12th July 2026

The USA launched a wave of strikes on Iran after Tehran struck a ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The ⁠United Kingdom Maritime ⁠Trade Operations ⁠agency (UKMTO) confirmed a container ship nine nautical ‌miles east of Oman sustained damage ​to the rear of ⁠the vessel ​which ​caused ​a fire ​onboard. Within hours of the US strikes, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps IRGC said they had hit a US base in Jordan, while the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain were all responding to missiles and drones from Iran. The IRGC said the Strait of Hormuz the was now closed “until further notice” and at least until “the end of US interference in this region”. It also warned that any US "aggression" as a result of the closure would be responded to with "severity" and new bases in the region would be targeted. 

Loving God, we despair at the inability of nations to bring this conflict to an end. Our hearts go out to all who are caught-up in the attacks and suffer as a consequence. We ask your loving care for all who are injured and all who mourn, and for your protection for seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz. Help us, loving God, to resolve the problems of the world so that all people can live in peace, in homes, with food, water and access to medical care and education. Forgive us that we cause fear and misery for so many, and deprive people of the necessities of life.  In  the name of Jesus we pray,  Amen.  

44 pupils and teachers who were abducted two months ago from schools in the southern state of Oyo, Nigeria are now safe. Nigeria's military were involved in a rescue operation in which several soldiers died. Some of those holding the children and teachers were arrested. The freed captives are currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital and will return home at a later date. "I was almost shedding tears yesterday when I saw them. It was mental torture," Abdulfatai Buhari, a senator from Oyo state, told news agency AFP, noting there were two and three-year-olds among those kidnapped. 

Loving God, we join our prayers

with others across the world

to give you glory and honour and praise.

We magnify your Holy name.

We thank you that you are a bountiful God.

We praise you for the richness of life.

We thank you for your Word.

We thank you for the Holy Spirit who

leads us into truth,

points the way to goodness,

equips us for service in your Kingdom,

and inspires us to live for your glory.

We praise you that you hold us

in your love and protection.

May heaven and earth be always full of your praises.

Glory be to you,

O God most high.

Amen.