World Review

World Review: Vatican Changes, Middle East Ceasefire, and Global Tensions

Doug Norvell covers several global topics. The Vatican has issued guidelines allowing gay men to train for the priesthood, emphasizing celibacy but warning against openly demonstrating homosexuality. A ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas brings hope for peace after 15 months of conflict, but the future of Gaza remains uncertain. U.S. government documents broaden the definition of “terrorist,” raising concerns over potential suppression of free speech. China intensifies military preparations for a possible invasion of Taiwan, while Ethiopia implements a mandatory digital ID system to improve banking and security.

By Doug Norvell

WORLD RELIGION

Vatican Allowing Gay Priests

The Vatican has issued new guidelines permitting gay men to train for the priesthood in Italy under the condition of celibacy. These norms, approved by the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy and announced by Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, head of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, emphasize that candidates’ entire personalities, including sexual orientation, should be considered during formation. However, they caution against openly demonstrating homosexuality.

The pope reiterated the 2005 directive from the Congregation for Clergy, which was reaffirmed in 2016, stating that individuals who engage in homosexual behavior, have strongly ingrained homosexual tendencies or endorse gay culture are not eligible for admission to seminaries. However, the primary requirement for admission remains a commitment to celibacy. Additionally, the guidelines emphasized that candidates must have no history of involvement in abuse.

Psychology and female perspectives are now allowed in priestly formation. A recent apology from the Vatican followed a controversial remark by Pope Francis about homosexuality in seminaries, highlighting the Church’s efforts to navigate sensitive issues while maintaining its doctrinal positions.

MIDDLE EAST PEACE

Israel and Hamas Ceasefire/Hostage Deal

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire after 15 months of intense conflict in Gaza. The deal, mediated in Qatar, includes the phased release of hostages held by Hamas, the release of Palestinian prisoners by Israel and humanitarian aid for Gaza’s devastated population. The agreement proposes a six-week halt to hostilities and initial steps toward negotiating a complete end to the war.

Key elements include the release of 33 hostages and provisions for displaced Palestinians to return home although details remain unclear. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cabinet must still approve the agreement expected to take effect soon. The negotiations, facilitated by mediators and involving representatives from both Trump’s team and outgoing President Joe Biden’s administration, reportedly reached a breakthrough with a final draft of the deal presented to both parties.

The war began with Hamas’ October 2023 attack, killing 1,200 Israelis and taking 250 hostages, followed by Israel’s military offensive that resulted in over 46,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread displacement. The ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for ending the deadliest conflict between the two sides, though long-term questions about Gaza’s future governance and reconstruction remain unresolved.

WORLD GOVERNMENT

Are You on a Federal Registry?

U.S. government documents have broadened the definition of “terrorist” to include individuals and groups based on their political, religious or ideological beliefs. Originally applied to acts of violence aimed at achieving political goals, the term has allegedly been extended to peaceful citizens who hold certain conservative, libertarian or
religious views.

A list of 72 categories is cited including those opposing abortion, globalism or the New World Order, supporting gun rights, engaging in conspiracy theories or the belief in end time prophecies. Labeling these groups as “potential terrorists” could lead to persecution, loss of rights and suppression of free speech, likening the current climate to an Orwellian society contrary to America’s founding principles. In the future, could you be arrested for a Christian post on social media or sharing Scripture with someone who supports abortion or the LGBTQ+ lifestyle? Time will tell.

SIXTH TRUMPET WAR

China — Taiwan Tensions Rise

China is reportedly building specialized barges to facilitate a large-scale invasion of Taiwan, capable of connecting ships directly to the island’s beaches. Five such barges are under construction at the Guangzhou Shipyard, adding to the extensive modernization of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy.

Over the past decade, the PLA Navy has significantly expanded its amphibious capabilities, producing eight Type 071 landing docks, at least three Type 075 assault ships and one Type 076 assault ship designed for troop transport, helicopter operations and drone deployment. Despite this, experts suggest the amphibious fleet, which is the world’s second largest at 400,000 tons, is insufficient for a full-scale invasion of Taiwan.

China would need to transport around two million troops across the Taiwan Strait to successfully invade, while the current amphibious flotilla can move approximately 6,000 troops in a single operation. These developments indicate an intensification of China’s military preparations for a potential conflict with Taiwan.

Meanwhile, Taiwan showcased its maritime defenses against a potential Chinese invasion, focusing on its Kuang Hua VI missile boats and Tuo Chiang-class corvettes near the Port of Kaohsiung. These vessels, armed with domestically developed anti-ship missiles, are designed to intercept enemy ships within Taiwan’s contiguous zone. The Tuo Chiang corvettes, featuring a catamaran design, high speed and stealth capabilities, provide significant firepower despite their smaller size.

Amid rising tensions, Taiwan maintains a flexible, asymmetric defense strategy to counter China’s larger military. Taiwan has bolstered its domestic defense industry while relying on U.S. military technology including fighter jets, missiles and detection systems. The U.S. is legally committed to treating threats to Taiwan as matters of “grave concern.”

China’s continued military activities near Taiwan, including ship and aircraft deployments, have drawn Taiwanese demands for de-escalation, citing threats to peace, stability and international trade. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and has refused dialogue with Taiwan’s pro-independence government since 2016, increasing fears of potential military action. Most Taiwanese favor maintaining their democratic independence.

MARK OF THE BEAST

Mandatory Digital ID in Ethiopia

Ethiopia has introduced a mandatory digital ID policy requiring citizens to use the national Fayda ID for banking transactions including opening accounts. The phased implementation began in Addis Ababa on Jan. 1, 2025, and will expand to other cities by July 2025, with nationwide coverage set for January 2026. All bank accounts must be linked to the Fayda ID by Dec. 31, 2026.

The initiative aims to improve financial inclusion, reduce banking fraud, enhance data security and align Ethiopia with international best practices in the financial sector. With over 11 million registrations, the Fayda ID is a key part of Ethiopia’s digital transformation and supports the nation’s 2025-2030 digital government strategy. This strategy focuses on enhancing digital services, cybersecurity and connectivity, and fostering local innovation with support from international partners like DT Global, and funding from the European Union.