Global Watch Daily – January 25, 2026
A concise summary of significant developments in Israel and the world through a grounded Christian worldview.
Israel & Jerusalem
The Soreq B desalination plant in Rishon Lezion has begun full operation, producing 200 million cubic meters of desalinated water annually. This output contributes to meeting 70–80% of Israel’s potable water needs in conjunction with other desalination facilities (Times of Israel). At the same time, Prime Minister Netanyahu has proposed establishing new towns in the Negev region, including one named “Rananim” in honor of Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, the last Hamas hostage, reflecting ongoing efforts to develop and secure Israel’s southern areas (JNS).
Security tensions remain high as police report a Palestinian driver critically injured near Ramallah after allegedly speeding toward officers and crashing at a roadblock (Times of Israel). Meanwhile, the IDF has issued evacuation orders for Tehran in anticipation of potential strikes, underscoring the volatile regional security environment (Jerusalem Post).
Wars & Security (Israel and Region)
The IDF has disclosed the roles and tactics of Hezbollah’s local liaison operatives in southern Lebanon, emphasizing their efforts to build relationships with Lebanese civilians amid the group’s regeneration (Long War Journal). Despite progress into the second phase of the US-brokered Gaza ceasefire plan, Palestinian terrorists have violated the first phase eleven times between January 9 and 22, highlighting ongoing challenges to peace efforts (Long War Journal).
International dynamics are shifting as President Trump reportedly withdraws Canada’s invitation to join the Board of Peace. Chatham House Director Bronwen Maddox warns this development may signal the end of the Western alliance, reflecting a broader realignment of global power and alliances (FDD; Chatham House).
Global Macro & Geopolitics
Alex Honnold accomplished a remarkable feat by climbing a 101-floor skyscraper in Taiwan without safety equipment, showcasing extraordinary human endurance and risk-taking (BBC News). Meanwhile, Myanmar’s recent election, widely condemned as a sham due to the banning of many parties and the absence of voting in conflict zones, highlights ongoing political instability and repression (BBC News).
The Trump administration’s approach to territorial expansion and cultural conflicts, described as a “new imperialism,” challenges the postwar global order and evokes historical colonial rivalries, raising concerns about future geopolitical stability (France24). Concurrently, Russia’s targeting of Ukraine’s power grid has prompted calls for an “electrical ceasefire” to alleviate humanitarian crises caused by widespread outages (France24).
In Asia, Hong Kong’s new Legislative Council faces critical tests regarding same-sex partnership recognition, revealing tensions between judicial rulings and political will (The Diplomat). Additionally, China’s dominance in drone supply chains plays a strategic role in the Ukraine conflict, illustrating the growing importance of civilian technology in modern warfare (The Diplomat).
Pestilence & Global Health
Research conducted in Guatemala’s Western Highlands reveals that bottled water from refillable jugs, often trusted as safe, is frequently contaminated with harmful bacteria. In contrast, protected municipal wells provide cleaner water, raising important public health concerns (ScienceDaily). Scientists have also identified nasal cells as a crucial first line of defense against the common cold, where a rapid antiviral response prevents symptom development (ScienceDaily).
Innovative strategies to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria include the synthetic engineering of bacteriophages targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa, offering promising new treatment avenues (ScienceDaily). Additionally, micro-doses of THC show potential benefits in managing long-term side effects of HIV treatment by reducing inflammation and protecting the liver without causing intoxication (ScienceDaily).
Further studies explain why some chronic wounds resist healing, attributing this to bacteria releasing harmful molecules that impede tissue repair. Antioxidants show promise in reversing these effects (ScienceDaily). A global DNA study of diabetic foot infections reveals diverse E. coli strains harboring antibiotic resistance genes, clarifying the severity and treatment challenges of these infections (ScienceDaily).
Natural Disasters & Signs in the Heavens
Recent seismic activity in California includes multiple earthquakes near Piru and The Geysers, with magnitudes ranging from 0.7 to 1.4 and depths between 1.77 and 12.01 kilometers, as monitored by the USGS (USGS; USGS; USGS).
NASA has announced upcoming briefings for the SpaceX Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station and awarded a global modeling and assimilation support contract to ADNET Systems, emphasizing ongoing advancements in space exploration and research (NASA; NASA).
A significant winter storm is forecasted to bring heavy snow, ice impacts, dangerously cold temperatures across the eastern United States, and severe storm threats in the Gulf States, underscoring the need for preparedness (weather.gov).
Middle Eastern Artifacts
Archaeological excavations at El Kabri in 1954, directed by E. Anati, uncovered significant findings southeast of Kibbutz Kabri, contributing to a deeper understanding of the region’s ancient history (Israel Antiquities Authority). Similarly, the “Shikun Dalet” site at Bet She’an was documented in 1955, adding valuable knowledge on settlement patterns (Israel Antiquities Authority).
Extensive salvage excavations at Khirbat ‘Amra, conducted in 1993–1994, revealed architectural remains spanning from the Hellenistic to Early Islamic periods, offering insights into historical settlement, economy, and daily life in the Be’er Sheva Valley (Israel Antiquities Authority). Additionally, the Maresha IV subterranean complexes study provides a detailed archaeological analysis of 152 installations, enriching the understanding of Hellenistic urban life (Israel Antiquities Authority).
Reflection
We should interpret these developments soberly, resisting both panic and apathy while attending to what is true. Our aim is prayerful discernment—grounding convictions in Scripture and keeping watch with steadiness and hope.