WORLD NEWS HEADLINES

JAPAN CONSIDERS NUCLEAR ARMAMENT
An article appearing in the Sunday, June 9, 2002, edition of The Denver Post reveals that some Japanese are openly challenging that nation’s traditional pacifism. The article refers to Yasuo Fukuda, the chief Cabinet secretary: “In comments that stunned many here, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi’s top aide told reporters last week that what Japan calls its three non-nuclear principles could soon come under review.” The three non-nuclear principles are never to own, produce or allow nuclear weapons on Japanese territory.

This public declaration has stirred a wave of criticism; however, the article goes on to point out, “Despite the denials of an imminent change, remarks like these indicate that a major shift in Japanese security thinking is underway.”

Quoting from the article, the point is made that this stand is not isolated or without political consensus when considering “…other recent statements that show an erosion of support for pacifism.”

The increasing power of China and doubts of America’s ability to provide Japan’s security needs lies squarely behind this new wave of self-reliance. It is estimated that Japan could produce between 3,000 to 4,000 nuclear warheads. There is little doubt that Japan’s great technical know-how would quickly usher it into the nuclear family.

COLORADO INFERNO
Headlines in both national and international news sources quoted Colorado’s governor, Bill Owens: “All of Colorado is burning today!”

Now called the worst fire problem in the nation, and locally identified as the worst fire in this state’s history, the so-called Hayman Fire is engulfing staggering amounts of acreage and driving residents to seek safety and prayerfully hope that their home and belongings will be spared.

These fires are directly related to the brutal drought conditions that hold sway throughout the region. Forests are bone dry and full of abundant fuel. Environmental policies along with long standing land management attitudes have contributed to forests which have not experienced regular burnings–a kind of self-pruning occurrence that normally prevented the kind of catastrophic fire storms now sweeping through the state.

It is remarkable to note that these fires and the current drought are called without precedent! These catastrophes are moving right off any scale of comparison for our nation’s history! There is a kind of stalking fear that is unnerving people as we all wonder, “What next?”

GERMAN PRESS VIEW OF THE US
On June 7, Der Spiegel published an article warning that a crash of the U.S. dollar may be near. It states, “Another symbol of American predominance suddenly appears to be vulnerable: The dollar has lost its reputation of a secure haven…. The dollar has lost nine percent since February in comparison with the Euro and the Yen… Observers express their fear that the weak dollar may reflect a new, fundamental mistrust of the world against the United States.”

In a second article of June 7, Der Spiegel criticized the Bush administration for its tariffs on steel. It cites with approval the Washington Post, stating that these tariffs “have never been a good idea,” but that now, “they appear to be ridiculous.” It points out that due to the higher prices of imported steel, the decline of the dollar, and the bankruptcies of several American companies dealing with steel, the consequences for the American economy may be devastating, including a price increase for cars and other products made out of or with steel, and the loss of employment for steel workers.

In an article of June 11, Der Spiegel questions the accuracy of the reports that a detained U.S. citizen accused of plotting to attack the United States with a “dirty bomb” are accurate or even credible. The magazine points out that there are very few, if any, proofs for these allegations, and there is “practically no evidence” that such an attack was ever planned. At the same time, the U.S. citizen, under an old military law, is held without being charged, and he is not allowed to see or communicate with an attorney.

In an article of June 12, Der Spiegel reports the outcry of the parliament in Netherlands against the United States, due to the approval, in principle, of an American law by both houses of Congress that would make possible an American invasion in The Netherlands, to take over and/or neutralize the International Criminal Court in Den Haag, if an American citizen would be tried there — the irony with our report in the previous news clip regarding the questionable detention of an American citizen in the US notwithstanding. When discussing possible invasion of the Netherlands, democrat David Obey pointed out that it could be done with ships, or through the air.

THE MIDDLE EAST
This week saw further violence in the Middle East caused by suicide bombers, blowing themselves up and killing innocent civilians. The series of violent incidents erupted as Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon was in Washington to persuade congressional leaders that Arafat is not a partner for peace talks because of persistent Palestinian violence. In an interview with the German newspaper “Bild,” Israeli President Katsav warned that no country on the face of this earth, including Germany, Spain, Italy or France, will be secure and protected from terrorism, if the Palestinians should be successful with their terror against Israel. He also accused Europe of having “encouraged” terrorism when they supported Arafat, pointing out that 80% of Palestinians killed by Israelis were terrorists, while 80% of Israelis killed by Palestinians were civilians. He stated, “The hypocrisy of the West is sometimes really intolerable.” He concluded that after 2000 years of suffering, persecution, and the holocaust, the Jews have found a home. “And,” he said, “we will fight for it.”

 

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES

MIDDLE EAST — NEW SUICIDE BOMBINGS AND ISRAELI REPRISALS
As USA Today reported on June 6, 2002, “Israeli troops stormed Yasser Arafat’s headquarters early Thursday, blew up three buildings in the sprawling compound and shelled the Palestinian leader’s living area in response to a Palestinian suicide attack on an Israeli bus that killed 17 passengers.” As the newspaper explained, “a member of the Islamic Jihad group drove a car packed with 154 pounds of explosives alongside a moving bus and detonated the load, igniting a huge fire ball…. Among the dead were 13 soldiers in their late teens and early 20s.”

Der Spiegel added that, although a response from Israel was expected, its attack with 30 tanks came as a surprise. Nabil Abu Rudeihneh, advisor to Arafat, accused the United States of having given the green light to Israel for their military actions against the Palestinians. The United States rejected those charges, claiming that they were not informed before the incursion into Ramallah, and that Washington did not give prior approval. Earlier this week, however, according to USA Today, visiting “CIA chief George Tenet warned Arafat that if he did not stop suicide bombings, he would stand alone against Israeli reprisals.”

GERMANY’S FIGHT WITH ANTI-SEMITISM
As we reported in our last Update (Update #45, World News Headlines, “Anti-Semitism in Germany?”), Germany’s Free Democrats’ Juergen Moellemann came under heavy attack for comments against Ariel Sharon and Michel Friedman, Vice-President of Germany’s Jewish Community. The criticism of Moellemann continued this week, including a protest of over 2500 people demonstrating in Berlin, following the appeal of the Jewish community in Berlin. Susanne Thaler, member of the Free Democrats in Berlin, resigned in protest to Moellemann’s comments and the apparent lack of an official response from the FDP. As Der Spiegel reported on Thursday, more and more inquiries are being received from concerned citizens in Israel and the United States who are worrying about the developments in Germany.

In the meantime, Jamal Karsli, German-Syrian member of the FDP and Moellemann’s protégé, was pressured to resign, after he had issued statements which were considered by some as anti-Semitic. He denied that he is anti-Semitic or anti-Jewish, but insisted that he will not cease to criticize the politics of Ariel Sharon.

Juergen Moellemann fired back as well in a news interview. He stated that he did not mean to apologize to Michel Friedman, as he does not deserve an apology. Moellemann continued to describe Friedman as “an arrogant and aggressive” person. He had said earlier that Friedman was responsible for anti-Semitism in Germany, due to his “hateful” conduct.

As before, Moellemann received unwelcome support from Austria’s Joerg Haider. In an interview on Sunday with Bild, Haider stated that Moellemann represents a politic which we in Austria are already pursuing since 1986. He encouraged Moellemann not to give up. He also stated, according to FOCUS, that Germany’s foreign minister, Joschka Fischer, has shown “open sympathies for terrorism.”

GERMANY — PEACE EVALUATION 2002
As Der Spiegel reported, several German scientists published on Thursday their yearly evaluation on world peace. In it, they heavily criticized the military politics of the United States. Any positive success of the military offensive in Afghanistan was also questioned. As the war continues, figures of civilian deaths are unknown, the terror network has been destroyed, and its leadership has not been captured. The scientists encourage Europe to determine its future role independently and to build up its civil and military possibilities, but not in dependency to the United States. They also warn not to continue showing unquestioned support and solidarity for the United Sates, as this would not be in accordance with European interests.

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES

REACTIONS TO MR BUSH’S VISIT TO GERMANY
While most Germans welcomed and appreciated President Bush’s visit and address in the German Parliament last week, some of the European neighbor states reacted rather negatively.

President Bush had stated in his address on May 23 that Europe needs a strong Germany — and that a strong Germany would be good for the entire world. The German Bild-Zeitung ran a commentary the next day, stating, “Bush has convinced us.” The newspaper continued, “America’s President George W. Bush has given a convincing speech in the German Parliament. We did not listen to a war-monger, …but to a convincing … leader.” The German magazine FOCUS reported that the leaders of both major German parties expressed their “tremendous impression” of Mr. Bush’s speech. German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder described it as an “extraordinary event.”

Britain’s Financial Times’ evaluation was less flattering. They criticized that Mr. Bush’s speech revealed a lack of a proper understanding of European concerns regarding the fragile state of the transatlantic relationship. Europe has continued concerns that Bush will in the end pursue his own course of action, “regardless of what his allies might say.”

The Zuercher Tages-Anzeiger of Switzerland criticized Bush as being generally without power of conviction, and “noncommittal.” The Standard of Vienna, Austria, concurred, stating that Bush’s speech did not include anything new.

(Additional Sources: Focus, May 23; Bild, May 24; Der Spiegel, May 23)

ANTI-SEMITISM IN GERMANY?
Juergen Moellemann, second-in-command of Germany’s Free Democrats (FDP), might have been surprised himself about the reactions to his televised interview in which he made some critical statements regarding Ariel Sharon of Israel and Michel Friedman, Vice-President of the Jewish Community in Germany. Moellemann had stated that Friedman’s conduct is responsible for a resurgence of anti-Semitism in Germany, and that Ariel Sharon’s policy is leading to war. Friedman responded by calling Moellemann an anti-Semite.

Virtually all politicians in Germany, regardless of affiliation, condemned Moellemann for his statements. Moellemann apologized for his statements against Friedman, but insisted that he is not an anti-Semite only because he is critical of Sharon’s policy.

While Schroeder’s party, the SPD, announced that they will almost certainly not build a coalition with the FDP after the September Parliamentary elections, Stoiber’s CDU/CSU did not rule it out. Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer of the Greens criticized Moellemann indirectly in Haifa, stating that it is “shameful when German Jews have the feeling again that they are left alone, and whether it was a mistake to stay in Germany.” He forcefully stated that “Israel can rely, in the future, on Germany as a friend and partner, regardless of the political constellations.”

In a poll in Germany, 29 percent felt that the amount of votes for the FDP in September would decrease, due to Moellemann’s statements. On the other hand, 19 per cent felt that the FDP would now gain votes.

Moellemann received unwelcome support for his stance by Austria’s Joerg Haider. Haider defended Moellemann and stated that the political leadership of the FDP are without courage and that they are political cowards. Although Moellemann had stated that Haider might as well go to the devil, Haider responded that this does not bother him — if this is the way for Moellemann to survive, so be it. Haider stated, in regard to Moellemann’s criticism on Sharon and Friedman, that he would not have said that “in that way,” but continued that one cannot dictate what one has to believe. Haider announced that he will found a European-wide party and that he will run as one of the candidates at the European elections in 2004. Haider stated that Moellemann would be a good asset and addition to that new party.

(Sources: Der Spiegel, May 29 and May 30; Bild, May 29; Der Stern, May 29; Max, May 29)

POPE JOHN PAUL II IN BULGARIA
As Der Spiegel reported on May 24, during his recent trip to Bulgaria, Pope John Paul II admonished the European states to emphasize more their Christian roots while uniting politically. He stated that, in its search for an identity, the European continent has no choice but to return to its Christian roots. He also encouraged the orthodox and the Roman-catholic Christians to move closer together.

KASHMIR — IS NUCLEAR WAR COMING?
Brinkmanship now threatens to spill over into the FIRST NUCLEAR EXCHANGE BETWEEN NATIONS. India and Pakistan, long bitter enemies over the control of Kashmir and further divided because of religious differences, now continue to prepare for a nuclear war.

Over one million men in each country are on full alert. That coupled with missile tests by Pakistan this week have edged the region into a sense of inevitable conflict. The United States is making preparations to remove its troops from Pakistan. Additional preparations are now moving forward for evacuating Americans from these nations. President Bush announced on Thursday that U.S. Minister of Defense, Donald Rumsfeld, and U.S. Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Richard Armitage, will travel to the conflict region next week to try to diffuse the danger. Some, however, predict that nuclear war could erupt within the next few weeks.

Der Spiegel reported on May 29 that scientists are convinced that we are closer to an outbreak of a nuclear war than ever before, excluding the Cuba crisis. They fear that Pakistan will begin the war, when it reaches the point that it cannot compete any longer with India’s conventional might. According to the British newspaper, The Times, the danger is real.

MEMORIAL CEREMONIES IN THE US
This week marks the somber observance of the final clean-up at “ground zero”–site of the former twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. National news in the United States revisited the horror and tragic aftermath of this attack on America during this period.

Lurking behind these commemorative events is the startling forecast of future terrorists attacks! Leadership in government has solemnly predicted that it is not a question of “if” but rather “when”. The specter of nuclear bombs being transported into the U.S. via cargo containers poses an almost insurmountable monitoring issue. Threatened attacks against apartment complexes and public transportation serve to further unnerve the whole nation.

Numerous Biblical warnings indicate that future destruction is coming. Isaiah speaks of a time when “Your country is desolate, Your cities are burned with fire…” (Isaiah 1:7) Also, in Deuteronomy 28:52, God warns His people, ” ‘They shall besiege you at all your gates until your high and fortified walls, in which you trust, come down throughout ALL YOUR LAND; and they shall besiege you at all your gates throughout ALL YOUR LAND which the Lord God had given you.’ ”
 

World News Headlines

PRESIDENT BUSH IN GERMANY
The Los Angeles Times reported on May 22, that President Bush was greeted on Wednesday in Berlin, Germany, by tens of thousands of anti-war protestors. He warned that Europe may be terrorists’ next target, and added that “we must continue to fight against global terror.” The LA Times continued that “Bush is trying to build a case at home and abroad for widening the war beyond Afghanistan to other terrorist hot spots, primarily Iraq.”

President Bush only stayed 20 hours in Germany, before flying to Moscow on Thursday, to sign an agreement reducing Russia’s and the USA’s nuclear arsenals to 1,700 to 2,200 warheads from the current 6,000. Following this trip, Bush is scheduled to fly to France and Italy where he plans to visit Pope John Paul II.

As the LA Times points out, Europe and the Bush Administration differ strongly on foreign policy issues. “Already wary of Bush’s anti-missile defense plans, his scrapping of the Kyoto environmental treaty and his reputation as a go-it-alone foreign policy novice, European leaders have a list of post-September 11 complaints. Those include the treatment of Taliban and al-Qaida prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, the perceived rejection of NATO’s offer of military support, Bush’s rejection of the International Criminal Court and new American tariffs on steel. ‘Military action against Iraq is not justified as it isn’t certain that Saddam supports or shelters al-Qaida terrorists,’ said Peter Struck, the leader of [German Chancellor] Schroeder’s Social Democrats… U.S. officials privately complain that Europe is soft and unreliable now that early war successes have yielded to tougher tasks.”

As Focus, a German weekly magazine reports, President Bush declared in an interview to the German press that the war has not yet ended. In a German TV interview, he explained that it is his goal to see Saddam Hussein gone, but that there are no concrete plans against the Iraq.
As Der Spiegel reported, in his 30 minutes speech before the German Parliament on Thursday, Mr. Bush welcomed a United Europe, as this would increase the security in the world. The stronger Europe gets, the closer Europe and the United States grow together, Mr. Bush said. He also stated that he will try to incorporate Russia into the European family and bring it in this way closer to the United States.

Mr. Bush was interrupted in his speech through several German members of Parliament who voiced disagreement with his politics on terrorism. Four members of Parliament left the building in protest.

Before his speech, Mr. Bush implied that Germany is a necessary partner in any war against Iraq. Mr. Schroeder refused to state whether Germany would actively participate in a war against Iraq.

MIDDLE EAST
Another suicide bomber killed himself and at least one other person on Wednesday night in a Tel Aviv Suburb. Since Israeli-Palestinian violence erupted in September 2000, there have been nearly 60 suicide bombing incidents. Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat is under pressure to put an end to terrorist attacks against Israelis. At the same time, it is recognized by some, including Secretary of State Powell, that it is impossible for Arafat to control countries like Iran, Iraq, Syria or Libya, which are charged by the US. State Department to support terrorism and militant terrorist groups, such as Hezbollah, al-Qaeda and Jihad. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Bob Graham agreed Monday with Vice-President Cheney, stating that further terrorist attacks in the United States are a certainty. Graham had pointed out previously that the most dangerous and powerful terrorist group is the Lebanese guerilla group Hezbollah, the “party of God,” as the name is to be translated from the Arabic. (Sources: AP, May 20, 21, 22).

WORSENING DROUGHT IN THE UNITED STATES
In the May 14, 2002, National Drought Summary, the following excerpt demonstrates the frightening reality of drought in much of Western America:

“There is a great deal of concern about elevated fire danger, soil moisture shortages, low streamflows, and declining reservoir stores in much of the Rockies, Intermountain West, Southwest and Great Basin. Problems related to these drought impacts are likely to increase as spring and summer progress.”

The impact is already widespread with crops not being planted, cattle herds being reduced, cities going to water rationing and many affiliated businesses starting to revamp for disastrous sales projections.

Without substantial rainfall in the future, the boom town population growth in the Sunbelt regions of the Southwest is facing dire water shortages. Regular mention is now made that this is the WORST drought in recent history–even surpassing the infamous dust bowl years of the 1930’s.

EUROPE / CATHOLIC CHURCH

EUROPE
The German weekly magazine, “Der Stern,” ran a series of articles this week to report on Europe’s recent switch to the right. The magazine cited Belgian foreign minister Louis Michel’s recent statements, as follows, “‘I was correct to take serious the extreme right, in light of events in Austria, Italy and now France, the homeland of human rights.'” “Der Stern” continued, “With Denmark, a country will preside over Europe in the second half of 2002 which has strongly advocated more serious political measures against foreigners.”

“Der Stern” also pointed out that the campaign against Austria some time ago was initiated by France, a country in which now the right-winged Le Penn has gained every fifth vote in recent elections.

On May 15, another victory for the right was achieved in the Netherlands. After the murder of the right extremist and homosexual politician Pim Fortuyn on May 6, Fortuyn’s party has gained second place and will participate in the next government of Netherlands.

The most famous right-winged European politician is without any doubt Joerg Haider of Austria. “Der Stern” reminded its readership of Haider’s unusual successes over the years, as well as his strong words that always seem to strike a nerve. Haider, a lawyer and millionaire, called Germany’s foreign minister Joschka Fischer of the Greens “a left-winged terrorist,” Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder of the Social-Democrats “a fool,” and Jacques Chirac of France a “little tiny Napoleon.” He recently almost destroyed his own party over a disagreement regarding foreign policy, mocked the highest court in Austria and asked the citizens to ignore its ruling, and vehemently criticized Austria’s President. In the midst of preparations by the United States to attack Saddam Hussein of Iraq, Haider chose to officially visit him for the second time within a year. He also announced that he has not “resigned” from Austrian politics.

“Der Stern” stated that Germany’s present government, run by Social-Democrats and the Greens, may have cause for alarm and concern for the national parliamentary elections in September, following their devastating defeat in a recent German state election in Saxony-Anhalt.

The magazine asked the question why we are suddenly seeing such a dramatic switch to the right, after many left and left-liberal governments had ruled Europe for years and decades. One of the reasons, according to “Der Stern,” is the weak economic situation in Europe. Another reason is the terrorist attack on September 11 in the United States, which has brought about a universal feeling of insecurity. Finally, other reasons are the high numbers of criminals in Europe and the uncontrolled immigration of foreigners into Europe.

CATHOLIC CHURCH
The German weekly, “Der Spiegel,” asked, “Will the Pope step down prematurely?” According to the article, German Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who is very close to the Pope and who meets with him at least once each week for confidential discussions just between the two of them, is very concerned about the health of the Pope (82) and does not rule out any longer his premature resignation. The Pope, however, has declared that he does not want to resign.

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES

This week has seen an unusual outbreak of terrorist attacks around the world. Are we beginning to witness the results of Satan’s great wrath unfolding on this earth, as predicted in Revelation 12:13?

Middle East
On Tuesday, May 7, a suicide bomber killed 16 people, including himself, in a pool hall near Tel Aviv.

Secretary of State Colin L. Powell acknowledged that the latest bombing… would again “put at risk” the possibility of peace progress in the Middle East. The Los Angeles Times reported on May 9, 2002, “President Bush pressured Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon on Wednesday to moderate his response… and praised Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat’s condemnation of terrorism as ‘incredibly positive.'”

Arafat had said on Palestinian television, in Arabic, “I gave my orders and directions to all Palestinian security forces to confront and prevent all terror attacks against Israeli civilians from any Palestinian side or parties and at the same time to confront any aggression or attack on Palestinian civilians, whether by Israeli soldiers or settlers, which we all condemn.” Arafat also said that his police were too weak to carry out his orders in the wake of Israeli’s large-scale military operation aimed at crushing Palestinian militias in the West Bank.

The German magazine, “Der Stern,” ran this editorial by Editor-in-Chief, Thomas Osterkom: “Israel makes it difficult even for his friends to show understanding and solidarity. The U.N. had agreed unanimously to investigate the possible massacre in Jenin. But Sharon refused to let the Commission visit the camp. Likewise, the country does not care about Resolution 242 of the U.N. in 1967, which asked Israel to withdraw from all occupied territories… Any consequences? None. What right do the United States have, then, to attack the Iraq — allegedly, because Saddam Hussein does not allow the U.N. weapon inspectors to travel into the country? In spite of the obvious violations of Israel, it is difficult to evaluate who is right or wrong in this present conflict.”

Europe
On Monday, May 6, right-winged political candidate Pim Fortuyn was murdered in the Netherlands.

Der Spiegel reported on May 7 that Europe is in shock. Fortuyn’s party, known for its anti-foreigners position, was expected of receiving 20 percent of the upcoming Parliamentary elections on May 15. Fortuyn was killed with five bullets, following a radio interview. This is the first assassination of a politician in the Netherlands since the country’s recent history. A white citizen of Netherlands was arrested as the possible killer.

Pakistan
The Los Angeles Times reported on May 9 that a suicide car bombing in Pakistan killed 11 French workers and two citizens of Pakistan. President Pervez Musharraf said that this was an act of international terrorism. The government blamed either members of Osama bin Laden’s Al Qaeda terrorist organization or agents from India for the attack.

 

Russia
As the German newspaper, “Die Welt,” reported on May 9, 2002, 32 people were killed and 150 injured by a bomb in the city of Kaspijsk, Dagestan, South Russia. The attack occurred at the beginning of a parade, celebrating the 57th year of Russian victory over Nazi Germany. President Putin stated that the deed was a terror attack by a “dross,” for whom nothing is holy. “We have the right,” he continued, “to deal with them the same as with the Nazis.”

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES

Middle East – No Peace in Sight?
Commenting on Israel’s withdrawal from Yasser Arafat’s compound in Ramallah, the LA Times ran an article on May 2, 2002, titled, “Arafat’s Woes Just Beginning.” The article stated, “Inside his ruined compound, Arafat looked heroic to his people merely by enduring Israel’s siege. Once outside, he must address growing — and often conflicting — demands from Palestinians and the international community to change his ways… Palestinians are looking for Arafat to prove to them that their sacrifices were not in vain. Some Palestinians are clamoring for reforms. Others are clamoring for revenge.”

The article continued, “In meetings with U.S. and European representatives, Palestinians have estimated that they will need $350 million to repair roads, homes, business and ministries… [Jean] Breteche [the European Commission’s representative to the Palestinian authority] said that the European Commission is seeking assurances from Israel that it will not again destroy infrastructure that international donors pay to repair, and that it will allow Palestinian institutions to function.”

The article also reported, “A renewed Palestinian suicide bombing campaign in Israeli towns would trigger another military operation in the West Bank and possibly the Gaza Strip, the Israeli army and government have warned. Many Israeli analysts say a resurgence of Palestinian attacks — REGARDLESS OF WHO CLAIMS RESPONSIBILITY — also will result in Arafat’s immediate expulsion.”

With these political uncertainties and so many monetary interests involved, it should be easy to see that there will be no peace in the Middle East, unless an outside power begins to play a mighty role in that area.

The United States and Europe…
Is a Trade War Coming?
In another article of the Los Angeles Times, dated May 2, it was pointed out that the Bush administration and European leaders were meeting in Washington IN HOPE OF LESSENING TENSIONS ON A NUMBER OF RISING TRADE ISSUES. Included were some “nasty fights on trade, such as steel and a U.S. export tax break.” After the meeting, however, “officials reported NO BREAKTHROUGHS.”

As it stands right now, the European Union has threatened to bring a case against the U.S. before the World Trade Organization (WTO). The L.A.Times commented, “Many trade experts fear that the WORLD’S TWO BIGGEST TRADING POWERS are on the brink of a tit-for-tat trade war that could SERIOUSLY HARM THE WORLD TRADING SYSTEM AND THE GLOBAL ECONOMY’S FRAGILE REBOUND.”

In addition, the United States is facing high sanctions at the hands of the Europeans over a U.S. tax break for American companies who export. This tax break has been ruled ILLEGAL by the WTO which in June will announce the size of the penalties the EU can impose if the US and the EU do not reach a settlement over the issue, so the LA Times.

Europe – Outspoken Words from Austria’s Joerg Haider
While Europe is still in shock over the unexpected recent success of French right extremist Jean-Marie Le Pen, Austria’s Joerg Haider, made significant moves. He said that he would be willing to become Austria’s next chancellor and also proceeded to give a highly outspoken interview to Austria’s political magazine, Profil, (18th edition). HAIDER HAS ALWAYS UNDERSTOOD HOW TO MASTERFULLY EXPRESS THE OPINIONS OF MANY EUROPEANS. Here are some excerpts from his interview:

When asked whether he is willing to run for an international European party, he answered, “I could imagine such a movement, but it is also highly necessary. A counter-program against the bureaucratic nonsense in Brussels could accomplish much.”

When asked who his partners in such a movement might be, he responded, “I believe that we would have great potential in Denmark, Holland, the southern part of Germany, and Italy.”

In regard to Le Pen, he stated, “Le Pen and Haider are very different — I’d like to emphasize that. Le Pen follows goals that are unacceptable. He has in his program racist positions, which have no place in the modern world. But I do not want to make rush condemnations, as I do not know him yet.” He added regarding Jacques Chirac, “Unfortunately, he is now being given a historical chance to be elected [on May 5] with the help of the left, although he really should be brought to trial.”

Regarding Ariel Sharon and Israel in general, Haider stated, “Of course, [Sharon] is a war criminal… He is personally responsible… Israel has the support of the U.S. Apparently, they do not need to abide by any rules. The new Bush doctrine that states that only the U.S. can determine who is good and who is bad, is dangerous and must be rejected.” He added that Sharon must be brought before a war-crime tribunal in Den Haag.

Regarding Bin Laden, he said, “Osama Bin Laden is not only a product of the Arabic world, but he has helped the Americans quite well against the Russians in Afghanistan.” When asked why he has such a love for the Islamic World, he replied, “This has developed quite coincidentally through my contacts with Qadafi’s family and also through the Islamic world’s positive reactions towards [Austria] regarding the world’s sanctions against Austria.”

When asked whether he is going to convert from Catholicism to Islam, as Qadafi’s son Saif had indicated, Haider answered, “He would perhaps like to see that.”

Drought Begins
Many newspapers and local news programs now provide a running dialogue concerning the current unusual and sustained dry spell in the Rocky Mountain West. Encompassing areas from Mexico to the Canadian border, this critical region acts as a kind of water reservoir for all of the Southwestern United States as well as many of the plains states through its collection of winter snow fall.

This year has witnessed dramatic shortages with the portent of water rationing looming as a very real possibility. Warnings in Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28 indicate that God will withhold His blessings to our nations if we don’t turn to Him.

Leviticus 26:17-20 warns of imminent consequences to national disobedience: “I will break the pride of your power; I will make your heavens like iron and your earth like bronze. And your strength shall be spent in vain; for your land shall not yield its produce, nor shall the trees of the land yield their fruit.”

We find described in Amos 4:8 a time coming when “…two or three cities wandered to another city to drink water.” The Bible reveals that our nations face a period of national punishment from God. As that time draws close and is NOW even BEGINNING, we must make certain that we draw close to God and fulfill our part as watchmen willing to proclaim this fearsome warning before the world!
 

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES

Catholicism
This week has seen momentous focus on the Church in Rome.

Press coverage has revealed a church originally content to “wash its dirty laundry at home” now grappling for a consistent and acceptable public position. Even with the spotlight on priests guilty of activities reviled by both American Catholics and American non-Catholics, the official church position had been cautious and restrained. To a degree, that ended with the American Cardinals summoned to Italy for a conference before the Pope.

Even though there were politically correct statements from the Pope concerning the criminal nature of acts by some of its priests, there remains an intransigent undercurrent supporting church authority.

These events have created more attention worldwide for the Catholic church than even Papal visits. Expect to see this international religion actually rebounding as a moral leader in the near future. Prophecy clearly shows dominance in the end-times by a great religion claiming “Christianity” as its origin and authority.

Russia
There is an alarming sense of inattention now extant in the United States concerning Russia. Because of our press reports depicting a Soviet system defeated by Western ethics and values–much less its dollars–Americans, in particular, view the remaining nucleus of Russia as harmless.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Especially when we consider the near future. Right now, Russia is very active in furthering its own interest. It draws on a historic and deep perseverance of national character. News reports gleaned from almost incidental entries reveal a steady flow of international influence. Nowhere is this truer than among many of those nations which emerged out of the Soviet Union and its former allies.

Mr. Putin of Russia has shown that he is willing to go all the way when it serves Russia’s interests. His recent invasion of Georgia has been described, by some, as outright occupation in violation of human rights, but it has received little coverage in the European or American press. Germany’s decision to forgive Russia in excess of seven billion (!) Euro dollars has enraged some Germans, but this must be seen within the bigger picture of prophecy, indicating an original, howbeit fragile, alliance between Germany and Russia.

Continental Europe
The powerful current of prophetic events has once again revealed a glimpse of the impending hazards of this world’s looming final troubles.

Political events in Continental Europe received fresh focus as a right wing contender for the leadership of France emerged this week. Extreme-right leader and candidate Jean-Marie Le Pen (73) of the National Front gained second place and bolted into contention with incumbent Jacques Chirac. The run-off election for the French presidency will be held on May 5th. Regardless of the outcome (that Chirac will be reelected as French President is considered as almost certain), the Jewish community in France is already afraid of ensuing anti-Semitic attacks. Le Pen, who considers the Holocaust as a footnote in history, is being compared to Austria’s “leader-in-waiting,” Joerg Haider.

Haider is a declared enemy of Jacques Chirac. He immediately congratulated his friend Le Pen on his victory. “This is a victory of democracy,” Haider said. He also announced that it is his goal to become Austria’s chancellor. Next elections are scheduled for the fall of 2003, and Haider said that he would run for chancellorship if the Austrian people want him to.

One year earlier, in September of 2002, Germany will face its election for a new Chancellor. Last Sunday, Edmund Stoiber’s chances might have increased dramatically, when Gerhard Schroeder’s party suffered a stunning defeat in elections in Saxony-Anhalt in East Germany, ending up far behind the Christian Democrats (CDU). (Edmund Stoiber’s party, the CSU, is the Bavarian sister party of the non-Bavarian CDU).

Distressful, persistent problems underlie current political shifts in Western Europe: Lax immigration policy which feeds a steady stream of cheap labor; regional and national interests versus European integration; and, most fundamentally, a concern about monetary stability and distrust of the stability of the Euro dollar all keep politics on the explosive front burner!

Yet, in spite of these problems, Europe as a force is taking shape. Europe is negotiating, forming alliances and moving within global perspectives in nothing short of astonishing ways. All of these events continue in breath-taking leaps that can only find their parallel in the sudden demise of the Iron Curtain and the staggering fall of the Berlin wall that separated a then divided Germany. In just little more than a decade, the face of Europe has forever changed.
 

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES

Judah in the End Times

The nation of Israel that now resides in the Middle East is more appropriately identified as the descendants of Judah, and there are specific prophecies in the book of Zechariah that indicate a fiery, pugnacious role for this tribe of Israel.

In line with end-time prophecies found in Zechariah 12:1-9 a recent opinion column in the Denver Post revealed some surprising statistics about this tiny nation:

“…The Israeli Defense Force, as it is called, is now the world’s fourth-strongest military machine.
“Besides an awesome array of American-supplied weapons, it has the largest and most sophisticated nuclear arsenal outside the five declared nuclear powers-the United States, Russia, China, France and Britain–estimated at up to 2,000 warheads.”

Israel’s Prime Minister Ariel Sharon has successfully withstood America’s dictation of its security policy. But this will not come without a price. More and more, this area of the world will be the focus of events culminating in the return of Jesus Christ. However, this time, Judah will recognize their Messiah (Zech 12:10-14). At that future time, Jews will find themselves on the brink of destruction–along with a rebellious world inspired and dominated by Satan and his evil followers.

As never before, prophecy is cascading into dramatic fulfillment. Let us continue to WATCH and prepare for these fearful times!

Catholic Church

Although some within the Catholic Church are hoping to gain some positive interest from all of the negative press, Rome has finally had to step up to the issue of pedophilia and the Pope has called for a meeting with key American Church leaders.

Coupled with declining Church interest, huge monetary expenditures for lost court cases and an alarming lack of new candidates for the priesthood, there is a grudging admission growing that Catholicism is facing an embarrassing crisis.

Considering Biblical prophecies picturing the dominant role of this end time religion, we can expect this current debacle to be displaced with a very positive international presence. The current Pope’s ill health has left him unable to aggressively confront issues. In light of the irrepressible geo-political events now flooding onto the world stage, the Catholic Church will soon be allowed to step forward in a much more dynamic, policy setting presence. The most obvious path in this direction will be fostered by a NEW POPE coming to power!

Terrorist Attack

German officials are now convinced that the explosion of a synagogue in Djerba, Tunisia, on April 11, was another terror attack, that was carried out by a group close to Isama Bin Laden. Eleven German tourists were killed during the attack.

Update on the Middle East

The Los Angeles Times ran an insightful article on April 18, 2002, regarding Mr. Powell’s unsuccessful mission in the Middle East. When reading this analysis, one should clearly see that there will be more bloodshed and violence in the Middle East. Although some are hopeful for a peaceful solution, there really seems to be “no peace” in sight. Given the failure of the United States’ mission, voices are already becoming louder for a European intervention. Although at this point, Europe is not willing to get directly involved, it might not have the luxury to stand at the sidelines for much longer.

“The Blame Game Goes On” (L.A. Times)

“JERUSALEM — There is no evidence on the ground here that Secretary of State Colin L. Powell’s shuttle diplomacy between Israelis and Palestinians did anything to defuse the conflict he left seething behind him Wednesday. And it is far from clear that either Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat or Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is entirely unhappy with Powell’s failure. Powell secured neither an Israeli military withdrawal from Palestinian areas nor a clear statement from Arafat that he was renouncing violence and recommitting himself to negotiations. In Bethlehem, Israeli tanks remain pointed at the Church of the Nativity, where more than 100 Palestinian gunmen are holed up. In Ramallah, Israeli soldiers are still bunking down on the grounds of Arafat’s battered and increasingly fetid headquarters…

“…during his final, stormy meeting with Powell on Wednesday, the Palestinian leader refused to meet Israel’s demand that he hand over the alleged killers of an Israeli Cabinet minister or accept an Israeli proposal that the gunmen in the Church of the Nativity surrender and face trial in Israel or go into exile…

“In his defiance, Arafat gains points with both his own increasingly embittered people and across an Arab world appalled by the scenes of destruction in the West Bank that they see on their television screens each night.

“Arafat’s insistence that he will offer no concessions until Israel ends its incursion has put moderate Arab regimes on the hot seat, hard-pressed to explain to their angry citizens why neither the Arabs nor the United States is forcing Israel to pull back…

“Israeli commentators said Powell’s failure to achieve a cease-fire offered certain political advantages for Sharon, who has declared Arafat an enemy of Israel and appears bent on dismantling not only armed militias in Palestinian areas but also the infrastructure of the Palestinian Authority that Arafat leads.

“Powell said Sharon promised that Israel will pull out of all areas except Bethlehem and Ramallah in the coming week. Sharon, commentators here say, will spend that week inflicting greater damage on Arafat’s administration. And in comments to reporters after Powell’s departure, Sharon said Israeli tanks and troops will continue to ring Palestinian cities, poised to reenter whenever Israel feels it needs to…

“Arab moderates warned that the Bush administration’s prestige was damaged by its failure to compel Israel’s withdrawal from recaptured Palestinian areas…

“POWELL NEEDS TO ENLIST THE HELP OF MODERATE ARAB STATES AND THE EUROPEAN UNION to pressure Arafat by threatening to cut off funding and end diplomatic support, [Israeli strategic analyst Joseph] Alpher said. The Secretary also needs to lean on Israel by holding up funding for some projects and publicly criticizing Sharon’s politics.”

UN Considers Military Intervention in Middle East
(excerpted from News Corp article “Sharon a man of peace”)

 

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan asked the UN security council to consider sending an armed multi-national force to help end violence. Annan’s Middle East envoy said the devastation was “horrific beyond belief” as he toured ruins in the West Bank, still mostly in the grip of Israeli troops despite Bush’s calls for an immediate withdrawal.

UN chief Annan said: “I believe the deployment of a multi-national force deserves serious consideration. The situation is so dangerous that the international community has an obligation to provide this assistance.”

But Israel quickly rejected his call. “We do not want it and I think also the United States do not want it,” government spokesman Avi Pazner said.

Erakat said: “This idea is the only right way to start fighting Israeli aggression.”

Annan’s special envoy to the Middle East, Terje Roed-Larsen, toured the remains of the shattered Jenin refugee camp, site of the fiercest battles in Israel’s West Bank campaign, and denounced the horror he saw. “It is totally unacceptable and horrific beyond belief,” he said. “The stench of death is horrible. We have expert people here who have been in war zones and earthquakes and they say they have never seen anything like it.”
 

WORLD NEWS HEADLINES

Update on the Middle East

The headlines of this week’s European magazines and newspapers are quite telling. Germany’s Der Spiegel wrote on April 11, under “Worldwide Appeal for Holy War Against Israel”, that Islamic groups have asked all Muslims to join a Holy War against Israel and the West. Signers of this “appeal” are terrorist groups like “Hezbollah,” the “Brotherhood of Muslims,” “Hamas,” and other fundamentalist groups. One additional signer is allegedly Turkey’s former Prime Minister, Necmettin Erkaban. However, Mr. Erkaban’s lawyer denied that his client signed the appeal.

In another article, titled, “And the Tanks Keep Rolling,” Der Spiegel pointed out: “Israel is not impressed by the strong appeal of the international community. While withdrawing from 24 Palestinian villages, they attacked two new ones.”

Der Spiegel also interviewed Paul Spiegel, president of the Jewish community in Germany. He stated that the one-sided condemnation of Israel by Germany and the Europeans is shortsighted and not helpful. The critics, according to Mr. Spiegel, do not understand what terror really is. He also said: “The people who are condemning Israel in this country are at the same time sitting in restaurants that are not blown into pieces.”

Still stronger words were uttered to Der Spiegel by Michel Friedman, Vice-President of the Jewish community in Germany. He stated, “The Europeans are hypocrites.” He continued, “Europe has always been reluctant to strongly criticize the Arab world, and especially the oil-exporting countries, even if they are dictatorships…. Terror comes from Syria, Iran and Iraq… At best, Arafat is unable to stop the terror. At worst, he is a participant… Saudi Arabia and others could have solved a long time ago the problem of Palestinians living in slums… 73% of the Jews in Israel believe that there must be a Palestinian state… We cannot rule out that this thing will get bloodier. We need a change in generations to bring about peace.”

The German magazine, “Stern,” stated that Secretary of State Powell plans to meet with Mr. Sharon, as well as with Mr. Arafat. Mr. Sharon described a meeting between Mr. Powell and Mr. Arafat as a “tragic mistake.” The magazine continued that the United States, The European Union, the United Nations and Russia have demanded of Israel to immediately withdraw from occupied Palestinian regions, including Ramallah.

The LA Times reported on Thursday, April 11, that “Israel on Wednesday again refused to withdraw from the West Bank cities it invaded thirteen days ago and said a deadly suicide bombing on a bus earlier today showed why the offensive must continue. ‘I hope our great friend the United States understands that this is a war of survival for us,’ Sharon told reporters.”

On Wednesday, CNN carried live an address of former Prime Minister of Israel, B. Netanyahu, to several US Senators. He reminded Europe that 60 years ago, they did not lift a finger when millions of Jews were exterminated on European soil. He continued that now, when Israel is trying to fight against terrorists, Europe is again turning their back on Israel. He described this as shameful, stating at the same time that he did not expect more from most of the European governments, but that he is anticipating a lot more support from the United States.

Some observers are reminded, however, of the United States’ rejections of boat loads of Jewish refugees at the time of World War II, and are wondering what the United States, as well as Europe and Russia, will ultimately do to stop this present war in the Middle East.

What’s Next?

Although we all are focused on the daily barrage of mind blurring news stories out of the Middle East, huge events are waiting in the wings.

American policy seems squarely focused on the removal of Saddam Hussein. The public display by the U.S. President to placate Arab countries by calling on Israel’s Ariel Sharon to immediately withdraw from Palestinian enclaves is considered by many to be a less than veiled policy to hold onto Arab support for a future attack.

Iraq, more than Israel and Palestine, is poised to draw in worldwide involvement of nations who have both political and, more importantly, financial considerations of epic importance.

Historically, the nations of Israel and Judah never truly prospered in their alliances with other nations. What the modern nations of America, Britain and Israel are seeking still follows the same misguided approach. These modern coalitions do not address the core problem which is that of national sins and national punishment from God.

In the current episodes of international intrigue, we have just witnessed a kind of double standard in the war on terror. All of these events continue to set the stage for the time of the end prophesied throughout God’s Word. Let’s make sure we are watching with a committed sense of readiness as momentous prophecies now unfold before us!