March 21, 2025 | Messianic World Update | Gaza War Intensifies as Regional Tensions Escalate

Shalom, everyone, I'm Monte Judah with Lion and Lamb Ministries, bringing you the latest Messianic World Update. Today's date is March 21, 2025.

The ceasefire in Gaza has ended as hostage negotiations reached an impasse. Hamas rejected all proposals due to their refusal to disarm, staying true to their charter, which calls for Israel's destruction. Israel has now resumed military operations in Gaza, taking out several new Hamas leaders and launching a renewed bombing campaign.

During the ceasefire, Hamas reportedly recruited an additional 15,000 troops, bringing their estimated force to 30,000. They've been constructing more tunnels, setting booby traps, and preparing for continued conflict. Israel's new military chief has declared their intention to annihilate Hamas and level Gaza. Defense Minister Katz has expanded the scope to include targeting terrorist elements in Judea and Samaria.

U.S. forces have initiated intense military operations against the Houthis in Yemen, deploying B-2 bombers with bunker-buster bombs and utilizing the USS Truman carrier group to also launch Tomahawk missiles at Houthi targets. The Houthis have declared war on the United States in response, though their attempted drone strikes have proven ineffective.

President Trump sent a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei, giving a two-month deadline to begin negotiations or face military consequences. The U.S. operation against the Houthis serves as a demonstration of American military capabilities.

In Israeli politics, Itamar Ben-Gvir has rejoined Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition following the resumption of military operations in Gaza. This strengthens PM Netanyahu's position as he faces challenges from the judiciary and internal conflicts over military service exemptions for Haredi students.

Netanyahu has moved to dismiss the head of Shin Bet following disagreements over the October 7 attack analysis. This decision faces opposition through the court system, mirroring similar judicial challenges to President Trump’s executive actions in the United States.

In Northern Israel, the IDF continues to battle the remnants of Hezbollah, ridding the area of weapons caches and military equipment. On the border with Syria, Israeli Defense Minister Katz has ordered the IDF’s elite mountain brigade to establish a presence on Mt. Hermon and to construct a buffer zone between Israel and Syria. 

The battles in the Middle East are ramping up, with more countries contributing to the fray. We must pray for Israel, for the strength of her government, for the IDF soldiers and hostages, and for the United States, President Trump, and the government. 

We will continue to watch and to pray.

Shabbat Shalom to all of you.