SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 232

 

Jerusalem, Israel

PRAYER UPDATE    FEBRUARY 14, 2025

Israel and the Nations

GPW News and Prayer Update

PART TWO:

LEBANON AND SYRIA:

 

It is interesting that Israel is holding ground in south Lebanon. And, on the Syrian side of the Golan Heights.

 

Is the Lord saying something through this, and should we be declaring scriptures, in prayer, regarding His covenant land?

 

The Golan is known as Bashan in the Bible, referenced in Deuteronomy 4:43. This is where the half-tribe of Manasseh settled, and Golan is named as a city of refuge in Joshua 21:27.

 

The tribe of Asher was allocated the land of Southern Lebanon from Sidon to Mount Lebanon. See Israel’s inheritance of south Lebanon, referenced in these scriptures and more: Deuteronomy 11:24; Joshua 11:17; Joshua 13:6; Zechariah 10:9-10.

 

So, when you hear of challenges to Israel in Syria or Lebanon, this is a sign that what is really being challenged is God’s land being in the hands of His Servant, Israel!

 

Reportedly, despite the original temporary ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, Israel cannot, yet, pull out of south Lebanon. Hezbollah is still trying to regain ground along Israel’s northern border. The territory is not secure, and therefore the IDF troops remain there.

 

But, is the Lord showing His watchmen something about the land in this delay?  Are we supposed to hold it in prayer for the Lord? For the protection of Israel, and also for the protection of the Lebanese people, from their enemy, Hezbollah?

 

NORTHEAST SYRIA/TURKEY/QATAR/JORDAN/IRAN:

As we well know, the rebels have taken over much of Syria. U.S. troops are in NE Syria, protecting the Kurds, Christians, and minorities. But, in his inaugural speech, U.S. President Trump said that Turkish President Erdogan is his “friend.”  And, while it is not on the front page of the news right now, the U.S. has warned, several times, about pulling American troops out of NE Syria.

 

The sense is that some deals are being made, going beyond the demonic root-level of Hamas’ evil deeds in Gaza… to a broader level of evil through Sunni-backed Muslim nations that support Hamas.

 

This includes Qatar – a state that has the power and money to direct plans behind the scenes. It is not clear that Qatar really kicked Hamas leadership out of its country. Furthermore, dealing with Qatar is a temptation of the U.S., as America has a large military base there. Israel, knowing that Qatar is favorable towards Hamas, still negotiates with Qatar, along with Egypt, on plans to free hostages.

 

May God expose enemy plots in Qatar, including its money role that influences states in the Middle East, beyond the events that are happening in Gaza.

 

We must pray that NE Syria does not end up in the hands of the Turkish rebels, who are controlled by Erdogan. Not only because of the need for the people there to be protected. But, also, so that Syria does not become a staging ground, now for the eventual Ezekiel War. May the enemy’s plans be thwarted!

As said before, we must pray that Jordan, which is sitting on biblical land, does not see the weakening and overthrow of the Jordanian Monarchy, which would cause Iran to get a foothold in Jordan, as part of its goal to surround Israel, from the north, towards the Ezekiel War.  Lord, please delay the plans of the enemy!

 

Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz has warned, several times, that Israel plans to attack Iran, to keep it from “going nuclear.”  With the strengthening of the relationship between Israel and America, as defense allies, this may become the reality over the next six months.

Pray for the weakening of Iran’s nuclear capabilities, so that a full war with Iran is not necessary. Pray for the people of Iran who suffer under the current regime.

DECLARATION OF SCRIPTURE:

Daniel 2:20-23: “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever. For wisdom and might are His. And, He changes the times and the seasons. He removed kings and raises up kings. He gives wisdom to the wise, and knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things. He knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him. ‘I thank You and praise You, O God of my fathers. You have given me wisdom and might, and have now made known to me what we asked of You. For You have made known to us, the king’s demand.”

 

Isaiah 40:17-18: “All nations before Him are as nothing. And, they are counted by Him less than nothing and worthless. To whom then will you liken God?  Or, what likeness will you compare to Him?”

 

Psalm 2:8-12: “Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for Your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron. You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel. Now, therefore, be wise O kings. Be instructed you judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way; when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.”

 

Deuteronomy 20:1-4: “When you go out to battle against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and people more numerous than you, do not be afraid of them; for the LORD your God is with you, who brought you up from the land of Egypt. So, it shall be, when you are on the verge of battle, that the priest shall approach and speak to the people. And, he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel: Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them. For the LORD your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.’ ”

(Source:  Global Prayer Watch News and Prayer Update)

 

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 231

 

Jerusalem, Israel

PRAYER UPDATE   FEBRUARY 8, 2025

Israel and the Nations

GPW News and Prayer Update

PART ONE:

HOSTAGE DEAL – FIRST AND SECOND STAGES:

During the past two weeks, most of the women taken hostage by Hamas in Gaza, on October 7, 2023, were released. There is still no word about the Bibas wife/mother and two young children. Their husband/father, Yarden Bibas, was released, along with several men, on Saturday, February 1, 2025.

 

On February 8, 2025, Israel saw the release of three male hostages in the continuing efforts of getting Hamas to release all those who were taken captive on that fatal day in October 2023. As of now, there are still 76 hostages (some alive; some dead) who have not been released by Hamas.

 

The evil perpetuated against the Israeli hostages, has been further exposed, showing signs of increased wickedness used against them in captivity. The three men who were released out of Gaza on February 8th, were obviously victims of starvation by Hamas. They looked like Holocaust Survivor! Two of them could hardly walk. Their arms were being held up by Hamas!  They were paraded around. Then, forced on global television, to give speeches, thanking Hamas for releasing them. These men looked like they had been broken by Hamas…

 

Reportedly, one hostage did not even know, before his release, that his wife and children were already killed by Hamas. Another hostage came home knowing his wife was killed by Hamas, but hopeful, that his three-year old son was waiting to see him, after 491 days of separation.

 

The third hostage was released, knowing that his wife had also been in captivity, but she was set free in an earlier hostage deal.

 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was still in the States during this hostage release, and he is being criticized by Israelis for not being here in Israel during this ordeal.

 

Israeli demonstrators will likely start again, soon, in their protests, in order to pressure the government to make new deals to get the rest of the hostages out, as the second round of negotiations begins.  This is further dividing the nation over those who want to continue the war, and finish off Hamas, and those who want to keep the ceasefire, fearing that, otherwise, Hamas will kill the rest of the hostages that are still being held captive.

The Israeli negotiators are switching from Mossad/Shin Bet security agents, to Netanyahu’s political advisor on Strategic Affairs, Ron Dermer, who will be focusing on diplomacy with Qatar and Egypt (and, likely Turkey). 

 

PRAYER POINTS:

PRAY for a spiritual breakthrough. Worldly wickedness was on display in the most recent hostage release, exposed and seen parading around Jewish souls, making a spectacle of them. The whole nation has become captive to the enemy. This has to end!

 

Our struggle, our wrestling, is not against flesh and blood enemies. But, against principalities, against mighty powers, against evil rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness, against authorities in the unseen world, against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly realms.  Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in this evil day, and having done all, STAND! (Ephesians 6:12-13).

 

PRAY for Israel!  National sin opened up a portal for the enemy to enter in. Still, as Aaron and Hur did for Moses, intercessors are needed to assist, as well – to hold up arms, and stand with Israel in this battle. (Exodus 17:11-13).

 

The nation needs deliverance out of all its troubles. (Psalm 25:22).

 

Pray for the healing of the sufferings of the Jewish People, as in those sufferings, we see the Messiah, that died for us. May they see the same!  (Isaiah 53:5).

 

Pray comfort over the Israeli people, as so many have lost loved ones – killed in this battle against Hamas in the south, and Hezbollah in the north. (Isaiah 40).  Israel, and Israel alone, is the only nation that receives double for all her sins!  (See Psalm 142).

 

THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS CONFERENCE AND BEYOND:

On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, Netanyahu met with American President Donald Trump, at the White House – the first world leader to meet with Trump in his new term as the 47^th President of the United States.

 

Several side meetings with advisors led up to the press conference. Then, with Trump and Netanyahu on the platform, in a large room in the White House, the world watched, intently, on their video screens. After the briefing, there seemed to be shock, followed by an obsession to analyze what Trump said, or meant. The two points that were most surprising were that Trump expected the nations (especially, Egypt and Jordan) to receive Gazan refugees, and give them a better life. And, secondly, that the United States would take over the Gaza Strip, for a time, to reconstruct it, and provide a beautiful place for the nations to come – similar to the French Riviera.

 

Nations were stunned by these two Trump announcements. They did not expect that there might be an alternative to a Palestinian State (including Gaza, along with Judea and Samaria).   Voices of opposition started coming in, after the White House briefing, with many nations invoking the “two-state solution” mantra.

 

News analysts were concerned that Trump might be looking to stir up Arabs on the streets, causing a Middle East War. But, it did not appear that Trump wanted to take actions that would enrage the Arab public and destabilize the region. It seemed, from the briefing, that Trump’s goal is to bring peace to the region, not to cause chaos. However, the focus on Gaza and the Gazans, continues to be a major distraction.

There were also comments on social media that a “new world order” was taking place, and that, perhaps, Saudi Arabia was going to join the Abraham Accords countries, without demanding that Israel divide the land. So much optimism!

 

From 2002, when the Saudis delivered the Saudi Peace Initiative, they have been adamant about the creation of a Palestinian State. In every statement since then, their position has not changed.

If Trump is successful in bringing Saudi Arabia into the Abraham Accords, then that union of the Saudis, UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, Sudan, and other Arab states, will join in the updated Saudi plan, insisting (as some of these nations already have), in a Palestinian State on Israeli land.

 

IT COULD HAPPEN ANOTHER WAY – JORDAN:

 

Trump may be able to leverage aid, or other financial resources, to weaken the government of Jordan, and force it to take in Gazan refugees. This would threaten the Jordanian monarchy. If King Abdullah’s monarchy falls, this gives the Jordanian Palestinians supreme power in Jordan. It could force a Palestinian state on the West Bank and East Bank of the Jordan River. Or, lead Jordan, and other Arab states, into an eventual war with Israel (see Psalm 83, and the book of Obadiah).

 

Either way, it’s the Sunni Muslims, leading the way towards a Palestinian state; towards dividing the land of Israel; and towards an eventual war with Israel (that could also involve Shiite Muslims).

 

PRAYER POINTS:

We should be praying, fervently, for every one of those countries who opposed Trump’s Gaza plan. They are the same nations that will oppose the annexation of Judea and Samaria in the weeks to come.

 

The nations are roaring!  (Psalm 2).  We can see the hearts of men in this, and how the Lord is, again, testing the nations!

 

We should be looking, intently, at Ezekiel 36:1-7. Some think this scriptural passage has already taken place. Others don’t. It indicates a time when the nations will divide the land of Israel.  Perhaps, that happened in 1948, but it is trying to happen again!

 

In this, we should be aware of the Saudi peace plan, and pray that it is not allowed to be adopted by the Arab League, the Abraham Accords nations, or any other international power. There have already been attempts by the UN, to get enough nations on-board, to pass a resolution that holds to the creation of a Palestinian State. This must be blocked in prayer and intercession! We can ask the Lord for a delay in any attempt to divide His land! 

 

THE BIBLICAL HOT SPOTS:

The short-term battle will not just be over what happens to Gaza. It will be over what happens in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank). There are already indications that pro-Hamas Palestinians are preparing to start a major uprising of violence in Judea and Samaria, as well as threatening another October 7, 2023, massacre there. So far, IDF forces have been able to break-up terrorist cells, and thwart such an attack.

 

There will be an attempt by the nations to block any Israeli plans to annex Judea and Samaria, with fears this will cause a war in that contested territory – the biblical heartland of the Jewish State!  (This happened during Trump’s first term as president). PRAYER IS NEEDED!

 

Meanwhile, the long-term battle will be over Jerusalem. There are several scriptures to support this. (See Zechariah Chapters 12 and 14).

 

GOD’S COVENANT LAND:

 

This is the Lord’s land. The restoration of Israel is the restoration of Jewish souls, along with the restoration of the land. There are 12+ scriptural passages that indicate what part of the land Israel inherits at any given time. The land mass changes depending on the timing of the promises of God to His people. The most famous scripture is Joshua 1:4 – from the Euphrates River to the Great Sea (Mediterranean).  It’s famous because the Palestinians declare that this portion of land belongs to them. They proclaim this in their hostile rallies in America, Europe, and in other countries. (i.e., from the River to the Sea)

OUR PRAYERS HAVE WEIGHT IN PRAYING FOR GOD’S KINGDOM PURPOSES:

Our eyes are on the kingdom(s) of this world becoming the Kingdom of our God, and of His Messiah! (Revelation 11:15; Psalm 22:28; Psalm 72:11; Daniel 2:44; Daniel 7:14; 1 Corinthians 15:24-25; Matthew 6:10, etc.)

Source: Global Prayer Watch News and Prayer Update)

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 230

 

Jerusalem, Israel

PRAYER UPDATE   January 24, 2025

Israel and the Nations

GPW News and Prayer Update

 

*HOSTAGE DEAL ON-GOING IN 2025:  Israel-Hamas brokered hostage deal was negotiated and finalized before U.S. President Donald Trump took office. Trump set a deadline threatening consequences if the deal did not go through. Many people saw it as a bad deal. But, the Jewish saying goes: “If you save one life, you save the whole world.”  The Israeli government has been releasing 30 terrorists from jail for one civilian hostage released by Hamas from captivity. And, 50 terrorists from jail for one soldier hostage released by Hamas from captivity. Already, Hamas has altered the agreement.

 

Recently, four women soldiers were released by Hamas, instead of civilians. A civilian who was supposed to be released ended up not being in the group. Her name is Arbel Yehoud. PRAY FOR COMFORT OVER HER AND HER FAMILY!

 

Another woman, who is known for being religious, and defies Hamas orders if they are given on Shabbat, was not a part of the recent release. She was left behind. She is the one known for braiding the female hostages’ hair before they are freed from captivity. Her name is Agam Berger.

 

This latest release was women soldiers who have been through much physical abuse. We need to pray for them, and pray for every hostage still in captivity. Pray for the families who are waiting for their loved ones to be set free.

Hamas has now agreed to release Arbel Yehoud and Agam Berger within a few days, which is an answer to prayer!  Let nothing stop this agreement from moving forward!

 

LUKE 4:18-19: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind; to set the oppressed free. To proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

 

*NETANYAHU UNDER PRESSURE:  Netanyahu is under pressure to comply with U.S. President Trump’s demands for the hostage situation to play out (even if Hamas is altering the agreement), and to keep the ceasefires in place in Gaza and Lebanon, before Israel has finished dealing with its enemies. Hezbollah is still trying to entrench itself in southern Lebanon, in the demilitarized zone on Israel’s border. Israel is trying to keep Hamas pushed back to north of the Litani River. So far, the Lebanese army has not acted to take over Hezbollah strongholds in south Lebanon. And, it is unsure how many of the forces in the Lebanese military are Hezbollah supporters, mixed in with the regular Lebanese army.

Pray for the new Trump Administration to understand Israel’s need for safe and secure borders, both in the north of the country, and in the south. And, not to push Israel into longer ceasefires.

 

Specifically, pray for Israel’s government, which could easily get entangled with trying to please the U.S. or any other country…

 

ISAIAH 54:17: “No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord.”

 

 

We speak this into the heart of Israeli prime minister Netanyahu…  that he will be protected from the weapons of warfare that come from the enemy.

 

Pray also that he will be one that serves the Lord. 

 

ISRAEL’S GOVERNMENT:

Pray for other Israeli leaders, including Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, and Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, plus others in the cabinet… that they will walk in the wisdom and understanding of Solomon.

 

Pray that they do not rely on soothsayers who talk of now being the time of “peace and security,” when it is still a time of war.  Pray that God intervene during these ceasefires, so that there is no deception laid upon Israel – no surprises – militarily or diplomatically, by any nation.

 

Pray that Israel is able to destroy the enemy at hand.

 

We ask You Lord for wisdom and strength for the Israeli government and Israeli soldiers in the field. Give them needed discernment, and open their eyes to see what the Spirit of the Lord wants them to see.

 

JOHN 4:17:  “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.”

 

HOT SPOTS IN ISRAEL – ON ITS BORDERS:

In Gaza, Hamas has, reportedly, recruited 15,000 new trainees to fight Israel.  They are using the hostage exchange to gain an army of released murderers from Israeli prisons with blood on their hands. These murderers are returning to Judea and Samaria (the West Bank), and Gaza. Some are also being sent abroad. Statistics show that at least 20% of murderers released from Israeli jails, on average, commit new terror attacks after they are freed. Israelis need double protection from the Lord. Raise your shields in prayer!

Sources say that its been reported that there is a current major threat of a big outbreak of violence coming to Judea and Samaria (the West Bank), instigated by Hamas supporters, and backed by Iran. Until now, the IDF has been able to keep any threat of an uprising to a simmer, and get it under control. But, there are worrying trends. Sources say there is a bullying in refugee camps putting pressure on Palestinians to support Hamas, and that means greater radicalism in the territories.

 

Declare over Israeli citizens:

PSALM 121:7-8: “The Lord will keep you from all harm – He will watch over your life. The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”

 

PROVERBS 18:10:  “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” 

 

God’s name represents His protection over Israel, and we proclaim His power and authority over His land. In Him, there is safety.

 

EXODUS 14:14:  “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” 

 

God is there for us, as our warrior King; fighting our battles; we trust in Him to get us through; and, to get Israel through!

 

Pray for the new military chief of staff, and for officials in all sectors of government -- that His Chosen Ones will run to Him, and not compromise because of fear of man!

 

PSALM 34:17:  “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them. He delivers them from all their troubles (fears).”

 

 God hears our prayers, and He rescues His people from their enemies and difficulties, as we intercede for them.

 

Pray for right decisions on the part of the Israeli government -- that they will know best how to protect Israel’s borders. Pray that Israelis will lean on the Lord for right decisions, and not on men.

 

2 CHRONICLES 20:15: “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”

(Source:  Global Prayer Watch News and Prayer Update)

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 229

     Jerusalem, Israel

PRAYER UPDATE   December 10, 2024

Israel and the Nations

GPW News and Prayer Update

 

UPDATE ON SYRIAN CRISIS:  A PARTIAL HISTORY:

 

The Arab Spring of 2011 was the beginning of a revolution in Middle East countries against dictatorial governments. 

There was a civil war in Syria at that time, against the Assad government. Now 14 years later, marks the end of Assad's regime, and supposedly, the end of the Syrian revolution.

The sense is that there won't be calm in Syria. The two main rebel groups who have opposed Assad have now taken over much of Syria. They have past ties with ISIS and Al Qaeda. One of those rebel groups, currently, has strong ties with Turkey.  These rebels have already committed human abuses and atrocities, including kidnappings. Some of them want to institute Sharia Law in Syria.

Basically, it's one evil (the rebels) that have taken over another evil (Assad's regime).

Also, the Sunnis are working together with the Shiites, to eventually try and bring Israel down. But, GOD is in control!

A big concern is a battle yet to happen against the Syrian Kurds, who are somewhat protected by American forces in northeast Syria.  However, already the Turks are murdering them, but the Kurds are fighting back hard. The Kurds are pro-democratic and pro-Israel, and want an independent state with their Kurdish brethren (who are currently suffering under Turkish rule and oppression).  So, there will be a full battle there, eventually, in northeast Syria. 

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan wants to control Syria. This gives him the opportunity to bring in the caliphate, and to use Syria as a staging ground in a future war with Israel (with other nations participating - Russia, Iran, etc.)  All eyes are on the new U.S. Trump Administration to see how he will look to protect the Kurds. (Most likely, Israel is giving support behind the scenes).

If necessary, PRAY that the Kurds and Christians are airlifted out of Syria, for their own protection if all other options fail.

Another big concern is how this take-over of Syria is affecting Israel.  The Syrian rebel groups are already in Quneitra, the town that borders the demilitarized zone between Israel and Syria. Israel has sent tanks into the zone to protect UN peacekeeping forces, and to protect Israel’s border with Syria.

The UN could try and twist this scenario and blame Israel for a Syrian land grab (the Syrian Golan Heights Mount Hermon post is, currently, in Israel’s hands).  The UN could charge Israel with defying an armistice agreement with Syria from the 1970’s. Israel has already stated, several times, that the agreement was broken when the Assad regime fled Syria. 

Meanwhile, Israel has gone in and bombed strategic sites of advanced weapons, so that the rebels do not take them over and use those weapons against Israel.  It is not sure if Israel was able to bomb all buildings housing Syrian WMD’s.

ALL THIS NEEDS PRAYER!

In the larger picture, many are saying this revolution in Syria has weakened Iran and Hezbollah’s presence there. It may have done so, but only in the short-term.

Reportedly, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have fled Syria; and, Russian has taken some of its ships and its submarine out of the Syrian port. Weapons aren't being transferred to Hezbollah on land routes through Syria. 

However, Turkey has been strengthened by this revolution, with its continued support of Turkish rebel forces inside Syria.

Turkey, Russia, and Iran recently met to firm up their alliance. While the media is portraying a weakening of this axis, others understand that this alliance is regrouping and strengthening its combined military forces.

All these events are paving the way for the Middle East prophetic wars and more land grabs that are coming… through war or peace. (See Ezekiel Chapters 38 and 39; Psalm 83).

Eventually, Jerusalem will be surrounded militarily. (Luke 21:20; Zechariah 14:2).  But, the prophetic covenant promise to this nation is that, as Israel is obedient to God, the land of Israel will extend from the Euphrates River to the Great Sea. (See the covenant promises through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob).

 

PRAYER POINTS:

 

*Continue to pray for stability to come to Syria, through the international community restraining the rebels from abusing the Syrian people. Pray God’s double measure of protection over His people in Syria, especially the Christians and Kurds there.

*Pray for a double amount of protection over the borders of Israel, especially, the Syrian Golan Heights area; the demilitarized zone between Israel and Syria; Israel’s border with Lebanon; and Israel’s border with Jordan, which has remained an area of concern. Supposedly, Iran is trying to smuggle weapons through that border into the West Bank (Judea and Samaria), for terrorist cells to use against Israel.

*Pray that the Lord, our King, goes before the IDF, according to Micah 2:13, to secure the gates, and that a breakthrough comes, so that Israel is able to win the conflicts breaking out against God's nation in this multi-front war with its enemies.

 

NOTHING IS TOO DIFFICULT FOR THE LORD!

 (Source: Global Prayer Watch News and Prayer Update)

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 228

Jerusalem, Israel

PRAYER UPDATE  December 5, 2024

Israel and the Nations

GPW News and Prayer Update

During this time of extreme vulnerability, when the United States (the world's superpower) is between administrations (the transition from the Biden government to the Trump government), there is an effort by enemies of the west (and of Israel) to disrupt the balance of power in the Middle East. The day after a ceasefire was enacted in the war between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, Syrian rebel forces went into action. Over the past 10 days, there has been an escalation in fighting in Syria's northwest, bleeding into the northeast of Syria. 

The root behind this Syrian conflict is to destabilize countries in the region, in order to continue Iran's attempt to form a Shia crescent around Israel. The enemy that is empowered, spiritually by the Prince of Persia (i.e., Iran), seeks to eradicate the Jewish State and take control of land in the Middle East.

The other evil power that is trying to take advantage of the Syrian people and their land is the Sunni Islamists.  Once labeled as ISIS and Al Qaeda, the new rebel groups have different names, but the same goal of wanting control. They want to institute the caliphate and set up Sharia law, enslaving and violating women and children, killing men who are not radical Moslems, and displacing people -- to gain large masses of land in Syria.

This Islamic surge of rebel forces is, reportedly, being funded by Qatar, a country that pretends to be on the side of the west (especially, regarding negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the release of the hostages taken captive on October 7, 2023). However, Qatar has been supporting Hamas' position all along, even with U.S. military bases entrenched in this nation. 

Reportedly, Israel knew of the plans of rebel insurgents in Syria. Recently, the new Israeli Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, issued a warning that Israel should stand by the Kurds in Northeast (NE) Syria. That area has a democratic government and freedom of religion. It is an example of what the Middle East could be. But, Syrian rebel forces are gaining ground in disrupting the way of life of the Kurds, and others in NE Syria. There has been a systematic violation of freedoms and human abuses of not just the Kurds, but also of Christians and Yazidis in the area. 

The rebels have learned from the Taliban. They are appearing to be "moderates," especially in the face of the western media, but in fact, they are not. 

Among the rebels are those who are backed by the Turkish government. Some say they don't want to engage with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Others have noticed that, among these rebels, are ISIS veterans. They are after a large land mass in NE Syria.

Turkey is looking to settle pro-Islamists in the area, by displacing the Syrian people living there. Erdogan is looking to control all the area where the Christians have settled. He wants to destroy freedom of religion and establish Islamic governance. He is known for his affiliation with the Muslim Brotherhood (MB), and his sympathy towards Hamas (which is an off-shoot of the MB). 

Meanwhile, the Syrian Arab army has collapsed, and President Bashir Assad's Syrian forces are weakened and discouraged. 

These two main rebel forces that are destabilizing Syria are the HTS (Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham), and the SNA (Syrian National Army). The HTS is a coalition of rebel forces that formed in 2017, and has become an umbrella organization for tens of thousands of these rebel fighters. Reports indicate that this coalition has already taken over 237 cities, including Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama. The militias under the HTS are mainly Sunni Islamist Salafis, with roots in Al Qaeda. 

The SNA is a nationalist Syrian force that is the one with strong ties to Turkey, and Erdogan has attempted to fund, train and equip these rebels. 

As Hezbollah tries to re-build after its war with Israel, both of these rebel groups are are moving into position.

Iran has also played a significant role in Syria, supporting Syrian President Bashir Assad's forces, along with Russia. Both countries have invested in Syria's military infrastructure. Russia has provided Syria with an advanced anti-missile defense system and trained technicians in how to use it to defend Syria from outside enemies, including Israel.  

Iran continues to build advanced weapons factories in Syria, which Israel, periodically, destroys with its fighter jets. This includes Iran's attempts to transfer sophisticated weapons to Hezbollah for years, with Israel continuing its efforts to destroy some of these convoys carrying advanced weapons into Lebanon. 

In addition, Syria has storage facilities for its weapons of mass destruction. These buildings house weapons under the title of “Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Centers” (CERS), which are considered to be the locations where Syrian chemical weapons are stored.

Israel is concerned that the rebels could take over these CERS sites in their efforts to disrupt Iran’s attempt at regional hegemony. 

While rebel groups pretend to be on Israel’s side in its fight with Hezbollah and Iran, they are deeply rooted in extremist ideology. They are branding themselves as “moderates”, but are doing that to deceive the media, hiding their daily abuses, especially on social media. If they are able to overrun Assad’s regime-controlled territories, it could pose a real threat to Israel’s long-term security, including the threat of chemical weapons being launched against the Jewish State by the rebels, themselves.

As the battles continue for rebel control over most of Syria, the most vulnerable Syrians are fleeing in mass numbers. To-date, there are 200,000 displaced Christians looking for safe passage in NE Syria. Those who are injured are waiting for medical supplies and help. There are food shortages, and humanitarian aid groups are trying to get safe passage for buses that want to bring in the aid. But, recently, the rebel Islamists have required $6,000 per bus bringing in supplies. When this happened before, the Islamists told aid workers they had to pay or die. 

The aid workers are asking western leaders to help create corridors to get food, money, and supplies to the people who are stuck in this conflict.  But, the United States incoming Trump Administration has indicated it does not want to get involved, unless there are attacks on US bases in NE Syria.

There are technical advances that are being reported in NE Syria, where rebels, associated with Erdogan, are trying to pull out communication satellites and put in their own. The goal is to bring in a different currency, a different language, and cell service that will become limited, so that the only communications will be the propaganda from the Turkish rebels. 

The Christians in NE Syria are experiencing financial battles (ATM machines are not working), and stranded families have nowhere to go where it is safe. The communities in NE Syria are vulnerable, especially those with religious minorities. 

So far, the Kurds are working hard to hold back the rebel Islamists in NE Syria. It is critical for the safety of the region that areas in NE Syria do not fall to the rebels. 

Additionally, there is a threat on the stability of Jordan, where Iran has had influence and caused havoc. 

Iran has been able to destabilize the West Bank (Judea and Samaria), bringing massive amounts of weapons in to the area to fight Israeli forces. 

PRAYER POINTS:

*Pray for aid workers to be able to get their buses in to help with humanitarian aid to stranded Syrians, especially those who need medicines and medical help. Pray that the Lord removes the extortion demands of the rebels who are hindering assistance from Christians to the people of Syria. 

*Pray that all the kidnapping and abuses that are already taking place will be stopped immediately; and vulnerable women and children will find safe places to live, without fear of being taken hostage by radical Islamists.

*Pray that the incoming Trump Administration will continue to hold the ground in NE Syria, fighting off any opposition forces that would try to take over the area. Pray for protection of U.S. bases in the area.

*Pray that the Kurds will get military assistance from Israel, as they have in the past, and that the Kurds will not lose their democratic government or freedoms in the area they have protected in Syria. Pray for unity among the Kurds in both Syria and Turkey, who can one day have their own state. 

*Pray for the protection of the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) from outside forces; and that all arms smuggling would stop NOW, in Yeshua's name. 

*Pray that the threat of weapons of mass destruction, including chemical weapons, would be destroyed, supernaturally, by the Lord. Pray that these weapons will not get into the hands of any groups that want to use them against the Syrian people or Israel.  

*Pray for the Lord to delay the enemy's plans of trying to bring the destruction of Damascus (Isaiah 17), before its time; or, the Ezekiel War (Ezekiel 38 and 39) before its time. Pray that the Lord holds back the war of Psalm 83, as well. 

*It seems that some of the regional instability in Syria offers Israel a strategic advantage in the short-term. The weakening of Iran and its Shi'ite axis reduces the immediate threat to Israel's northern border, allowing the IDF some time to update its defense strategy. Pray that Israeli leaders seek wisdom from the Lord in how to implement new military plans during this lull in the fighting on its northern border.

*Pray that Israeli officials will keep an eye on what the Syrian rebels are trying to accomplish in the short-term, with an understanding of where this can lead in the long-term.

*Pray that the Lord interferes in the plans of men who are intent on fragmenting Syria. Pray that He subdues competing militias that are trying to bring Syria into another civil war. 

*Pray for Israel to continue to invest in border security and intelligence, with the ability to monitor all its hostile enemies, with accurate intelligence, and advanced military systems that can defend God's land!

GOD’S PURPOSES IN THE NATURAL AND IN THE SPIRITUAL:

Israel must consider the advantages of disrupting Iran's goals, along with the advantages of disrupting the plans of Islamic extremists -- both being empowered as enemies of the Jewish state. 

As intercessors, we know that Israel's fight is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities and powers of the air; against rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places. (See Ephesian 6:12). 

While Israel does not know about the spiritual battle over its land, prophetic watchmen do know. We are in our strategic positions to intercede during this vulnerable period in time. We must put on the full armor of God and stand our ground on behalf of Israel and the nations. This is the time to be ready with the gospel of peace. This is also the time to take up our shields of faith over the Holy Land of God. With our battle gear on, we can extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. 

It's time to see, in the Word of God, the tools He has given us, including the helmet of our salvation, and the sword of His Spirit (which is His word). Our ability to pray in the Spirit on every occasion, and if possible, at all times, will result in our effectiveness in this battle over His land and people. 

Shi'ites and Sunnis are currently fighting one another for regional control. Eventually, they may team up and fight Israel.  We have an opportunity now to pull down from heaven, the Lord's strategies, that will sustain regional order, and prevent increased threats to Israel's security.

Our prayers and requests, in God's heavenly battle for His land, will result in us staying alert and remembering all of the Lord's people who are affected by this regional conflict.

Thank you for standing in the gap! The battle is the Lord's -- first and foremost! Our prayers for the people of the Middle East will lead to their encouragement and their ability to fight the good fight of faith!

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURES TO DECLARE OVER THE REGION:

Psalm 35:1:  ...."Contend O LORD, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me!"

Psalm 37:7-11: "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him. Do not fret when men prosper in their ways; when they carry out wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and abandon wrath. Do not fret -- it can only bring harm. For the evildoers will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land. Yet, a little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. But, the meek will inherit the land and delight in abundant prosperity."

Exodus 14:14: "The LORD will fight for you. You need only to be still."

Isaiah 26:3:  "You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You!"

John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

John 16:33: “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But, take courage, I have overcome the world!”

 

 (Source: Global Prayer Watch News and Prayer Update)