RNS Morning Report - Vatican ties with Azerbaijan under fire amid accusations of cultural genocide

Top Stories Vatican ties with Azerbaijan under fire amid accusations of cultural genocide (RNS) — Azerbaijan’s hefty donations to restore Vatican treasures are drawing sharp criticism from Armenian activists, who accuse the Holy See of whitewashing the country's destruction of their Christian heritage.   How Hindus are embracing gender equality in an ancient siblings tradition (RNS) — The bond between siblings shouldn't be gendered, say these American Hindus.   Non-religious chaplains are changing how we understand spiritual care (RNS) — As religious demographics shift overall, so, too, do the religious identities represented among chaplains.   What to know about Israel’s plan to retake Gaza City Another major ground operation in one of the few areas of Gaza not already under evacuation orders would likely spark even more mass displacement and further disrupt efforts to deliver desperately needed food in the territory, where experts have warned that famine is unfolding.   RNS Opinion How interfaith freedom schools are helping resist ICE in LA (RNS) — Our goal is not just to react to injustice, but to build durable power that can reshape public life and protect the vulnerable.   A Palestinian’s plea: We can’t forget Sudan while fighting for Gaza (RNS) — I write this not to redirect attention from Gaza, but to expand the circle of concern.   ICYMI Palestinian nonviolent activist killed by Israeli settler is buried after IDF releases body (RNS) — Only about 200 people were able to attend the early morning funeral for Awdah Hathaleen, after the Israeli military closed off the village and set up checkpoints at key areas.   Olympic-style teen games celebrate Jewish pride through sports PITTSBURGH (RNS) — Thousands of Jewish teens converged for the first JCC Maccabi Games hosted in a university setting. In Other News Pete Hegseth reposts video that says women shouldn’t be allowed to vote Netanyahu doubles down on Gaza offensive after global backlash   Depend on our reporting? Help us out! As a nonprofit newsroom that covers all faiths, RNS sits uniquely at the intersection of freedom of the press and freedom of religion. You can support this work! News tips or feedback? Email comments@religionnews.com Like the Morning Report? Share it with a friend Forwarded this newsletter? Subscribe here We rely on reader donations to power our reporting. Donate here. Or send a check to: Religion News Foundation PO Box 1808 Columbia, MO 65205