Olive Branch

The U.S. and Israel say they’re “setting the stage for dramatically advancing peace in the Middle East,” starting in Gaza.

After a meeting with President Trump at the White House on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu accepted Uncle Sam’s 20-point plan that ends fighting between Israel and Hamas, releases hostages and prisoners, increases humanitarian aid, demilitarizes Gaza, and sets up an international “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump (read the full plan here).

The proposal—approved by European and Middle Eastern leaders as well—now awaits a response from Hamas; the group has promised a “good faith” review.

Yesterday, Trump said Hamas has “three or four days” to respond to his take-it-or-leave-it olive branch and that Israel will have the U.S.’s “full backing” to finish the war militarily should Hamas reject the proposal.

Verse to consider when you’re afraid to get your hopes up about the end of a long, hard conflict… “Our Lord is great, vast in power; his understanding is infinite… He is not impressed by the strength of a horse; he does not value the power of a warrior. The LORD values those who fear him, those who put their hope in his faithful love.” 
Psalm 147:5, 10-11 (CSB) (read full passage)