Prophecy News Watch - December 26, 2023

Around the World
Tensions in Middle East Intensify As Iran Adds ‘Fully Smart’ 1000-Km Cruise Missiles to its Arsenal
Iranian State TV announced on Sunday that Iran's navy had enhanced its weaponry with the integration of advanced, locally manufactured Talaeieh and Nasir cruise missiles. These missiles, notably the Talaeieh, are described as "fully smart," with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) and capable of changing targets during their flight.
U.S. Alleges China’s Theft of AI Technology Boosting Espionage Against American Citizens
The FBI and U.S. intelligence agencies warn about China's use of artificial intelligence, indicating potential risks beyond intellectual property theft. They are concerned that China could use AI for massive data collection on American citizens. The FBI has highlighted the importance of safeguarding artificial intelligence as a vital U.S. technology in response to China's aim for substantial AI advancements by 2025, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Israel-Palestinian Conflict
Pre-Emptive Strike Against Hezbollah Thwarted by Biden
President Biden reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cancel a preemptive strike against Hezbollah, citing concerns about the possibility of a broader regional conflict, according to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ).
Israel Hits Hezbollah with ‘Wide-Scale’ Airstrikes As Rockets Fall From Lebanon
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that they executed 'wide-scale' strikes against Hezbollah targets on Sunday in response to a series of rocket attacks from Lebanon that targeted various communities in northern Israel.
War Prompts Cancelation Bethlehem Christmas
Most Christmas events were canceled in the Biblical birthplace of Jesus, with authorities saying the Israel-Hamas war gives no reason to celebrate the “Prince of Peace.”

Inside the United States
US Marks Anniversary of Repeal of Exclusion Act As Surge of Chinese Immigrants Come to America
Marking the 80th anniversary of the Chinese Exclusion Act's repeal, the U.S. is witnessing a surge of Chinese immigrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border as they seek asylum from a repressive Communist regime in their home country.
School Boards Begin Voting On New Measure to Allow Chaplains to Volunteer in Schools
Texas school boards have already begun to vote on a new measure to allow or prohibit chaplains from volunteering to provide counseling and other services to students.
US Government Backs Anti-Israel Groups Through ‘Dark Money’ Scheme
An influential “dark money” liberal group reportedly funds anti-Israel and antisemitic activism across the United States backed by massive amounts in taxpayer-financed grants and contracts.

Christian News
Arrests And Security Around European Churches Amid Fears Of Christmas Attacks
Arrests were made, and security was stepped up around churches and Christmas markets in Europe, including in Germany and neighboring Austria, after intelligence information of possible attacks, officials said.