Strait Faced

Washington and Tehran are giving mixed signals. 

Hours after Iran’s negotiators arrived in Doha for Qatari-mediated ceasefire talks, U.S. Central Command conducted “self-defense strikes” in southern Iran Monday, targeting missile launch sites and Iranian boats laying mines near the Strait of Hormuz. 

A fragile ceasefire has held since April 8, punctuated by skirmishes from both sides. The sticking point: disputes over the details of Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions. Senior U.S. officials say a deal is “95% there,” with a framework to extend the ceasefire by 60 days and reopen the Strait. 

An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman said Monday that no one can claim “an imminent agreement is about to be signed,” and Tehran framed the strikes as ceasefire violations. CENTCOM said forces used “restraint,” with Secretary Rubio maintaining that talks remain on track.

TPO is piloting a text-delivered audio version of Praying the News, and today, we’re praying for peace in the Middle East. To listen and provide feedback, text PRAY to 71989.

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CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
Governments have different things on their agenda than God’s kingdom does. As global powers maneuver to have their way, God’s agenda is clear and unchanging.

“What does the LORD your God ask of you except to fear the LORD your God by walking in all his ways, to love him, and to worship the LORD your God with all your heart and all your soul? Keep the LORD’s commands and statutes I am giving you today, for your own good.”
Deuteronomy 10:12–13 (CSB) (read full passage)