Tehran v Jerusalem

Longstanding enemies Israel and Iran are in open conflict.

Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion” on Friday, a surprise attack that wiped out Iran’s senior military leadership and damaged nuclear sites. Prime Minister Netanyahu said Iran’s growing nuclear program poses an “existential threat” to Israel and is intent on preventing it from developing nuclear weapons.

Iran has vowed to “open the gates of hell” in retaliation, targeting Israel’s defense infrastructure with waves of missiles over the weekend. Israel reports at least 13 deaths; humanitarian groups estimate over 400 Iranians have died.

President Trump reportedly vetoed an Israeli plan to kill Iran’s supreme leader and declined Israel’s request for “bunker buster bombs” to destroy Iran’s underground nuclear operations, but warned he will deploy the “full strength and might” of the military if Iran attacks U.S. assets in the region.

CHRISTIAN RESPONSE
It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of even more conflict abroad. But the Bible promises that prayer is powerful and effective, that it causes things to happen that would not have happened otherwise. Pray for comfort for those grieving. Pray for wisdom for leaders. Pray for peace. 

“May the LORD bless you and protect you; may the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; may the LORD look with favor on you and give you peace.” 
Numbers 6:24-26 (CSB) (read full passage)