As the civil new year ends and a new year begins, there is an ever-so-slight glimmer of hope in the air. January 1st also marks 25 years since the establishment of Hope for Israel—25 years of witnessing God’s faithfulness in serving the people of Israel, even as we reflect on the challenges of 2024, a year marked by war and devastation. 

It is unfathomable to think that our people are continuing to endure the dark and dank dungeons of Hamas in Gaza languishing in horrific conditions as the war relentlessly drags on. Meanwhile, some Israelis have returned to their homes in the North, and some have merely visited.

Israelis are a resilient people. We embrace a long-term perspective on history, steadfast in the knowledge that God is on His throne.  With faith and courage, we continue to carry out the work the Lord has entrusted to us. Together, we step into 2025, praying for a year of recovery, healing, and restoration.

“Swords of Iron” - Seven Fronts in a Multidimensional War

Despite the regime change in Syria and a fragile ceasefire in Lebanon, Israeli troops remain stationed along the borders to prevent regrouping and rearming by hostile forces. The rebel takeover of Syria, ending a brutal 13-year civil war, marked the fall of a ruthless dictator who used poison gas on his people and imprisoned countless others. The IDF has adopted a defensive strategy, securing the Golan Heights and establishing buffer zones while dismantling stockpiled weapons and neutralizing threats. While the situation remains fluid, Israel stays vigilant, extending a hand of peace but prepared to respond decisively to any hostilities.

The Gaza Strip

The IDF continues its intensified operations in Gaza, targeting Hamas' infrastructure by dividing the area into three operational zones to disrupt smuggling routes, neutralize operatives, and dismantle command centers. Fighting has escalated significantly, with Israeli forces conducting targeted strikes and ground operations aimed at eliminating key Hamas leaders and military assets. The region remains volatile, with Hamas continuing to launch rockets into Israel while the IDF focuses on cutting off supply lines and isolating the group. The overall situation is dire, with hostages still being held by Hamas, and negotiations for their release ongoing amidst the conflict. Efforts to secure the hostages' safety remain a priority for Israel, even as the military campaign presses forward.

Lebanon

As of Wednesday, November 27, at 4:00 AM, a ceasefire was enacted between Hezbollah and Israel. A reporter who has visited in the past few days has said that it is “eerily quiet” and stunningly beautiful. The Israeli army, after having fought in Gaza for almost a year was extremely focused on their goals in the North and have accomplished them. Anywhere there are IDF soldiers, there are no Hezbollah fighters. We have established buffer zones so that we can respond to any attempt at regrouping and attacking.

Though still fragile, there is reason for optimism and some citizens have visited their homes for the first time since the outbreak of hostilities.  

Iran

By all reports, Iran has been significantly weakened. Their ability to launch attacks through proxies like Hezbollah has decreased.  The Assad regime in Syria had been a strong ally of Iran, and with the downfall of the brutal dictator, Iran has lost a thoroughfare for its nefarious activities. Hezbollah and the Asad Regime have been described as Iran’s right and left wings. Now these wings have been clipped, and it is unclear what their next moves might be. Israel has made it perfectly clear that there will be no regrouping nor rearming of rebel factions, that may prove a threat to our citizens.

Yemen

The Iranian-backed Houthis continue their southern offensive against Israel, launching daily drone and missile attacks that disrupt air travel, Red Sea shipping, and civilian life. These attacks not only pose a significant threat to national security but also disrupt sleep, pulling people out of bed nightly as sirens sound and shelters must be reached. Israel has made this its primary focus, responding decisively to neutralize the threat and ensure the safety of its people.

Groups In Iraq

Pro-Iranian militias in Iraq have halted attacks on Israel, largely due to significant U.S. pressure and threats from Israel, alongside efforts by the Iraqi government and Shiite political factions to avoid further escalation. The fall of Assad's regime in Syria has also disrupted the militias’ ability to launch operations from Syrian territory, further limiting their activity. While the militias are reportedly reorganizing and may adopt new strategies, the combination of international and regional pressure, including U.S. insistence on state control over weapons, has effectively curtailed their immediate threat to Israel. However, tensions remain, and the situation could reignite if broader conflicts between Israel and Iran escalate.

Judea and Samaria

Escalating violence in Judea and Samaria, with frequent terror attacks on civilians and soldiers, remains a pressing concern. The region’s instability continues to stretch Israel's resources and heightens tensions on this front. Palestinian factions, some of which are linked to extremist groups, have intensified their activities, further fueling the conflict.

 In response, Israel has increased security measures, including military operations and enhanced border controls, aiming to prevent terror attacks and maintain stability. However, these efforts have not completely curbed the violence, leading to ongoing clashes and unrest. The ongoing violence reflects deeper underlying issues, making it a critical challenge for Israel’s national security and regional stability.

Please pray:

• Pray for wisdom, protection, and courage for Israel’s leaders and soldiers during this critical time.
• Lift up families mourning loved ones or living in fear, asking for strength and hope.
• Intercede for civilians’ safety, especially those under daily attacks, and for the swift restoration of peace.
• Pray for hostages to remain strong and for their safe return through successful negotiations.
• Ask for the neutralization of threats from Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, and other regions.
• Seek resilience and healing for the people of Israel amid ongoing trauma and challenges.
• Call for a spiritual awakening across Israel and neighboring nations, bringing hope and transformation.
• We thank God for the abundant rain Israel has received in recent days, a reminder of His blessing and provision. Pray that we continue to have abundant rain this winter. 

International Diplomacy and Hypocrisy

The global response to Israel’s actions remains deeply polarized. International pressure for ceasefires often overlooks the ongoing threats posed by terror groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, while institutions such as the UN and ICC disproportionately target Israel. This bias is further highlighted by the hypocrisy of Russia and China, who recently called for the condemnation of Israel at the UN while discussing the attacks on Israel. These calls were made without addressing the ongoing attacks from Yemen, where Iranian-backed Houthi forces continue their southern offensive against Israel, launching daily drone and missile strikes that disrupt air travel, shipping, and civilian life. The international community remains largely silent on the threats coming from Yemen, even as they criticize Israel for defending itself.

This double standard is echoed in rising antisemitic incidents worldwide, fueled by misinformation and hostility toward Israel’s defense measures. Recent events highlight the challenges of navigating biased diplomacy. Israel recalled its ambassador and closed its embassy in Ireland after Dublin aligned with accusations of genocide at the Hague. In Australia, antisemitism escalates with violent attacks, including the burning of a synagogue in Melbourne. Similar incidents are reported across Europe and North America, where protests against Israel often turn into displays of hatred against Jewish communities. These developments underscore the growing intersection of global antisemitism and international politics surrounding Israel.

Please pray for:

• Favor and wisdom in Israel’s diplomatic efforts.  
• Strength and protection for Jewish communities facing antisemitism.  
• Clarity and effectiveness in communicating Israel’s right to self-defense.  
• That hypocrisy in international bodies would be exposed, leading to fairness and truth.  

Political Challenges and Division Among the People

In addition to external threats, Israel faces deep internal political challenges. The ongoing war has magnified divisions over military strategy, leadership, and governance, leaving many frustrated with political leaders and the lack of national unity during this critical time.

Prolonged conflict, economic struggles, and the emotional toll of war have further strained the population. Yet, moments of solidarity shine through, as communities rally to support one another. The need for wise leadership and genuine unity remains more urgent than ever.

Please pray for:

• For Israel’s political leaders to put aside differences and work together for the nation’s good.  
• For wisdom, humility, and honesty among those in positions of authority.  
• For divisions among the people to be healed, creating unity and mutual support.  
• For the people of Israel to find hope and strength during these political and social struggles.  

Economic Strain

The ongoing conflict has severely impacted Israel's economy, with defense expenditures soaring and key sectors like high-tech, tourism, construction, and agriculture facing significant disruptions. The situation is particularly challenging for reservists, many of whom have had to shut businesses and delay investments, leading to widespread economic strain. 

In response to the financial challenges, the Israeli government has approved a wartime budget for 2025, which includes tax increases and spending cuts to address the growing deficit. Despite these measures, the economic strain remains widespread, affecting countless families and communities across the nation. 

Please pray for:

• Provision and resilience for families struggling to make ends meet.  
• Creative and effective solutions for economic recovery.  
• Strength and encouragement for business owners and workers rebuilding their lives.  
• Support for reservists and their families as they endure prolonged separations and financial challenges.  

HFI Prayer Requests:

We continue to prayerfully seek the Lord’s wisdom and guidance to implement a renewed vision amid a tragic and costly war. Please join us in praying!

Moran

Moran continues to devote 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.  As people slowly begin to return to their homes and communities in the south and north, he is gradually shifting his focus to restoration. A few weeks ago, Moran received the word "restoration," which led him to understand that 2025 will be a pivotal year for Hope for Israel in playing an important role in the restoration of Israel. He also continues to oversee the ministry's Israel advocacy & information project, as people must receive reliable information from Israel. 

As he commemorates 25 years of ministry this year, he is also seeking 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 for:

• Blessing over our staff & board members who devote time and energy to executing our vision for the ministry.
• For an administrator manager in Israel. 
• 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 are excited to see the youth coming to Neryah. The youth have been very open during the meetings and have begun to share concerning the habits they have that are hindering their walk with the Lord. The youth eagerly look forward to the meetings, and the messages and activities are touching the youth in a deep and meaningful way. 

Please pray for:

• Security within Israel so that we may resume outside trips. These outings play a vital role in building relationships and offering meaningful spiritual experiences.  
• Strength for the youth to resist temptations and negative influences such as harmful content in social media and movies, alcohol, and cigarettes. Pray that they remain strong in their faith and maintain good mental and spiritual health.  
• Wisdom for planning special gatherings and events throughout the year. We desire that these moments leave a lasting impact on the youth and glorify God.  
• More youth leaders to join us in this calling. Pray for individuals with a heart for discipleship and a passion for guiding young people in their walks with the Lord. 
• The time of exams which the youth are about to enter in school. That the youth would do well in their exams and not experience an inordinate amount of stress.

Believing Soldiers

This month we held a soldiers meeting, and we met some of them. One of the soldiers arrived after having been in Gaza and he was greatly encouraged. Here are some expressions of praise reports. 

“Thank you very much for today’s meeting and for the package! What a treat! Truly! Thank you for taking the time to arrange this!”

“Thank you so much! I appreciate it and for the time you took to do it! It was really amazing!”

This month we also had a preparatory meeting for students in 11th and 12th grades who will be enlisting soon. The meeting was very successful, and the youth expressed their gratitude. They said that the meeting helped them a great deal and thanked us for being part of this initiative. Preparation for the army is very important on so many levels, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

Please pray for:

• Pray for more male counselors who see this service as important and vital. Often, supporting the soldiers can be challenging.
• Please pray for the mental and spiritual condition of the soldiers. The time has been very challenging, very long, and these young people have been exposed to seeing and enduring many harsh things. 
• Please pray for wisdom and guidance so that we can provide all the soldiers need, on all levels.
• Wisdom as to how to deal with discharged soldiers who still have psychological, spiritual and physical needs

Discharged Believing Soldiers

During this time, we have been developing and providing services for discharged believing soldiers. They receive ongoing support, workshops, and prayers tailored to their needs.

One of the discharged women initially shared with us that she was in a challenging season and therefore had not been attending the community support programs. However, our call and encouragement deeply moved her, leading her to decide to return and participate in our workshops and training.

We continued to support her both spiritually and practically, and she overcame her reluctance, ultimately responding positively. This is a wonderful answer to prayer!

Students group

We provided scholarships for 21 students. This is very exciting! The students expressed gratitude for the financial assistance, especially considering the continuing challenging circumstances. expressed a great deal of appreciation.

On November 11 we held the opening meeting of the year for the students, and they

We are very happy about the addition of a new student coordinator. This is a direct answer to prayer.

We continue to send messages of encouragement every week to the students. They have expressed their thanks for this. One said, “It is fun to see a message from you! It means that you are thinking about and praying for us! I have even shared with my family and it is such a good thing to know that there are people in The Body who shed so much light!”

Please pray for:

• Strength and excitement for the new year of studies. It is not easy to find motivation during these challenging times.
• Pray that students in the reserves find peace and strength to manage their studies amidst the challenges they face. Many reservists are deployed and then return, only to be called back into service. Please keep their safety in your thoughts and prayers.
• For the wives of reserve soldiers who are also students. There is additional stress on the families due to fear of the unknown and having to maintain some sort of routine during the absence of the other parent.
• The continued success of the scholarship project. That the students integrate into their respective departments where they volunteer and for wisdom for the project’s management team.

HFI Media Projects

During a period when Israel is fighting not only a physical war but also diplomatic and public pressures and fake news, we see our work in the media as doubly important! Thank you for your continued support of our work in this area and your continued prayers! If you aren’t already receiving our regular updates about the war and the ministry, you can subscribehere.

Please pray for:

• Wisdom to manage attacks against our platforms and content and for the cessation of such attacks.
• Strength and wisdom for our professional media team that provide media services to the various media pages of our organization. 
• Insight and wisdom are needed to offer fact-based and Scripture-based answers to those who oppose Israel; God would use our content to change peoples' hearts and minds!
• Creating a grassroots movement of Israel advocacy via YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram
• Informative & exciting articles and other original material that will educate our audience and encourage their support of Israel now and always.
• Prayer for spiritual protection
• Insight and efficiency in updating our website and messaging

Tours

We are still working on rescheduling tours due to the war and have not moved forward with scheduling any new tours for 2025. 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 for:

• 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 (Italy, Malta, and Greece).
• Grace as we begin planning our next Israel Solidarity Tour for June 2025.

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