In a surprise move, Minister of Defense Benny Gantz, hosted Palestinian Prime Minister Abbas at his home. This is the first time Abbas has held any official meeting within Israel since 2010. A statement released from the Defense Minister’s office said “The two discussed various security and civilian issues… “The defense minister emphasized the shared interest in strengthening security coordination and maintaining stability, and preventing terrorism and violence.” This comes as terror groups Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) gain traction in Palestinian areas, which threatens to destabilize the Palestinian Authority (PA). It is a promising sign that the PA seeks more diplomatic activity with Israel. Please pray that more of these kinds of meetings will take place, with action to back them up. Please also pray for wisdom for officials on both sides, and that Israel will find more common ground with Palestinians in an effort to thwart terror.