
Laos (MNN) — A pastor in Laos has been released after spending a year in prison. He was convicted of “creating disorder” after holding church services without permission.

Myanmar (MNN) — Civil war threats loom large in Myanmar. This weekend’s military crackdown on civilian protestors led to the highest death toll since the February 1 coup.
The U.S. cut all trade agreements with Myanmar over the bloodshed. Meanwhile, protestors and armed ethnic groups called for unity against the military junta.

Japan (MNN) — As cherry blossoms bloom across Japan, the country has barred international spectators from the rescheduled 2021 Summer Olympics due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. 600,000 people bought tickets to watch the games in-person.

Japan (MNN) — Nearly ten years ago, a powerful 8.9 magnitude earthquake unleashed a massive tsunami near Fukushima, Japan. 20,000 people died and over 100,000 evacuated after three nuclear reactors suffered damage and melted down, releasing radioactive materials into the environment. Read more about the ongoing effects of the catastrophe here.

Nepal (MNN) — In the face of anti-conversion laws that have targeted Christians for many years, Nepalese believers hold tight to the Gospel.

Myanmar (MNN) — Governments around the world have condemned the Myanmar coup. The military took control of the country on Monday, disregarding the democratic process. Now, police have charged the elected leader of Myanmar, Aung San Suu Kyi, as a justification for holding her. The charge? Illegally possessing and importing walkie talkies.

Myanmar (MNN) — The military of Myanmar has staged a coup, detaining several senior politicians. Internet, phone, and television access were blocked around the capital of Naypyitaw.

Middle East North Africa (MNN) — The Middle East and North Africa region is a critical ground for the hope of Jesus. According to the Pew Research Center, Christians comprise less than four percent of the region’s population, whereas 93-percent of the population follows Islam.

Japan (MNN) — The world’s most populous city is now under a state of emergency thanks to soaring COVID-19 infections. Japan reported 6,100 new cases on Thursday, with roughly half coming from Tokyo. The emergency declaration began Friday and will end on February 7.“
Over the Christmas into New Year’s holidays, we couldn’t change the trend of steep [infection] increases, especially in the bigger cities. Hokkaido and Osaka requested ‘state of emergency’-type restrictions; however, Tokyo never went into that stage,” Takeshi Takazawa explains.
Philippines (MNN) — Super Typhoon Goni is on its way to Vietnam today after leaving the Philippines in pieces. Forecasters expect Goni to make landfall tomorrow in central Vietnam. Herman Moldez of A3 says the Lord intervened. “In the forecast, metro Manila [was] part of the direct hit of the typhoon. But somehow it changed for us,” he describes...
Cambodia (MNN) — Cambodia has faced widespread flooding throughout the month of October, and as the water recedes, the country must find ways to cope with the destruction. Tens of thousands of households have been affected by this disaster, leaving homes and property severely damaged. Joe Handley of A3 says those connected with the ministry have reported a great deal of destruction.“ I’m hearing firsthand reports [from] alumni of A3. I’ve seen pictures of them floating in the water, with rivers going down a normal street where the water [was] so high, it would be above the level of a normal motorcycle...
Thailand (MNN) — Conditions are ripe for another military takeover in Thailand. According to the Thai Enquirer, there have been 13 coups since the start of the 20th century. Today, any conflict between pro-democracy demonstrators and monarchy supporters could give the military an excuse to take control. Led by students, ongoing pro-democracy protests have been largely peaceful. Demonstrators want the current Prime Minister to resign, and they’re calling for constitutional reform. Protestors appealed to Chancellor Angela Merkel yesterday after marching to the German embassy in Bangkok. Supporters of the Thai kingdom criticize this youthful movement...
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