Tikkun Global
Jerusalem, Israel
The ceasefire in Gaza has ended, and after several weeks of failed negotiations, Israel has returned to military offensive to put pressure on Hamas to release the hostages.
Israel has declared all further negotiations will continue 'under fire' and won't end until all the hostages have returned.
There are currently approximately 24 hostages thought to be alive in Gaza.
The current offensive is by the air force, but, if necessary, a ground invasion will ensue.
There is intense opposition within Israel by those who feel we should do no military attacks and only offer more concessions to release the hostages, including allowing Hamas to regain full power.
This is supported by many of the former hostages who left their friends in the tunnels and believe that the new military operations could cause immediate danger to the hostages still in captivity.
The country is torn. It's built into our values not to leave a comrade behind. However, in this case it is not clear how to rescue the hostages. Conceding to Hamas could lead to a huge increase in Jihadism and terrorism in the Middle East and the whole world, with many more being killed.
The tension within Israel is intense, the country divided. Even as I write this, there is a huge demonstration against the government next to our home here in Jerusalem.
Please pray for God's wisdom for Netanyahu and the coalition leaders to know how to proceed and to make correct strategic decisions.
Pray for release of the hostages, healing for our nation, destruction of Jihadists, strength for Arab Christians, and a new period of peace in the Middle East.
