Fragile Iran Truce

Parts of the Middle East missed the memo about Tuesday’s two-week ceasefire.

On Wednesday, Israel said it struck 100 Hezbollah targets in 10 minutes, maintaining the ceasefire doesn’t apply to the Lebanon offensive; Iran disagreed, calling the strikes a truce violation. Yesterday, Israel’s PM Netanyahu promised negotiations with Lebanon about disarming the Iranian-backed terror group; Uncle Sam sits down for talks with Iran tomorrow. 

Meanwhile, Iran’s still limiting traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, allowing ~12 ships to pass daily (compared to 100+ before the war). Vessels must coordinate with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and pay steep tolls before navigating a set path to avoid sea mines. 

The DOW had its best day in a year (+1,325 points, 2.85%) following Tuesday’s ceasefire, but oil prices inched back up toward $100/barrel yesterday amid uncertainty.

PRAY WITH US
In the face of massive global conflicts across the world, it’s easy to feel helpless. Today and this week, there’s something “powerful and effective” you can do: pray (James 5:16). 

“Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace; to whom be dominion and glory, now and for ever. Amen.” 
Book of Common Prayer, page 654