““Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us!”
The United States has sanctioned six senior Chinese and Hong Kong officials for suppressing Hong Kong’s autonomy and targeting pro-democracy activists. The U.S. State Department stated that these officials used “national security” as a pretext to intimidate, arrest, and imprison dissenters, including those living abroad.
As part of the sanctions, all U.S.-based assets linked to the individuals are frozen, and transactions with them are banned. Those sanctioned include two deputy commissioners of the Hong Kong Police Force, a senior Beijing official from Hong Kong’s national security office, and high-ranking members of the Hong Kong National Security Committee.
In its 2024 Hong Kong Human Rights Report, the State Department warned that Hong Kong is becoming more centralized under Beijing’s control. Authorities are using the National Security Law (NSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) to silence dissent, curtail freedoms, and undermine the rule of law.
The report highlights how Hong Kong officials have issued arrest warrants and bounties against activists abroad. Targets include 47 individuals involved in the “NSL 47” case, journalist Jimmy Lai, and former editors of Stand News. Over the past two years, authorities have offered HK$1 million (approx. USD 130,000) bounties for 19 overseas activists, including ex-lawmakers Nathan Law and Ted Hui.
China’s repression has expanded beyond Hong Kong. Bob Fu, a Chinese democracy activist now living in the U.S., shared that he continues to face harassment. In 2020, a large group of protesters gathered at his Texas home, forcing his family into FBI protection.
At the same time, China is tightening control over religious activity. New regulations set to take effect on May 1 will ban all foreign missionary work. State-run media say the measures are for “national security” and apply only to state-registered religious groups under Communist Party control.
Independent house churches face constant crackdowns. Authorities label them as extremist and raid worship gatherings, arresting attendees. China’s sophisticated surveillance system monitors citizens’ daily lives and social ties to enforce loyalty to the Party. The Family Research Council welcomed the U.S. response and urged further action to hold China accountable for its global repression of democracy and religious freedom. (Source : GNP Edited)
Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us.(Psalm 4:4,6,NIV)
God, rule over the injustice and corruption of the Chinese government that continues to oppress Hong Kong. As we hear of the U.S. sanctions, we confess again that only You can reveal true justice and righteousness. Shine Your face on those suffering from persecution and injustice, and reveal Your fearsome power to the wicked so they may tremble and cease from evil. May thirsty souls across nations in pain seek Your face, and may the day come soon when they rejoice under Your reign.
Prayer 24·365
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