SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 102

Jerusalem, Israel

JANUARY 2016 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Nations

Prayer Focus:

Pray that the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come, will provide effective strategies to those who will listen to what He has to say in 2016. Pray that Western nations will heed the advice of people who have Godly wisdom and see ways of stopping the advancement of evil plans in the Middle East.

TERRORISM:

An increase in terrorism was a major source of global anxiety in 2015, and is expected to be a priority focus of reporting by media organizations in 2016. This is one of the biggest concerns for a majority of Israeli citizens, as indicated in recent polls. 

At least 1 in 5 Israelis know someone who has been in a recent terrorist attack. Hundreds of citizens suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  In December, media reports indicated that there had been more than 100 days marked since the beginning of the current Intifada (Palestinian Uprising).  The terrorism has not let up!

The Israeli government believed that Israel’s “shoot to kill” strategy (including encouraging the use of guns by civilians) would strength Israel’s deterrence. It has not worked. Some doctors treating Israeli victims of stabbing attacks claim they are seeing a pattern, and wondering if there is not some organized terror cells involved in what has been believed, so far, to be mainly “lone” terror attacks.

Pray that the Lord will guide the Israeli Police and the IDF to find new and better ways of clamping down on the current wave of terror. Ask the Lord to intervene and bring safety and peace to the land. Pray that Israel’s enemies will be continually thwarted by God from being able to attack His Chosen People. Proclaim that stories of daily miracles will come forth in Jesus’ name that are a witness and testimony to the Lord’s faithfulness in protecting Israeli citizens and residents, especially those living in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Hebron, and the settlement blocks in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria).

CRAFTED PRAYER:

We ask you Father to take all fear away from Your people. Heal them of PTSD and any other kind of sickness that has resulted from these terror attacks. Provide comfort for hurting families who have lost loved ones. Provide healing for those who are still suffering from stab and gunshot wounds because of these acts of terror. Give wisdom to doctors and nurses. Set your people free!  Your word says in Isaiah 41:10, “Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am Your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with My victorious right hand.”  We stand on that promise to the Israeli people.  If You are for Israel, Lord, then who can be against her (as stated in Romans 8:31)? Bring deliverance to Israel today as in the day of Moses. In Exodus 14:13, Moses answered his people by declaring: “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today...”  We proclaim that promise, and also declare, according to Psalm 128:5-6: “The Lord bless you from Zion, And, may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life. Indeed, may you see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel!”

 

WAR “WATCH” IN THE NORTH:   

Israel’s defense forces are on the highest of alerts in the north of the country. There are two vulnerable areas along Israel’s border with Syria that has caused the IDF to fortify positions. One is a point where numerous radical Islamic groups are fighting for dominance, including those associated with Islamic State and Al-Qaeda. 

The other point is where Russia is conducting air strikes, along with Bashar Assad’s Syrian army, against rebel groups on the Golan Heights. Once the area is “cleansed” by Russia, the vacuum could be filled by Hezbollah and Iranian forces.  Hezbollah leader Sheikh Nasrallah has threatened Israel, twice, that he will retaliate for the murder of Lebanese arch terrorist Samir Kuntar, killed in a missile strike in Syria last month. Reports in the foreign press indicate that Israel was responsible for that strike. 

The recent threats to Israel’s security has caused the IDF to be on closer “watch” in order to prevent terror attacks such as bomb-laden vehicles coming into Israel; or cross-border infiltration by terrorists; or the launching of rockets from Lebanon or Syria.

Meanwhile, ISIS has admitted that it fears Israeli military power and thinks Israel’s defense forces are too strong for it. But, at the same time, the militant group threatens to attack Israel. The group’s recent video sought to discourage Jews by stating that those who have gathered in Israel (a veiled reference to Aliyah), will be murdered and die in “Palestine”.

At least 17% of Israeli Arabs support ISIS. The IDF continues to disrupt terror cells in the West Bank and Jerusalem that have been influenced by the radical group.

CRAFTED PRAYER: 

Father we ask for safe borders for Israel, especially in the north. We declare that the battle belongs to the Lord. In 1 Samuel 17:47, we read that all those who were gathered knew that it was not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is Yours, and You will give Israel’s enemies into Israel’s hands. We trust in Your faithfulness. In Hosea 1:7 it says that You will show Your love to Judah, and will save them; not by bow, sword or war, or horses and horsemen, but You the Lord their God will save them!  We declare this over your land in Jesus name! We stand on Your word in Deuteronomy 20:1 and Deuteronomy 31:6 that Your mighty power is over Israel, knowing that even in the heat of conflict, when the forces seem so great to Israeli soldiers, they will have the assurance that You are watching over them; and they are secure in Your loving arms. We intercede that the citizens of Your land will stand courageous, protecting their home front, knowing that You go with them,  and will never leave them or forsake them. They will no longer be terrified by the terror attacks, in Jesus name! And, we thank You, God, that You have watchmen looking out on Israel’s borders, according to Isaiah 21:6-8, who will not vacate their positions, but will stand continually by day in the watchtowers, while stationed every night at their guard posts.

SHAKE-UP IN THE IDF:

While Israel has recently shored up its anti-missile defense system, providing layers of protection to the Israeli home front, the man in charge of the Missile Defense Organization, Yair Ramati, was fired this week when it was discovered that he had classified information on his personal laptop. This has shaken up the security community in Israel. No replacement has been announced. 

We ask you Lord to raise up a leader over all missile defense operations in Israel who will walk in integrity, loyalty, and discretion. We pray for a smooth transition of power, and no vulnerabilities caused in Israel’s layer of defense because of this breach of trust, in Yeshua’s name!

RUSSIA’S INFLUENCE:

Israelis do not understand the negative role that Russia is playing in the Middle East, which is to help expand Iran’s Shiite Crescent over the region. So far, this quest for control extends from Afghanistan, to Iran, to Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon. Eventually the Shiite’s want to take control of Jordan and Yemen, as well.

As the U.S., under the leadership of President Barack Obama, retreats from the region, Russian President Vladimir Putin has expanded his role in the Middle East, gaining more power, daily, in Syria.         

Recently, a majority of Israelis voted for Putin as the “best man of the year”. 

CRAFTED PRAYER: 

We ask You, Lord, to remove the blinders from the eyes of Israeli leaders and citizens in regard to what they perceive is a friend in Russian leader Vladimir Putin. We pray that Putin will not be able to deceive Netanyahu with empty words, and that Israel will stop walking in false hope where Russia is concerned. We declare that Israeli citizens will walk in the light, according to Ephesians 5:8-9, in all goodness and righteousness and truth. Let Putin’s true intentions be exposed, and let Israel’s government accept intelligence information that changes its direction from any unholy alliance with Russia. Lord, we ask You to block Russia’s army, air force, and navy from gaining intelligence information on Israel’s military strategies; especially, as Russian forces fight with Sunni radicals along Israel’s northern border. We further ask You to stop Russia from engaging in all evil deeds of darkness in Syria; and, that Israel will distance itself from such wickedness and expose it, in Jesus name! 

JORDAN:

Israel and Jordan have a peace treaty and they recently increased business ties. A new border crossing is being considered by both countries that would open up commercial ties at the Dead Sea.  And, there is a new agreement to bring Jordanian day workers to Eilat for hotel employment. The current plan, which allows 150 Jordanians to work in Eilat, is expected to expand to 1500 Jordanian day workers allowed in the city. Jordan claims that its citizens are fully united behind King Abdullah, and that Jordan fully controls its borders from any terrorist infiltration. While this seems to promote an atmosphere of stability, Jordan has faced some terrorism, and is vulnerable to ISIS forces. This open policy of allowing Jordanians to work in Eilat could create an open door to attacks against Israel in the future.

Pray that the Lord will provide an added measure of protection on Israel’s border with Jordan to stop any radical Islamist infiltrators. Intercede that all those Jordanians who are allowed to work in Eilat will be screened and vetted by Israeli defense forces, so that no terrorists will be able to act against Israel, in Yeshua’s name!

FUTURE U.S. MILITARY AID TO ISRAEL:

Israel is looking for the U.S. to increase its military aid in 2017 to $5 billion a year. This is needed because of the Western nuclear deal with Iran, which Israel believes has a negative impact on its security. The aid is also needed because the Obama Administration has retreated from supporting its allies in the Middle East, contributing to an overall increase in regional instability, which is causing Arab countries to arm themselves with more advanced military equipment.  Most of the aid to Israel goes to U.S. defense corporations to build advanced weapons systems, anti-missile defense systems, and jet fighters for Israel. More jobs are provided for Americans in these U.S. defense corporations to accommodate the requests from Israel. This is also a way of the U.S. investing in its “ally” in the Middle East, which ultimately helps U.S. forces in the region to be more secure. 

But, those who do not agree with this uptick in aid to Israel may be a source of contention to the Jewish State in 2016, when Israeli interlocutors press the U.S. for a final answer on a new military aid package to Israel for the next decade.

CRAFTED PRAYER:   

Thank you, Lord, for Your favor that goes before Israel and Your favor that is at her rear guard. You protect those things which concern Your Chosen People. You provide, for Israel, a Qualitative Military Edge over all states in the Middle East. You make sure that Israel has the ability to defend itself from any attempts by the enemy to change the balance of power in the region. Thank You, God, for putting it on the hearts of those in power in the U.S., to provide billions of dollars in military aid to Israel. We appreciate that it also helps American defense industries, providing jobs for U.S. citizens. And, it helps the U.S. Administration with guaranteed security over its armed forces in the Middle East because it is aiding its ally, Israel. Bless those in America who continue to care about Israel’s security needs, and may You, Lord, continue to watch over Your covenant land.  We declare Exodus 13:21 over the Jewish People:  “The Lord was going before them in a pillar of cloud by day to lead them on the way, and in a pillar of fire by night to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. He did not take away the pillar of cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night, from before the people.”

EUROPEAN INFLUENCE:

There are two spots to be filled at the UN Security Council in 2017-2018. The Netherlands, Italy, and Sweden are vying for these positions. Sweden is one of the worst supporters of Israel of Western European countries. Its leaders, especially Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom, continue to antagonize the Jewish State with lies, distortions, and unacceptable comments; coming against Israeli government policies that defend Israeli citizens. 

The EU has hurt Israel’s reputation and singled out the Jewish State for isolation by calling for settlement products from the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) to be specifically labeled. This is a form of boycott, and contributes to the anti-Israel boycott and divestment movement that is gaining ground, worldwide.

Meanwhile, as Europe becomes more and more anti-Semitic, an estimated 5,000 EU citizens have joined terrorist groups in the Middle East. There’s been a lax of security checks at EU borders, with irregularities reported on more than 1.5 million people passing through Europe in 2015.

Intercede for the Lord to deal with the arrogance and pride that is contributing to the prejudice against Israel by European leaders. 

Pray that there is either a change in Sweden’s attitude towards Israel, or that the Lord closes the door to Sweden being able to obtain a future position on the UN Security Council. 

CRAFTED PRAYER:   

Thank you for Your word God that states in Isaiah 50:9, that You are the Sovereign Lord that helps Your people. Who, then, can condemn them?  We proclaim that everything that has been done to Israel will be turned around to the benefit of Your Chosen People. According to Psalm 37:6, You will bring forth Israel’s righteousness as the light, and Israel’s justice as the noonday sun. We declare that pride comes before the fall for European leaders, and ask You to deal with the hearts of those who are condemning the Jewish State, as we stand on Your word in Proverbs 16:18.  Lord, we ask You to also watch over the borders of Europe, and stop the flow of European citizens to Middle East conflict zones. We pray for revival in Europe, asking You, God, to remove the demonic stronghold over the European people that has blinded them from the true knowledge of salvation through Jesus, the Messiah. 

DOMESTIC ISSUES IN ISRAEL:

Silvan Shalom, who was head of Israel’s Ministry of the Interior, as well as a member of the Knesset, resigned his position on allegations of sexual harassment. This opened two doors: (1) The Likud MK who replaced Shalom in the Knesset is openly gay. (2) Shas leader, Aryeh Deri, who was jailed on corruption charges in the year 2000 (for crimes he committed as head of the Ministry of Interior in 1992-93), is now expected to take Shalom’s place. This is not good for Israeli citizens, in general; or for Jewish believers who suffered more harassment and denial of Israeli citizenship under Deri than under most leaders who have served as head of the Ministry of Interior.

Pray that thousands of concerned Israeli citizens will protest the decision to appoint Deri to the post at the Ministry of Interior, thus causing Netanyahu to withdraw his support. Pray that the openly gay member of Likud will have no open path to push his gay agenda forth in the government.

Netanyahu’s wife Sarah was recently questioned by police regarding the misuse of state funds for personal reasons. If she is indicted, this will, obviously, weaken Netanyahu’s power, and could prevent him from continuing to lead the government.

Pray for Sarah Netanyahu to repent of all actions that are against God’s will and His wisdom. Intercede that the Lord will have mercy, especially on Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has not been implicated in any crime.

ALIYAH INCREASE:

In 2015, nearly 30,000 Jews made Aliyah, mostly from France and the Ukraine. Those numbers are expected to increase in 2016.

Pray that the Israeli government will encourage more Jews from France to make Aliyah by eliminating the bureaucracy that is causing them to hesitate. There could be a lot more citizens coming, but they are dissuaded by Israel’s refusal to accept their advanced university degrees; and, by the lack of good employment opportunities. Pray for clear changes in society to make it easier for French Jews to successfully live in Israel.

Pray that the Jews coming from the Ukraine will be absorbed quickly. They have had problems, as many were airlifted from war zones without the proper paperwork to get citizenship once they arrived in Israel. Pray for leniency at the Ministry of Interior for all Jews who are trying to make Aliyah and want to absorb into the country.

Isaiah 43:5-6: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ And, to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’  Bring My sons from afar, and My daughters from the ends of the earth...”

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 101

Jerusalem, Israel

DECEMBER 2015 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Nations

The Russian deployment of the advanced S-400 surface-to-air missile system in northwest Syria is a game changer in the Middle East.  It could alter the balance of power in the region. Israel’s Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon says that because the missiles are not directed against Israel, and do not threaten Israel’s air force operations, it is not an issue for concern. But, the presence of Iranian, Russian and Hezbollah forces in Syria, close to the border with Israel, is disconcerting.  It opens the door for Iran and Hezbollah to build bases on the Syrian Golan Heights to use for a future attack on Israel from Syria. As long as Russia has a strong presence in Syria, the threat to Israel’s home front increases.

Reportedly, in mid-October, Israel’s air force was warned not to fly over Lebanon. Despite Jerusalem’s attempt to coordinate air force operations with Moscow, there remains the possibility of a mishap over the region’s airspace. 

Meanwhile, reports indicate that Iran is using Islamic State’s ascendance in the Middle East to consolidate its power. Iran and ISIS are mirror images of each other, except they have different approaches to the caliphate and regional hegemony. Iran continues to call for Israel’s destruction, while ISIS has warned that Israel is on its hit list.

CRAFTED PRAYER: Lord, we ask you to preserve the lives of Israelis from the dread of the enemy. Hide them from the conspiracy of the wicked, and from the plots of evildoers. The enemy has an evil purpose. Those who hate Israel talk of laying secret snares against Your Chosen People. They devise injustices against Your Land with well-conceived plots. But, You are Israel’s refuge and fortress, a mighty help in times of trouble. We call on You, Lord, to give greater discernment to Israel’s Defense Forces. Go before them and defend Your nation for Your Holy Name’s sake. Shoot at Israel’s enemy with Your own arrow. Then all men will declare Your mighty works oh God! And, consider what You have done to protect Your land and Your people! The righteous man will take refuge in You. And, all the upright in heart will glory!     (See Psalm 64).

Israel is considered a world leader in counter-terrorism and cyber warfare. Israel is also reported to have at least 115 nuclear weapons in its possession. Nations who would not normally do business with Israel are seeking out the advice of Israeli leaders. 

CRAFTED PRAYER: We give thanks to You Lord that Israel continues to be a “light to the nations”, and that the nations seek out Israel in order to learn new ways of defending their countries. May the favor increase! We declare that Israel is Your people, Your inheritance that You brought out by Your great power and your outstretched arm, according to Deuteronomy 9:29. Your Word says that there will be a day when ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, 'Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.' We proclaim that day of supernatural favor from the Lord, according to Zechariah 8:23.

After the devastating terror attacks in Paris, there is much greater intelligence cooperation going on, globally, especially between France, Brussels, and Germany. Investigations have indicated that there are almost 900 radical mosques in France, with 41 more being radicalized. In Germany, there are thousands of extreme Salafists operating, who are recruiting men and women for ISIS. Hezbollah continues to operate political networks in Germany, with more than 900 members currently in the country. Hezbollah has also been allowed to operate in France. The terror organization has raised funds in both countries for its terrorist activities. Analysts say that a strong counter-terrorism policy is needed in Europe, now, to clean out terrorist cells before there are more jihad attacks on European soil.  One of Israel’s concerns is that these same terrorists have been planning to hit Jewish targets in Europe.

The increase in sharing intelligence has a downside in that the West wants to institute a greater screening process through airports. Already, U.S. President Barack Obama is pushing for more biometric solutions in processing people through borders, which means more violation of privacy issues.

CRAFTED PRAYER: God Almighty, Your Word says that all men must turn to You and be saved; all the ends of the earth. For You are God, and there is no other. The Word has gone forth from Your mouth in righteousness, and will not turn back; that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess allegiance to You. They will say of You, 'Only in the Lord are righteousness and strength.' Men will come to You, and all who were angry at You will be put to shame. We also declare that in the Lord all the offspring of Israel will be justified and will glory! All those who are angered at the Jewish People will be shamed and dishonored; those who contend with Israel will be as nothing and will perish. Israel will seek those who quarrel with the nation, but will not find them; those who war with Israel will be as nothing and non-existent. For You, Lord, have said to Your Chosen Ones: "For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand, who says to you, 'Do not fear, I will help you.’ ”   (See Isaiah 45:22-25; Isaiah 41:11-13).

Israeli leaders are concerned that if Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas does not keep up security cooperation with Israel, control in the Palestinian territories will deteriorate into anarchy. A lack of stability could create a vacuum filled by ISIS. Meanwhile, the Intifada continues, and each day there seems to be an attack against Israelis, particularly in the Gush Etzion block and in Hebron. More than half of the Palestinians support a Third Intifada (Uprising) against Israel. At least 42% of the Palestinians support an armed Intifada. 

CRAFTED PRAYER:  Lord, we ask you to stop the incitement that is leading young Palestinians to take up arms against Israel. We pray that they will stop filling their minds with evil, and will receiving healing and truth from Your Holy Spirit. Give them dreams that convict their hearts to receive Your salvation and Your love for Israel. We also declare that ISIS will not gain a foothold in Palestinian controlled areas, especially those cities in Judea and Samaria where the Palestinians currently have autonomy. Protect Your people O Lord! We also ask You to fortify the watchmen to stand guard around Israelis living in Hebron and the Gush Etzion block. We declare that You will not allow Israel’s foot to slip there again; that the carnage against Your Chosen People must stop now! You promise that You who keeps hold of Israel will not slumber. Behold, You who keeps hold of Israel will not slumber nor sleep.                                                                 

We say to Israel: “The Lord is your shade on your right hand.”                                                      

And, we say to You O Lord God Almighty: “Let Your eyes be open and Your ears attentive to the prayer offered in this place. Now, therefore Arise, O Lord God, to Your resting place, You and the ark of Your might!  Let Your priests be clothed with salvation and let Your Godly ones rejoice in what is good.  O Lord, do not turn away the face of Your anointed; remember Your loving kindness to Your servant David.  (See 2 Chronicles 6:40-42).

PEACE BE UPON ISRAEL DURING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 100

Jerusalem, Israel

ISRAEL’S BIBLICAL CLAIM TO SOVEREIGNTY

Israel recently marked November 29, 2015 as 68 years since the UN recognition of a Jewish State in the land of Israel. In his comments at his weekly government cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke about the outbreak of murderous attacks the day after that momentous decision 68 years ago. “As it was, then, so it is today; we continue to fight terrorism. This terrorism has been with us for almost 100 years and we have defeated it time and again; we will defeat it this time, as well.”

Netanyahu was referring to the continued daily attacks on Israeli Jews by Israeli Arabs and Palestinians, since September 2015, in what IDF (Israel’s Defense Forces) are now calling a limited Uprising (Intifada). Netanyahu declared in his remarks at the cabinet meeting that what drives the current terrorism is the opposition that these attackers have to the existence of the State of Israel as the National State of the Jewish People within any borders. He explains that radical Islam is joining this opposition, striking nations around the world. Netanyahu continues to draw parallels between the attacks on Israel and those of other free, independent and democratic societies.

In meetings last week with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Netanyahu was willing to consider new gestures that would make life easier for the Palestinians in the territories in exchange for American recognition of Israel’s right to build in settlement blocs that Israel would retain in any future peace agreement with the Palestinians. Kerry refused Netanyahu’s offer.  Reports indicate that Netanyahu was also considering a unilateral withdrawal of a small portion of Israeli land as a concession to the Palestinians, which the Prime Minister’s office vigorously denied.  

While Netanyahu has often declared his willingness to work towards a “two-state solution”, there are others within his government and in the Opposition that say he will not concede to the creation of a Palestinian State. Nevertheless, Netanyahu often defends Israel’s right to a secure Jewish and democratic state while emphasizing his willingness for the Palestinians to have their own demilitarized state. But, it is not always clear where Netanyahu stands on Israel’s sovereignty over its own territory.

In a political journal called, “Sovereignty”, published by the right-wing organization Women in Green, several Israeli leaders explain why they do not think that Netanyahu is defending the state of Israel, successfully, beyond issues of safety and security. 

Minister of Tourism Yariv Levin comments, “A determined battle must be waged to change the way Israel presents itself to the outside world. This is where we are at this stage. We must speak about sovereignty and raise the subject continuously...”

According to Attorney Yossi Fuchs, the head of the Legal Forum for the Land of Israel, the Israeli diplomatic corps must stop the discourse that centers on security and focus on a legal and historical discourse. “Instead of claiming that we are realizing our rights on the Land, we speak of security. The Palestinians speak of justice and we speak about terror, and when you continue to speak only about self-defense, the world tells you that the simplest solution is to give them back their land and you will have quiet.” 

Fuchs sees a road map leading to a Palestinian state as a fatal mistake. And, he takes issue with Netanyahu for adopting the mainstream Israeli terminology that when the Palestinians stop their acts of terror, then two states can be established. 

Israeli Gen. (Res.) Uzi Dayan writes in the same political journal that as a boy living in Emek Yizrael, his studies were conducted in the field with the Bible in hand. “For us, the Bible was both history and our deed of ownership to the land.”  While Dayan admits that the Israelis in his class did not study the Bible as a sacred book, they knew what was in it. When Dayan brings tours to Israel, they pass through the Jordan Valley and he focuses on security; they pass through Judea and Samaria and he focuses on history. According to Dayan, “The sense of belonging begins in the people’s hearts, and when people are not familiar with their land, they do not feel connected to it.” 

Yet, Israel seems to have lost its way when it comes to national identity. Because of the make-up of Netanyahu’s current government, which is comprised of a narrow right-wing coalition, the Prime Minister is trying, once again, to establish a nationalistic bill that would cement Israel’s right to the land as the Nation State of the Jewish People. Still, there are those who say he is not going far enough.

Perhaps, because of the pressure on Netanyahu to take a stronger public stand for Israel’s rights to its own land, he recently gave a new twist on the subject of Israeli sovereignty. At the Jerusalem Post Diplomatic Conference on November 18, 2015, Netanyahu stated, “The Palestinians will have to finally recognize the Jewish State... After all, we’ve only been here about 4,000 years. We have some connection to this city. Four hundred yards (from here) is David’s City. An equal distance, this Temple Mount, where there was a temple; the place where Abraham first visited; and Solomon built a temple; and Jesus overturned the money changing tables on that Temple (Mount); all this from Solomon’s time to the rise of Islam, the seat of Islam, by 1500 years... We have some connection to this land, to this city!” 

Netanyahu added, “We recognize that there are another people here and we need to forge a peace. So, we need to sit down and discuss the issue of mutual recognition.” 

Unfortunately, it is this willingness by Israeli leaders, not just Netanyahu but also his predecessors, to recognize a Palestinian right to Israeli land, that is hurting Israel’s narrative. How can Israeli leaders then determine to get the international community to recognize Israel’s right to its own sovereignty on that same land?

Education Minister Naftali Bennett is concerned that Netanyahu may take unilateral steps in the future in order to appease the Palestinians. At the Jerusalem Post Diplomatic Conference he proclaimed, “I will do everything possible to prevent unilateral withdrawals. And, I will do everything in my power to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian State smack in the heart of Israel.... This land belongs to the Jewish People.” Bennett reminded the audience, “One cannot occupy his own home.” 

Bennett has a plan for Israel to apply its sovereignty on to Area C where there are roughly 450,000 Israelis and less than 100,000 Palestinians living. He recommends that Israel offer the Palestinians full Israeli citizenship. Then, make sure that Israel obtains the settlement blocs (all of Israeli controlled areas). In Areas A and B, Bennett thinks that Israel should provide the Palestinians with enhanced autonomy, allowing them to run their own schools, hospitals, finances, etc. This is his idea of unilateralism. 

In Bennett’s concluding remarks at the diplomatic conference, he spoke of Jewish identity. “My vision for Israel is to be a lighthouse in this huge, huge Islamic storm. We are a lighthouse that pierces those clouds.”

Marking November 29^th, 2015, Israel’s leaders recognize that they are still fighting for Israeli sovereignty in their own land. They have a long way to go to convince the international community that Israel’s narrative is the correct one. If Israeli leaders can get beyond the security issues, explaining the historical rights of the Jewish People, it will still not be enough. Bringing up sovereignty issues as they relate to Israel’s biblical identity should be a priority focus. Israel’s convincing narrative is that it is the Israelites’ covenant with the God of Israel through His promises to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob that entitles them to rightful ownership. It is this narrative that must be heard in order for Israel to have the best defense for determining its sovereignty in the Jewish Homeland.

“The land I gave to Abraham and Isaac I also give to you, and I will give this land to your descendants after you.”    Genesis 35:12

“I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land.”   Leviticus 26:42

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 99

Jerusalem, Israel

NOVEMBER 2015 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Nations

·        Russia’s desire to prop up Bashar Assad, and secure control over a small state for him in Syria, has the potential of causing a conflagration with Western forces in the region. Russian air strikes against rebels in Syria also risk a potential conflict with Israel. The close presence of Russian advanced weapons and fighter jets, Russian military operatives, and Iranian Revolutionary Guards is worrisome for the Netanyahu government. Recently, foreign correspondents reported that Israeli jets struck a Syrian convoy of weapons destined for Hezbollah. The IDF is concerned that Iranian troops will try and retaliate against Israeli forces on the Golan Heights.  

Proclaim that the Lord, the “shomer” (guard) over Israel, is watching her borders day and night.   

Declare, over the nation,  Isaiah 59:19:  “...When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.”

·        The U.S. is legitimizing the Iranian regime by encouraging Iranian officials to join talks in Syria regarding the future of that nation. Accepting Iran as a “partner” in these Syrian diplomatic gatherings gives Iranian ayatollah’s a greater advantage in their quest to manipulate global powers. It also increases Russia’s leverage over Western military ambitions in the region. America is showing weakness by allowing the Syrian-Iranian-Russian axis to dominate the diplomatic agenda. 

God has His own agenda! (Psalm 37:9).

·        ISIS is turning its attention to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. ISIS forces in Syria are reportedly no more than 10 miles from the Israeli border. ISIS in the Sinai Peninsula, reportedly, possesses advanced Russian arms which they hope to use against Israel. In September 2015, the Sinai branch of ISIS released a video calling Sinai the “southern gates to Jerusalem”, and “an opening to fight a war against the Jews.” ISIS in Egypt is growing in strength. In October 2015, ISIS posted a video in Hebrew, stating that, “not a single Jew will remain in Jerusalem.” ISIS also threatened to attack the Jewish ramparts. The intent of the radical Muslim group is to threaten the Jewish State while encouraging incitement against Israel. There are no known ISIS operatives on the ground in Israel, but there are ISIS sympathizers. An estimated 40 Israeli Arabs have joined the movement in Syria and Iraq.  

Pray that God holds back ISIS forces from trying to form terrorist cells in Israel. 

Declare Psalm 91:10-11 over the land, and by God’s Spirit push back the enemy lines in Jesus name!

·        Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has been one of the instigators of the current Palestinian Uprising. He wants more international involvement to challenge Israel’s sovereignty over Jerusalem and Judea and Samaria. He is especially focused on re-writing the historical narrative so that the international community will be convinced of Palestinian sovereignty over Israel’s holy sites. Abbas is creating a crisis in the land through incitement, violence, and blatant lies.  

Pray that God will deal with Abbas; that the Lord will expose his motives and reveal the truth of his plans.  (Proverbs 26:23-38).

          Reports indicate that most of the Palestinian attackers of Jews in this current Uprising are teenagers. These young people do not listen or respect their elders; they are often “lone wolves” committing violent actions on their own; and they are encouraged by incitement on Facebook and other social networks.  

Pray that the Lord will discipline these youth; bring order into their lives; and stop Facebook and other media from helping to encourage acts of violence against Israelis.

·        Police officers from throughout the country have been brought to Jerusalem to crack down on the recent wave of violence. This has weakened Israeli law enforcement outside of the capital. Israel’s security forces are providing intelligence to police units in east Jerusalem, enabling them to identify terrorists who are on their way to attack Israeli civilians. Every night, security officials risk their lives to make arrests based on real-time intelligence. They also break-up terrorist cells that are potential threats to the Jewish State.  

Pray for the IDF, the Israeli Police, the Shin Bet, internal public security personnel, and all those who protect the Jewish State from terrorism. Pray for God’s angels to reinforce security outside Jerusalem’s boundaries. Declare Psalm 121 over the brave and courageous Israelis who are focused on guarding the nation day and night, under the mighty power of the God of Israel!

·        Citizens are also helping to protect their cities and towns. Minister of Public Security, Gilad Erdan, recently said: “Israeli citizens are on the front, together with the police and emergency services. I walk around and see the help of citizens in stopping terrorists and aiding the injured. Everywhere the terrorists go, the police and civilians immediately go to defend their brothers.”  This is a special phenomenon in Israel, as there is a natural incliniation to help one another, with most of the country trained in mandatory military service.  

Thank God for the loving care that so many citizens of Israel have for one another. They are walking out John 15:13 without realizing it!

·        Tourism in Israel is down because of the 2014 Gaza War, and because of the recent Palestinian Uprising. Tourism in Israel decreases in the aftermath of major conflicts, and affects Israel’s economy.  

Pray for intercessors to flood Israel during these tense times, as a witness of God’s goodness, and to bless the land with His Presence.  Messiah in you, the Hope of Glory for Israel!                (Colossians 1:27).

·        Recently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel is the most powerful country that stands in the breach of a collapsing region. But, while Netanyahu speaks the truth to the nations, and clearly understands what is happening in the Middle East, he has lost the confidence of many Israeli citizens at home, in the way he has handled the Palestinian Uprising. Unfortunately, Israelis are looking to him and not to the Lord for their safety and security.  

Proclaim Psalm 91:1-2 over the Israeli population, believing that they will begin to seek the Lord as their refuge and fortress, the God in whom they trust! Pray that Netanyahu will be guided by the Holy Spirit, seeking greater wisdom in how to crackdown on terrorists; and that his efforts will stop the violence quickly and completely in Yeshua’s name!

·        The United States government has threatened Israel on settlement construction. While Netanyahu and his Defense Minister Moshe Yaalon have proclaimed that Israel has not frozen building plans in Judea and Samaria, the fact remains that there has been no final government approval to build in the heartland of Israel in many months. American President Barack Obama has forbidden it. This plays into the hands of Palestinians who want to exert their sovereignty over the land in diplomatic talks, and in their demands in regard to any future peace negotiations with Israel. Israelis should be allowed to build in their cities and towns, especially for natural growth, without ultimatums from the White House or U.S. State Department.  

Pray and declare, according to Ezekiel 36:9-11, that God will fill the land with His people... now and forevermore! Pray that the Lord will convict Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry in their insistence and false assumptions that settlements are the cause of conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. Pray that truth, justice, and righteousness -- in regard to Israel’s biblical right to the land -- will reign in diplomatic deliberations on this issue of Israeli settlement construction and expansion.

·        French Jews are worried about the possibility that terrorists will try and carry out violent attacks like those that have been launched against Jews in Israel over the past two months. Last year, France experienced a 101% increase in anti-Semitic incidents over the previous year. Synagogues were firebombed, and individuals were targeted and beaten.  

Declare Isaiah 54:17 over the Jewish Community of France.

·        Germany remains the main focus for tens of thousands of Syrian migrants. This has caused a concern among Germany’s Jewish Community as they consider a potential rise in anti-Semitism, because so many of the migrants are Muslims. Many harbor radical Islamic ideology.  

Pray that wisdom will rule among European nations who are bent on allowing all these migrants to flood their countries. Ask the Lord to thwart the wicked plans of the enemy that is intent on propagating radical Islam throughout Europe. 

·        Recently, there was a lengthy service at the Western Wall, where the silver trumpets were blown, as in Temple times, to alert and warn the people. The municipal Chief Rabbi of Safed, Shmuel Eliyahu, said that “the power of the Jewish People is the power of prayer.”

               We believe that the power of prayer upholds God’s people in times of distress. We call upon our  intercessors, and prayer partners throughout the world, to unite in fervent prayer over the Jewish State of Israel, reminding the Lord that these are His Chosen People, the Apple of God’s Eye!   (Psalm 17:8;  Deuteronomy 7:6).