Global Prayer Alert – May 19, 2025

After continued failure at negotiations, Operation Gideon’s Chariots has been launched in Gaza, Israel’s version of Trump’s declaration ‘all hell will break out.’

The goal as always is to disable Hamas and release the hostages. In addition, the IDF plans to divide Gaza into 3 military controlled sections with civilian areas in between, to facilitate safe food and humanitarian aid distribution and prevent Hamas from regaining control.

Last week Israel attempted to assassinate Muhammad Sinwar, ruthless Hamas leader and brother of former leader Yahya Sinwar. The assassination seems to have been successful  although Israel awaits conclusive evidence.

The fact that the targeted command center where Sinwar operated was directly beneath a hospital indicates the great challenge dismantling Hamas proposes. It is entirely embedded in civilian infrastructure.

Alongside the renewed offensive, negotiations continue in Doha, Qatar. There is hope that with Sinwar out of the picture, Hamas officials will buckle, and renege on some of their demands.

Trump finished his Mideast tour and Israel is left wondering what some of the ‘progress’ means for us. The week after the US came to an agreement with the Houthis in Yemen, three rockets were fired in our direction. Ultimately Israel knows she can’t fully depend on anyone, but needs to be able to stand alone.

On another note, amidst extreme backlash, protests, attempts at disqualification, Israel came in second place at the Eurovision Song Contest with a stunning performance from Yuval Raphael. It may be noted that Raphael received first place in the popular vote, but a low standing with the official judges.

Please pray for:

• Wisdom for our leaders, literally making life or death decisions

• Success for Operation Gideon’s Chariots with minimal (or no!) casualties  among Israeli soldiers as well as Gazan civilians

• Release of ALL the hostages and return of bodies held hostage

• Guidance as to agreements and negotiations with other Arab countries in the region 

• Dismantling of Iranian nuclear weapons facilities 

• Unity within our country and government 

• Truth to overcome lies in media/propaganda 

• That the pain of this season would lead many hearts to embrace their Savior

Thank you for your faithful prayers.