The world is watching the Middle East with bated breath. The tensions surrounding Iran are not merely strategic or political; they carry a spiritual weight that many prefer to ignore. Yet the facts echo what Scripture had already warned.

The escalation of violence and the growing global threats show that humanity is walking a very thin line. To understand the present moment, we must look back and recognise how each move on this geopolitical chessboard has brought us here.

The trajectory of tension: a panoramic view

Iran has become the epicentre of an unprecedented crisis. Here is how the situation spiralled out of control in record time:

• 28 February 2026: A massive offensive by the United States and Israel struck Tehran and four other cities. The attacks targeted the country’s nuclear programme and communications infrastructure.
• 1 March 2026: Iran retaliated with swarms of drones and missiles against Israel. American bases in Qatar and Kuwait were also targeted in direct attacks.
• 11 March 2026: Iran carried out its threat to “set the oil on fire”. Three ships were struck in the Gulf, and traffic through the Strait of Hormuz fell to nearly zero.
• 12 March 2026: Iran’s new Supreme Leader vowed to continue blocking the Strait of Hormuz. The price of a barrel of oil surged, surpassing 100 US dollars within hours.

The immediate consequences: global chaos

The repercussions are not confined to the desert; they are knocking on our door right now. The blockade in Hormuz is being described as the “greatest oil shock in history”. If refineries continue to come under attack, there could be a fuel shortage at petrol stations within days.

UK drivers are being advised to limit “non-essential trips”, as fuel costs are expected to rise further due to a sharp increase in global oil prices.

The rider of the black horse and the end

In other words, today’s newspapers merely confirm what was written two thousand years ago. In Revelation, for instance, we read about the horsemen who bring judgement upon the earth. The black horse represents famine and economic collapse following great violence.

“And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying: A measure of wheat for a denarius, and three measures of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine.” (Revelation 6:6)

Thus, when Iran threatens energy supplies and the global economy, it appears to be preparing the way for this rider. The rise of inflation and the scarcity of resources are clear signs. In this way, news broadcasts report, in real time, the beginning of the birth pains.

Therefore, the remaining question is not when war will erupt, but where your soul will be when the world system collapses.

To delve deeper into this important topic, the book The World Will Burn by Bishop Renato Cardoso offers detailed insights into the end times according to the Bible. We also invite you to attend our Bible studies every Wednesday at your nearest Universal Church to strengthen your spiritual life and invest in your salvation.

To learn more about this topic watch now the video from Bishop Renato Cardoso: