
Shalom from Jerusalem,
As we enter February, we will commemorate Tu B'Shvat the new year of the trees—a time to honor growth, renewal, and the enduring resilience of life. This holiday, though it is according to Jewish tradition, invites us to reflect on the promise of restoration and healing, especially during this challenging time as we look forward to a season of renewal for our nation as we enter this period with multiple ceasefires. Just as the trees bloom again after the harshness of winter, we hold on to the hope that healing and new beginnings are on the horizon for Israel.
The return of some hostages taken during the horrific events of October 7 has brought glimmers of hope amidst the pain. Each life restored is a reminder of resilience and a call to pray for those still in captivity, for their families, and for the continued strength of our people.
Even amid ongoing challenges and uncertain ceasefires, Israelis remain resilient. Tu B'Shvat reminds us that, even after the hardest seasons, life continues to grow and thrive. Together, we look forward to a time of peace, healing, and renewal, trusting in the faithfulness of God's promises.
Prayer requests for Israel
“SWORDS OF IRON” —A MULTIDIMENSIONAL WAR
Though Israel has entered into ceasefire agreements with Hezbollah and Hamas, the war is far from over. Over the past month, the conflict has continued to evolve across multiple fronts, testing the resolve of Israel’s people and leadership. While moments of respite have emerged, the situation remains volatile. Hostile actors across the region, emboldened by global attention, continue to regroup and test Israel’s defenses.
This war has highlighted the complexity of modern conflicts, where military, political, and social fronts are deeply intertwined. Israel’s leadership must navigate not only direct threats from terrorist organizations but also the indirect consequences of a fractured international community and internal discord. The challenges of maintaining security while fostering unity and resilience within the nation remain immense.
Northern Front
In the north, the situation remains tense as Israel navigates its extended presence in southern Lebanon. While the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah brought a temporary calm, the IDF has delayed its withdrawal due to Lebanon’s failure to fully deploy its military forces as stipulated. Hezbollah’s infrastructure remains a lurking threat, with Israel seizing weapons and dismantling observation posts during its operations.
The fragile stability in this region is a constant balancing act. Civilians who fled their homes during the conflict are beginning to return and rebuild their lives. Meanwhile, France and the United States are working to extend the truce and ensure that Hezbollah cannot regroup. Israel remains steadfast in its mission to protect its northern communities, even as the shadow of renewed hostilities looms.
Gaza Front
Despite a ceasefire, the war against Hamas continues in both visible and unseen ways. Over 2,400 aid trucks have entered Gaza since the ceasefire began, yet reports of Hamas stealing and reselling humanitarian aid cast a grim light on the situation. The group’s recruitment of thousands of new fighters since October underscores its ongoing threat.
Israel is resolute in maintaining the terms of the ceasefire while actively preparing for any scenario. The IDF continues to neutralize immediate threats within Gaza, underscoring that the war is far from over. With hostages still held and Hamas showing no signs of relinquishing its grip on the region, the road to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges.
Judea and Samaria
The unrest in Judea and Samaria has escalated significantly, with increased terror activity posing a constant challenge for Israel’s security forces. The IDF’s operations in this region aim to dismantle terror cells and prevent further violence, but the situation remains precarious.
Amid these tensions, Israel faces a difficult balancing act: protecting its citizens while navigating the complex dynamics of governance of the Palestinian Authority and internal unrest. As terror groups exploit the instability, Israel must remain vigilant to ensure that these challenges do not spiral into a broader conflict.
Please pray:
- Pray for wisdom and discernment for Israel’s leaders and military as they navigate ongoing threats in the north, ensuring the safety of communities near the Lebanon border.
- Pray for the civilians who were displaced by conflict and are in the process of rebuilding their lives.
- Pray for efforts to prevent Hezbollah from regrouping so that their capabilities would be weakened to strengthen regional stability.
- Pray for the exposure and dismantling of Hamas’s ongoing terror operations in Gaza, and that aid resources would reach those in genuine need.
- Ask for God’s protection over Israel’s security forces in Judea and Samaria as they work to prevent attacks and dismantle terror networks.
- Pray for peace and stability in Judea and Samaria, that terror groups would be prevented from exploiting unrest and that innocent lives would be shielded from harm.
ANTISEMITISM AROUND THE WORLD
Antisemitism continues to rise globally, fueled by misinformation and hostility toward Israel’s defense efforts. Violent attacks on Jewish communities have increased, from arson in Melbourne to protests turning hateful across Europe and North America. This growing wave of antisemitism underscores the enduring challenges faced by Jewish people worldwide.
International hypocrisy compounds these struggles, as nations criticize Israel while ignoring the threats posed by terrorist groups. This double standard not only isolates Israel but also emboldens those who seek to harm Jewish communities.
INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMACY AND HYPOCRISY
Israel’s diplomatic efforts are overshadowed by international pressures that often overlook the complexities of the conflict. Calls for ceasefires rarely address the threats posed by groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, while bodies like the UN disproportionately target Israel.
Despite these challenges, Israel remains committed to defending its people and upholding its sovereignty. Efforts to engage regional and global powers are crucial to ensuring that Israel’s security concerns are not sidelined in the pursuit of broader political agendas.
Please pray:
- Pray for Israel’s leaders to navigate international pressure with discernment, securing strong alliances that uphold truth and justice.
- Pray for God to shield Jewish communities worldwide from rising antisemitism and strengthen them in the face of hostility.
- Pray that Israel’s leaders and advocates will communicate its right to self-defense effectively, breaking through misinformation.
- Pray that bias and international hypocrisy be revealed, leading to fair treatment and an honest acknowledgment of Israel’s security challenges.
POLITICAL CHALLENGES AND DIVISION AMONG THE PEOPLE
Internally, Israel faces deep divisions exacerbated by the ongoing war. Political discord and public frustration with leadership have highlighted the need for unity during this critical time. Yet, moments of solidarity emerge as communities rally together, offering a glimpse of hope amid the turmoil.
The path forward requires humility, wisdom, and a shared commitment to the nation’s well-being. Healing these divisions is essential to ensuring that Israel emerges stronger from this challenging period.
Please pray:
- Pray that Israeli leaders will set aside personal and political differences to work collaboratively for the nation's well-being, especially amid ongoing security concerns and international pressures.
- Pray for wisdom, humility, and honesty among those in positions of authority, that they may lead with righteousness and transparency during these complex times.
- Pray for the healing of societal divisions within Israel, fostering unity and mutual support among its diverse population. This is crucial as the nation navigates internal and external challenges.
- Pray for the people of Israel, asking for renewed hope and strength as they face political uncertainties and social struggles. Pray that they find solace and courage to endure and overcome these challenges.
RETURN OF THE HOSTAGES
Over the past two weeks, Israel has welcomed home seven hostages—both civilians and soldiers. Their emotional reunions with loved ones have brought moments of joy and relief but also highlighted the unimaginable suffering endured during their captivity. These freed hostages shared harrowing accounts of their time in Hamas's hands, marked by fear, injuries, and trauma.
Yet, the joy of these returns is tempered by sorrow for those still in captivity. Many civilians, including young children, remain in Gaza. Their families continue to wait in anguish, clinging to hope despite the uncertainty surrounding their loved ones' fate.
The cost of these exchanges has been steep—hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including many convicted of deadly terror attacks, have been freed. This raises complex questions about the security risks and the heavy toll Israel must pay to secure the return of its people. As negotiations continue, the nation remains united in its determination to bring all hostages home.
Please pray:
- Pray for supernatural protection over those still in captivity, that they would be shielded from harm and find strength in the midst of their suffering.
- Ask God to guide all phases of the ceasefire that will lead to the safe and immediate return of all remaining hostages.
- Pray for the families enduring the pain of waiting, that they would be strengthened, comforted, and not lose hope.
- Ask for wisdom and discernment for Israel’s leaders as they navigate the delicate balance of securing the hostages’ release while navigating a fragile ceasefire.
HFI PRAYER REQUESTS
As our country continues through the phases of the ceasefire, we remain steadfast in carrying out our vision amid a tragic and costly war. Please join us in praying!
MORAN
Moran is busy in the field, devoting most of his time to the ministry's war response efforts. He continues to work in the field, arranging & delivering meals to injured soldiers and their families in the hospital five days a week, and delivering aid to anyone who is in need. He continues to gradually shift his focus to restoration as people slowly begin to return to their homes and communities in the south & north. He also continues to oversee the ministry's Israel advocacy & information project, as people must receive reliable information from Israel.
He continues to seek the Lord’s wisdom on restructuring efforts within Hope for Israel. This requires much prayer and thought, and he would be grateful for your prayers!
Please continue to pray for:
- Wisdom regarding the various aspects of the ministry that he oversees.
- Wisdom for he and the ministry’s board as they devise & implement restructuring plans
- Strength & wisdom as he provides support for friends & families who have lost their loved ones in the war
- Strength, wisdom, protection, & health for he and his family during this intense time. Continued healing for Moran and his family after the loss of their beloved nephew/cousin in Gaza.
- Guidance and inspiration as he writes his weekly Scripture commentaries
- Peace & endurance during this difficult season
HFI STAFF & BOARD MEMBERS
Please pray :
- Blessing over our staff & board members who devote time and energy to executing our vision for the ministry.
- Thank you for praying for us for an administrator manager in Israel. Please pray for Dalia as she takes on this new role.
- Protection over their families while they serve.
- Wisdom for the board members as they make decisions that impact the ministry in tangible ways.
- Our U.S. representative, Bill Katz, drives and flies thousands of miles weekly to speak on behalf of Hope for Israel, for health & traveling mercies, for protection over his wife and daughter while he is traveling. And for fruitful meetings and speaking engagements. Please pray for protection over Bill during this period as antisemitism continues to grow throughout the world.
THREEFOLD VISION FOR EMPOWERING THE FUTURE GENERATION OF BELIEVERS
NerYah Youth Group
We thank God for blessing NerYah, as we see a warm, family-like atmosphere beginning to develop among the youth during meals and activities. We are also deeply grateful that He continues to provide additional mentors to serve the youth, which is a tremendous blessing for the NerYah family.
Please pray:
- Please pray for wisdom as the NerYah team plans trips for the youth.
- Pray for wisdom and peace for the youth during their school exam period.
- Pray for the new mentors undergoing training, that God would give them hearts for service and the wisdom to support and strengthen the youth.
- Please pray for protection over the youth during this challenging time in the country, that they would not be negatively impacted by the difficult content they encounter on social media.
- Pray that God would stir in hearts for young men to rise up and lead our youth as there is a need for additional male youth leaders.
Believing Soldiers
This month, we launched a new project called "Encouragement from the Field." Through this project, we connect with soldiers and encourage them to send uplifting messages in a WhatsApp group. This initiative has been incredibly impactful, bringing encouragement not only to the soldier who sends the message but also to the rest of the soldiers in the group.
Please pray:
- Please pray for wisdom on how to continue encouraging and supporting the soldiers, and for strength to be there for them and meet their specific needs.
- Pray for the emotional and spiritual well-being of the soldiers.
- We would appreciate prayers for the student volunteers in the soldiers’ department—for strengthening their sense of purpose and mission so they can be even more relevant and impactful for the soldiers.
Discharged Believing Soldiers
One of our discharged believing soldiers was injured and had to stop his military service prematurely. Because his service was interrupted, he thought he would be ineligable for the full range of support we offer. We reached out to him, assuring him that we are here to provide guidance, tools, and counseling to support his needs. He was deeply moved, grateful, and expressed his heartfelt thanks.
Please pray:
- We would greatly appreciate prayer for spiritual awakening among the discharged soldiers and for wisdom in serving and supporting them effectively.
Students Group
Our students are in the midst of a busy exam period. We sent messages of encouragement and spoke with them to hear their prayer requests, showing them that we are with them and believe in them. The responses were filled with gratitude, as they were happy to hear that the program is not just technical and general, but that we are personally interested in each one’s field of study.
Please pray:
- We would appreciate prayer for the success of the students during the exam period.
- We would appreciate prayer that the Lord would reveal to us how to approach and speak with each student.
- We would appreciate prayer for the students to trust in God and leave worry behind.
HFI MEDIA PROJECTS
As Israel continues to face the ongoing challenges of war, alongside diplomatic pressures, public scrutiny, and the spread of misinformation, the role of our work in the media has never been more crucial. We are truly grateful for your continued support and prayers as we navigate these trying times. If you haven't yet subscribed to receive our regular updates on the current situation and our ministry's efforts, you can do so here. Your involvement makes a significant difference!
Please pray:
- Wisdom in managing ongoing attacks against our platforms and content, and for the cessation of these attacks, especially in the current climate of heightened misinformation.
- Strength and wisdom for our professional media team, who continue to provide media services amidst increased demand and pressure on our organization’s media pages.
- Insight and wisdom to offer fact-based, Scripture-based answers to those who oppose Israel, and for God to use our content to change hearts and minds in this challenging season.
- Praying for the growth of a grassroots movement for Israel advocacy across platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, particularly during this critical time.
- Praying for the creation of informative, engaging articles and other original material that will educate our audience, foster understanding, and encourage unwavering support for Israel.
- Prayer for spiritual protection over our team and our content, as we navigate complex and often hostile environments online.
- Insight and efficiency in updating our website and messaging to ensure they remain relevant, accurate, and impactful amidst the current global situation.
TOURS
We are still working on rescheduling tours due to the war. We are happy to announce our upcoming Israel Solidarity Tour in June! Please email info@hope4israel.org for more information on this tour.
This continues to be a very challenging and, at times, stressful logistical operation. One of the main objectives of our tour operation is to cover ministry overhead so that a higher percentage of donations can go to projects.
Please pray:
- Wisdom for Moran & Melissa as they continue to face challenging decisions regarding the tour operations.
- Open doors for "Footsteps of the Apostle Paul" tours to other countries of the Mediterranean region (Cyprus, Greece, Italy, etc.)
MINISTRY FINANCES
God has faithfully provided for the ministry's operating and project costs! We ask that you pray that He will continue to do so and that we will be able to bless more Israelis than ever!
IN HIS SERVICE,
THE HOPE FOR ISRAEL PRAYER TEAM