Shalom, everyone, I'm Monte Judah with Lion and Lamb Ministries, bringing you the latest Messianic World Update. Today's date is Friday, October 25th of the year 2024. As we navigate through these turbulent times, I want to share with you the significant developments unfolding in Israel and the Middle East.
Israel continues its operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and Beirut. After taking out Nasrallah, Israel has intensified its strikes, targeting Hezbollah's financial center in Beirut. This has thrown Hezbollah's finances into disarray, impacting their ability to pay their operatives. In a strategic move, Israel publicly revealed the location of Hezbollah's gold storage, potentially sowing discord within their ranks.
The ground fighting in Southern Lebanon persists, with the IDF suffering some casualties while inflicting significant losses on Hezbollah. We've seen the destruction of tunnels, including one that crossed into Israel, and the capture or destruction of munitions and rockets.
A concerning development occurred when Hezbollah managed to strike Prime Minister Netanyahu's home in Caesarea with a drone. This has led to an intensification of Israel's operations against Hezbollah, showing no quarter to their operatives.
Regarding Iran, Israel has been preparing for a counterstrike following Iran's launch of 180 ballistic missiles weeks ago. However, the U.S. administration has been attempting to delay and limit Israel's response. A recent Department of Defense intelligence leak on social media has further complicated matters, forcing Israel to modify its plans. This leak has raised questions about the reliability of sharing intelligence with the current U.S. administration.
Iran, aware of the impending Israeli strike, has its leadership in hiding while threatening to launch thousands of missiles if attacked. Jordan has closed its airspace to Iran while allowing Israel access, further isolating Iran in the region.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken returned to the Middle East this week, attempting to mediate and set up hostage negotiations. The U.S. is also pushing for more aid to enter Gaza, including the northern areas, which Israel had previously restricted due to concerns about Hamas intercepting the aid.
The hostage situation remains critical, with 101 hostages still not returned, 55 of whom are believed to be alive. Israel continues its Yellow Ribbon Campaign to keep the plight of these hostages in the public consciousness.
As we reflect on these events, I'm reminded of the words from Isaiah 49:24–26, which speak powerfully to the current hostage situation. We must continue to pray for the release of these captives and for God's intervention in this complex situation.
I urge you all to stay informed and to join us in prayer for Israel, for the hostages, and for wisdom for leaders involved in these critical decisions. If you want to ensure you don't miss any updates, please join us at LionandLamb.tv and subscribe to our service.
As we face these challenging times, let us remember that our hope is in the Lord, the Redeemer and Mighty One of Jacob. May His peace guard your hearts and minds.
Shabbat Shalom to all of you.