Dial for Peace

The U.S. and Iran are taking another rain check on peace talks.

President Trump canceled diplomats’ trip to Pakistan this weekend after receiving an insufficient offer from Iran, saying the travel wasn’t worth it for deals that are “not good enough.” POTUS said Sunday that “they can call us,” adding that further peace talks would happen over the phone. Officials say the parties are still oceans apart on opening the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran’s nuclear program.

In an effort to squeeze Iran economically, Uncle Sam imposed fresh sanctions Friday on a major oil refinery in China, along with 40 transporters of Iranian oil. 

Peace progress is tenuous in Lebanon, too. Israel hit Hezbollah with a series of strikes Saturday—two days after their ceasefire with Lebanon was extended by three weeks—aiming to eliminate rocket launchers and “immediate threats.”

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PRAY WITH US
Sovereign Lord of Hosts, patch back together this unraveling peace. Sew harmony and goodwill, turning wayward hearts to Yourself. Pick out any evil, underhanded stitches so they don’t threaten the whole. Strengthen and reinforce worn-out leaders.

As long as we fragile, fickle mortals are involved, we know that peace will always be temporary. But You are weaving a peace that cannot be shredded or ripped or unraveled, which will blanket the whole universe. World leaders can only offer a maybe-now truce, but You promise a now-and-forever shalom that our rebel hearts can’t ruin. Until Your kingdom comes, work peace across these lands and in the hearts of those who call them home. 

Burdensome news often leaves us overwhelmed and speechless. Praying the News, TPO’s Saturday afternoon newsletter, turns our groans into psalmic prayers every week. Join us in prayer.