Good morning on this last Saturday of February. If you are like me you are carefully following the events which are unfolding in the Middle East and Northern Africa. Because of demonstrations in Egypt where protesters have overthrown the Mubarak government and replaced it with temporary military control, demonstrators have been emboldened throughout the region to attempt to do the same. An strong anti-authoritarian movement has swept throughout region. Here is an up-to-date review of what is happening geopolitically in many countries in the area.
Libya - Protesters have gained control of some parts of Libya and are clashing with forces loyal to strongman dictator Qaddafi in the capital city. Many protesters have been killed and Qaddafi has vowed to fight to the death.
Iraq - Protesters in at least 10 Iraqi cities burned buildings as security forces fired on the crowds as they demanded changes in government.
Iran - Protesters attempted to stage demonstrations against the Iranian government led by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad but have met with calls for leaders of the demonstrations to be executed. Protesters have called for continuing protests every Tuesday for the next three weeks in spite of the threats.
Bahrain - Tens of thousands of anti-government protesters have flooded into Bahrain's capital demanding sweeping political changes.
Yemen - More than 100,000 demonstrators poured into the streets in a peaceful demonstrations to protest against president Ali Abdullah Saleh in a wave of anti-authoritarian zeal.
Tunisia - Tunisians have high hopes that the interim government which has been formed will reform their institutions.
Sudan - A government spokesman has reported that president Omar Hassan al-Bashir who has been accused of genocide against his opposition will not continue in office beyond his current term.
How these situations play out could have major implications not only for the region but for the world. Who ultimately gains control of the various countries, their loyalties and alliances, and posture toward Israel and the West can have a great impact on our lives.
Tomorrow's sermon is entitled, God's Antidote To Fainting. I hope to see you there.
Mel Brown