#ourCOG Daily Brief [February 23, 2026]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for February 23, 2026.

In today’s top stories, a new model of support is emerging on U.S. college campuses as over half of undergraduates report struggling with basic needs like food and housing. The Supreme Court has struck down the Trump administration’s broad use of an emergency economic law for tariffs, though the President has vowed to find other legal avenues to maintain them. The infamous Epstein files continue to generate headlines, with former Prince Andrew now facing criminal charges, and many other prominent figures under scrutiny. Concerns are also rising regarding artificial intelligence, with some fearing innovation is outpacing safety measures, highlighted by a Defense Department dispute and warnings from researchers. Politically, Democratic governors are stepping into the spotlight, taking on the Trump administration with a clear eye toward the 2028 presidential nomination. Internationally, Russia marks four years of war in Ukraine, a conflict now longer than the Soviet Union’s involvement in World War II, with weariness setting in despite a commitment to the course. A Monitor reporter reflects on the enduring spirit of Pokrovsk, Ukraine, a city of roses now scarred by war. Meanwhile, Mexico has apprehended a most-wanted cartel leader, a significant win, but one that often presages widespread upheaval and violence rather than immediate peace.

Our latest videos include inspiring messages such as “When you pray Heaven responds,” a tribute in “Amy Dobson Wendell | Going Home Service,” and a profound exploration in “Introducing the Unknown God A Personal Revelation.”

From our FaithNews feed, headlines include a “Church Planting Intensive Set for March 11-13,” news that a “Church Files Emergency Appeal to Resume Worship,” an update that “‘The Bible Recap’ Hits Top 100 on Apple Podcasts,” and word of a “Multi Million Dollar Gift Launches New Era for SMCH.”

Turning to prophecy news, tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions continue to escalate. Reports indicate President Trump is considering targeted strikes, and potentially even a larger military assault aimed at leadership change, should diplomatic efforts or initial attacks fail to compel Iran to abandon its nuclear program. This comes as Iran defiantly states it “will not bow” to pressure amidst ongoing nuclear talks with the U.S., even as anti-government protests are reported in Tehran. The U.S. is continuing to move military units into the Middle East, including the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. We also find historical resonance in the story of General Washington’s prayer at Valley Forge, a powerful reminder of leadership and faith in times of crisis.

Finally, in Jewish history, looking back at February 23rd across the centuries: in the year 42, King Agrippa I began constructing a new gate for Jerusalem. Decades later in 68, during the Great Revolt, Vespasian’s legions occupied Gadara on their slow, inexorable march to Jerusalem. More recently, in 1422, Pope Martin V issued a Bull favorable to Jews during the conflict between Hussites and Dominicans, reminding Christians of their shared religious heritage and even forbidding preaching against interactions between Jews and Christians. The date also marks the birth of Matthias Corvinus in 1443, who as King Matthias I established the office of Jewish prefect in Hungary. And in 1447, Pope Eugenius IV, who once declared decrees regarding the Jews, passed away.