I R A N
Since December 28, tens of thousands of Iranians have taken to the streets in huge numbers of towns and cities to demand better economic conditions and freedom from their oppressive religious government and the bad. Prices of basic goods had, in the past year, increased by roughly 40 percent. The protests began over Iran's stagnant economy and the rising cost of living but quickly have developed into a broader outcry against the oppressive government.
These demonstrations have become the most powerful challenge to the Iranian government's authority since mass demonstrations in 2009.

At least 20 people have since been killed in clashes with security forces, and more than a thousand of mostly young people have been arrested.
The head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards said that the anti-government protests were over now as the government very violently cracked down on them.

K U R D I S T A N
We thank the Lord that we can continue to work in Kurdistan and for the family that will soon go there.
The Kurdish Pastor who was for nearly two years imprisoned in Kurdistan and has moved with his family to a neighbouring country, finally after about 5 years got residency for this country.
The strong tensions between the government of Iraq and Kurdistan has not been resolved. The tension is still there and the possibility of fighting breaking out between the Iraq and Kurdistan. Also it seems clear now that the Iraqi government will continue to ban direct flights into Kurdistan (Erbil & Sulaymaniyah).

PLEASE PRAY for

I R A N
• For this difficult situation in Iran. Only God can cause the leadership of this nation and their severe oppression of its people to change.
• That many of them would hear the Good news and that all these difficulties cause even more Iranians to accept the Lord.
• Protection of our brothers and sisters in the country and courage to reach out with wisdom and boldness to the Iranian people.

K U R D I S T A N
• For a good settlement between the Iraqi and Kurdistan governments and that the airports would soon open up again.
• That all the preparations for the couple that plans to move to Kurdistan would be completed soon and that they would be able to move there in the next few weeks and build up our work and ministry in the country.
• For the Kurdish church to grow throughout all the Kurdish regions.
• The Kurdish Kanal Hayat TV Programs to be watched by millions of Kurds! For more presenters for these programs.

Thank you for your prayers for these countries and the challenges they are facing and for believing with us that in the midst of these difficulties God expand His kingdom.

Your ElRock Team