April 18th was Iran’s army day. As well as inspecting thousands of marching troops on the ground, and watching phantom jets in the air, President Ahmadinejad in Tehran and the millions of TV viewers also saw an impressive display of the country’s missile technology, including the latest long range Ghadr (Worthy) weapon. Meanwhile in the Persian Gulf, Iran began five days of military exercises designed to show its ability to keep open – or close - the Straits of Hormoz through which 40% of the world’s oil comes. As rumours of war continue to rumble in the corridors of power around the world, Iran’s armed forces are very much on show for obvious reasons. The regime does not want to be attacked. For Christians it is important to always remember that the 500,000 who make up Iran’s armed forces are ordinary hard working patriotic people who need to hear the Gospel of Christ. The sooner the better if diplomacy over the nuclear issue fails. Pray for: Diplomats to persevere Military personnel to hear the Gospel Thousands of soldiers to become Christians