The first online statement from the new leader of al-Qaeda’s affiliate in Iraq claims the terrorist network is preparing operations to free prisoners and assassinate court officials. The audio identifies the speaker as Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who became head of the Islamic State of Iraq in 2010. It was posted on a website regularly used by al Qaeda to make statements. Al-Baghdadi invited Muslims to come to Iraq to join his movement and released the statement as Sunni insurgents, now thought to be dominated by the group, stepped up attacks against Shiites, government officials and other targets. ‘I bring you good news. We are starting a new phase in our struggle with a plan we named Breaking the Walls, and we remind you of your priority to free the Muslim prisoners,’ al-Baghdadi said. He urged tribal leaders to send their men to join al Qaeda as it returns to areas from which it withdrew. See: For INSIGHTS to aid intercession for Iraq click the 'Info' button

Pray: against the fear and panic caused by militants, and for the political parties to restore stability. (Ps.5:8)

Info: http://site.prayer-alert.net/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_download&gid=395&Itemid=93

Aleppo has seen fierce clashes between rebels and Syrian government forces, is Syria's largest city and is the country's industrial and financial centre. It has the largest population of Christians in the country, and along with a mix of other religious and ethnic communities, the city's demographics largely mirror those of the country as a whole. Alappo has been slow to enter the violence, and while activists say opposition has existed for some time inside the city, its relationship with the Free Syrian Army (FSA) is less clear. See: Open Doors reports, ‘In a church in Aleppo, children are singing and laughter fills the halls. Christians are providing a summer retreat from the trauma. Despite all the challenges they are trying to organize a daily Christian retreat for the six-week summer camp; having their meals together, playing and learning crafts, pray and simply having a good time together.’

Pray: for God’s power and authority to protect all facing fear of violence and uncertainty. (Ps.68:1)

More: http://www.opendoorsusa.org/pray/prayer-updates/2012/%297-July/syrian-children-enjoying-a-summer-respite

An Afghan believer writes, ‘A growing number are illegally addicted to heroin – resulting in soaring human and social costs, destroyed families and increased crime. Please pray for the destruction of poppy crops, and planting of food crops. Child exploitation - some children that work long hours at hard and dangerous jobs in illegal coal mines with no safety equipment. Laws against child labour are not enforced. Please pray for laws to be justly enforced, and that families would find other ways to pay their debts. Praise God that the number of believers is growing – but there is limited support for new believers.’ For a link to a terrorist training video revealing Taliban preparing to cause Afghanistan chaos click the more button.

Pray: for new believers in Afghanistan to find other Christians to help them in a culture where converts are persecuted by friends, family and village leaders. (Ps.68:5,6)

More: http://www.aljazeera.com/video/asia/2012/07/2012722171149565287.html

Churches ministering in Iran and Nigeria are experiencing increasing levels of persecution by authorities and extremists attempting to stamp out Christianity. Assembly of God in Tehran had its summer campsite closed and were warned of severe consequences should anyone try to enter. Also Friday Farsi Language services and Bible classes have been closed. AG Eurasia Regional Director said, ‘The increasing pressures put on churches in Iran recently is a cause for great concern. We are doing everything we can to help them, but they need God's intervention most of all.’ In Nigeria extremists are demanding the adoption and enforcement of Sharia law and the establishment of a new Nigeria under those laws. Villages, churches, government institutions, and schools (especially Christian schools) are being violently attacked. Central Assemblies of God has lost more than 25 churches this year, with many members fleeing for their lives.

Pray: for the suffering church around the world and particularly for Iran and Nigeria who are paying such a heavy price for their faith. (Ps.68:28)

More: http://www.assistnews.net/Stories/2012/s12070143.htm