic lifelines, buying an estimated 90 percent of Iran’s oil.
Yesterday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the Trump administration is stepping up its sanctions against Iran and those who have business ties with it.
At a press conference, Bessent said, “We are launching an economic onslaught against Iran’s financial connections around the globe. Our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone.”
He added, “We are going to hold everyone accountable, and this is economic asphyxiation of this regime.”
Among the targets of the new plan are “determinations against five critical sectors—digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping—that the Iranian regime uses to try to prop up its failing economy.”
Bessent then warned that any business or country “that facilitates money laundering on behalf of Iran will be removed from the US dollar system.”
At no point did Bessent name the nations that might face sanctions for their dealings with Iran, such as China. When asked specifically about Chinese banks, Bessent simply said that “no one is above the reach of US sanctions.”
President Xi of China is scheduled to visit the US for a summit with Trump on September 24, 2026. China is currently one of Iran’s biggest economic lifelines, buying an estimated 90 percent of Iran’s oil.
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Objections to US “Economic D-Day” Against Iran
After Scott Bessent announced the US economic D-Day against Iran, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf responded by saying, “The Americans know that no one believes their bluster. Economically, the United States is not in a position to further restrict its relations with other countries.”
Ghalibaf also posted on X, “Iran’s trading partners have stated—both publicly in the media and in messages sent to us—that they attach no importance to these remarks.”
Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh said in an Iranian TV interview that the US has “done everything they could to test the determination of the Iranian people and the country’s officials, but they have failed every time…We have been waiting for these plans for a long time, and the government is and was ready and has a two-year plan to manage these events.”
Iran’s terrorist proxies in Yemen—the Houthis—warned that any Middle Eastern country that “joins [the] US economic war on Iran [will] pay the price.”
And earlier today, a foreign ministry spokesperson in China said that Beijing objected to the latest US measures against Iran.
Speaking to reporters, Lin Jian said, “Cooperation between China and Iran has always been conducted within the framework of international law and should not be interfered with or disrupted. China has already stated many times that it firmly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions. China will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard its own rights and interests.”
After Scott Bessent announced the US economic D-Day against Iran, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf responded by saying, “The Americans know that no one believes their bluster. Economically, the United States is not in a position to further restrict its relations with other countries.”
Ghalibaf also posted on X, “Iran’s trading partners have stated—both publicly in the media and in messages sent to us—that they attach no importance to these remarks.”
Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh said in an Iranian TV interview that the US has “done everything they could to test the determination of the Iranian people and the country’s officials, but they have failed every time…We have been waiting for these plans for a long time, and the government is and was ready and has a two-year plan to manage these events.”
Iran’s terrorist proxies in Yemen—the Houthis—warned that any Middle Eastern country that “joins [the] US economic war on Iran [will] pay the price.”
And earlier today, a foreign ministry spokesperson in China said that Beijing objected to the latest US measures against Iran.
Speaking to reporters, Lin Jian said, “Cooperation between China and Iran has always been conducted within the framework of international law and should not be interfered with or disrupted. China has already stated many times that it firmly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions. China will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard its own rights and interests.”
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Will the New Economic Sanctions Work?
Maia Nikoladze at Atlantic Council said, “The biggest question is Beijing’s response, since Chinese refineries have been absorbing nearly 90 percent of Iranian oil.” She observed that Trump’s measures “could prompt Chinese countermeasures, particularly in critical minerals.” This matters because the US is heavily dependent on China for critical minerals.
Iran expert Jonathan Harounoff said, in a Fox digital interview, “Ultimately, this pressure campaign will likely continue to cripple the regime and set the stage for perhaps yet another domestic uprising. The precise timing of such a revolt is impossible to predict.”
My personal observation is that before Trump’s new plan was announced, Iran has already had many severe sanctions imposed against it globally. The US has had sanctions in place since 1979, and Iran has cleverly created many workarounds to keep its economy going.
One of Iran’s biggest lifelines is China. Will the Trump administration go so far as to take direct steps to sever Chinese economic support of Iran? And provoke Chinese retaliation of some kind? That issue could end up being at the top of the agenda when Trump and Xi meet in Washington, DC in late September.
Maia Nikoladze at Atlantic Council said, “The biggest question is Beijing’s response, since Chinese refineries have been absorbing nearly 90 percent of Iranian oil.” She observed that Trump’s measures “could prompt Chinese countermeasures, particularly in critical minerals.” This matters because the US is heavily dependent on China for critical minerals.
Iran expert Jonathan Harounoff said, in a Fox digital interview, “Ultimately, this pressure campaign will likely continue to cripple the regime and set the stage for perhaps yet another domestic uprising. The precise timing of such a revolt is impossible to predict.”
My personal observation is that before Trump’s new plan was announced, Iran has already had many severe sanctions imposed against it globally. The US has had sanctions in place since 1979, and Iran has cleverly created many workarounds to keep its economy going.
One of Iran’s biggest lifelines is China. Will the Trump administration go so far as to take direct steps to sever Chinese economic support of Iran? And provoke Chinese retaliation of some kind? That issue could end up being at the top of the agenda when Trump and Xi meet in Washington, DC in late September.
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