Iran Training Militias in Syria: According to US and Arab officials, Iran is training 50,000 militiamen in partnership with Hezbollah. Many of these militiamen are fighting for the Assad government to stay in power due to the government’s alliance with Iran. They are also being trained to cause problems for the opposition if it succeeds in ousting Assad. Such militias could also be used to threaten Israel. Please pray that God would thwart the enemy’s plans and prevent such militias from harming innocent people in Syria and in the surrounding region. Please pray for protection over believers in Syria as they are caught in the middle of a fight between Islamists on the one hand and a dictator on the other. Lastly, please pray for the salvation of those suffering in Syria and the repentance of those committing bloodshed. For more, see Iran Militias in Syria
US President Obama to Visit Israel for First Time as President: US President Obama is set to visit Israel next month for the first time as president. He has repeatedly promised a visit and some see this as finally fulfilling that promise. Others are wary of his arrival during this time, while Netanyahu is still building his coalition. Some see his arrival as outside interference regarding building the next government. He will likely continue to pressure Israel regarding settlements and arriving at a two state solution. Please pray for God to give wisdom to all the leaders who will be involved in these meetings. Please intercede for Obama, that his eyes would be opened to the truth and that he would listen to wise counsel. Please also pray that God would control the outcome of the meetings. For more, see Obama to Visit Israel
Negotiations Continue for Israeli Coalition: Negotiations are continuing for the formation of a coalition that will represent Israel in the government. This is a very complicated process with a lot of bargaining and maneuvering for positions. Please pray that Netanyahu and those making coalition decisions will do what is right for Israel rather than only seeking interests in the process. Please also pray that those with integrity and justice would be given a place in the coalition and that all such decisions would be made in an honest way. Lastly, please pray for Israel’s next government to have wisdom in this crucial period. For more, see Detangling Israel’s Election Results
Please continue to pray for the Body of Messiah in Israel as Israel is facing uncertain times; please pray we will be a great source of blessing to all Israel and that through our witness, many in Israel will come to know their Messiah. Please pray for strength, courage, gentleness, and boldness in our witness to our neighbors who do not yet know Yeshua.
Thank you for praying and standing with Israel! Shevuah Tov…
The Hope for Israel Prayer Team