Palestine Close? – recent reports indicate that a possible agreement is close between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.  Apparently, the head Palestinian negotiator, Saeb Erekat, has said that Netanyahu needs to prepare Israeli people for the “tough concessions” that are imminent.  This will include a divided Jerusalem, which is a very difficult possibility for Israel.  It will also include a foreign troop presence to “enforce” the agreement for a period of time.  Please intercede for Israel in this hour!  If a Palestinian State does materialize, we must be ready for God’s judgment for dividing His land (Joel 3).  If it does not, we must prepare for a violent Palestinian uprising and a possible worldwide boycott of Israel.  We are desperate for His wisdom and intervention!  Please cover Israel with your prayers…

Israel & Turkey Close to Reconciling – recent reports indicate that Israel and Turkey are close to agreeing on items related to the compensation of the 9 Turkish families who lost a loved one in the Marmara Flotilla incident.  The only problem is that Turkey is reportedly demanding a lifting of the Gaza blockade, which would seriously put Israel at risk of more attacks.  Israel is unwilling to lift the blockade, for obvious security reasons, so it appears the two sides will once again reach an impasse.  Please continue to pray that Israel will not concede to ridiculous demands by so-called allies that will put its security at risk.  Please also pray that Israel will keep a strong backbone when it comes to Turkey, which is a country that continues to criticize Israel on its every move and has no desire for a true diplomatic relationship. 

Israel Poverty Rate Rising – recent revelations of elderly persons living on an average of $1,000 per month in Israel have sparked debates on what can be done to combat this rising poverty level. Israel has one of the highest costs of living in any developed country, and due to low salaries and high taxes, the poverty level is quite high.  Please pray that Israel will seek ways in which to alleviate the intense financial strain of its citizens, as well as to close the gap between the poor and the rich.  Please also pray that the LORD will bless those organizations that regularly bless the poor with food and other essentials. 

Thank you for praying!

The Hope for Israel Prayer Team