AMERICAN-ISRAEL RELATIONSHIP
Among American Christian’s there have been some misconceptions about U.S. support for Israel. There’s been talk about President Barack Obama’s sympathies for the Palestinian cause, while at the same time, unrelenting U.S. pressure on Israel, especially concerning settlement growth. Furthermore, these same pro-Israel Americans continue to question the Obama Administration’s loyalty to its only democratic ally in the Middle East.
While it’s true that there have been genuine disagreements between the U.S. and Israel on the Palestinian issue, causing a strain in diplomatic relations, there’s another aspect of this relationship that has been virtually ignored by some Americans….that is, unprecedented and continued military cooperation between the two nations.
The most common question asked of this writer is whether Israel will conduct a pre-emptive strike against Iran in the coming months, and whether the U.S. will, likely, support or abandon Israel if that happens. In addition, there is uncertainty about whether the Obama Administration will share specific military codes with Israel, so that Israel’s air force can fly over certain Middle Eastern countries in the event of war.
It seems the U.S. media has failed to provide adequate information to Americans about unparalleled defense collaboration between the governments of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Barak Obama since both men took office.
On October 21, Israel and the U.S. began a joint missile defense drill which concluded on November 12. After the drill each nation stated its shared commitment towards a stable Middle East. The drill was reported to be the largest military exercise ever coordinated between the two countries, using air, sea and land forces. At least 17 U.S. naval war ships were sent to the region. America also deployed the THAAD, Aegis, and PAC-3 anti-missile defense systems into Israel. There was some talk that the Obama Administration would be leaving behind a few U.S. “Patriot’s” in case Israel needed them as a back-up to the Israeli Arrow-2 ballistic missile defense system.
At least 1,400 U.S. troops were deployed into Israel in order to coordinate military exercises with an equal number of IDF soldiers. One report mentioned that there have never been so many U.S. military generals in Israel at one time.
Since both the American and Israeli governments came to power, Israel’s Chief of Staff Lt.-General Gabi Ashkenazi and U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen have communicated with each other on a weekly basis, and have often met together in Israel, America, and Europe to discuss defense strategies.
High-level defense officials have spent 18 months planning for the recent military assignment. Dubbed Juniper Cobra 10, the operation included three main phases. According to Israeli government sources, the "Field Training Exercise," stressed the cooperation between Israeli and U.S. forces in various drills. A computer-simulation "Command Post Exercise" examined the interoperability of Israeli and U.S. air defense systems. A "Live Fire Exercise" tested both Israeli and U.S. air defense systems including the Patriot.
Juniper Cobra 10 allowed the two countries to test what a joint response would look like if there was a potential Iranian strike on Israel. In addition, it included military preparedness for a possible Israeli war with Hezbollah -- Iran’s terrorist proxy in Lebanon. Israel has already warned Syria against sending any more advanced weapons systems to Hezbollah’s armed forces. This comes after Syria recently delivered ¼ of its military arsenal to Hezbollah in the form of long-range and middle-range missiles. A future war with Hezbollah could escalate into a war with Syria. Israel’s Defense Minister Ehud Barak is also closely monitoring Hamas in Gaza, after the terrorist group recently tested an Iranian missile capable of reaching Tel Aviv. Barak is concerned that Israel is losing its qualitative edge in the Middle East, and he will not allow the balance in military power to tip in favor of Israel’s enemies.
According to the Commander of Israel’s Air Force Defense Corps, Brigadier-General Doron Gavish, the Juniper Cobra exercise, “simulated challenging scenarios and the use of the most advanced weapons in the field.” In addition, he added, “The professionalism of the forces and the level of cooperation between the two armies were reflected in the way the forces were activated.”
Confirming the existing military teamwork between Israel and America, the Commander of the U.S. Joint Task Force, Rear Admiral John M. Richardson, recently made this statement: "During the past two weeks, our two forces have stood together and fought through a very challenging scenario. We have brought together new technologies and new procedures. We learned some very valuable lessons and had a tremendous result. I want to thank the Israeli people, and especially the Israel Defense Forces, for their hospitality and cooperation."
While Israel continues to struggle with successfully presenting its diplomatic position to the international community, it has enjoyed extraordinary ties with foreign militaries. This confirms an expanding U.S. led coalition against Iranian nuclear aspirations. However, few Americans understand that while Israel may be considering a pre-emptive strike against Iran, the IDF is looking, first and foremost, to directly securing Israel’s northern and southern borders from attack against Israel’s home front.
According to recent media reports, Israel is a member of a NATO mission called Active Endeavor, based in Naples, Italy, where Israel has representation in an international command center. It is there that Israeli and international military officers share intelligence information about naval ships passing through the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. They try to determine which ships may be suspect of involvement in terrorist acts. The recent Israeli capture of a large Iranian arms cache aboard the Francop ship, reportedly destined for Hezbollah, was part of the success of such intelligence gathering. The captured cache was large enough for Hezbollah to support a month-long war against Israel. The Netanyahu government is relying more and more on shared military intelligence information to help Israel in its war against terror.
So, with this kind of high-level defense cooperation going on between Israel, the U.S. and NATO, it is hard to believe that the Obama Administration would deny Israel specific military codes to fly over certain Middle Eastern countries in the event of a future war with Iran. Furthermore, it has become apparent to those living in the Middle East, that for now, it is a priority of the U.S. Defense Department to stand by Israel, at least when it comes to the close strategic military pact the two countries actively share with one another.
PRAYER POINTS:
(1) Pray that American Christians will have accurate and truthful information about what is going on in the Middle East, especially concerning Israel. (1 Chronicles 12:32).
(2) Pray according to 2 Kings 6:15-16, that Israelis will not fear the enemies that surround them; that the Jewish State will have favor and be able to proclaim that “those who are with us are more than those who are with them.
(3) Pray as David did, according to Psalm 144, that the Lord will:
*Train the hands of IDF soldiers for war, and their fingers for battle;
*Subdue Israel’s enemies;
*Rescue and deliver Israel out of great waters from the hand of foreigners (terrorist leaders) whose mouths speak lying words, and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood.
A News Prayer Network, providing prayer points on current issues in the news, from Jerusalem to the rest of the world
Monday, November 30, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- XVIII
Jerusalem, Israel
STRATEGIC COOPERATION -- Deeper Ties between Israeli and Christian Leaders
The New Year on the Hebrew calendar, 5770, began on the eve of September 18th, as Christians and Jews from all over the world began their journey to Israel to celebrate the Fall Feasts. Among them, more than 1500 believers from over 100 countries attended the All Nations Convocation between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. And, more than 5,000 believers from 80 countries attended the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) Feast of Tabernacles during Succot.
Among those pilgrims who came up to Jerusalem to pray and worship the Lord in His Holy City were Christian government leaders. They met with members of the Israeli Knesset, and forged new ties of understanding and cooperation between Israel and the international community.
MK Yuli Edelstein, Minister of Public Affairs and the Diaspora spoke to government leaders from Switzerland, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Morocco, Mali, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Ethiopia, Uganda, India, Australia, Finland, and Jordan. He gave a short history of Israel’s political dealings, especially concerning the peace process with the Palestinians. He expressed concern that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might be trapped into accepting pre-conditions from Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas before negotiations get underway between the two parties. He also said he does not want to see a division of Jerusalem, or any attempt by the U.S. or other nations to push Israel into a quick and final deal.
The continued attempt by human rights organizations to accuse Israel’s Defense Forces (the IDF) of committing war crimes during Israel’s war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip in 2008-2009 (Operation Cast Lead), is also a concern for the Israeli government. According to Edelstein, the recent Goldstone report “makes it very difficult for us to stand firm and explain our case.” As head of communications and information for Israel’s Foreign Ministry, Edelstein is responsible for explaining Israel’s case to the world. He claimed that in many countries there are those who do not want to accept the fact that the Jewish people are in Israel because it is their Promised Land. “We are here not because of the Holocaust, but because we’ve always been here,” he declared. Laying claim to the land, Edelstein added, “This is the state of Israel...this is the center of Jewish life.”
The Israeli government is looking for ways to cooperate with internationals in order to enlarge the circle of friends that Israel has around the world. As nations become more and more anti-Semitic, indulging in anti-Israel Jewish hatred, Edelstein wants to spread the message of Israel’s goodwill deeds as the only flourishing democracy in the Middle East. Pro-Israel Christian government leaders are developing new relationships with Israeli officials in an attempt to influence the global diplomatic community.
For example, Edelstein, as well as other Israeli leaders, have been speaking to Christians throughout the Fall Feasts about a “united Jerusalem”. The ICEJ has chosen this issue as a theme for a future diplomatic campaign. Passing out thousands of T-Shirts at the Feast of Tabernacles, inscribed with the city of Jerusalem logo, the ICEJ is hoping that believers will go back to their home countries and engage in a grass roots effort to keep Jerusalem under Israeli sovereignty. This means, however, being able to effectively win the hearts of parliamentary leaders in their respective governments.
Giovanni Isella is a Christian government leader from Switzerland. In 2005, he formed a political party in the Swiss government based on the Bible. It is the only political party that claims Israel has a right to exist and defend itself. The official party papers also declare that there should be no division of Jerusalem. Isella’s vision is to fill every parliament in every nation in the world with a pro-Israel lobby. He is working with the Israeli Allies Caucus to try and accomplish this.
Speaking about Jerusalem being the undivided capital of the Jewish people, Isella commented, “We said this to the people, and we made a proclamation in Bern two years ago. The people need education about why we stand for Israel.” But, Isella admits that most Swiss politicians are not that interested in Israel. Invited to join an Israeli Allies Caucus meeting in Washington, D.C. several years ago, he asked forgiveness for some of the anti-Israel stands his government has taken. Isella plans to continue his goal of securing support for Israel throughout the world.
While government leaders like Isella look for ways to change the hearts of men who are in global leadership, Israeli officials are reflecting on how well they have explained Israel’s position to the international community. Israeli MK Uzi Landau, Minister of National Infrastructure admitted Israel’s failings at a hotel dinner hosted by the Jerusalem House of Prayer for All Nations. Speaking to Christian government leaders he said, “We have talked too much about security, and we have forgotten the spiritual roots.”
Continuing on that theme, an Arab pastor from Jordan, Afeef Halasah, spoke directly to Israeli officials at the dinner. He tried to convince them that not all Arabs are Israel’s enemies. Halasah explained that there are Christian Arab leaders in his country who love Israel and pray on a daily basis for the government. He proclaimed, “I believe nobody can defeat Israel, but Israel can defeat itself.” Halasah appealed to Israeli leaders to be more accommodating towards their Arab friends. And, he gave a warning to Israel to remain faithful to the Lord. “Don’t turn your back for any reason. Don’t try to trade the God given inheritance to you. If you are faithful to God, He will never abandon you.”
As the Fall Feasts conclude, one thing is certain, Israeli government leaders are looking the world over for new friends. Christian leaders in the nations are looking for greater influence within Israeli government circles. As this partnership deepens, it brings to the Middle East a new refreshing spiritual dynamic, and may move the hearts of men to seek a deeper faith in God.
“For unto us a Child is born. Unto us a Son is given: And, the government will be upon His shoulder. And, His name will be called, Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace, there will be no end. Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom; to order it and establish it with judgment and justice; from this time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” Isaiah 9:6-7.
PRAYER POINTS:
(1) Pray for higher levels of cooperation between the Israeli government and Christian government leaders from the nations.
(2) Pray for men and women of stature, who walk in the Lord's righteousness and justice, to be raised up as Godly leaders in global governmental arenas. Pray they would be men and women who have a biblical world view with God's understanding and compassionate heart for Israel.
(3) Declare Isaiah Chapter 45:1-3 and Jeremiah 1:10 over these leaders. Pray for God's plans and purposes to be fulfilled according to Isaiah Chapter 49.
(4) Pray that the Goldstone report, that unfairly accuses the IDF of war crimes, would lose steam and effectiveness within the global community. Pray that no weapon formed against Israel will prosper. Intercede according to Psalm 37, that God will bring righteousness and justice into the light. Pray that the Lord will contend with those who contend with Israel. (Psalm 35:1).
(5) Intercede for a "united Jerusalem" under Israeli sovereignty. Remember that, "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, the Lord surrounds His people, now and forevermore." (Psalm 125:2). God loves Jerusalem and Zion is His Holy City.
(6) Proclaim the Lord's favor over the Israeli people and their God given land, according to His Covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Rejoice that the Lord is, "I AM WHO I AM", and has been sent to the children of Israel to help them. (See Exodus 3:14-15).
STRATEGIC COOPERATION -- Deeper Ties between Israeli and Christian Leaders
The New Year on the Hebrew calendar, 5770, began on the eve of September 18th, as Christians and Jews from all over the world began their journey to Israel to celebrate the Fall Feasts. Among them, more than 1500 believers from over 100 countries attended the All Nations Convocation between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. And, more than 5,000 believers from 80 countries attended the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) Feast of Tabernacles during Succot.
Among those pilgrims who came up to Jerusalem to pray and worship the Lord in His Holy City were Christian government leaders. They met with members of the Israeli Knesset, and forged new ties of understanding and cooperation between Israel and the international community.
MK Yuli Edelstein, Minister of Public Affairs and the Diaspora spoke to government leaders from Switzerland, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Morocco, Mali, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Ethiopia, Uganda, India, Australia, Finland, and Jordan. He gave a short history of Israel’s political dealings, especially concerning the peace process with the Palestinians. He expressed concern that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might be trapped into accepting pre-conditions from Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas before negotiations get underway between the two parties. He also said he does not want to see a division of Jerusalem, or any attempt by the U.S. or other nations to push Israel into a quick and final deal.
The continued attempt by human rights organizations to accuse Israel’s Defense Forces (the IDF) of committing war crimes during Israel’s war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip in 2008-2009 (Operation Cast Lead), is also a concern for the Israeli government. According to Edelstein, the recent Goldstone report “makes it very difficult for us to stand firm and explain our case.” As head of communications and information for Israel’s Foreign Ministry, Edelstein is responsible for explaining Israel’s case to the world. He claimed that in many countries there are those who do not want to accept the fact that the Jewish people are in Israel because it is their Promised Land. “We are here not because of the Holocaust, but because we’ve always been here,” he declared. Laying claim to the land, Edelstein added, “This is the state of Israel...this is the center of Jewish life.”
The Israeli government is looking for ways to cooperate with internationals in order to enlarge the circle of friends that Israel has around the world. As nations become more and more anti-Semitic, indulging in anti-Israel Jewish hatred, Edelstein wants to spread the message of Israel’s goodwill deeds as the only flourishing democracy in the Middle East. Pro-Israel Christian government leaders are developing new relationships with Israeli officials in an attempt to influence the global diplomatic community.
For example, Edelstein, as well as other Israeli leaders, have been speaking to Christians throughout the Fall Feasts about a “united Jerusalem”. The ICEJ has chosen this issue as a theme for a future diplomatic campaign. Passing out thousands of T-Shirts at the Feast of Tabernacles, inscribed with the city of Jerusalem logo, the ICEJ is hoping that believers will go back to their home countries and engage in a grass roots effort to keep Jerusalem under Israeli sovereignty. This means, however, being able to effectively win the hearts of parliamentary leaders in their respective governments.
Giovanni Isella is a Christian government leader from Switzerland. In 2005, he formed a political party in the Swiss government based on the Bible. It is the only political party that claims Israel has a right to exist and defend itself. The official party papers also declare that there should be no division of Jerusalem. Isella’s vision is to fill every parliament in every nation in the world with a pro-Israel lobby. He is working with the Israeli Allies Caucus to try and accomplish this.
Speaking about Jerusalem being the undivided capital of the Jewish people, Isella commented, “We said this to the people, and we made a proclamation in Bern two years ago. The people need education about why we stand for Israel.” But, Isella admits that most Swiss politicians are not that interested in Israel. Invited to join an Israeli Allies Caucus meeting in Washington, D.C. several years ago, he asked forgiveness for some of the anti-Israel stands his government has taken. Isella plans to continue his goal of securing support for Israel throughout the world.
While government leaders like Isella look for ways to change the hearts of men who are in global leadership, Israeli officials are reflecting on how well they have explained Israel’s position to the international community. Israeli MK Uzi Landau, Minister of National Infrastructure admitted Israel’s failings at a hotel dinner hosted by the Jerusalem House of Prayer for All Nations. Speaking to Christian government leaders he said, “We have talked too much about security, and we have forgotten the spiritual roots.”
Continuing on that theme, an Arab pastor from Jordan, Afeef Halasah, spoke directly to Israeli officials at the dinner. He tried to convince them that not all Arabs are Israel’s enemies. Halasah explained that there are Christian Arab leaders in his country who love Israel and pray on a daily basis for the government. He proclaimed, “I believe nobody can defeat Israel, but Israel can defeat itself.” Halasah appealed to Israeli leaders to be more accommodating towards their Arab friends. And, he gave a warning to Israel to remain faithful to the Lord. “Don’t turn your back for any reason. Don’t try to trade the God given inheritance to you. If you are faithful to God, He will never abandon you.”
As the Fall Feasts conclude, one thing is certain, Israeli government leaders are looking the world over for new friends. Christian leaders in the nations are looking for greater influence within Israeli government circles. As this partnership deepens, it brings to the Middle East a new refreshing spiritual dynamic, and may move the hearts of men to seek a deeper faith in God.
“For unto us a Child is born. Unto us a Son is given: And, the government will be upon His shoulder. And, His name will be called, Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace, there will be no end. Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom; to order it and establish it with judgment and justice; from this time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” Isaiah 9:6-7.
PRAYER POINTS:
(1) Pray for higher levels of cooperation between the Israeli government and Christian government leaders from the nations.
(2) Pray for men and women of stature, who walk in the Lord's righteousness and justice, to be raised up as Godly leaders in global governmental arenas. Pray they would be men and women who have a biblical world view with God's understanding and compassionate heart for Israel.
(3) Declare Isaiah Chapter 45:1-3 and Jeremiah 1:10 over these leaders. Pray for God's plans and purposes to be fulfilled according to Isaiah Chapter 49.
(4) Pray that the Goldstone report, that unfairly accuses the IDF of war crimes, would lose steam and effectiveness within the global community. Pray that no weapon formed against Israel will prosper. Intercede according to Psalm 37, that God will bring righteousness and justice into the light. Pray that the Lord will contend with those who contend with Israel. (Psalm 35:1).
(5) Intercede for a "united Jerusalem" under Israeli sovereignty. Remember that, "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, the Lord surrounds His people, now and forevermore." (Psalm 125:2). God loves Jerusalem and Zion is His Holy City.
(6) Proclaim the Lord's favor over the Israeli people and their God given land, according to His Covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Rejoice that the Lord is, "I AM WHO I AM", and has been sent to the children of Israel to help them. (See Exodus 3:14-15).
Monday, September 21, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- XVII
Jerusalem, Israel
MIDDLE EAST ARMS BUILD-UP AND DEFENSE COOPERATION
While the U.S. and Israel attempt to move forward on a diplomatic track towards a comprehensive peace deal in the Middle East, a military track is also advancing, with some of the largest coordinated exercises ever to take place in the region.
As U.S. anti-missile defense systems make their way overseas, Israel is refining and finishing off the final touches on its own systems, which are meant to intercept short, middle, and long range missiles if they are launched against Israel in the future.
ARMS SALES
A massive arms build-up in the Middle East is also taking place, as Iran delivers more sophisticated weapons to Hezbollah through Syria; and, as Russia becomes one of the biggest arms dealers to both nations. Israel’s Defense Minister Ehud Barak is keeping a keen eye on the delivery of weapons systems, making sure that the balance of power in the Middle East is not tipped in favor of Israel’s enemies. Russia has been warned not to deliver the S-300 advanced anti-missile defense system to Iran or to any country that is hostile towards Israel. Israeli officials are also watching to see if Russia tries to deliver an advanced jet fighter system to Syria, which would be an unacceptable move, according to the Jewish State. The international community can be assured that Israel will figure out a way to wipe out the systems before they are ever operational. This alone could start a new war in the Middle East.
ISRAEL’S HOME FRONT PREPARATIONS
Without an end in sight to stopping Iran’s nuclear pursuit, preparations are being made on Israel’s home front for what may be a long drawn out conflict should all diplomatic efforts fail, including crippling UN or EU sanctions against the Islamic state.
As of this writing, U.S. naval missile ships have arrived in Israel in preparation for a joint missile defense exercise to take place in October 2009. The highest ranking officials in both the IDF and the Pentagon have been holding frequent meetings in what has become a strengthened Israeli-U.S. defense cooperation pact. While America is not anxious to broadcast its military partnership with Israel, it has been reported that the U.S. plans to deploy ships in the Mediterranean and Red Sea capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. Israel already has an advanced X-Band radar system given to the Jewish State by former U.S. President George W. Bush.
Meanwhile, in June 2009, Israel conducted a nationwide emergency drill, setting off alarm systems throughout the land. It was a civil-defense exercise in which citizens were instructed to go to bomb shelters within minutes of hearing the sounds of sirens. Schools educated their students in how to protect themselves in the event of war.
In January 2010, the National Emergency Authority plans to hold another nationwide drill, this time simulating a biological attack against Israel. The IDF Medical Corps, along with the IDF Home Front Command, police, and rescue squads will participate in these drills.
In August 2009, journalists were invited to observe simulation exercises at an IDF medical base in Tel Aviv. In both indoor and outdoor simulations, the media witnessed what IDF medics do in emergency situations in urban warfare. A Hollywood-type set on the base was built to look like a street in Gaza City. Graffiti and drawings of Islamic martyrs were plastered on the walls. There were narrow alleyways and bombed out cars strewn along the streets. To the sound of Islamic holy prayers, gunshots could be heard. In the simulation, IDF soldiers shot and killed a “terrorist”. As they attempted to secure the parameters, they too were “wounded” on the battlefield. Medics were called in to treat the “wounded”.
According to IDF Sergeant Arnold Starkowtiz, an instructor of the IDF medical development team, “In the real situation, the alleys are much closer together, and sometimes it is very hard to walk through a street.” When asked about the potential for booby trapping against IDF soldiers, he replied, “The forces take a lot of precautionary steps when they move into a situation like that. There is always a tracker or someone who walks at the head of the field, always looking out and always being aware.” The IDF medical school trains soldiers for the worst case scenario. Their training at the base helps them save lives on the battlefield.
“The first thing we do is finish the fighting. Before you start treating the wounded, each medic is a soldier, a warrior. He first finishes the combat. So, if there is a group of terrorists, the soldier would first neutralize the threat, and only then start treating the wounded,” he said.
The medical base is one of the biggest training bases in Israel. Every year they train 2,300-2,500 medics. Most of them are in combat units. These simulation exercises are another attempt by Israeli defense forces to prepare the public for future outbreaks of war. The IDF plans to begin handing out gas masks to the general public by November 2009. Most Israelis do not think gas masks will help in a biological and chemical attack. They are more inclined to believe that Israel’s nuclear arsenal is enough of a deterrence to keep Israel’s enemies from considering a non-conventional attack on the Jewish State.
THE ENEMY’S WEAPONS
Both Syria and Hezbollah reportedly have chemical munitions factories, and Syria is developing biological capability. Syria has long-range Scud missiles that could carry a chemical or biological payload. Hezbollah has been stocking its deadly chemicals since December 2008, and recently received chemical weapons and protective gear from Iran. Syria is upgrading its missile, rocket, air defense, and antitank capabilities. Iran has reportedly upgraded its ballistic missiles to satellite launchers capable of eventually launching nuclear weapons into the atmosphere. Iran is on a fast-paced track with North Korea to find a way of putting a nuclear payload on a long-range missile. Iran could opt, instead, to put one on a short-range missile and ship it to Hezbollah or to the Lebanese Armed Forces. Meanwhile, Hezbollah is now boasting of having 80,000 rockets aimed at Israel. At the same time, Hamas continues to smuggle sophisticated arms into underground tunnels in the Gaza Strip, increasing its weapons arsenals.
KEEPING A QUALITATIVE EDGE
While the Middle East arms build-up is continually evaluated by Israeli defense officials, the Jewish State is looking to America to help supply it with the most advanced weapons systems in the world. This includes a potential contract for 20-25 U.S. F-35 Joint Strike Jet Fighters. Israel is arguing with U.S. defense officials about wanting complete technical control over the electronic systems on the plane. So far, the U.S. has refused to allow Israel that flexibility. The cost of each plane has gone up to $100 million. Israel will continue to look for the best systems available to keep a qualitative edge over its hostile Middle East neighbors.
To that end, Israel is also trying to bolster air support to its ground forces for future military clashes in Lebanon and Gaza. The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has been flight testing a new version of the Black Hawk utility helicopter that is equipped with offensive air-to-surface missile launchers. The helicopter has been fitted with a rapid fire cannon. Israel is looking to American defense industries to upgrade six additional Apache attack helicopters.
THE IRANIAN THREAT AND ISRAEL’S RESPONSE
While military preparations continue, some Israeli officials have denied that Israel is considering a pre-emptive strike against Iran. Some argue that Iran will not have nuclear capability for 3-5 years. Others say that Iran will have that capability in 6-9 months. While not all agree on the same timetable of Iran’s potential to “go nuclear”, most Israeli officials do agree on one crucial point.... They do not think that Iran wants to engage in a direct war with Israel.
Major General (Ret.) Eitan Ben Eliyahu, former Commander of the Israeli Air Force (IAF), spoke at the World Summit on Counter-Terrorism in Herzliya. He said, “States like Iran do it in a different way. If you look at the Syrians, they took advantage of having Lebanon next to them; having Hezbollah next to them; and, indirectly they launched a terror attack against Israel; which means, they stayed clean.” According to Eliyahu, 90% of the terror attacks in Lebanon were Syrian initiatives.
Eliyahu claims that the goal of the Iranians is to finance the terrorists, to politically back them, and to build a nuclear weapon. In doing so, Iran inspires terrorists to attack Israel. But, Eliyahu does not think Iran is interested in direct military action against the Jewish State. Instead, Iran will look to continue using its proxies (Hezbollah and Hamas) to accomplish its goals. “They want to play double face – a legal government in the international society; and, on the other hand, supporting terrorism against Israel and other states.”
As 2010 approaches, Israelis expect to see more jet fighters going for long practice runs over the Mediterranean Sea. They also expect to participate in more national emergency drills that will require them to clean out their bomb shelters and stack them with necessary supplies. And, they expect to hear more news stories about Israel’s military track than the current diplomatic track that seems to be going nowhere.
PRAYER POINTS:
(1) Pray that the God of Israel will mobilize His heavenly troops to fight Israel's enemies.
(2) Pray that Israel will continue to keep its qualitative edge over its enemies in the Middle East region.
(3) Declare that "He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." And, that the Lord shall preserve Israel from all evil, (according to Psalm 121, verses 4 and 7). Continue to intercede for Israel's protection from enemy forces that want to attack the Jewish State.
(4) Proclaim Israel's readiness through God's training of the IDF and IAF, according to Psalm 18:34, which states: “He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.”
(5) Pray for Israel to have favor with the U.S. Defense Department and that all difficulties will be worked out regarding the purchase of American F-35 jet fighter planes. Pray that Israel can use these planes to adequately defend its forces in the future.
(6) Pray for the homefront in Israel to be prepared, and ask the Lord to give insight to those who oversee the civilian population.
(7) Pray that God will deliver the nation from any snare or any trap presented by international leaders who do not have Israel's best interest in mind. (See Psalm 83).
(8) Ask God to raise up intercessors who pray night and day for Israel during times of peace and times of war.
MIDDLE EAST ARMS BUILD-UP AND DEFENSE COOPERATION
While the U.S. and Israel attempt to move forward on a diplomatic track towards a comprehensive peace deal in the Middle East, a military track is also advancing, with some of the largest coordinated exercises ever to take place in the region.
As U.S. anti-missile defense systems make their way overseas, Israel is refining and finishing off the final touches on its own systems, which are meant to intercept short, middle, and long range missiles if they are launched against Israel in the future.
ARMS SALES
A massive arms build-up in the Middle East is also taking place, as Iran delivers more sophisticated weapons to Hezbollah through Syria; and, as Russia becomes one of the biggest arms dealers to both nations. Israel’s Defense Minister Ehud Barak is keeping a keen eye on the delivery of weapons systems, making sure that the balance of power in the Middle East is not tipped in favor of Israel’s enemies. Russia has been warned not to deliver the S-300 advanced anti-missile defense system to Iran or to any country that is hostile towards Israel. Israeli officials are also watching to see if Russia tries to deliver an advanced jet fighter system to Syria, which would be an unacceptable move, according to the Jewish State. The international community can be assured that Israel will figure out a way to wipe out the systems before they are ever operational. This alone could start a new war in the Middle East.
ISRAEL’S HOME FRONT PREPARATIONS
Without an end in sight to stopping Iran’s nuclear pursuit, preparations are being made on Israel’s home front for what may be a long drawn out conflict should all diplomatic efforts fail, including crippling UN or EU sanctions against the Islamic state.
As of this writing, U.S. naval missile ships have arrived in Israel in preparation for a joint missile defense exercise to take place in October 2009. The highest ranking officials in both the IDF and the Pentagon have been holding frequent meetings in what has become a strengthened Israeli-U.S. defense cooperation pact. While America is not anxious to broadcast its military partnership with Israel, it has been reported that the U.S. plans to deploy ships in the Mediterranean and Red Sea capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. Israel already has an advanced X-Band radar system given to the Jewish State by former U.S. President George W. Bush.
Meanwhile, in June 2009, Israel conducted a nationwide emergency drill, setting off alarm systems throughout the land. It was a civil-defense exercise in which citizens were instructed to go to bomb shelters within minutes of hearing the sounds of sirens. Schools educated their students in how to protect themselves in the event of war.
In January 2010, the National Emergency Authority plans to hold another nationwide drill, this time simulating a biological attack against Israel. The IDF Medical Corps, along with the IDF Home Front Command, police, and rescue squads will participate in these drills.
In August 2009, journalists were invited to observe simulation exercises at an IDF medical base in Tel Aviv. In both indoor and outdoor simulations, the media witnessed what IDF medics do in emergency situations in urban warfare. A Hollywood-type set on the base was built to look like a street in Gaza City. Graffiti and drawings of Islamic martyrs were plastered on the walls. There were narrow alleyways and bombed out cars strewn along the streets. To the sound of Islamic holy prayers, gunshots could be heard. In the simulation, IDF soldiers shot and killed a “terrorist”. As they attempted to secure the parameters, they too were “wounded” on the battlefield. Medics were called in to treat the “wounded”.
According to IDF Sergeant Arnold Starkowtiz, an instructor of the IDF medical development team, “In the real situation, the alleys are much closer together, and sometimes it is very hard to walk through a street.” When asked about the potential for booby trapping against IDF soldiers, he replied, “The forces take a lot of precautionary steps when they move into a situation like that. There is always a tracker or someone who walks at the head of the field, always looking out and always being aware.” The IDF medical school trains soldiers for the worst case scenario. Their training at the base helps them save lives on the battlefield.
“The first thing we do is finish the fighting. Before you start treating the wounded, each medic is a soldier, a warrior. He first finishes the combat. So, if there is a group of terrorists, the soldier would first neutralize the threat, and only then start treating the wounded,” he said.
The medical base is one of the biggest training bases in Israel. Every year they train 2,300-2,500 medics. Most of them are in combat units. These simulation exercises are another attempt by Israeli defense forces to prepare the public for future outbreaks of war. The IDF plans to begin handing out gas masks to the general public by November 2009. Most Israelis do not think gas masks will help in a biological and chemical attack. They are more inclined to believe that Israel’s nuclear arsenal is enough of a deterrence to keep Israel’s enemies from considering a non-conventional attack on the Jewish State.
THE ENEMY’S WEAPONS
Both Syria and Hezbollah reportedly have chemical munitions factories, and Syria is developing biological capability. Syria has long-range Scud missiles that could carry a chemical or biological payload. Hezbollah has been stocking its deadly chemicals since December 2008, and recently received chemical weapons and protective gear from Iran. Syria is upgrading its missile, rocket, air defense, and antitank capabilities. Iran has reportedly upgraded its ballistic missiles to satellite launchers capable of eventually launching nuclear weapons into the atmosphere. Iran is on a fast-paced track with North Korea to find a way of putting a nuclear payload on a long-range missile. Iran could opt, instead, to put one on a short-range missile and ship it to Hezbollah or to the Lebanese Armed Forces. Meanwhile, Hezbollah is now boasting of having 80,000 rockets aimed at Israel. At the same time, Hamas continues to smuggle sophisticated arms into underground tunnels in the Gaza Strip, increasing its weapons arsenals.
KEEPING A QUALITATIVE EDGE
While the Middle East arms build-up is continually evaluated by Israeli defense officials, the Jewish State is looking to America to help supply it with the most advanced weapons systems in the world. This includes a potential contract for 20-25 U.S. F-35 Joint Strike Jet Fighters. Israel is arguing with U.S. defense officials about wanting complete technical control over the electronic systems on the plane. So far, the U.S. has refused to allow Israel that flexibility. The cost of each plane has gone up to $100 million. Israel will continue to look for the best systems available to keep a qualitative edge over its hostile Middle East neighbors.
To that end, Israel is also trying to bolster air support to its ground forces for future military clashes in Lebanon and Gaza. The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has been flight testing a new version of the Black Hawk utility helicopter that is equipped with offensive air-to-surface missile launchers. The helicopter has been fitted with a rapid fire cannon. Israel is looking to American defense industries to upgrade six additional Apache attack helicopters.
THE IRANIAN THREAT AND ISRAEL’S RESPONSE
While military preparations continue, some Israeli officials have denied that Israel is considering a pre-emptive strike against Iran. Some argue that Iran will not have nuclear capability for 3-5 years. Others say that Iran will have that capability in 6-9 months. While not all agree on the same timetable of Iran’s potential to “go nuclear”, most Israeli officials do agree on one crucial point.... They do not think that Iran wants to engage in a direct war with Israel.
Major General (Ret.) Eitan Ben Eliyahu, former Commander of the Israeli Air Force (IAF), spoke at the World Summit on Counter-Terrorism in Herzliya. He said, “States like Iran do it in a different way. If you look at the Syrians, they took advantage of having Lebanon next to them; having Hezbollah next to them; and, indirectly they launched a terror attack against Israel; which means, they stayed clean.” According to Eliyahu, 90% of the terror attacks in Lebanon were Syrian initiatives.
Eliyahu claims that the goal of the Iranians is to finance the terrorists, to politically back them, and to build a nuclear weapon. In doing so, Iran inspires terrorists to attack Israel. But, Eliyahu does not think Iran is interested in direct military action against the Jewish State. Instead, Iran will look to continue using its proxies (Hezbollah and Hamas) to accomplish its goals. “They want to play double face – a legal government in the international society; and, on the other hand, supporting terrorism against Israel and other states.”
As 2010 approaches, Israelis expect to see more jet fighters going for long practice runs over the Mediterranean Sea. They also expect to participate in more national emergency drills that will require them to clean out their bomb shelters and stack them with necessary supplies. And, they expect to hear more news stories about Israel’s military track than the current diplomatic track that seems to be going nowhere.
PRAYER POINTS:
(1) Pray that the God of Israel will mobilize His heavenly troops to fight Israel's enemies.
(2) Pray that Israel will continue to keep its qualitative edge over its enemies in the Middle East region.
(3) Declare that "He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." And, that the Lord shall preserve Israel from all evil, (according to Psalm 121, verses 4 and 7). Continue to intercede for Israel's protection from enemy forces that want to attack the Jewish State.
(4) Proclaim Israel's readiness through God's training of the IDF and IAF, according to Psalm 18:34, which states: “He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.”
(5) Pray for Israel to have favor with the U.S. Defense Department and that all difficulties will be worked out regarding the purchase of American F-35 jet fighter planes. Pray that Israel can use these planes to adequately defend its forces in the future.
(6) Pray for the homefront in Israel to be prepared, and ask the Lord to give insight to those who oversee the civilian population.
(7) Pray that God will deliver the nation from any snare or any trap presented by international leaders who do not have Israel's best interest in mind. (See Psalm 83).
(8) Ask God to raise up intercessors who pray night and day for Israel during times of peace and times of war.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- XVI
Jerusalem, Israel
ISRAELI DIPLOMACY IN THE FACE OF EUROPEAN ANTI-SEMITISM
In recent days, a rift has been caused between the Israeli and Swedish governments over false reporting in a Swedish newspaper which accused Israel of blood libel. The popular Swedish daily, Aftonbladet, with a reported mass circulation of just under 1.5 million copies daily, claims that Israel’s Defense Forces (IDF) kidnapped and murdered Palestinian Arabs in order to harvest their organs for transplanting. This anti-Semitic rhetoric, now hidden under the mask of so-called “investigative journalism” is an excuse for Jew hatred. It is being encouraged and influenced by Sweden’s large Moslem population.
HISTORIC ANTI-SEMITISM
This kind of anti-Semitism has occurred throughout history, going back to accusations before the Middle Ages, fueling Nazi propaganda into the 20th century and beyond. While the Swedish government has refused to condemn the offensive material, hiding under the banner of “freedom of speech” as spelled out in the Swedish constitution, new evidence has revealed that Sweden’s media is partially government controlled. So, it is possible that Swedish government leaders have given their tacit approval to the reporting of offensive anti-Semitic material. This is not the first article from this well-known newspaper that has sought to demonize Israel while supporting the so-called Palestinian cause.
DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGES
A recent report indicates that Moslems will make up 20% of the populations of European Union countries by 2050. With these changing demographics, trends also indicate a steep rise in European anti-Semitism. Between January and June 2009, there were 609 anti-Semitic incidents reported in the U.K. alone. The three countries likely to see the fastest increase in Moslem populations are the U.K., Holland, and Spain. These populations are now being fueled by Moslem hatred of Western values, especially Judeo-Christian principles. The outcries of “freedom of speech” and “freedom of the press” fuels anti-Western propaganda including bias against Israel, as well as anti-Semitism against Jews, worldwide.
DIPLOMACY UNDER FIRE
What’s troubling for Israel is the diplomatic fall-out that could result in damaged relations with Sweden. The Swedish government assumed the European Union (EU) presidency on July 1, and since then, Israel has complained of unfair treatment. There have already been diplomatic tensions between the two countries over Israel’s eviction of Palestinians from a Jewish-owned home in East Jerusalem.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Europe now, trying to convince the U.K. and Germany that Israel has frozen settlement growth. He is hoping to work out a formula with U.S. peace envoy George Mitchell that will allow Israel to finish construction on 2500 homes before freezing all settlement construction for possibly as long as two years. Netanyahu also has the task of convincing other European nations that Israel’s intentions are sincere. The Europeans are anxious to see movement on peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians. With Sweden in the driver’s seat, as head of the EU now, Israel has a long path to climb in international diplomacy.
PRESSURE ON ISRAEL REGARDING THE NUCLEAR ISSUE
Little attention has been given to the fact that the Arab League has urged Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt to support an Arab resolution calling for Israel to open up its nuclear program to EU scrutiny. In September, a 150-nation general assembly of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will be meeting, where votes will be counted on measures that criticize Israel, such as the nuclear issue. Most important are the votes of 27 EU member states that have the power to censure Israel at the IAEA conference.
The Arab League will be asking the IAEA to help encourage the implementation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty – a treaty that Israel has refused to sign. U.S. President Barack Obama has called for the abolishment of global nuclear weapons, which has fueled anti-Israel sentiment, and added pressure on the Jewish State to sign the treaty. Meanwhile, the EU and Israel are awaiting Bildt’s answer to see whether he will encourage the passing of the Arab League resolution, which would result in the censorship of Israel’s nuclear program.
PARLIAMENTARY DIPLOMACY
In the midst of tensions between Israel and Europe, a new diplomatic forum has been created to bring European Parliamentary members together with Israeli Knesset members. In July, MK Yohanan Plesner (Kadima Party), along with the European Forum of the Knesset (EFK), held an historic first meeting, attended by several European ambassadors to Israel. Israeli Opposition Leader Tzippi Livni, Speaker of the Knesset Reuven Rivlin, and other high-ranking Israeli politicians were given a chance to express their views at the meeting on “parliamentary diplomacy”.
The purpose of the gathering was to strengthen relations between Israel and European parliaments. Fiamma Nirenstein, Vice President of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, reported that Sweden has been financing a radical NGO in the guise of human rights and humanitarian aid. She further stated, “In general, through the Barcelona Process, Europe fuels the conflict, funding all the organizations that call Israel a regime of apartheid and accuse it of war crimes.” Sweden is one of the countries mentioned by Nirenstein that gives funds to The Palestinian Center for Human Rights to promote “the culture of hate and war.”
In Rome, Nirenstein hopes to establish an Inter-parliamentary Coalition for Combating anti-Semitism. She plans to gather more than 40 parliamentary diplomats from throughout the world that are committed to defending the rights of the Jewish people.
FUTURE DIPLOMACY – ISRAEL AND EUROPE
Israel fights an uphill battle in convincing European parliaments to stop the spread of anti-Israel hatred, as well as anti-Semitism of global Jewish communities. This is especially true after the tight-lipped response of Sweden’s Foreign Minister Bildt, who refused to condemn the Aftonbladet blood libel article. Because Sweden is one of the world’s largest per-capita donors to the Palestinian cause, Israel will have to take great care in diplomatic dealings with Sweden during its hold on the EU presidency. Hopefully, Bildt’s response to Arab pressure at the IAEA conference will also be tightlipped, giving grace to Israel when it comes to reporting on the Jewish nation’s nuclear capabilities.
Meanwhile, Israel is counting on the U.K. and Germany to convince Sweden that the Jewish State has already begun a settlement freeze in the West Bank.
Israel is also counting on Netanyahu’s trip abroad to result in a favorable working relationship with European leaders, despite the ever-increasing hostile environment Jews continue to face on the streets of most European cities today.
"I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and, in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Genesis 12:3
PRAYER POINTS:
Pray for healing to come between Israel and Sweden.
Pray that all blood libel accusations will cease immediately.
Pray that it will not fuel the fire of anti-Semitism in Europe.
Pray that God will change the hearts of people that have turned their back on Israel and the Jewish people.
Pray that the Lord will stop the scourge of global anti-Semitism. (See Psalm Chapter 35; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5).
Pray protection over Israel in regard to evil plots that threaten the Jewish state. (See Exodus 15:6-13; Esther 8:17).
ISRAELI DIPLOMACY IN THE FACE OF EUROPEAN ANTI-SEMITISM
In recent days, a rift has been caused between the Israeli and Swedish governments over false reporting in a Swedish newspaper which accused Israel of blood libel. The popular Swedish daily, Aftonbladet, with a reported mass circulation of just under 1.5 million copies daily, claims that Israel’s Defense Forces (IDF) kidnapped and murdered Palestinian Arabs in order to harvest their organs for transplanting. This anti-Semitic rhetoric, now hidden under the mask of so-called “investigative journalism” is an excuse for Jew hatred. It is being encouraged and influenced by Sweden’s large Moslem population.
HISTORIC ANTI-SEMITISM
This kind of anti-Semitism has occurred throughout history, going back to accusations before the Middle Ages, fueling Nazi propaganda into the 20th century and beyond. While the Swedish government has refused to condemn the offensive material, hiding under the banner of “freedom of speech” as spelled out in the Swedish constitution, new evidence has revealed that Sweden’s media is partially government controlled. So, it is possible that Swedish government leaders have given their tacit approval to the reporting of offensive anti-Semitic material. This is not the first article from this well-known newspaper that has sought to demonize Israel while supporting the so-called Palestinian cause.
DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGES
A recent report indicates that Moslems will make up 20% of the populations of European Union countries by 2050. With these changing demographics, trends also indicate a steep rise in European anti-Semitism. Between January and June 2009, there were 609 anti-Semitic incidents reported in the U.K. alone. The three countries likely to see the fastest increase in Moslem populations are the U.K., Holland, and Spain. These populations are now being fueled by Moslem hatred of Western values, especially Judeo-Christian principles. The outcries of “freedom of speech” and “freedom of the press” fuels anti-Western propaganda including bias against Israel, as well as anti-Semitism against Jews, worldwide.
DIPLOMACY UNDER FIRE
What’s troubling for Israel is the diplomatic fall-out that could result in damaged relations with Sweden. The Swedish government assumed the European Union (EU) presidency on July 1, and since then, Israel has complained of unfair treatment. There have already been diplomatic tensions between the two countries over Israel’s eviction of Palestinians from a Jewish-owned home in East Jerusalem.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Europe now, trying to convince the U.K. and Germany that Israel has frozen settlement growth. He is hoping to work out a formula with U.S. peace envoy George Mitchell that will allow Israel to finish construction on 2500 homes before freezing all settlement construction for possibly as long as two years. Netanyahu also has the task of convincing other European nations that Israel’s intentions are sincere. The Europeans are anxious to see movement on peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians. With Sweden in the driver’s seat, as head of the EU now, Israel has a long path to climb in international diplomacy.
PRESSURE ON ISRAEL REGARDING THE NUCLEAR ISSUE
Little attention has been given to the fact that the Arab League has urged Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt to support an Arab resolution calling for Israel to open up its nuclear program to EU scrutiny. In September, a 150-nation general assembly of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will be meeting, where votes will be counted on measures that criticize Israel, such as the nuclear issue. Most important are the votes of 27 EU member states that have the power to censure Israel at the IAEA conference.
The Arab League will be asking the IAEA to help encourage the implementation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty – a treaty that Israel has refused to sign. U.S. President Barack Obama has called for the abolishment of global nuclear weapons, which has fueled anti-Israel sentiment, and added pressure on the Jewish State to sign the treaty. Meanwhile, the EU and Israel are awaiting Bildt’s answer to see whether he will encourage the passing of the Arab League resolution, which would result in the censorship of Israel’s nuclear program.
PARLIAMENTARY DIPLOMACY
In the midst of tensions between Israel and Europe, a new diplomatic forum has been created to bring European Parliamentary members together with Israeli Knesset members. In July, MK Yohanan Plesner (Kadima Party), along with the European Forum of the Knesset (EFK), held an historic first meeting, attended by several European ambassadors to Israel. Israeli Opposition Leader Tzippi Livni, Speaker of the Knesset Reuven Rivlin, and other high-ranking Israeli politicians were given a chance to express their views at the meeting on “parliamentary diplomacy”.
The purpose of the gathering was to strengthen relations between Israel and European parliaments. Fiamma Nirenstein, Vice President of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, reported that Sweden has been financing a radical NGO in the guise of human rights and humanitarian aid. She further stated, “In general, through the Barcelona Process, Europe fuels the conflict, funding all the organizations that call Israel a regime of apartheid and accuse it of war crimes.” Sweden is one of the countries mentioned by Nirenstein that gives funds to The Palestinian Center for Human Rights to promote “the culture of hate and war.”
In Rome, Nirenstein hopes to establish an Inter-parliamentary Coalition for Combating anti-Semitism. She plans to gather more than 40 parliamentary diplomats from throughout the world that are committed to defending the rights of the Jewish people.
FUTURE DIPLOMACY – ISRAEL AND EUROPE
Israel fights an uphill battle in convincing European parliaments to stop the spread of anti-Israel hatred, as well as anti-Semitism of global Jewish communities. This is especially true after the tight-lipped response of Sweden’s Foreign Minister Bildt, who refused to condemn the Aftonbladet blood libel article. Because Sweden is one of the world’s largest per-capita donors to the Palestinian cause, Israel will have to take great care in diplomatic dealings with Sweden during its hold on the EU presidency. Hopefully, Bildt’s response to Arab pressure at the IAEA conference will also be tightlipped, giving grace to Israel when it comes to reporting on the Jewish nation’s nuclear capabilities.
Meanwhile, Israel is counting on the U.K. and Germany to convince Sweden that the Jewish State has already begun a settlement freeze in the West Bank.
Israel is also counting on Netanyahu’s trip abroad to result in a favorable working relationship with European leaders, despite the ever-increasing hostile environment Jews continue to face on the streets of most European cities today.
"I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and, in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Genesis 12:3
PRAYER POINTS:
Pray for healing to come between Israel and Sweden.
Pray that all blood libel accusations will cease immediately.
Pray that it will not fuel the fire of anti-Semitism in Europe.
Pray that God will change the hearts of people that have turned their back on Israel and the Jewish people.
Pray that the Lord will stop the scourge of global anti-Semitism. (See Psalm Chapter 35; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5).
Pray protection over Israel in regard to evil plots that threaten the Jewish state. (See Exodus 15:6-13; Esther 8:17).
Monday, July 27, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- XV
Jerusalem, Israel
THE BATTLE OVER JERUSALEM
A key issue expected to be in the forefront of Israel’s diplomatic discussions with the United States, Europe, and the international community is the status of Jerusalem. The current disagreement regarding a settlement freeze, in dispute between U.S. and Israeli officials, points not only to building construction in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria), but also to the building of apartments in East Jerusalem.
On July 19, 2009, at a weekly government cabinet meeting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, "I would like to re-emphasize that united Jerusalem is the capital of the Jewish people and of the State of Israel. Our sovereignty over it cannot be challenged.... We cannot accept the idea that Jews will not have the right to live and purchase in all parts of Jerusalem. I can only describe to myself what would happen if someone would propose that Jews could not live in certain neighborhoods in New York, London, Paris or Rome. There would certainly be a major international outcry. Accordingly, we cannot agree to such a decree in Jerusalem. This has been the policy of Israeli governments over the years and it is also the policy of our government."
While a majority of Israelis are in agreement about Israel’s sovereignty over Jerusalem, virtually all governments of Arab states, along with the Palestinian Authority, claim that the Palestinians must have their own state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to a de-militarized Palestinian state, but he has not agreed to shared control over Jerusalem.
Under previous Israeli governments, negotiations have been freely conducted with Palestinian officials over West Bank withdrawals. Israel has offered land swaps in exchange for keeping major settlement blocs. Yet, the key issue of Jerusalem has not been publicly talked about to any great length. Netanyahu plans to follow the Road Map to its end – which means, discussing the fate of Jerusalem, but only in final status talks with the Palestinians and Arab states. The recent controversy over Israeli building construction in East Jerusalem suggests that, despite what compromises Israel is willing to make over West Bank settlements, the status of Jerusalem will remain non-negotiable until the peace process reaches that final stage.
U.S., Palestinian, and European leaders have had difficulty with Israel’s stringent diplomatic policy regarding the Holy City. However, there has been a continued, unified Israeli consensus that Jerusalem should not be divided, and that is shared by many Jews around the world who have a special affinity for the city.
While Jerusalem was discussed privately between Israel and the Palestinians during former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s reign in office, the media leaked information about the talks, and part of Olmert’s coalition threatened to quit if the government didn’t stop the negotiations. Despite former Foreign Minister Tzippi Livni’s insistence that Jerusalem wasn’t a main topic of conversation with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, reports indicate that she and Olmert were willing to divide the city in two ways: (1) Some Arab neighborhoods would be given over to Palestinian control. (2) The “Holy Basin” (holy sites) would be under international control. But, these discussions were not contained in legally binding letters or documents; nothing was voted on in the Knesset; and, there was no successful achievement in peace talks on the future status of the city.
Most westerners understand only part of the controversy over Jerusalem. Critics of Israel who defend the Palestinian position explain that Israel can keep control over the western part of the city. These critics don’t take into account that the Temple Mount, an essential landmark in Israel’s biblical history, is located in East Jerusalem, as is the Western Wall, the only authentic outer wall still standing since the Second Temple was destroyed in 70 AD.
Pro-Israel supporters, while understanding the controversy over East Jerusalem, and the importance of the holy sites to the Jewish people, may not realize that the Palestinians are not just talking about controlling parts of the Old City within the walls. They want to control well-established Jewish neighborhoods outside the walls, such as French Hill, Ramot, East Talpiot, Gilo, Har Homa, and Pisgat Ze’ev. These Jerusalem neighborhoods that were built after the 1967 Six Day War have continued to be referred to as “settlements” by the Palestinians.
Recently, Palestinian leader Salaam Fayad announced that the Palestinian Authority will invest tens of millions of dollars in Jerusalem’s Arab neighborhoods. The Palestinians now consider Jerusalem a top national priority. They have adopted the same words that the Israeli government has used to describe sovereignty over the city. The Palestinians claim that Jerusalem will be the “eternal” capital of their state. Like the U.S. State Department, the Palestinians have called for an end to Israeli settlement construction, not just in the West Bank, but also in Jerusalem and its surroundings.
On July 22, 2009, at a press conference in New York City, visiting Mayor of Jerusalem Nir Barkat proclaimed: “Jerusalem is the capital of Israel – the heart and soul of the Jewish people... We will stand strongly against any intervention to try and divide Jerusalem. I am proud that there has never been greater freedom of religion in the city of Jerusalem than under the flag of Israel – where everyone is free to practice their beliefs in public and visit their holy sites. The future of Jerusalem is quite clear. It must stay the undivided capital of the State of Israel.”
Yet, international leaders have commented that Israel’s current government is not accepting the fact that the Palestinians, as well as Arab states, will never agree to a Palestinian state without East Jerusalem as its capital. Some officials, like European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana, have called for the United Nations Security Council to push forward the recognition of a Palestinian state even without a final status agreement. That would politically legitimize Palestinian claims. Such a move would give the Palestinians recognition before the United Nations as a full member state. It would be their claim, equally against Israel’s claim, regarding the final status of Jerusalem.
Exacerbating the Israeli-Palestinian dialogue over this issue is the fact that Netanyahu has had to contend with U.S. President Barack Obama’s political leanings toward the Palestinians. Israeli foreign policy analysts see Obama as more supportive of the Palestinian position than any U.S. president going back to the Carter Administration.
Obama’s White House press secretary announced in June 2009, in response to Netanyahu’s famous Bar-Ilan speech, Obama’s vision for the Middle East: “Two states, a Jewish State of Israel and an independent Palestine, in the historic homeland of both peoples”. If Obama believes that the Palestinians have equal rights to the Promised Land then he, most likely, has concluded that they are entitled to shared control of Jerusalem.
Without a biblical world view, there are no boundaries as to what the Obama Administration might do to pressure Israel into releasing sovereignty over the city. One way that the U.S. has already pressured Israel is by imposing greater restrictions on how Israel can spend the military aid it receives from America. This might develop into a military freeze on needed advanced weapons systems. It could include restrictions on the sale of the F-35 jet stealth fighter that Israel hopes to add to its air force arsenal. The fighter jet would give Israel a qualitative edge over its enemies.
Regardless of the amount of pressure that America puts on Israel, there are biblical reasons that the Jewish State cannot release control over Jerusalem. When Obama gave his famous Cairo speech in June 2009, Israeli leaders were shocked that he omitted Israel’s legal and historical rights to the land. But, these same leaders did not speak openly of the biblical rights of the Jewish people to live in Israel and to dwell in Jerusalem.
There are over 800 references to Jerusalem in the Strong’s Concordance. God has chosen the city for Himself, to put His name there. (I Kings 11:36; 2 Chronicles 6:6). The House of the Lord is built in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 6:32, Ezra 1:2-5; Ezra 5:15). David gathers all Israel together in Jerusalem to bring up the ark of the Lord to its resting place (1 Chronicles 15:3). The God of Israel gives rest to His people that they might dwell in Jerusalem forever. (1 Chronicles 23:25). The tribes of Israel seek the Lord in Jerusalem, sacrificing to the God of their fathers. (2 Chronicles 11:16; Psalm 122:3-5). God saves His people, brings them back from other lands, and there is deliverance in Jerusalem among the remnant that the Lord calls. (Zechariah 8:7-8; Joel 2:32; Isaiah 52:7-10).
God, Himself, returns to Zion and dwells in the midst of Jerusalem (Psalm 135:21; Zechariah 8:3). He roars from Zion and utters His voice from Jerusalem (Joel 3:16; Amos 1:2). The word of the Lord goes forth from Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:3; Micah 4:2). Jerusalem is called the Throne of the Lord and all the nations are gathered to it (Jeremiah3:17; Zechariah 8:22). God sets Jerusalem in the midst of the nations and the countries all around her. (Ezekiel 5:5). His name is declared in Zion and His praise in Jerusalem. (Psalm 102:21).
Pro-Israel supporters should consider it imperative to be watchmen on the walls, praying for the peace of Jerusalem, and giving the Lord no rest until He establishes Jerusalem as a praise in the earth. (Psalm 122:6-9; Psalm 137:5-6; Psalm 147:12-14; Isaiah 62:6-7).
Israel’s sovereignty over Jerusalem goes back thousands of years, something that the Palestinians can’t claim as their inheritance. Yet, the dispute over Jerusalem may be the catalyst that breaks down all peace talks and leads to a battle which causes the nations of the earth to stumble over God’s will for His Holy City.
“Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of drunkenness to all the surrounding peoples, when they lay siege against Judah and Jerusalem. And, it shall happen in that day that I will make Jerusalem a very heavy stone for all peoples; all who would heave it away will surely be cut in pieces, though all nations of the earth are gathered against it.”
Zechariah 12:2-3
THE BATTLE OVER JERUSALEM
A key issue expected to be in the forefront of Israel’s diplomatic discussions with the United States, Europe, and the international community is the status of Jerusalem. The current disagreement regarding a settlement freeze, in dispute between U.S. and Israeli officials, points not only to building construction in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria), but also to the building of apartments in East Jerusalem.
On July 19, 2009, at a weekly government cabinet meeting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, "I would like to re-emphasize that united Jerusalem is the capital of the Jewish people and of the State of Israel. Our sovereignty over it cannot be challenged.... We cannot accept the idea that Jews will not have the right to live and purchase in all parts of Jerusalem. I can only describe to myself what would happen if someone would propose that Jews could not live in certain neighborhoods in New York, London, Paris or Rome. There would certainly be a major international outcry. Accordingly, we cannot agree to such a decree in Jerusalem. This has been the policy of Israeli governments over the years and it is also the policy of our government."
While a majority of Israelis are in agreement about Israel’s sovereignty over Jerusalem, virtually all governments of Arab states, along with the Palestinian Authority, claim that the Palestinians must have their own state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to a de-militarized Palestinian state, but he has not agreed to shared control over Jerusalem.
Under previous Israeli governments, negotiations have been freely conducted with Palestinian officials over West Bank withdrawals. Israel has offered land swaps in exchange for keeping major settlement blocs. Yet, the key issue of Jerusalem has not been publicly talked about to any great length. Netanyahu plans to follow the Road Map to its end – which means, discussing the fate of Jerusalem, but only in final status talks with the Palestinians and Arab states. The recent controversy over Israeli building construction in East Jerusalem suggests that, despite what compromises Israel is willing to make over West Bank settlements, the status of Jerusalem will remain non-negotiable until the peace process reaches that final stage.
U.S., Palestinian, and European leaders have had difficulty with Israel’s stringent diplomatic policy regarding the Holy City. However, there has been a continued, unified Israeli consensus that Jerusalem should not be divided, and that is shared by many Jews around the world who have a special affinity for the city.
While Jerusalem was discussed privately between Israel and the Palestinians during former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s reign in office, the media leaked information about the talks, and part of Olmert’s coalition threatened to quit if the government didn’t stop the negotiations. Despite former Foreign Minister Tzippi Livni’s insistence that Jerusalem wasn’t a main topic of conversation with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, reports indicate that she and Olmert were willing to divide the city in two ways: (1) Some Arab neighborhoods would be given over to Palestinian control. (2) The “Holy Basin” (holy sites) would be under international control. But, these discussions were not contained in legally binding letters or documents; nothing was voted on in the Knesset; and, there was no successful achievement in peace talks on the future status of the city.
Most westerners understand only part of the controversy over Jerusalem. Critics of Israel who defend the Palestinian position explain that Israel can keep control over the western part of the city. These critics don’t take into account that the Temple Mount, an essential landmark in Israel’s biblical history, is located in East Jerusalem, as is the Western Wall, the only authentic outer wall still standing since the Second Temple was destroyed in 70 AD.
Pro-Israel supporters, while understanding the controversy over East Jerusalem, and the importance of the holy sites to the Jewish people, may not realize that the Palestinians are not just talking about controlling parts of the Old City within the walls. They want to control well-established Jewish neighborhoods outside the walls, such as French Hill, Ramot, East Talpiot, Gilo, Har Homa, and Pisgat Ze’ev. These Jerusalem neighborhoods that were built after the 1967 Six Day War have continued to be referred to as “settlements” by the Palestinians.
Recently, Palestinian leader Salaam Fayad announced that the Palestinian Authority will invest tens of millions of dollars in Jerusalem’s Arab neighborhoods. The Palestinians now consider Jerusalem a top national priority. They have adopted the same words that the Israeli government has used to describe sovereignty over the city. The Palestinians claim that Jerusalem will be the “eternal” capital of their state. Like the U.S. State Department, the Palestinians have called for an end to Israeli settlement construction, not just in the West Bank, but also in Jerusalem and its surroundings.
On July 22, 2009, at a press conference in New York City, visiting Mayor of Jerusalem Nir Barkat proclaimed: “Jerusalem is the capital of Israel – the heart and soul of the Jewish people... We will stand strongly against any intervention to try and divide Jerusalem. I am proud that there has never been greater freedom of religion in the city of Jerusalem than under the flag of Israel – where everyone is free to practice their beliefs in public and visit their holy sites. The future of Jerusalem is quite clear. It must stay the undivided capital of the State of Israel.”
Yet, international leaders have commented that Israel’s current government is not accepting the fact that the Palestinians, as well as Arab states, will never agree to a Palestinian state without East Jerusalem as its capital. Some officials, like European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana, have called for the United Nations Security Council to push forward the recognition of a Palestinian state even without a final status agreement. That would politically legitimize Palestinian claims. Such a move would give the Palestinians recognition before the United Nations as a full member state. It would be their claim, equally against Israel’s claim, regarding the final status of Jerusalem.
Exacerbating the Israeli-Palestinian dialogue over this issue is the fact that Netanyahu has had to contend with U.S. President Barack Obama’s political leanings toward the Palestinians. Israeli foreign policy analysts see Obama as more supportive of the Palestinian position than any U.S. president going back to the Carter Administration.
Obama’s White House press secretary announced in June 2009, in response to Netanyahu’s famous Bar-Ilan speech, Obama’s vision for the Middle East: “Two states, a Jewish State of Israel and an independent Palestine, in the historic homeland of both peoples”. If Obama believes that the Palestinians have equal rights to the Promised Land then he, most likely, has concluded that they are entitled to shared control of Jerusalem.
Without a biblical world view, there are no boundaries as to what the Obama Administration might do to pressure Israel into releasing sovereignty over the city. One way that the U.S. has already pressured Israel is by imposing greater restrictions on how Israel can spend the military aid it receives from America. This might develop into a military freeze on needed advanced weapons systems. It could include restrictions on the sale of the F-35 jet stealth fighter that Israel hopes to add to its air force arsenal. The fighter jet would give Israel a qualitative edge over its enemies.
Regardless of the amount of pressure that America puts on Israel, there are biblical reasons that the Jewish State cannot release control over Jerusalem. When Obama gave his famous Cairo speech in June 2009, Israeli leaders were shocked that he omitted Israel’s legal and historical rights to the land. But, these same leaders did not speak openly of the biblical rights of the Jewish people to live in Israel and to dwell in Jerusalem.
There are over 800 references to Jerusalem in the Strong’s Concordance. God has chosen the city for Himself, to put His name there. (I Kings 11:36; 2 Chronicles 6:6). The House of the Lord is built in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 6:32, Ezra 1:2-5; Ezra 5:15). David gathers all Israel together in Jerusalem to bring up the ark of the Lord to its resting place (1 Chronicles 15:3). The God of Israel gives rest to His people that they might dwell in Jerusalem forever. (1 Chronicles 23:25). The tribes of Israel seek the Lord in Jerusalem, sacrificing to the God of their fathers. (2 Chronicles 11:16; Psalm 122:3-5). God saves His people, brings them back from other lands, and there is deliverance in Jerusalem among the remnant that the Lord calls. (Zechariah 8:7-8; Joel 2:32; Isaiah 52:7-10).
God, Himself, returns to Zion and dwells in the midst of Jerusalem (Psalm 135:21; Zechariah 8:3). He roars from Zion and utters His voice from Jerusalem (Joel 3:16; Amos 1:2). The word of the Lord goes forth from Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:3; Micah 4:2). Jerusalem is called the Throne of the Lord and all the nations are gathered to it (Jeremiah3:17; Zechariah 8:22). God sets Jerusalem in the midst of the nations and the countries all around her. (Ezekiel 5:5). His name is declared in Zion and His praise in Jerusalem. (Psalm 102:21).
Pro-Israel supporters should consider it imperative to be watchmen on the walls, praying for the peace of Jerusalem, and giving the Lord no rest until He establishes Jerusalem as a praise in the earth. (Psalm 122:6-9; Psalm 137:5-6; Psalm 147:12-14; Isaiah 62:6-7).
Israel’s sovereignty over Jerusalem goes back thousands of years, something that the Palestinians can’t claim as their inheritance. Yet, the dispute over Jerusalem may be the catalyst that breaks down all peace talks and leads to a battle which causes the nations of the earth to stumble over God’s will for His Holy City.
“Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of drunkenness to all the surrounding peoples, when they lay siege against Judah and Jerusalem. And, it shall happen in that day that I will make Jerusalem a very heavy stone for all peoples; all who would heave it away will surely be cut in pieces, though all nations of the earth are gathered against it.”
Zechariah 12:2-3
Thursday, July 16, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- XIV
Jerusalem, Israel
U.S.-ISRAEL RELATIONS: FRICTION IN THE MIDDLE EAST
A recent poll indicates Israel is one of the least peaceful countries in the world. Yet, in this land of chaos and conflict, religious Jews pray three times a day for peace. But, peace has been the illusive dream. Americans and Israelis, alike, hope that this will be the year when Israeli-Palestinian clashes will end, and Iran will back down from its nuclear pursuit.
Since January 2009, American foreign policy has been reshaped by U.S. President Barak Obama. Since February 2009, Israeli foreign policy has taken on a new dimension under the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Obama with his liberal leanings to the left of the political spectrum, and Netanyahu with his conservative leanings to the right, have found compromise to be difficult on Middle East issues. Friction between both administrations is threatening the strategic relationship between the two democratic allies.
Israel and the U.S. will survive this current chapter in political history, but not without constant American pressure applied to Israel, to offer concessions not only to the Palestinians, but to moderate Arab states, as well. Obama is seeking a quick end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and a comprehensive regional agreement that he hopes will move Arab states closer towards peace with Israel.
THE ROAD MAP – PAST AND PRESENT
Talks have centered, recently, on revamping the Road Map for Peace, an agreement proposed by the Quartet (U.S., U.N., EU, and Russia), and outlined by former American President George W. Bush in his June 2002 speech. At that time, Bush called for an independent Palestinian state, proposing that Palestinians could live side by side with Israel in peace. The vision was to protect Israel’s security while offering the Palestinians a viable democratic state.
Three phases were spelled out. A key demand was an end to Palestinian violence, along with the expectation of Palestinian political and military reform. Also agreed upon was an Israeli withdrawal from settlements, as well as a freeze on settlement expansion. The phases offered Palestinians economic recovery, and encouraged Arab cultural and trade links with Israel.
Phase 3 proposed the hosting of an international peace conference. Following that, a permanent final status agreement would deal with an end to the conflict; an agreement on borders; and clarification regarding the fate of Jerusalem, refugees and settlements.
While Israel’s cabinet approved the plan, they attached 14 reservations to the document. Among Israel’s reservations was any linkage to the Palestinian track with other tracks. Arab peace deals (such as with Syria or Lebanon) would be considered separately. Israel also demanded that declared references be made to Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state, and the waiver of any right of return for Palestinian refugees to the state of Israel. In the reservations, Israel acquiesced to certain aspects of Palestinian sovereignty, but, insisted on a de-militarized Palestinian state with only police and internal security forces allowed.
A series of violent Palestinian attacks on Israelis in 2003 derailed the Road Map. In 2006, Hamas took over the Gaza Strip, which outdated the internationally recognized agreement.
Because Israeli leaders and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas have agreed to follow the Road Map, it is expected to be revised in the coming year. Already, in Netanyahu’s Bar-Ilan speech on June 14, 2009, he made references to how the peace process could move forward, signaling Israel’s continued approval of the Road Map. In his Bar-Ilan address, he spelled out many of the Road Map details, including Israel’s reservations.
AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE
To implement the revised Road Map, and include Obama’s vision for a comprehensive Middle East peace, Israel has tacitly agreed to attend another international conference. Israeli leaders have stated that they will need to know the parameters of such a conference, and will insist that Iran and Hezbollah are not included. In the past, international conferences have tended to hurt Israel politically, with diplomats consistently pushing a “land for peace” formula.
One of the reasons the U.S. is encouraging the conference now is to advance the Obama Administration’s agenda. If Russia hosts the conference, which is likely, it will be a way of getting Russian leaders involved more directly in the Middle East, with America hoping they will join a future U.S. led coalition against Iran.
DISPUTE OVER SETTLEMENTS
Several high level Israeli government officials have complained privately and publicly that the settlement issue has been blown out of proportion by the Obama Administration. Increased pressure on Israel to freeze all settlement construction, including “natural growth”, has been rejected by a majority of Israelis and by almost all Israeli political parties. Many think that Obama has overplayed his hand, being driven by an overeager staff bent on humiliating Netanyahu. Meanwhile, outspoken Democrats in Congress and liberal American Jewish leaders have agreed with Obama, which is not helping Israel’s position.
Obama’s worldview of “two states, a Jewish State of Israel and an independent Palestine, in the historic homeland of both peoples”, along with his constant pressure on Israel regarding the settlement issue, has caused Israelis to question his real intentions. Mistrust of Obama can be seen in recent polls that suggest only 6% of Jewish Israelis consider the views of his administration to be pro-Israel. And, 50% consider the policies of his administration to be more pro-Palestinian than pro-Israeli.
A compromise is being worked out so that both Obama and Netanyahu can say they achieved a political victory on the settlement issue. The U.S. may agree to Israel finishing construction on 2,000-2,500 housing units. Israel may allow a complete settlement freeze for a short period of time during which Arab states would be given the opportunity to normalize ties with Israel.
Settlers have already complained that, since November 2008, there have been no new building permits approved for settlement construction. Ironically, a freeze on settlements takes jobs away from West Bank Palestinians. More than 12,000 Palestinians are employed by both Jewish and Arab contractors who are building new homes. Most Palestinian workers are more concerned with putting food on the table for their families than protesting their political rights to settlement land.
One of Israel’s red lines regarding the settlement issue has to do with construction in Jerusalem, especially East Jerusalem. Israel has said Jerusalem is off-limits until final status negotiations. New construction in Har Homa, a Jerusalem neighborhood that is partially beyond the Green Line, has resulted in international protest. But, Israeli leaders say that Har Homa is non-negotiable.
Settlements have been around for more than 40 years. The U.S., under previous American presidents, agreed verbally with Israel to a quiet settlement formula, whereby Israel promised not to diminish the territory of a future Palestinian state.
Israel is concerned that the Obama Administration is not willing to consider these verbal agreements or a written letter by George W. Bush to former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon in June 2004. That letter outlined the changing nature of the settlements and facts on the ground that indicated Israel could not be expected to completely withdraw to the 1967 borders in a future peace agreement with the Palestinians.
It’s expected that major settlements like Gush Etzion, Ariel, and Maale Adumim will continue to try and build for natural growth despite U.S. objections. Israeli officials are hoping that the Obama Administration will agree to put the settlement issue on the back burner, and instead pursue a much more serious issue –Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons.
THE IRANIAN ISSUE
Most Westerners understand that Iran is the greatest threat to the world today. If Iran is allowed to develop nuclear weapons, Middle East experts say it will prompt an arms race in the region that will undermine peace throughout the world.
Yet, President Obama has not changed his mind in pursuing a diplomatic exchange with Iranian leaders despite a revolution taking place inside Iran between the elites in power. Israelis are aware that reform in Iran will not change the fact that the ruling religious clerics, who control Iran’s power, will continue to pursue a nuclear Iran.
Israeli leaders have urged Obama not to delay his diplomatic talks with Iran, strongly suggesting he end the talks within a given time frame of several months. Israeli officials think that diplomacy will ultimately fail, and the next option will be stiffer U.N. sanctions followed by possible military force.
Israel’s air force has been training for a long-term mission with reports indicating that, if necessary, Israel may launch a pre-emptive strike against Iran to prevent the country from “going nuclear”.
Meanwhile, Israelis are hoping for a peace process that allows the Jewish State to confront the Iranian problem, while refraining from giving in on dangerous concessions to the Palestinians. Whether this balance in diplomacy will be acceptable to the U.S. or not is unclear. What is clear is that the two allies have been at odds on how to solve both the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the Iranian issue, and this friction may continue until new governments emerge in both nations.
U.S.-ISRAEL RELATIONS: FRICTION IN THE MIDDLE EAST
A recent poll indicates Israel is one of the least peaceful countries in the world. Yet, in this land of chaos and conflict, religious Jews pray three times a day for peace. But, peace has been the illusive dream. Americans and Israelis, alike, hope that this will be the year when Israeli-Palestinian clashes will end, and Iran will back down from its nuclear pursuit.
Since January 2009, American foreign policy has been reshaped by U.S. President Barak Obama. Since February 2009, Israeli foreign policy has taken on a new dimension under the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Obama with his liberal leanings to the left of the political spectrum, and Netanyahu with his conservative leanings to the right, have found compromise to be difficult on Middle East issues. Friction between both administrations is threatening the strategic relationship between the two democratic allies.
Israel and the U.S. will survive this current chapter in political history, but not without constant American pressure applied to Israel, to offer concessions not only to the Palestinians, but to moderate Arab states, as well. Obama is seeking a quick end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and a comprehensive regional agreement that he hopes will move Arab states closer towards peace with Israel.
THE ROAD MAP – PAST AND PRESENT
Talks have centered, recently, on revamping the Road Map for Peace, an agreement proposed by the Quartet (U.S., U.N., EU, and Russia), and outlined by former American President George W. Bush in his June 2002 speech. At that time, Bush called for an independent Palestinian state, proposing that Palestinians could live side by side with Israel in peace. The vision was to protect Israel’s security while offering the Palestinians a viable democratic state.
Three phases were spelled out. A key demand was an end to Palestinian violence, along with the expectation of Palestinian political and military reform. Also agreed upon was an Israeli withdrawal from settlements, as well as a freeze on settlement expansion. The phases offered Palestinians economic recovery, and encouraged Arab cultural and trade links with Israel.
Phase 3 proposed the hosting of an international peace conference. Following that, a permanent final status agreement would deal with an end to the conflict; an agreement on borders; and clarification regarding the fate of Jerusalem, refugees and settlements.
While Israel’s cabinet approved the plan, they attached 14 reservations to the document. Among Israel’s reservations was any linkage to the Palestinian track with other tracks. Arab peace deals (such as with Syria or Lebanon) would be considered separately. Israel also demanded that declared references be made to Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state, and the waiver of any right of return for Palestinian refugees to the state of Israel. In the reservations, Israel acquiesced to certain aspects of Palestinian sovereignty, but, insisted on a de-militarized Palestinian state with only police and internal security forces allowed.
A series of violent Palestinian attacks on Israelis in 2003 derailed the Road Map. In 2006, Hamas took over the Gaza Strip, which outdated the internationally recognized agreement.
Because Israeli leaders and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas have agreed to follow the Road Map, it is expected to be revised in the coming year. Already, in Netanyahu’s Bar-Ilan speech on June 14, 2009, he made references to how the peace process could move forward, signaling Israel’s continued approval of the Road Map. In his Bar-Ilan address, he spelled out many of the Road Map details, including Israel’s reservations.
AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE
To implement the revised Road Map, and include Obama’s vision for a comprehensive Middle East peace, Israel has tacitly agreed to attend another international conference. Israeli leaders have stated that they will need to know the parameters of such a conference, and will insist that Iran and Hezbollah are not included. In the past, international conferences have tended to hurt Israel politically, with diplomats consistently pushing a “land for peace” formula.
One of the reasons the U.S. is encouraging the conference now is to advance the Obama Administration’s agenda. If Russia hosts the conference, which is likely, it will be a way of getting Russian leaders involved more directly in the Middle East, with America hoping they will join a future U.S. led coalition against Iran.
DISPUTE OVER SETTLEMENTS
Several high level Israeli government officials have complained privately and publicly that the settlement issue has been blown out of proportion by the Obama Administration. Increased pressure on Israel to freeze all settlement construction, including “natural growth”, has been rejected by a majority of Israelis and by almost all Israeli political parties. Many think that Obama has overplayed his hand, being driven by an overeager staff bent on humiliating Netanyahu. Meanwhile, outspoken Democrats in Congress and liberal American Jewish leaders have agreed with Obama, which is not helping Israel’s position.
Obama’s worldview of “two states, a Jewish State of Israel and an independent Palestine, in the historic homeland of both peoples”, along with his constant pressure on Israel regarding the settlement issue, has caused Israelis to question his real intentions. Mistrust of Obama can be seen in recent polls that suggest only 6% of Jewish Israelis consider the views of his administration to be pro-Israel. And, 50% consider the policies of his administration to be more pro-Palestinian than pro-Israeli.
A compromise is being worked out so that both Obama and Netanyahu can say they achieved a political victory on the settlement issue. The U.S. may agree to Israel finishing construction on 2,000-2,500 housing units. Israel may allow a complete settlement freeze for a short period of time during which Arab states would be given the opportunity to normalize ties with Israel.
Settlers have already complained that, since November 2008, there have been no new building permits approved for settlement construction. Ironically, a freeze on settlements takes jobs away from West Bank Palestinians. More than 12,000 Palestinians are employed by both Jewish and Arab contractors who are building new homes. Most Palestinian workers are more concerned with putting food on the table for their families than protesting their political rights to settlement land.
One of Israel’s red lines regarding the settlement issue has to do with construction in Jerusalem, especially East Jerusalem. Israel has said Jerusalem is off-limits until final status negotiations. New construction in Har Homa, a Jerusalem neighborhood that is partially beyond the Green Line, has resulted in international protest. But, Israeli leaders say that Har Homa is non-negotiable.
Settlements have been around for more than 40 years. The U.S., under previous American presidents, agreed verbally with Israel to a quiet settlement formula, whereby Israel promised not to diminish the territory of a future Palestinian state.
Israel is concerned that the Obama Administration is not willing to consider these verbal agreements or a written letter by George W. Bush to former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon in June 2004. That letter outlined the changing nature of the settlements and facts on the ground that indicated Israel could not be expected to completely withdraw to the 1967 borders in a future peace agreement with the Palestinians.
It’s expected that major settlements like Gush Etzion, Ariel, and Maale Adumim will continue to try and build for natural growth despite U.S. objections. Israeli officials are hoping that the Obama Administration will agree to put the settlement issue on the back burner, and instead pursue a much more serious issue –Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons.
THE IRANIAN ISSUE
Most Westerners understand that Iran is the greatest threat to the world today. If Iran is allowed to develop nuclear weapons, Middle East experts say it will prompt an arms race in the region that will undermine peace throughout the world.
Yet, President Obama has not changed his mind in pursuing a diplomatic exchange with Iranian leaders despite a revolution taking place inside Iran between the elites in power. Israelis are aware that reform in Iran will not change the fact that the ruling religious clerics, who control Iran’s power, will continue to pursue a nuclear Iran.
Israeli leaders have urged Obama not to delay his diplomatic talks with Iran, strongly suggesting he end the talks within a given time frame of several months. Israeli officials think that diplomacy will ultimately fail, and the next option will be stiffer U.N. sanctions followed by possible military force.
Israel’s air force has been training for a long-term mission with reports indicating that, if necessary, Israel may launch a pre-emptive strike against Iran to prevent the country from “going nuclear”.
Meanwhile, Israelis are hoping for a peace process that allows the Jewish State to confront the Iranian problem, while refraining from giving in on dangerous concessions to the Palestinians. Whether this balance in diplomacy will be acceptable to the U.S. or not is unclear. What is clear is that the two allies have been at odds on how to solve both the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the Iranian issue, and this friction may continue until new governments emerge in both nations.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- XIII
Jerusalem, Israel
OFF-THE-RECORD BRIEFING
On June 30, journalists and diplomats were briefed at a think tank in Jerusalem. A high level Israeli government official spoke candidly about Iran, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and other issues of concern in the Middle East. Here are some of the insights this Israeli cabinet member shared so you can be praying into these matters:
(1) The current regime in Iran is not going to survive a long time. We will witness an internal revolution in Iran. President Obama’s recent comment about the Iranian regime was important to encourage the pragmatists, but it can’t stand alone. More is needed. Impose sanctions now!
(2) If you look at the Iranian threat, the idea of allowing them nuclear capability will be a nightmare. They will then be able to export their ideology, and, fulfill their global aspirations of importing Islam to defeat the West.
(3) Israel has empowered, energized, and inspired jihadists. Israel's withdrawals (from Lebanon in 2000 and the Gaza Strip in 2005) were perceived as a victory for Jihadism. Territorial concessions today will be a source of inspiration to jihadists tomorrow – another victory.
(4) How can anyone expect a peace agreement to be implemented with the Palestinians when Palestinian children are learning how to wear explosive belts? There needs to be an educational curriculum; certain projects are needed to encourage Palestinians to go through reform. They need to understand that the culture of Hamas is a self-destructive culture.
(5) Evacuating settlements is not the solution to ending the conflict. Israeli Arabs are already living all over Israel in peace. Why has the settlement issue become the most important issue? Israel is worried that the current U.S. Administration has, so far, ignored agreements and understandings reached with previous administrations. Israel hopes to find a way to solve this marginal issue in order to pave the way for more significant issues.
PRAYER FOR IRAN
As the people of Iran rise up in demand for a righteous and just government, pray:
• that the current Iranian government will stop crushing their citizens and will allow political reform.
• for complete regime change (including a change in the religious counsel behind the presidency).
• for a regime that ceases from terrorism.
• for a regime that stops trying to build a nuclear bomb.
• for a regime that will not look to destroy Israel.
Pray for the people of Iran, according to Daniel 6:25-28. Ask God to deal with the Persian princes and rulers over Iran that have blocked Iranians from hearing clearly from the Lord. (Daniel 10:13; Daniel 10:20).
THE SETTLEMENT ISSUE
The international community, especially the U.S., is trying to dictate ownership concerning the land of Israel. If they can get Israel to freeze settlement construction, including for natural growth, even for a short period of time, they will have succeeded in allowing the Palestinians to claim key parts of Israel as their territory. Then, it is only a matter of time before Israel will find itself without defensible borders, moving masses of people out of the biblical heartland – Judea and Samaria.
• Proclaim blessings on the tribes of Israel, decreeing their immediate return to the Promised Land. Pray that they dwell in the land of their forefathers and cultivate faithfulness. (Deuteronomy 33:28-29; Deuteronomy 34:1-4).
• Declare the covenant promises of God to the Jewish people and the nation of Israel: Genesis 13:17; Genesis 15:18; Genesis 17:19; Genesis 28:3-4; Genesis 28:13; Joshua Chapter 15; Romans 11:29; Leviticus 26:44-45; Ezekiel 36:12; Jeremiah 31:5; Ezekiel 5:5.
Continue to pray for meetings between Israeli and U.S. leaders over the settlement issue:
• that U.S. President Barak Obama, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and U.S. Peace Envoy George Mitchell will cease their demands of Israel in regard to a settlement freeze.
• that they will understand God’s covenant with the Jewish people and align their foreign policy initiatives with God’s Word.
PALESTINIAN EDUCATIONAL REFORM
• Pray that Palestinian school children will begin to learn the truth about the Jewish people and their covenant right to the land of Israel. Pray that Palestinian parents will also learn the truth, and teach their children the ways of the Lord, according to Proverbs 22:6.
OFF-THE-RECORD BRIEFING
On June 30, journalists and diplomats were briefed at a think tank in Jerusalem. A high level Israeli government official spoke candidly about Iran, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and other issues of concern in the Middle East. Here are some of the insights this Israeli cabinet member shared so you can be praying into these matters:
(1) The current regime in Iran is not going to survive a long time. We will witness an internal revolution in Iran. President Obama’s recent comment about the Iranian regime was important to encourage the pragmatists, but it can’t stand alone. More is needed. Impose sanctions now!
(2) If you look at the Iranian threat, the idea of allowing them nuclear capability will be a nightmare. They will then be able to export their ideology, and, fulfill their global aspirations of importing Islam to defeat the West.
(3) Israel has empowered, energized, and inspired jihadists. Israel's withdrawals (from Lebanon in 2000 and the Gaza Strip in 2005) were perceived as a victory for Jihadism. Territorial concessions today will be a source of inspiration to jihadists tomorrow – another victory.
(4) How can anyone expect a peace agreement to be implemented with the Palestinians when Palestinian children are learning how to wear explosive belts? There needs to be an educational curriculum; certain projects are needed to encourage Palestinians to go through reform. They need to understand that the culture of Hamas is a self-destructive culture.
(5) Evacuating settlements is not the solution to ending the conflict. Israeli Arabs are already living all over Israel in peace. Why has the settlement issue become the most important issue? Israel is worried that the current U.S. Administration has, so far, ignored agreements and understandings reached with previous administrations. Israel hopes to find a way to solve this marginal issue in order to pave the way for more significant issues.
PRAYER FOR IRAN
As the people of Iran rise up in demand for a righteous and just government, pray:
• that the current Iranian government will stop crushing their citizens and will allow political reform.
• for complete regime change (including a change in the religious counsel behind the presidency).
• for a regime that ceases from terrorism.
• for a regime that stops trying to build a nuclear bomb.
• for a regime that will not look to destroy Israel.
Pray for the people of Iran, according to Daniel 6:25-28. Ask God to deal with the Persian princes and rulers over Iran that have blocked Iranians from hearing clearly from the Lord. (Daniel 10:13; Daniel 10:20).
THE SETTLEMENT ISSUE
The international community, especially the U.S., is trying to dictate ownership concerning the land of Israel. If they can get Israel to freeze settlement construction, including for natural growth, even for a short period of time, they will have succeeded in allowing the Palestinians to claim key parts of Israel as their territory. Then, it is only a matter of time before Israel will find itself without defensible borders, moving masses of people out of the biblical heartland – Judea and Samaria.
• Proclaim blessings on the tribes of Israel, decreeing their immediate return to the Promised Land. Pray that they dwell in the land of their forefathers and cultivate faithfulness. (Deuteronomy 33:28-29; Deuteronomy 34:1-4).
• Declare the covenant promises of God to the Jewish people and the nation of Israel: Genesis 13:17; Genesis 15:18; Genesis 17:19; Genesis 28:3-4; Genesis 28:13; Joshua Chapter 15; Romans 11:29; Leviticus 26:44-45; Ezekiel 36:12; Jeremiah 31:5; Ezekiel 5:5.
Continue to pray for meetings between Israeli and U.S. leaders over the settlement issue:
• that U.S. President Barak Obama, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and U.S. Peace Envoy George Mitchell will cease their demands of Israel in regard to a settlement freeze.
• that they will understand God’s covenant with the Jewish people and align their foreign policy initiatives with God’s Word.
PALESTINIAN EDUCATIONAL REFORM
• Pray that Palestinian school children will begin to learn the truth about the Jewish people and their covenant right to the land of Israel. Pray that Palestinian parents will also learn the truth, and teach their children the ways of the Lord, according to Proverbs 22:6.
Monday, June 15, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- XII
Jerusalem, Israel
THE DANGERS OF A COMPREHENSIVE PEACE DEAL
Pro-Israel supporters have been focused on the new relationship between U.S. President Barak Obama, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The international community has been waiting for a new Middle East peace initiative to come forth from the Obama Administration that will set the agenda for peace negotiations in the region over the next several years.
Obama’s June 4 appearance in Cairo, Egypt is slated to begin an unprecedented effort by the U.S. to reach out to the Moslem world, displaying America’s interest in partnership with moderate Arab states. Middle East analysts wonder if Obama will begin unveiling his Middle East plan during talks in Cairo. Some officials in Jerusalem are concerned that Obama’s new initiative might attempt to push Israel into concessions that could threaten the stability and security of the Jewish State.
Obama, and U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, have already placed demands on the Israeli government. Concentrating on Israel’s settlement policy, they have voiced their expectations that Israel immediately freeze all settlement construction in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) including allowance for “natural growth”. So far, the Netanyahu government has only agreed to dismantle 26 illegal settlement outposts, while defending Israel’s right to continue with natural growth in existing settlements. The disagreements between the U.S. and Israel have officially begun.
Similar to the Bush Administration’s approach, both the White House and State Department are also pushing for Israel to accept a two-state solution. This concept was already a part of the foreign policy initiative of former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and former Foreign Minister Tzippi Livni. But, Netanyahu has not publicly agreed to a two-state solution. First, he is demanding that the Palestinians accept Israel as the state for the Jewish people. Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has refused to comply. So far, both Netanyahu and Abbas have not met with each other and probably won’t until this issue is resolved.
In order to move Middle East peace negotiations forward, past the stalemate between Israel and the Palestinians, the Obama Administration is taking a new approach... that is, the idea of a comprehensive peace deal in the region that would include Arab states in the process. Looking seriously at the Arab Peace Initiative, Obama is trying to take that formula and work it into a new U.S. foreign policy initiative that would be palatable to both Israel and moderate Arab regimes. Some Israeli leaders have shown interest in the Arab Initiative, despite the fact that it would not allow Israel to have defensible borders. And, it would require more than 100,000 Israelis to move out of the West Bank to other parts of Israel at a cost of approximately $30 billion. The Arab Initiative also demands that Israel divide Jerusalem, and that the Jewish State allow some Palestinian “refugees” to return to Israel rather than to a new Palestinian State.
There are consequences that Israel faces if Obama decides to push for a comprehensive peace deal that goes beyond the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. One of the ways Israel will be required to enter into peace agreements with other Arab states in the region, will be to strike a deal with Syria, which will mean a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Golan Heights. This key issue has hardly been on the radar screen of the international media, but is one of the most pressing demands behind the scenes that Israeli leaders are currently faced with. Netanyahu has already said he is willing to sit down with Syria’s President Bashar Assad and talk about peace without pre-conditions. He’s considering this option, despite Syria’s refusal to comply with any of the requests of the international community that would bring Syria out of the radical Islamic axis into an improved relationship with moderate Arab nations and the Western world.
In a recent press conference in Jerusalem, Major General (res.) Giora Eiland, former Chairman of the National Security Council, gave his assessment regarding Israel’s indirect talks with Syria during the Olmert government’s reign, and how Israel should conduct future negotiations on the Syrian track. He said that Israelis are expecting much more than what Syria can deliver. There are illusions, he claimed, about what Syria will do or not do in making peace with Israel. For example, Syria has no intention of pulling out of its strategic relationship with Iran, which therefore does not help Israel’s attempt to stop Iran from going nuclear. Also, Syria will not stop supplying arms to Hezbollah in Lebanon. And, it is not in Syria’s interest to expel terrorist organizations from its soil.
During the time when current Defense Minister Ehud Barak held the position of Prime Minister of Israel, (1999-2001), experts in Israel’s military circles were asked if Israel could defend itself without the Golan Heights. “And, the answer that Ehud Barak gave, along with the military, was ‘No, Israel cannot defend itself without the Golan Heights,’ ” Eiland explained.
Today, Eiland asks how Israel can, therefore, enter into a peace agreement with Syria. At the press conference he alluded to the fact that the Olmert government, in holding indirect talks with Syria (through Turkish interlocutors), did not take into account many of the strategic threats to Israel’s security in the event of a Golan Heights withdrawal. According to Eiland, “Some political initiative began without any real discussion about the very basic consequences of such a solution.”
Eiland further explained that Israel needs the strategic Heights for a quick response to a Syrian threat of war. In the event of a pre-emptive strike against Israel by Syria, Israel would have to take control over Syrian air space within a very short period of time in order to win the war. This entails having air superiority. Without the Heights, Israel would be pre-occupied with first controlling Syrian ground forces on the Heights. Only then, would Israel’s air force be able to focus on obtaining air superiority. At that point, it could be too late for Israel.
Meanwhile, the main reason that the situation between Israel and Syria has been so calm over the past 35 years, in Eiland’s opinion, is because of Israel’s superior position on the Golan. This has provided an effective deterrence from Syrian aggression. In considering a withdrawal from the Golan, he stated, “If you give up such an advantage, you might encourage aggression against Israel rather than to decrease the possibility of a war.”
Acknowledging that Israel should try and find a way of reaching a peace agreement with Syria some day, Eiland insisted it should not be considered now. “To reach a solution which is a bad solution only because some people say it is achievable doesn’t mean we should do it...The peace agreement that is offered to us by the Syrians, by the international community, unfortunately by some of the previous Israeli leaders that did agree to such a concept, is a very poor solution.”
Eiland further stated that a future agreement would bring a very cold peace between Israel and Syria, and from an Israeli military point of view would put the Jewish State at too great a risk. Furthermore, there has not been a satisfactory alternative solution expressed by Israel’s military generals. “I don’t think in the past 10 years, any Israeli general reached a conclusion that Israel can defend itself without the Golan Heights.”
This writer asked Eiland how Israel could retreat from American expectations at this time. He responded that there has been little discussion with the Obama Administration on the Syrian issue until now. “Israel has to be strong enough in order to defend itself, by itself, against any enemies or any coalition of enemies. I don’t think there is a real professional answer to this, and maybe it has to be discussed between Israeli and American officials when the time comes. But, it is not going to be easy.”
While discussions are expected to continue regarding the Syrian track, Israel and the U.S. will be pre-occupied in the days to come with two major Middle East elections. On June 7, it is expected that Hezbollah will increase its political and military control over Lebanon after elections take place in that country. And, on June 12, the Iranians go to the polls to decide whether to re-elect their current Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, or vote for a more moderate candidate.
What’s disconcerting to Israeli and U.S. officials is the fact that an Iranian-led Islamic regional bloc is emerging, threatening to tip the balance of power in the Middle East. This may be solidified after these two elections, resulting in a greater foothold of Shiite power in the region.
Syria is a supporter of Hezbollah, and a strategic partner of Iran, and can only gain in political strength from these two key elections. Without a peace agreement with Israel, Syria will continue to strengthen itself militarily for a future confrontation with the Jewish State.
Israel, while making peace overtures to Syria in order to appease America, will also prepare itself militarily for war with Syria, but from the advantage of overlooking Syrian military positions from the strategic Golan Heights.... currently, still in Israel’s hands.
"Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore, hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me.”
Ezekiel 3:17.
PRAYER POINTS:
• Pray according to Isaiah 9:6-7, that Israel would realize that its government rests upon the shoulders of the Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government, and of peace, there will be no end. Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, He will order it and establish it with judgment and justice forever. Proclaim God’s governmental authority over Israel and the nations!
• John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Pray that the Israeli people will understand that what the Lord gives is not what the world gives. It is not ‘world peace’ that He gives to Israel. Pray that their hearts would trust in Him....their ‘Sar Shalom’.
• Pray, according to Psalm Chapter 2, for the nations who are raging against Israel, trying to plot a vain thing. The kings of the earth are setting themselves, and the rulers of the world are taking counsel together, to come against the Lord’s Anointed One. Pray that the nations will come into conformity with the plans of God; that they will kiss the Son lest He be angry; that they will submit to the authority of the Lord, especially in regard to His purposes for God’s covenant people....Israel.
• There are several key dates in June that require concentrated prayer:
1. June 4:
U.S. President Barack Obama will be giving an important speech in Cairo, Egypt, reaching out to the Moslem world.
Pray that the words coming out of his mouth will be filled with God’s wisdom, not that of man. (See Numbers 22:35).
2. June 7:
Lebanon will hold its national elections on this date. The U.S. and Israel, along with European nations, are concerned that Hezbollah will gain political control over the government, and expand its military influence in the nation. This would give the Shiites more control over the Middle East, helping Iran in its goal of regional hegemony.
Thank the Lord that Lebanon will be a blessing to Israel and the rest of the world, with a Godly government in place, not yielding to the ways of the enemy. (See Deuteronomy 11:24-25; Isaiah 2:12-19; Psalm 29:5-6; Isaiah 29:17; Isaiah 60:13).
3. June 12:
Iran will hold its national elections on this date. Many are hoping that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is voted out of office, and that a more moderate candidate takes his place, However, this does not mean that Iranian leaders will change their mind or ambitions about building a nuclear bomb. For this to happen, there would have to be a change in the Iranian religious leadership of clerics that are the power base behind the presidency.
Pray that the Iranian people will vote with wisdom and discernment for the best candidate. Pray that the international community will not be fooled when assessing Iranian goals after the election. Pray that God will bring confusion and chaos into the halls of power in Iran and change the course of events, so that Iran will not be allowed to “go nuclear”. Pray that all calls for Israel’s destruction will be null and void, and that the Lord will protect His covenant people from any aggressive moves by the Iranian government towards Israel. (See Proverbs 1:33; Isaiah 60:14,18).
THE DANGERS OF A COMPREHENSIVE PEACE DEAL
Pro-Israel supporters have been focused on the new relationship between U.S. President Barak Obama, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The international community has been waiting for a new Middle East peace initiative to come forth from the Obama Administration that will set the agenda for peace negotiations in the region over the next several years.
Obama’s June 4 appearance in Cairo, Egypt is slated to begin an unprecedented effort by the U.S. to reach out to the Moslem world, displaying America’s interest in partnership with moderate Arab states. Middle East analysts wonder if Obama will begin unveiling his Middle East plan during talks in Cairo. Some officials in Jerusalem are concerned that Obama’s new initiative might attempt to push Israel into concessions that could threaten the stability and security of the Jewish State.
Obama, and U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, have already placed demands on the Israeli government. Concentrating on Israel’s settlement policy, they have voiced their expectations that Israel immediately freeze all settlement construction in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) including allowance for “natural growth”. So far, the Netanyahu government has only agreed to dismantle 26 illegal settlement outposts, while defending Israel’s right to continue with natural growth in existing settlements. The disagreements between the U.S. and Israel have officially begun.
Similar to the Bush Administration’s approach, both the White House and State Department are also pushing for Israel to accept a two-state solution. This concept was already a part of the foreign policy initiative of former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and former Foreign Minister Tzippi Livni. But, Netanyahu has not publicly agreed to a two-state solution. First, he is demanding that the Palestinians accept Israel as the state for the Jewish people. Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has refused to comply. So far, both Netanyahu and Abbas have not met with each other and probably won’t until this issue is resolved.
In order to move Middle East peace negotiations forward, past the stalemate between Israel and the Palestinians, the Obama Administration is taking a new approach... that is, the idea of a comprehensive peace deal in the region that would include Arab states in the process. Looking seriously at the Arab Peace Initiative, Obama is trying to take that formula and work it into a new U.S. foreign policy initiative that would be palatable to both Israel and moderate Arab regimes. Some Israeli leaders have shown interest in the Arab Initiative, despite the fact that it would not allow Israel to have defensible borders. And, it would require more than 100,000 Israelis to move out of the West Bank to other parts of Israel at a cost of approximately $30 billion. The Arab Initiative also demands that Israel divide Jerusalem, and that the Jewish State allow some Palestinian “refugees” to return to Israel rather than to a new Palestinian State.
There are consequences that Israel faces if Obama decides to push for a comprehensive peace deal that goes beyond the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. One of the ways Israel will be required to enter into peace agreements with other Arab states in the region, will be to strike a deal with Syria, which will mean a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Golan Heights. This key issue has hardly been on the radar screen of the international media, but is one of the most pressing demands behind the scenes that Israeli leaders are currently faced with. Netanyahu has already said he is willing to sit down with Syria’s President Bashar Assad and talk about peace without pre-conditions. He’s considering this option, despite Syria’s refusal to comply with any of the requests of the international community that would bring Syria out of the radical Islamic axis into an improved relationship with moderate Arab nations and the Western world.
In a recent press conference in Jerusalem, Major General (res.) Giora Eiland, former Chairman of the National Security Council, gave his assessment regarding Israel’s indirect talks with Syria during the Olmert government’s reign, and how Israel should conduct future negotiations on the Syrian track. He said that Israelis are expecting much more than what Syria can deliver. There are illusions, he claimed, about what Syria will do or not do in making peace with Israel. For example, Syria has no intention of pulling out of its strategic relationship with Iran, which therefore does not help Israel’s attempt to stop Iran from going nuclear. Also, Syria will not stop supplying arms to Hezbollah in Lebanon. And, it is not in Syria’s interest to expel terrorist organizations from its soil.
During the time when current Defense Minister Ehud Barak held the position of Prime Minister of Israel, (1999-2001), experts in Israel’s military circles were asked if Israel could defend itself without the Golan Heights. “And, the answer that Ehud Barak gave, along with the military, was ‘No, Israel cannot defend itself without the Golan Heights,’ ” Eiland explained.
Today, Eiland asks how Israel can, therefore, enter into a peace agreement with Syria. At the press conference he alluded to the fact that the Olmert government, in holding indirect talks with Syria (through Turkish interlocutors), did not take into account many of the strategic threats to Israel’s security in the event of a Golan Heights withdrawal. According to Eiland, “Some political initiative began without any real discussion about the very basic consequences of such a solution.”
Eiland further explained that Israel needs the strategic Heights for a quick response to a Syrian threat of war. In the event of a pre-emptive strike against Israel by Syria, Israel would have to take control over Syrian air space within a very short period of time in order to win the war. This entails having air superiority. Without the Heights, Israel would be pre-occupied with first controlling Syrian ground forces on the Heights. Only then, would Israel’s air force be able to focus on obtaining air superiority. At that point, it could be too late for Israel.
Meanwhile, the main reason that the situation between Israel and Syria has been so calm over the past 35 years, in Eiland’s opinion, is because of Israel’s superior position on the Golan. This has provided an effective deterrence from Syrian aggression. In considering a withdrawal from the Golan, he stated, “If you give up such an advantage, you might encourage aggression against Israel rather than to decrease the possibility of a war.”
Acknowledging that Israel should try and find a way of reaching a peace agreement with Syria some day, Eiland insisted it should not be considered now. “To reach a solution which is a bad solution only because some people say it is achievable doesn’t mean we should do it...The peace agreement that is offered to us by the Syrians, by the international community, unfortunately by some of the previous Israeli leaders that did agree to such a concept, is a very poor solution.”
Eiland further stated that a future agreement would bring a very cold peace between Israel and Syria, and from an Israeli military point of view would put the Jewish State at too great a risk. Furthermore, there has not been a satisfactory alternative solution expressed by Israel’s military generals. “I don’t think in the past 10 years, any Israeli general reached a conclusion that Israel can defend itself without the Golan Heights.”
This writer asked Eiland how Israel could retreat from American expectations at this time. He responded that there has been little discussion with the Obama Administration on the Syrian issue until now. “Israel has to be strong enough in order to defend itself, by itself, against any enemies or any coalition of enemies. I don’t think there is a real professional answer to this, and maybe it has to be discussed between Israeli and American officials when the time comes. But, it is not going to be easy.”
While discussions are expected to continue regarding the Syrian track, Israel and the U.S. will be pre-occupied in the days to come with two major Middle East elections. On June 7, it is expected that Hezbollah will increase its political and military control over Lebanon after elections take place in that country. And, on June 12, the Iranians go to the polls to decide whether to re-elect their current Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, or vote for a more moderate candidate.
What’s disconcerting to Israeli and U.S. officials is the fact that an Iranian-led Islamic regional bloc is emerging, threatening to tip the balance of power in the Middle East. This may be solidified after these two elections, resulting in a greater foothold of Shiite power in the region.
Syria is a supporter of Hezbollah, and a strategic partner of Iran, and can only gain in political strength from these two key elections. Without a peace agreement with Israel, Syria will continue to strengthen itself militarily for a future confrontation with the Jewish State.
Israel, while making peace overtures to Syria in order to appease America, will also prepare itself militarily for war with Syria, but from the advantage of overlooking Syrian military positions from the strategic Golan Heights.... currently, still in Israel’s hands.
"Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore, hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me.”
Ezekiel 3:17.
PRAYER POINTS:
• Pray according to Isaiah 9:6-7, that Israel would realize that its government rests upon the shoulders of the Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government, and of peace, there will be no end. Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, He will order it and establish it with judgment and justice forever. Proclaim God’s governmental authority over Israel and the nations!
• John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Pray that the Israeli people will understand that what the Lord gives is not what the world gives. It is not ‘world peace’ that He gives to Israel. Pray that their hearts would trust in Him....their ‘Sar Shalom’.
• Pray, according to Psalm Chapter 2, for the nations who are raging against Israel, trying to plot a vain thing. The kings of the earth are setting themselves, and the rulers of the world are taking counsel together, to come against the Lord’s Anointed One. Pray that the nations will come into conformity with the plans of God; that they will kiss the Son lest He be angry; that they will submit to the authority of the Lord, especially in regard to His purposes for God’s covenant people....Israel.
• There are several key dates in June that require concentrated prayer:
1. June 4:
U.S. President Barack Obama will be giving an important speech in Cairo, Egypt, reaching out to the Moslem world.
Pray that the words coming out of his mouth will be filled with God’s wisdom, not that of man. (See Numbers 22:35).
2. June 7:
Lebanon will hold its national elections on this date. The U.S. and Israel, along with European nations, are concerned that Hezbollah will gain political control over the government, and expand its military influence in the nation. This would give the Shiites more control over the Middle East, helping Iran in its goal of regional hegemony.
Thank the Lord that Lebanon will be a blessing to Israel and the rest of the world, with a Godly government in place, not yielding to the ways of the enemy. (See Deuteronomy 11:24-25; Isaiah 2:12-19; Psalm 29:5-6; Isaiah 29:17; Isaiah 60:13).
3. June 12:
Iran will hold its national elections on this date. Many are hoping that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is voted out of office, and that a more moderate candidate takes his place, However, this does not mean that Iranian leaders will change their mind or ambitions about building a nuclear bomb. For this to happen, there would have to be a change in the Iranian religious leadership of clerics that are the power base behind the presidency.
Pray that the Iranian people will vote with wisdom and discernment for the best candidate. Pray that the international community will not be fooled when assessing Iranian goals after the election. Pray that God will bring confusion and chaos into the halls of power in Iran and change the course of events, so that Iran will not be allowed to “go nuclear”. Pray that all calls for Israel’s destruction will be null and void, and that the Lord will protect His covenant people from any aggressive moves by the Iranian government towards Israel. (See Proverbs 1:33; Isaiah 60:14,18).
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- XI
Jerusalem, Israel
ISRAEL CHANGES GOVERNMENTS AND STRATEGIES TOWARDS PEACE
Israel’s 32nd government was sworn in this evening, Tuesday, March 31, 2009. A priority in the agenda of new Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be the complex issues associated with arms smuggling from Sudan and other rogue states into Gaza. This non-stop smuggling has helped to re-build the weapons arsenal of Hamas since the Gaza War ended in January 2009.
Israel’s continued crackdown on arms smugglers will be only one of the issues that Netanyahu will be confronted with in his new job. He will also have to deal with a shaky unofficial temporary cease-fire with Hamas, along with the continued pressure on Israel’s government to release terrorists with blood on their hands in a prisoner swap that could bring home Israel’s P.O.W. Corporal Gilad Shalit.
After recent negotiations for Shalit’s release failed, under the direction of the Olmert government, Israel decided to limit the benefits that Hamas prisoners in Israeli jails will receive in the future. Israeli analysts predict that if this plan goes into effect it will backfire on Israel because international human rights advocates can be expected to blame Israel for inhumane treatment of prisoners. This is predicted to occur despite the fact that Hamas is not adhering to international human rights laws regarding Shalit, who is being held in a secret hideaway in Gaza, not able to connect with his parents or the Red Cross.
Speaking at a recent briefing for diplomats and journalists at the Jerusalem Center For Public Affairs (JCPA), Maj.-Gen. (res.) Yair Naveh, former Commander of the IDF Central Command and Gaza Division, talked about the goals of Fatah and Hamas, including Iran’s influence on these groups and others in the Middle East region. One of Naveh’s main jobs in the IDF has been to expertly identify terrorist activities within the Jewish State and stop terrorism on the home front.
What the Palestinians and the Global Community expect from Israel
In 2000, Naveh met privately with Brigadier General Saib Ajez of the Palestinian armed forces. He learned that the Palestinians do not see their home as Gaza, but instead want to occupy towns and cities in Israel, such as Yavne, Ashkelon, Hadera, and Tel Aviv. Their long range perspective is much deeper than the kind of peace process Netanyahu is expected to try and navigate with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas. Naveh believes that Israelis are accustomed to a Western worldview where life is highly valued, but the Palestinians are concerned with obtaining land. “For the Palestinians... land is associated with respect, dignity and honor,” he said.
It is a known fact within the international community that Hamas does not want to recognize Israel, stop violence against civilians, and adhere to previously signed agreements between Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA). But, few international leaders are willing to accept what Fatah officials within the government of Abbas actually claim. Earlier this month, in reconciliation talks between Hamas and Fatah, Muhammad Dahlan, former PA Security Commander, said Hamas did not need to recognize Israel’s right to exist because Fatah has never done that.
Fatah wants a democratic state of Palestine instead of recognizing the Jewish state of Israel. The Palestinian group had hoped years ago that the Arab populations both in Gaza and in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) would double, and that, demographically, Israel would cease to have a Jewish majority within its borders. Then, Israel built the infamous security fence which created a separation between the Palestinians and the Israelis. This allowed Israel time to expand Jewish communities on Israel’s side of the fence.
This was a major factor that caused Abbas to push for a two-state solution several years ago. This two-state concept was first mentioned in the global arena during a speech by former U.S. President George W. Bush before the U.N. General Assembly on November 10, 2001. He said, “We are working toward the day when two states – Israel and Palestine – live peacefully together within secure and recognized borders as called for by the Security Council resolutions. We will do all in our power to bring both parties back into negotiations. But, peace will only come when all have sworn off forever incitement, violence, and terror.”
Despite the Road Map, which called for incitement, violence, and terror to stop, the Palestinians continued their war against Israel. Bush, however, continued to push for a two-state solution throughout the rest of his presidency, and today, it has become the slogan for the global community when trying to solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Dan Dyker, a Senior Foreign Policy Analyst at the JCPA, told this writer that current U.S. President Barack Obama is clearly advancing a two-state solution. “That has become the brand in the United States. And, Israel has bought into that brand.” But, Dyker claims that Netanyahu will take a different approach with the Palestinians, and will promote the concept of an “economic peace” during future peace negotiations.
The Power of Hamas
Meanwhile, General Naveh told journalists and diplomats at the JCPA briefing that Hamas is a religious and political organization that Israel helped to establish over 20 years ago when the Jewish state wanted to create an alternative to Fatah. Now, Israeli leaders are beginning to understand that whether they are dealing with Fatah or Hamas, the goals are much more similar than they originally thought.
According to Naveh, a main goal of Hamas is that “there will be no sovereign political reality in the Middle East except the Palestinians and Hamas.” Hamas has copied the successes of Hezbollah in Lebanon by providing help to poor Gazans through social welfare programs including hot meals in schools; improved education; summer camps for children; transportation; and housing (especially after Israel’s Defense Forces demolish the houses of terrorists). As a result, Hamas has greatly increased its popularity among the Palestinians.
The political view that Hamas leaders carry is that once they turn Gaza into a Hamas state they will be able to expand their power into the West Bank. They believe they will accomplish this politically and militarily. “This is the biggest vision of Hamas,” states Naveh. He says that Iran has become a key player in helping Hamas. There has been a more radical religious system implemented in Gaza, and more women are wearing the veil as extremism and fanaticism take hold within the population. In this way, Iran has extended its influence among the Palestinians, along with training, funding, and arms supply to terrorists helping to develop the military capabilities of Hamas.
Iran’s Nuclear Threat – a different point of view
Israeli leaders have expressed various viewpoints on whether they believe that Iran would use a nuclear weapon against Israel in the future if the Islamic Republic is able to acquire one. Naveh’s opinion is that Iran would not use the weapon against Israel, but instead, would threaten the Jewish State. Naveh believes that Iran’s goal is a Palestinian Middle East that embraces the ideology of Iran. Therefore, he sees Iran developing a strategy of “forward divisions”: Hezbollah on Israel’s northern border; Hamas on Israel’s southern border with control of Israel’s heartland (the West Bank – Judea and Samaria); Syria on Israel’s northern and eastern border. Naveh claims that Iran would like to see a situation of civil uprising and terrorism in Israel that would weaken the Jewish State.
Naveh warns that an Iranian nuclear umbrella would allow Hezbollah and Hamas to beleaguer Israel, and once the Jewish State was bogged down, this would help Iran in its goal of achieving greater dominance in the region. This threatens Israel and moderate Arab states, which is one reason these states have considered taking a pro-active approach in deterring Iran from its nuclear ambitions. Naveh’s assessment is not to focus so much on Iran pushing the nuclear button in the future, but rather the possibility of regional deterioration into full blown terrorism because of Iran’s ability to threaten states in the Middle East if Iran acquires a nuclear arsenal.
The Philadelphi Corridor
The Philadelphi Corridor, the porous border between Egypt and Gaza, was named in secret Israeli military encoded maps. The term was then used in military jargon, and has now been associated with hundreds of tunnels that go deep underground. From Rafah into Gaza, Bedouins and Palestinians smuggled cows, drugs, and missiles, with each tunnel costing about $20,000 per month to run. Originally, Rafah residents did the smuggling as a family business. But, when Hamas took over Gaza, the weapons smuggling increased.
According to Naveh, as soon as Hamas controlled Gaza, Israeli military forces worked at separating Gaza from the West Bank. This proved to be a successful plan when Israel fought Hamas during the recent Gaza War. At that time, there was quiet and a semblance of order in the West Bank. Meanwhile, Naveh claims that terrorism can only be deterred “night to night, house to house”, not by air strikes. Only this way can you fight terrorism, he explains. You cannot win without securing the area. This is a veiled implication that Israel did not have complete victory in its recent war against Hamas.
Some Israeli politicians and military officials believe that Netanyahu will have to order the IDF to re-take the Philadelphi Corridor in order to stop arms smuggling; and, go back into Gaza to root out Hamas in order to stop rocket attacks on Israeli southern border towns. Naveh believes that the military achievements during the Gaza War were good, but those achievements are slowly eroding. Furthermore, he is concerned that behind Hamas are even greater forces that Israel will have to contend with. Islamic Jihad may increase its military power, followed by Al Qaeda. Finally, the greatest existential threat to Israel is Iran.
While the international community debates the Iran nuclear issue, Israel’s new government will already be focused on neutralizing the forces that Iran uses as proxies against Israel...Hamas, Hezbollah and other militant groups. Israeli leaders will work, strategically, to wipe out terrorist threats on their northern and southern borders while preparing for a more serious confrontation with Iran.
“And, you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” Matthew 24:6.
Prayer Points:
1. Pray for the new Netanyahu coalition government, especially concerning new foreign policy initiaves. Declare that Netanyahu will cling to the Lord’s statutes throughout his tenure as Prime Minister, according to Psalm 119:33.
2. Declare Psalm 25:22, that God will redeem Israelis out of all their troubles.
3. Pray for the King’s favor of protection for the Jewish people, according to Esther 8:11.
4. Proclaim Psalm 35:1 for Israel in the face of enemy opposition. Pray that God will deliver Israel from her enemies, and that the angel of the Lord will encamp around those in Israel who fear Him (Psalm 34:7).
5. Agree in prayer that the Lord will bring to light the intentions and plans of men that are against His chosen people, according to Psalm 37.
6. Pray that Israel’s borders will be shielded by the Lord’s invisible army. (Joshua 1:4; Joshua 1:7-9). Declare that the Israeli people will be obedient to God so they can receive their land inheritance.
7. Intercede that all Israel will pay attention to the Lord’s commandments, especially during this Passover season, remembering His promises to Moses; meditating on the Lord’s word day and night. (Exodus 12:1-28).
ISRAEL CHANGES GOVERNMENTS AND STRATEGIES TOWARDS PEACE
Israel’s 32nd government was sworn in this evening, Tuesday, March 31, 2009. A priority in the agenda of new Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be the complex issues associated with arms smuggling from Sudan and other rogue states into Gaza. This non-stop smuggling has helped to re-build the weapons arsenal of Hamas since the Gaza War ended in January 2009.
Israel’s continued crackdown on arms smugglers will be only one of the issues that Netanyahu will be confronted with in his new job. He will also have to deal with a shaky unofficial temporary cease-fire with Hamas, along with the continued pressure on Israel’s government to release terrorists with blood on their hands in a prisoner swap that could bring home Israel’s P.O.W. Corporal Gilad Shalit.
After recent negotiations for Shalit’s release failed, under the direction of the Olmert government, Israel decided to limit the benefits that Hamas prisoners in Israeli jails will receive in the future. Israeli analysts predict that if this plan goes into effect it will backfire on Israel because international human rights advocates can be expected to blame Israel for inhumane treatment of prisoners. This is predicted to occur despite the fact that Hamas is not adhering to international human rights laws regarding Shalit, who is being held in a secret hideaway in Gaza, not able to connect with his parents or the Red Cross.
Speaking at a recent briefing for diplomats and journalists at the Jerusalem Center For Public Affairs (JCPA), Maj.-Gen. (res.) Yair Naveh, former Commander of the IDF Central Command and Gaza Division, talked about the goals of Fatah and Hamas, including Iran’s influence on these groups and others in the Middle East region. One of Naveh’s main jobs in the IDF has been to expertly identify terrorist activities within the Jewish State and stop terrorism on the home front.
What the Palestinians and the Global Community expect from Israel
In 2000, Naveh met privately with Brigadier General Saib Ajez of the Palestinian armed forces. He learned that the Palestinians do not see their home as Gaza, but instead want to occupy towns and cities in Israel, such as Yavne, Ashkelon, Hadera, and Tel Aviv. Their long range perspective is much deeper than the kind of peace process Netanyahu is expected to try and navigate with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas. Naveh believes that Israelis are accustomed to a Western worldview where life is highly valued, but the Palestinians are concerned with obtaining land. “For the Palestinians... land is associated with respect, dignity and honor,” he said.
It is a known fact within the international community that Hamas does not want to recognize Israel, stop violence against civilians, and adhere to previously signed agreements between Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA). But, few international leaders are willing to accept what Fatah officials within the government of Abbas actually claim. Earlier this month, in reconciliation talks between Hamas and Fatah, Muhammad Dahlan, former PA Security Commander, said Hamas did not need to recognize Israel’s right to exist because Fatah has never done that.
Fatah wants a democratic state of Palestine instead of recognizing the Jewish state of Israel. The Palestinian group had hoped years ago that the Arab populations both in Gaza and in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) would double, and that, demographically, Israel would cease to have a Jewish majority within its borders. Then, Israel built the infamous security fence which created a separation between the Palestinians and the Israelis. This allowed Israel time to expand Jewish communities on Israel’s side of the fence.
This was a major factor that caused Abbas to push for a two-state solution several years ago. This two-state concept was first mentioned in the global arena during a speech by former U.S. President George W. Bush before the U.N. General Assembly on November 10, 2001. He said, “We are working toward the day when two states – Israel and Palestine – live peacefully together within secure and recognized borders as called for by the Security Council resolutions. We will do all in our power to bring both parties back into negotiations. But, peace will only come when all have sworn off forever incitement, violence, and terror.”
Despite the Road Map, which called for incitement, violence, and terror to stop, the Palestinians continued their war against Israel. Bush, however, continued to push for a two-state solution throughout the rest of his presidency, and today, it has become the slogan for the global community when trying to solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Dan Dyker, a Senior Foreign Policy Analyst at the JCPA, told this writer that current U.S. President Barack Obama is clearly advancing a two-state solution. “That has become the brand in the United States. And, Israel has bought into that brand.” But, Dyker claims that Netanyahu will take a different approach with the Palestinians, and will promote the concept of an “economic peace” during future peace negotiations.
The Power of Hamas
Meanwhile, General Naveh told journalists and diplomats at the JCPA briefing that Hamas is a religious and political organization that Israel helped to establish over 20 years ago when the Jewish state wanted to create an alternative to Fatah. Now, Israeli leaders are beginning to understand that whether they are dealing with Fatah or Hamas, the goals are much more similar than they originally thought.
According to Naveh, a main goal of Hamas is that “there will be no sovereign political reality in the Middle East except the Palestinians and Hamas.” Hamas has copied the successes of Hezbollah in Lebanon by providing help to poor Gazans through social welfare programs including hot meals in schools; improved education; summer camps for children; transportation; and housing (especially after Israel’s Defense Forces demolish the houses of terrorists). As a result, Hamas has greatly increased its popularity among the Palestinians.
The political view that Hamas leaders carry is that once they turn Gaza into a Hamas state they will be able to expand their power into the West Bank. They believe they will accomplish this politically and militarily. “This is the biggest vision of Hamas,” states Naveh. He says that Iran has become a key player in helping Hamas. There has been a more radical religious system implemented in Gaza, and more women are wearing the veil as extremism and fanaticism take hold within the population. In this way, Iran has extended its influence among the Palestinians, along with training, funding, and arms supply to terrorists helping to develop the military capabilities of Hamas.
Iran’s Nuclear Threat – a different point of view
Israeli leaders have expressed various viewpoints on whether they believe that Iran would use a nuclear weapon against Israel in the future if the Islamic Republic is able to acquire one. Naveh’s opinion is that Iran would not use the weapon against Israel, but instead, would threaten the Jewish State. Naveh believes that Iran’s goal is a Palestinian Middle East that embraces the ideology of Iran. Therefore, he sees Iran developing a strategy of “forward divisions”: Hezbollah on Israel’s northern border; Hamas on Israel’s southern border with control of Israel’s heartland (the West Bank – Judea and Samaria); Syria on Israel’s northern and eastern border. Naveh claims that Iran would like to see a situation of civil uprising and terrorism in Israel that would weaken the Jewish State.
Naveh warns that an Iranian nuclear umbrella would allow Hezbollah and Hamas to beleaguer Israel, and once the Jewish State was bogged down, this would help Iran in its goal of achieving greater dominance in the region. This threatens Israel and moderate Arab states, which is one reason these states have considered taking a pro-active approach in deterring Iran from its nuclear ambitions. Naveh’s assessment is not to focus so much on Iran pushing the nuclear button in the future, but rather the possibility of regional deterioration into full blown terrorism because of Iran’s ability to threaten states in the Middle East if Iran acquires a nuclear arsenal.
The Philadelphi Corridor
The Philadelphi Corridor, the porous border between Egypt and Gaza, was named in secret Israeli military encoded maps. The term was then used in military jargon, and has now been associated with hundreds of tunnels that go deep underground. From Rafah into Gaza, Bedouins and Palestinians smuggled cows, drugs, and missiles, with each tunnel costing about $20,000 per month to run. Originally, Rafah residents did the smuggling as a family business. But, when Hamas took over Gaza, the weapons smuggling increased.
According to Naveh, as soon as Hamas controlled Gaza, Israeli military forces worked at separating Gaza from the West Bank. This proved to be a successful plan when Israel fought Hamas during the recent Gaza War. At that time, there was quiet and a semblance of order in the West Bank. Meanwhile, Naveh claims that terrorism can only be deterred “night to night, house to house”, not by air strikes. Only this way can you fight terrorism, he explains. You cannot win without securing the area. This is a veiled implication that Israel did not have complete victory in its recent war against Hamas.
Some Israeli politicians and military officials believe that Netanyahu will have to order the IDF to re-take the Philadelphi Corridor in order to stop arms smuggling; and, go back into Gaza to root out Hamas in order to stop rocket attacks on Israeli southern border towns. Naveh believes that the military achievements during the Gaza War were good, but those achievements are slowly eroding. Furthermore, he is concerned that behind Hamas are even greater forces that Israel will have to contend with. Islamic Jihad may increase its military power, followed by Al Qaeda. Finally, the greatest existential threat to Israel is Iran.
While the international community debates the Iran nuclear issue, Israel’s new government will already be focused on neutralizing the forces that Iran uses as proxies against Israel...Hamas, Hezbollah and other militant groups. Israeli leaders will work, strategically, to wipe out terrorist threats on their northern and southern borders while preparing for a more serious confrontation with Iran.
“And, you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” Matthew 24:6.
Prayer Points:
1. Pray for the new Netanyahu coalition government, especially concerning new foreign policy initiaves. Declare that Netanyahu will cling to the Lord’s statutes throughout his tenure as Prime Minister, according to Psalm 119:33.
2. Declare Psalm 25:22, that God will redeem Israelis out of all their troubles.
3. Pray for the King’s favor of protection for the Jewish people, according to Esther 8:11.
4. Proclaim Psalm 35:1 for Israel in the face of enemy opposition. Pray that God will deliver Israel from her enemies, and that the angel of the Lord will encamp around those in Israel who fear Him (Psalm 34:7).
5. Agree in prayer that the Lord will bring to light the intentions and plans of men that are against His chosen people, according to Psalm 37.
6. Pray that Israel’s borders will be shielded by the Lord’s invisible army. (Joshua 1:4; Joshua 1:7-9). Declare that the Israeli people will be obedient to God so they can receive their land inheritance.
7. Intercede that all Israel will pay attention to the Lord’s commandments, especially during this Passover season, remembering His promises to Moses; meditating on the Lord’s word day and night. (Exodus 12:1-28).
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- X
Jerusalem, Israel
THE FORMATION OF ISRAEL’S NEXT GOVERNMENT
Recent reports indicate that the Labor Party, under the chairmanship of Ehud Barak, will be joining the next government of Israel. Likud leader, Benjamin Netanyahu has been given the responsbility to put together a government, which most likely, will include Labor, Israel Beitenu, and Shas. Negotiations continue with smaller right-wing parties. Netanyahu has until April 5 to form a government after being given a 2 week extension by Israel's President, Shimon Peres. But, Netanyahu is expected to finish negotiations before that time.
The official Israeli election results from the Central Elections Committee were published in the public records February 18, 2009. Israeli President Shimon Peres then began consulting with Knesset factions with the goal of determining which Knesset member should try and form the next government coalition.
His invitation came on the heels of political maneuvering by both Israeli Foreign Minister Tzippi Livni, leader of the Kadima Party and Netanyahu.
Livni won the February 10, 2009 general election by a narrow lead, but she was not considered able to put together a successful coalition. The left-wing parties she had a natural alliance with lost votes due to an Israeli population swing towards the “right”.
Netanyahu enjoys strong support among a majority of Israel’s new incoming Knesset members, especially those who align themselves with the right-wing bloc.
DIVISIONS ON MAJOR ISSUES
Divisions remain among Israelis on core issues that involve future political, diplomatic, and military decisions. There’s a weakness in Israeli foreign policy strategies set by leaders because of these divisions. The election results indicate the continued polarization between Jew and Arab; left-wing and right-wing; secular and religious.
ELECTORAL REFORM
Israel is about to swear in its 32nd government in 60 years of statehood. Since 1988, no Knesset has served out its full term. There’s always been a coalition crisis that instigates early elections.
As Israel’s political parties bicker over who will be in Netanyahu's government, one thing is certain... Electoral reform will be on the agenda of the 18th Knesset. This may be Israel’s most fractured government to-date. The electoral system needs the reforms to create political stability. There are too many factions pursuing single-interest issues. There is not enough cohesiveness between major political blocs. There is little unity among Israeli leaders except around one core issue – Iran.
Currently, a political party trying to get into the Knesset needs to garner 2% of the votes in the general election. Those members of the Knesset who want electoral reform will try to raise that threshold to, perhaps, 5%. In the U.S. there are two major parties elected to Congress – Democrats and Republicans. In Israel’s recent election, 12 parties made it past the electoral threshold, and all will be represented in the 18th Knesset.
LOSSES AND GAINS
While it is expected that the Kadima Party, headed by Livni, will remain in the opposition, the Labor Party, headed by Barak, now has a chance to improve its status as a strong partner within the new coalition government.
The Labor Party lost a substantial amount of votes in the February 2009 general election. Citizens remember the indecisive military victory at the end of the Second Lebanon War in 2006. Amir Peretz, Labor Party Chairman, then, was inexperienced in his position as Defense Minister during that war. Israelis haven’t forgotten how humiliated they felt about the government’s conduct, and how weak Israel’s Defense Forces (the IDF) performed at the time.
Barak, one of the most decorated generals in Israel’s history, was somewhat successful, as Israeli Defense Minister, in overseeing Israel’s battles with Hamas in the recent Gaza war. Yet, his Labor Party still lost the confidence of many Israelis who voted at the polls.
Avigdor Lieberman of Israel Beitenu experienced a significant surge in popularity during the election campaign. Lieberman’s main point of contention has been with the Israeli Arabs living inside the State of Israel. He has wanted to introduce a Citizenship Law in the Knesset. It would require all citizens, including Israeli Arabs to sign a loyalty document; learn the national anthem; and express their loyalty to the Jewish State.
Lieberman’s tough attitude towards Israeli Arabs has garnered favor among Israeli Jewish citizens. They want the nation to appear strong and not weak in the face of Arab hostility -- both inside and outside the country.
Israel Beitenu stated their objectives clearly throughout the election campaign, wanting to address the problems in Israeli society, and hoping to change the status quo. Israel Beitenu has demanded alterations in Israeli law to accommodate civil marriages; and, is looking for solutions to simplify the conversion process to Judaism.
Interestingly, 20% of Israeli Arabs voted for Jewish parties rather than Arab parties during Israel’s general elections. A surprising number voted for United Torah Judaism (UTJ), a right-wing Haredi party. UTJ called on the Arabs to help them battle the influence of Israel Beitenu, because they considered Lieberman racist towards the Arabs and too secular towards the ultra-Orthodox Jews.
A total of 21 women will sit in the next Knesset, the largest number ever to be in the legislative body since the state of Israel was born in 1948.
FOREIGN POLICY DIFFERENCES
Livni, even sitting in Israel's opposition, is expected to challenge Netanyahu's government, especially regarding the diplomatic process. She supports a two-state solution – Israel, side-by-side, a Palestinian state. She also supports a withdrawal from most of the West Bank (Judea and Samaria). She has negotiated on the division of Jerusalem. Her position on the Golan Heights is not clear, but she would be expected to challenge Netanyahu to sign a comprehensive peace deal with Syria that would include a withdrawal from the Heights.
Netanyahu is more of a hardliner. His national security strategy is to develop military strength to prepare for battles against Iran, Hamas and Hezbollah, and to keep Syria in check.
Though Netanyahu doesn’t rule out a type of Palestinian state in the future, where the Palestinians will have some kind of self-rule, he wants to take a different approach to Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking. He does not want to be pushed by the international community to work out a “land for peace” deal with the Palestinians.
Reciprocity is important to Netanyahu. He wants to see the Palestinians do their part to crackdown on terror, collect weapons from terrorist groups, stop incitement on the streets and in the schools. If the Palestinians show a willingness to advance in peace negotiations at this level of reciprocity, Israel will do its part to open borders, stop building in settlements, and consider giving more military oversight to the Palestinians in the West Bank.
In addition, Netanyahu wants to approach peace negotiations from the bottom-up. He has a plan that would provide economic incentives to help the Palestinian build a better life. His idea is to introduce massive financial investment into the Palestinian sector. He is also calling for regional cooperation with Jordan.
Livni prefers the top–down approach. She wants Israel to carry forth the diplomatic process she began under Ehud Olmert's government. She is looking for a solution that requires an international agreement on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Once an agreement is finalized, and approved by Israel’s Security Cabinet, Livni would most likely look to Israeli citizens to fulfill their obligations to the Palestinians, obeying the rule of law. Forcing settlers to withdraw from their homes in the West Bank could start a civil war.
ISRAELI-AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP
U.S. President Barack Obama is expected to actively and aggressively push for a two-state solution in the Middle East, within the context of a comprehensive peace in the region, most likely focusing on the Arab Peace Initiative.
Dr. Yuval Steinitz, Likud Knesset member, and close advisor to Netanyahu, spoke to this writer about the Arab Peace Initiative in an interview conducted during the Jerusalem Conference in January 2009.
“The good element is that this is the first time the Arab League is calling for general peace with Israel by all the Arab states. This is positive. But, the request for a total withdrawal to the 1967 borders, and the partition of Jerusalem, is totally unacceptable. Even President Obama recognized Israel’s need for defensible borders. And, therefore, I believe this is a non-starter. It is the same in the mentioning of the return of Palestinian ‘refugees’ into Israel, which is totally unacceptable. So, let the Arab League change this initiative in order for us to be able to consider it.”
Several of Israel’s left-wing leaders see the Arab Peace Initiative as a starting point in negotiations, even though Arab states say it is a non-negotiable plan. Part of the coalition agreement between Ehud Barak and Benjamin Netanyahu involves an acceptance of a comprehensive peace deal. This could mean that Netanyahu will be pressured by Barak to enter into negotiations over the Arab Peace Initiative.
OBAMA'S INTENTIONS
Meanwhile, in his second day in office, Obama attended the State Department ceremony that appointed George Mitchell as the new American envoy to the Middle East. Mitchell is an experienced and tough negotiator, and he may very well prod, push, and exert his influence on the peace process to get concessions out of Israel and the Palestinians.
At the State Department, Obama signaled to the world that he plans to apply substantial pressure on Israel and the Palestinians to end the conflict. Furthermore, it is expected that he will look for the two parties to reach a final status agreement during his reign in office.
According to the assessment of one Middle East analyst, Obama’s foreign policy team is made up of centrists who have a pragmatic approach to this region. His team seems to encompass the center position of the Democratic Party.
As Israel forms a national unity government, it will be in line with a centrist approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In that way, Netanyahu is expected to get along with Obama and the American Democratic Congress. The Obama Administration's focus may be to push Israel into a regional peace deal.
Many Likud members in Netanyahu’s own party are hesitant about a “land for peace” deal happening now. Since it appears that Obama favors this idea, because he wants to form an alliance with moderate Arabs countries to bring calm to the region, this already shows the possible friction that may occur between Israeli and U.S. leaders in the future.
An additional point for concern is that, since the Gaza war, fewer Americans are supportive of U.S. ties with Israel, although Congressional support for the Jewish state remains strong.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry will continue to court members of the U.S. Congress, the Jewish community, and grassroots America in order to garner public support, as a cornerstone of Israel’s foreign policy efforts. But, the chemistry between Netanyahu and Obama will determine if the U.S.-Israel relationship will be a smooth or rocky road in 2009 and beyond.
“For unto us a Child is born. Unto us a Son is given. And, His name will be called, Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace, there will be no end; Upon the throne of David and over His Kingdom; to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will perform this.” Isaiah 9:6-7
PRAYER POINTS:
(1) PRAY FOR THE NEW GOVERNMENT BEING FORMED, AND FOR THE 18TH KNESSET:
(a) for humble leaders (Isaiah 57:15; Isaiah 66:2; Proverbs 3:3-4).
(b) for leaders who fear the Lord more than men (Psalm 118:9; Psalm 146:3).
(c) for those, who, through righteousness will bring the blessing of God (Proverbs 14:34; Psalm 37:6).
(d) that there will be no unholy alliances; no blackmailing; no backroom dealings (Leviticus 10:10-11).
(2) PRAY FOR UNITY IN THE NATION OF ISRAEL:
(a) for God’s Presence to come (2 Chronicles 7:1-4).
(b) that God’s Covenant will be acknowledged and obeyed (Exodus 19:5-6).
(c) that God’s Divine Order will be established properly (Exodus 18:19-23).
(d) for Reconciliation: Jew vs. Arab; right vs. left; government vs. settlers; Orthodox vs. secular; ethnic tensions of Ethiopian & Russian immigrants vs. native-born Israelis (2 Chronicles 7:14; Genesis 33:1-4; Genesis 45:1-15; Ephesians 4:2-3).
(e) that Israel’s citizens will honor and respect the new leaders being appointed (1 Timothy 2:1-8)
(3) PRAY FOR CALM TO COME TO THE NATIONS -- Reconciliation of the nations to God and to Israel:
(a) Kiss the Son lest He be angry (Psalm 2:10-12).
(b) Sheep vs. Goat nations (Matthew 25:32-34).
(c) Swords into Plowshares (Isaiah 2:4; Micah 4:3).
(4) PRAY PROTECTION FOR JEWS FROM GLOBAL ANTI-SEMITISM, AND FROM ACTS OF REVENGE BY TERRORISTS:
(a) Protection from evil plots (Exodus 15:6-13; Esther 8:17).
(5) PRAY THAT ISRAEL WILL FULFILL ITS CALLING TO BE A LIGHT TO THE NATIONS:
(Isaiah 2:3; Isaiah 9:2; Isaiah 49:5-6; Isaiah 60:1-2; Zechariah 8:23).
THE FORMATION OF ISRAEL’S NEXT GOVERNMENT
Recent reports indicate that the Labor Party, under the chairmanship of Ehud Barak, will be joining the next government of Israel. Likud leader, Benjamin Netanyahu has been given the responsbility to put together a government, which most likely, will include Labor, Israel Beitenu, and Shas. Negotiations continue with smaller right-wing parties. Netanyahu has until April 5 to form a government after being given a 2 week extension by Israel's President, Shimon Peres. But, Netanyahu is expected to finish negotiations before that time.
The official Israeli election results from the Central Elections Committee were published in the public records February 18, 2009. Israeli President Shimon Peres then began consulting with Knesset factions with the goal of determining which Knesset member should try and form the next government coalition.
His invitation came on the heels of political maneuvering by both Israeli Foreign Minister Tzippi Livni, leader of the Kadima Party and Netanyahu.
Livni won the February 10, 2009 general election by a narrow lead, but she was not considered able to put together a successful coalition. The left-wing parties she had a natural alliance with lost votes due to an Israeli population swing towards the “right”.
Netanyahu enjoys strong support among a majority of Israel’s new incoming Knesset members, especially those who align themselves with the right-wing bloc.
DIVISIONS ON MAJOR ISSUES
Divisions remain among Israelis on core issues that involve future political, diplomatic, and military decisions. There’s a weakness in Israeli foreign policy strategies set by leaders because of these divisions. The election results indicate the continued polarization between Jew and Arab; left-wing and right-wing; secular and religious.
ELECTORAL REFORM
Israel is about to swear in its 32nd government in 60 years of statehood. Since 1988, no Knesset has served out its full term. There’s always been a coalition crisis that instigates early elections.
As Israel’s political parties bicker over who will be in Netanyahu's government, one thing is certain... Electoral reform will be on the agenda of the 18th Knesset. This may be Israel’s most fractured government to-date. The electoral system needs the reforms to create political stability. There are too many factions pursuing single-interest issues. There is not enough cohesiveness between major political blocs. There is little unity among Israeli leaders except around one core issue – Iran.
Currently, a political party trying to get into the Knesset needs to garner 2% of the votes in the general election. Those members of the Knesset who want electoral reform will try to raise that threshold to, perhaps, 5%. In the U.S. there are two major parties elected to Congress – Democrats and Republicans. In Israel’s recent election, 12 parties made it past the electoral threshold, and all will be represented in the 18th Knesset.
LOSSES AND GAINS
While it is expected that the Kadima Party, headed by Livni, will remain in the opposition, the Labor Party, headed by Barak, now has a chance to improve its status as a strong partner within the new coalition government.
The Labor Party lost a substantial amount of votes in the February 2009 general election. Citizens remember the indecisive military victory at the end of the Second Lebanon War in 2006. Amir Peretz, Labor Party Chairman, then, was inexperienced in his position as Defense Minister during that war. Israelis haven’t forgotten how humiliated they felt about the government’s conduct, and how weak Israel’s Defense Forces (the IDF) performed at the time.
Barak, one of the most decorated generals in Israel’s history, was somewhat successful, as Israeli Defense Minister, in overseeing Israel’s battles with Hamas in the recent Gaza war. Yet, his Labor Party still lost the confidence of many Israelis who voted at the polls.
Avigdor Lieberman of Israel Beitenu experienced a significant surge in popularity during the election campaign. Lieberman’s main point of contention has been with the Israeli Arabs living inside the State of Israel. He has wanted to introduce a Citizenship Law in the Knesset. It would require all citizens, including Israeli Arabs to sign a loyalty document; learn the national anthem; and express their loyalty to the Jewish State.
Lieberman’s tough attitude towards Israeli Arabs has garnered favor among Israeli Jewish citizens. They want the nation to appear strong and not weak in the face of Arab hostility -- both inside and outside the country.
Israel Beitenu stated their objectives clearly throughout the election campaign, wanting to address the problems in Israeli society, and hoping to change the status quo. Israel Beitenu has demanded alterations in Israeli law to accommodate civil marriages; and, is looking for solutions to simplify the conversion process to Judaism.
Interestingly, 20% of Israeli Arabs voted for Jewish parties rather than Arab parties during Israel’s general elections. A surprising number voted for United Torah Judaism (UTJ), a right-wing Haredi party. UTJ called on the Arabs to help them battle the influence of Israel Beitenu, because they considered Lieberman racist towards the Arabs and too secular towards the ultra-Orthodox Jews.
A total of 21 women will sit in the next Knesset, the largest number ever to be in the legislative body since the state of Israel was born in 1948.
FOREIGN POLICY DIFFERENCES
Livni, even sitting in Israel's opposition, is expected to challenge Netanyahu's government, especially regarding the diplomatic process. She supports a two-state solution – Israel, side-by-side, a Palestinian state. She also supports a withdrawal from most of the West Bank (Judea and Samaria). She has negotiated on the division of Jerusalem. Her position on the Golan Heights is not clear, but she would be expected to challenge Netanyahu to sign a comprehensive peace deal with Syria that would include a withdrawal from the Heights.
Netanyahu is more of a hardliner. His national security strategy is to develop military strength to prepare for battles against Iran, Hamas and Hezbollah, and to keep Syria in check.
Though Netanyahu doesn’t rule out a type of Palestinian state in the future, where the Palestinians will have some kind of self-rule, he wants to take a different approach to Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking. He does not want to be pushed by the international community to work out a “land for peace” deal with the Palestinians.
Reciprocity is important to Netanyahu. He wants to see the Palestinians do their part to crackdown on terror, collect weapons from terrorist groups, stop incitement on the streets and in the schools. If the Palestinians show a willingness to advance in peace negotiations at this level of reciprocity, Israel will do its part to open borders, stop building in settlements, and consider giving more military oversight to the Palestinians in the West Bank.
In addition, Netanyahu wants to approach peace negotiations from the bottom-up. He has a plan that would provide economic incentives to help the Palestinian build a better life. His idea is to introduce massive financial investment into the Palestinian sector. He is also calling for regional cooperation with Jordan.
Livni prefers the top–down approach. She wants Israel to carry forth the diplomatic process she began under Ehud Olmert's government. She is looking for a solution that requires an international agreement on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Once an agreement is finalized, and approved by Israel’s Security Cabinet, Livni would most likely look to Israeli citizens to fulfill their obligations to the Palestinians, obeying the rule of law. Forcing settlers to withdraw from their homes in the West Bank could start a civil war.
ISRAELI-AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP
U.S. President Barack Obama is expected to actively and aggressively push for a two-state solution in the Middle East, within the context of a comprehensive peace in the region, most likely focusing on the Arab Peace Initiative.
Dr. Yuval Steinitz, Likud Knesset member, and close advisor to Netanyahu, spoke to this writer about the Arab Peace Initiative in an interview conducted during the Jerusalem Conference in January 2009.
“The good element is that this is the first time the Arab League is calling for general peace with Israel by all the Arab states. This is positive. But, the request for a total withdrawal to the 1967 borders, and the partition of Jerusalem, is totally unacceptable. Even President Obama recognized Israel’s need for defensible borders. And, therefore, I believe this is a non-starter. It is the same in the mentioning of the return of Palestinian ‘refugees’ into Israel, which is totally unacceptable. So, let the Arab League change this initiative in order for us to be able to consider it.”
Several of Israel’s left-wing leaders see the Arab Peace Initiative as a starting point in negotiations, even though Arab states say it is a non-negotiable plan. Part of the coalition agreement between Ehud Barak and Benjamin Netanyahu involves an acceptance of a comprehensive peace deal. This could mean that Netanyahu will be pressured by Barak to enter into negotiations over the Arab Peace Initiative.
OBAMA'S INTENTIONS
Meanwhile, in his second day in office, Obama attended the State Department ceremony that appointed George Mitchell as the new American envoy to the Middle East. Mitchell is an experienced and tough negotiator, and he may very well prod, push, and exert his influence on the peace process to get concessions out of Israel and the Palestinians.
At the State Department, Obama signaled to the world that he plans to apply substantial pressure on Israel and the Palestinians to end the conflict. Furthermore, it is expected that he will look for the two parties to reach a final status agreement during his reign in office.
According to the assessment of one Middle East analyst, Obama’s foreign policy team is made up of centrists who have a pragmatic approach to this region. His team seems to encompass the center position of the Democratic Party.
As Israel forms a national unity government, it will be in line with a centrist approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In that way, Netanyahu is expected to get along with Obama and the American Democratic Congress. The Obama Administration's focus may be to push Israel into a regional peace deal.
Many Likud members in Netanyahu’s own party are hesitant about a “land for peace” deal happening now. Since it appears that Obama favors this idea, because he wants to form an alliance with moderate Arabs countries to bring calm to the region, this already shows the possible friction that may occur between Israeli and U.S. leaders in the future.
An additional point for concern is that, since the Gaza war, fewer Americans are supportive of U.S. ties with Israel, although Congressional support for the Jewish state remains strong.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry will continue to court members of the U.S. Congress, the Jewish community, and grassroots America in order to garner public support, as a cornerstone of Israel’s foreign policy efforts. But, the chemistry between Netanyahu and Obama will determine if the U.S.-Israel relationship will be a smooth or rocky road in 2009 and beyond.
“For unto us a Child is born. Unto us a Son is given. And, His name will be called, Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace, there will be no end; Upon the throne of David and over His Kingdom; to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will perform this.” Isaiah 9:6-7
PRAYER POINTS:
(1) PRAY FOR THE NEW GOVERNMENT BEING FORMED, AND FOR THE 18TH KNESSET:
(a) for humble leaders (Isaiah 57:15; Isaiah 66:2; Proverbs 3:3-4).
(b) for leaders who fear the Lord more than men (Psalm 118:9; Psalm 146:3).
(c) for those, who, through righteousness will bring the blessing of God (Proverbs 14:34; Psalm 37:6).
(d) that there will be no unholy alliances; no blackmailing; no backroom dealings (Leviticus 10:10-11).
(2) PRAY FOR UNITY IN THE NATION OF ISRAEL:
(a) for God’s Presence to come (2 Chronicles 7:1-4).
(b) that God’s Covenant will be acknowledged and obeyed (Exodus 19:5-6).
(c) that God’s Divine Order will be established properly (Exodus 18:19-23).
(d) for Reconciliation: Jew vs. Arab; right vs. left; government vs. settlers; Orthodox vs. secular; ethnic tensions of Ethiopian & Russian immigrants vs. native-born Israelis (2 Chronicles 7:14; Genesis 33:1-4; Genesis 45:1-15; Ephesians 4:2-3).
(e) that Israel’s citizens will honor and respect the new leaders being appointed (1 Timothy 2:1-8)
(3) PRAY FOR CALM TO COME TO THE NATIONS -- Reconciliation of the nations to God and to Israel:
(a) Kiss the Son lest He be angry (Psalm 2:10-12).
(b) Sheep vs. Goat nations (Matthew 25:32-34).
(c) Swords into Plowshares (Isaiah 2:4; Micah 4:3).
(4) PRAY PROTECTION FOR JEWS FROM GLOBAL ANTI-SEMITISM, AND FROM ACTS OF REVENGE BY TERRORISTS:
(a) Protection from evil plots (Exodus 15:6-13; Esther 8:17).
(5) PRAY THAT ISRAEL WILL FULFILL ITS CALLING TO BE A LIGHT TO THE NATIONS:
(Isaiah 2:3; Isaiah 9:2; Isaiah 49:5-6; Isaiah 60:1-2; Zechariah 8:23).
SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 241
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