May 9, 2025 | Messianic World Update | U.S. Middle East Policy Shifts: Israel Excluded from Critical Security Negotiations

Shalom, everyone, I'm Monte Judah with Lion and Lamb Ministries, bringing you the latest Messianic World Update. Today's date is May 9, 2025. As we observe the unfolding events in Israel and the Middle East, we see prophetic implications that demand our attention and prayers.

The Trump administration's approach to Middle East diplomacy has taken an unexpected turn, particularly in their dealings with Iran, the Houthi rebels, and Saudi Arabia. Most troubling is the pattern of excluding Israel from crucial negotiations that directly impact their security and sovereignty.

The U.S. continues to engage with Iran regarding their nuclear program, echoing the problematic approach of the Obama era. Despite Iran's clear defiance and continued development of nuclear capabilities, the administration appears willing to accept superficial concessions while excluding Israel from these critical discussions.

Of grave concern is the recent ceasefire agreement with the Houthi rebels. The agreement was specifically targeted to stop the Houthis from terrorizing ships, U.S. and other international ships, in the Red Sea. The agreement notably omits any requirement for the Houthis to cease attacks on Israel. This, in the wake of a successful Houthi missile strike on Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, demonstrates the real-world consequences of sidelining Israel's security interests. Israel was obliged then to attack the Yemeni airport, in which the IDF completely obliterated the entire location.

The proposed Saudi Arabian civilian nuclear program, while presented as an economic initiative, raises serious security concerns for the region. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee’s statement that America "does not need permission from Israel" for such agreements marks a troubling shift in diplomatic rhetoric.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to stand firm in its defense of the Druze communities in southern Syria. The IDF recently launched a strategic warning strike in Damascus, and this week, set up a field hospital to establish medical treatment for injuries the Druze civilians have sustained from Syrian attacks.  

Israel maintains its commitment to eliminating Hamas in Gaza with a new battle plan,Operation “Gideon's Chariots,” which represents a significant escalation in their approach to securing Gaza and protecting Israeli citizens. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government released a statement saying that the operation would not commence until after President Trump’s Middle East visit is concluded. Only 21 hostages are known to be alive at this point, and the new operation will seek to locate them and return them back to Israel as soon as possible.

A new pope was elected this week following the death of Pope Francis last month. On the fourth vote of the conclave, American Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected to be the new Pope and Bishop of Rome. He has chosen the name, Leo IVX, as his papal title. It remains to be seen whether this new pope will continue the liberal agenda of Pope Francis or turn the Church back to more conservative stances. 

As believers in Yeshua who support Israel, we must remain vigilant in prayer and advocacy. The rising tide of anti-Semitism on American college campuses serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual battle we face. These demonstrations, now revealed to be part of a coordinated national effort, echo dark chapters of history that we must never allow to be repeated.

Let us continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, for wisdom among world leaders, and for the protection of Israel and the Jewish people worldwide. Remember the words of Genesis 12:3, "I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse."

Shabbat Shalom to all of you.