Escalating

The U.S. is sending special forces, 150+ medics, and fighter jets to the Middle East to give President Trump operational options for expanding the war.

Uncle Sam’s weighing retaliations after four American soldiers were killed in Jordan and Iraq over the weekend. CENTCOM sent strikes for the 12th consecutive day Wednesday to “degrade Iran’s ability to threaten civilian mariners,” and Trump threatened to hit an Iranian bridge or power plant “any time… Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz.”

Escalations come despite Washington’s questions about the murky endgame and rising cost of the war (now at $37B). Without the usual bipartisan support, the House voted 216-212 Wednesday to pass a $1.15T annual defense bill. The package heads back to Senate desks, where Democrats previously blocked it.

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PRAY WITH US
God of Wisdom and Might, the chaos of our sin sickness is splintering across Your good world, threatening order and peace and goodness and beauty. As provocations threaten to spiral into chaos, we cling to You, Our Fortress and Hiding Place. We are waiting for You to bring Your reign of peace.

Grant wisdom, creativity, and humility to world leaders. Comfort with eternal hope those who mourn losses of loved ones, livelihood, home, prospects. Provide daily bread for the vulnerable swept up in swirling hostilities. And establish Your church as a lighthouse of peace and hope shining into the storm.