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Israel Under Attack

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Tuesday, April 16, 2024

From traveling to Taiwan, taking cover in a bomb shelter, and preparing for Passover, it has been a packed week for Sondra and Shmuel! Tune in for this special update!

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Recently the CFOIC staff delivered shabbat boxes to Nofei Nehemia. Each box contained chicken, multiple salads, challah, and everything necessary for a delicious Shabbat dinner! Many of the men from this small community are away from home serving in the IDF. These boxes ease Shabbat preparations for busy moms and remind the community that they are not alone.

Friday, February 2, 2024

We are going to Israel In March! Join us!

There is a great need for volunteers in Israel! We will volunteer in farms and communities in Judea, Samaria, the Jordan Valley and the Gaza Border areas, meet with and show our support for IDF soldiers, for displaced families and for those whose loved ones have been kidnapped or have been injured or have fallen in defense of Israel – and by our presence, let them know that they are not alone.
 
Your Safety is our priority. All programming will be done according to IDF guidelines. Daily itinerary will be based on local conditions and current situation.

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Free Gazan People – from Gaza! 

Millions of refugees from countries like Iraq, Syria, and Yemen fled wars in their homelands and sought refuge in other countries. So why, suddenly, when it comes to the voluntary migration of the Gazans, does the matter become so controversial?

Friday, January 19, 2024

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give #BringThemHome

Sondra shares her insights from her personal mourning as well as the collective mourning of the nation of Israel. Am Israel Chai.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give #BringThemHome

Tuesday, January 9 , 2024

Thanks for joining us live on Zoom! Here is the recording of our live meeting for those who were unable to attend. 

Monday, January 8 , 2024

Sondra exhorts all to remember the families in Judea and Samaria, many of whom are missing fathers and husbands.

Tuesday, January 2 , 2024

Tragedy of War Reaches CFOIC

It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of Amichai Yisrael Yehoshua Oster, nephew of our founder and International President, Sondra Oster Baras. Amichai, a brave soul at the young age of 24, fell in battle in northern Gaza on New Year’s Day 2024.

Amichai Oster, 24

Residing in Karnei Shomron, Samaria, Amichai leaves behind his grieving parents, Marcy and Dr. Howard Oster, and siblings Sara, Emunah, Tova, and Yonatan, the latter currently serving in the IDF. Amichai’s sacrifice, like that of countless others in the Biblical Heartland, underscores his unwavering commitment to the Land of Israel.

Mayor Igal Lahav of Karnei Shomron beautifully described Amichai as “a charming, intelligent, smiling young man who would do everything for the sake of the Land of Israel.” His actions spoke louder than words; on October 7th, Amichai, despite traveling abroad, swiftly returned to Israel, reporting for reserve duty without hesitation.

Funeral of Amichai Oster in Karnei Shomron

The attacks on October 7th and their aftermath have left an indelible mark on families across Israel, and regrettably, our CFOIC family is not exempt from this painful reality. Just days before his untimely

passing, Amichai’s family embraced him during a brief break from his military service. His loss serves as a poignant reminder that, during times of conflict, every moment shared with a loved one in uniform holds profound significance.

In these challenging and sorrowful times, we extend our deepest gratitude to you, our dear and devoted friends. Your unwavering solidarity with the residents of Judea and Samaria and the People of Israel is a source of strength and comfort that resonates profoundly for us and throughout the Biblical Heartland.

As we navigate this somber period, let us honor Amichai’s memory by continuing to stand together in the face of adversity.

Monday, January 1 , 2024
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Shmuel gives an update on the devastation of Israel’s Gaza envelop.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give #BringThemHome

Tuesday, December 26 , 2023
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Ordinary Life in The Midst of War

What is it like to live an ordinary life, to follow routine, in the midst of a war?  For most of us in Israel, we do not have the luxury to imagine the answer to that question: we are living it.  Since October 7th, we find ourselves in a surrealistic situation — the entire country has been mobilized, the news is on around the clock with updates from the front and from the families most affected by the war.  The tragedies are never ending.  But in the midst of all of this, life does go on.

One of my sons has been fighting in Gaza for the past few weeks.  He was called up on October 7th, but their unit was moved to different places over the first few weeks, ready for whatever development might come their way.  But after the temporary cease-fire broke down, his unit went into Gaza.  For three weeks, we heard nothing from him.  And there is no time like today that the well-known adage rang so true: No news is good news. Indeed, we knew well that if something had happened to him, we would be informed immediately. 

Every morning, the news reports the names of soldiers who were killed in battle during the night.  And as the day progresses, there are usually more names added to the list.  More than 150 soldiers have fallen in battle since we entered Gaza, adding to the more than 1200 civilians and soldiers killed on that bloody Saturday in October.  Every name is a person, usually young, who gave his life to protect his people.  All too often, we know the person who was killed, or their family members, neighbors, friends.  Another one of my sons has been serving in the IDF since October 7th in Judea, protecting one of the vulnerable communities there.  He is a high school teacher and has been for 8 years.  Several of his formal students have been killed in this war.  The father of one of his current students was killed in this war.  And just the other day, his former commander fell in battle.  So much death.  So much loss.  I feel for every family who has lost a loved one.  And I feel for my son who has lost so many he knew and cared for.

Tuesday, December 19 , 2023
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Residents of Judea and Samaria are turning the darkness into light.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give #Hanukkah 

Tuesday, December 12 , 2023
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Last week the CFOIC staff delivered Shabbat boxes to Havot Yair. About eighty percent of the men from this small community are away from home serving in the IDF. These boxes ease Shabbat preparations for busy moms and remind the community that they are not alone.  This week you have an opportunity to send a Shabbat meal to a family in the small community of Avigayil!  Donate TODAY!

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give #Hanukkah #ShabbatBox #ShabbatShalom

Monday, December 11 , 2023
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It’s an odd Hanukkah this year with loved ones missing from the candle lighting and festivities. Please join us in praying for a miracle this Hanukkah.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give #Hanukkah

Friday, December 8 , 2023
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Thanks for joining us live on Zoom!

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give 

Monday, December 4 , 2023
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Israel is facing a threat from terrorists on three different fronts: Gaza, the Lebanon border, and Judea & Samaria. The nation is sending its sons into battle hoping to remove these threats once and for all. It’s a bumpy ride filled with danger, enemies, and unhelpful allies. Thank you for standing with Israel.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give 

Thursday, November 30 , 2023
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Israel is still grappling with the aftermath of October 7, while alos rejoicing over each hostage that hs returned. Tune in for a brief update on this week’s latest news. 

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give 

Tuesday, November 28, 2023
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Over a month has passed since the war began, sending 350,000 reserve soldiers – many of whom are husbands and fathers – into battle. Imagine the impact on Israel, with countless families left without a father or husband. In certain regions, like Judea and Samaria, entire communities are left with only mothers and children as the majority of men have gone to fight. There are numerous questions surrounding this war but for those affected families, the most pressing query is “when will Daddy come home?”

We may not have an answer to that question, but we can offer support and love to these young families during this difficult time. The absence of fathers during Shabbat meals – an integral part of Jewish culture and tradition – leaves a profound void. There is an unmistakable emptiness when they sit down without Dad, share stories without him, and miss him dearly.

To provide some solace and a touch of love, we will send these families a specially-curated Shabbat box filled with everything needed for a traditional meal, from challah bread to main dishes and all in between. Though Dad may not be physically present at the head of the table, these boxes help remind them that people care about their well-being and offer unwavering support.

For just $100 today, you can sponsor a Shabbat box for one of these families in Judea and Samaria. Your help allows us to show love and appreciation towards the heroes of Israel while bringing some joy back into their hearts.

Monday, November 27, 2023
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Hostages. The 240 people stolen from their homes on October 7th have been in our hearts and minds for the last seven weeks. Israel is a nation that cares deeply for its people. While Hamas seeks to exploit this perceived weakness, it may turn out to be Israel’s greatest strength.

Join Sondra for a brief update from Israel.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give 

Tuesday, November 21, 2023
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Explore the Jewish perspective on hostages released in response to terrorist demands. Delve into ethical considerations, moral dilemmas, and the broader implications within the framework of Jewish teachings and values.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give 

Tuesday, November 14, 2023
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Surely you’ve heard that the cowboys have arrived in Israel?! CFOIC’s Shmuel Junger shares the interesting experience of meeting American Zionist cowboys in Israel.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give #CowboysInIsrael #ZionistCowboys

Thursday, November 9, 2023
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COFIC Heartland’s International President Sondra Baras gives an update on Israel’s War with Hamas. Thank you for standing with Israel!

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Tuesday, November 7, 2023
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Watch as Shmuel concludes his short but impactful trip to the US, offering a unique perspective on the significance of supporting Israel during the Gaza conflict.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Tuesday, October 31, 2023
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It’s Us or Them

by Sondra Oster Baras

It has been more than three weeks since that horrible Shabbat of Simchat Torah, the 7th of October.  A date that has become seared in our brains and in our souls.  A date that reminds us, day in and day out, of horrible tragedy, barbarous violence, inexcusable and savage torture and slaughter. It will become a national day of mourning for years to come.  But for now, we are focused on each day, trying to make sense of it all, coping with everything this situation has thrown our way.

Every day I watch TV and every day I am reminded of the incomprehensible number of 1400 people slaughtered in one day and close to 250 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. We watch the testimonies of the survivors of the massacre.  Parents massacred in front of their children, children massacred before the eyes of their parents and young siblings, babies taken hostage in Gaza as their parents are murdered.  Their surviving grandparents, aunts or uncles ask themselves over and over— who is caring for the children? Are they alive?  And they feel so helpless.

Friday, October 27, 2023
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An Israeli resident sends his heartfelt thanks to CFOIC Heartland donors for their support. With your help, CFOIC is purchasing security equipment for the vulnerable communities of Judea and Samaria. To stand with Israel, visit: www.cfoic.com/stand #AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror #Monday #standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland

Wednesday, October 25, 2023
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COFIC Heartland’s International President Sondra Baras gives an update on day 18 of Israel’s War with Hamas. The situation in Judea & Samaria is fragile and your help is greatly needed!

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Tuesday, October 24, 2023
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Maya Berretta, Director of Outreach at CFOIC Heartland gives an update on October 24, 2023. Israel is still reeling with shock but the people remain strong.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Wednesday, October 18, 2023
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#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Tuesday, October 17, 2023
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Today’s update is from Maya Beretta and her guest Sarah from Karnei Shomron.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Monday, October 16, 2023
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Today’s update is a video from Shmuel Junger. 

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror#standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Friday, October 13, 2023
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Today’s Israel update features Sondra Oster Baras, CFOIC Heartland’s International President.

Thursday, October 12, 2023
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Today’s update is brought to you by Kimberly Troup, Director, US Office.

Wednesday, October 11, 2023
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Today’s Israel update features Maya Berretta, CFOIC Director of Outreach. In this video, Maya discusses the Jewish people’s resilient response to the ongoing conflict and sheds light on the growing demand for security equipment in the communities of Judea and Samaria.  Now, when you donate to our special campaign, you will be helping the families of Judea and Samaria with husbands and fathers serving on the frontlines and providing vital security equipment to the communities living under increasing terrorist threat.  Thank you to everyone who has responded so generously. We have received countless phone calls, emails, texts, and WhatsApp messages, all asking how they can stand with Israel and making sure that everyone in our Israel office is okay. You have responded so generously, and the need is so great. Thank you.

May God safeguard us all, and may His protection extend to Israel during these trying times.

Tuesday, October 10, 2023
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Today’s update is from a CFOIC staff member living in Jerusalem.  As of the time of this update all CFOIC staff members in Israel are safe.

This past Sabbath will forever remain etched in the memory of the People of Israel and its friends throughout the world. It was not supposed to be a routine Sabbath. The day coincided with the Biblically mandated “Shmini Atzeret” holiday (“8th day of Assembly”) following the seven-day Feast of Tabernacles, a day in which men and women alike including toddlers and babies take part in celebratory dancing to mark a year’s completion of studying the entire Torah (Five Books of Moses). Like any Shmini Azeret, Jews flocked to the synagogues yesterday across Israel, prepared to celebrate and dance.

 The atmosphere was electric as youths, children and adults danced with such excitement and happiness through the morning. However, the mood took an unexpected turn when the Rabbi, at the conclusion of the service, led the congregation in reciting several chapters of psalms that are typically said during times of tragedy. We knew right away that something significantly bad had occurred, but as it was the Sabbath, we had no electronics or connections to the outside world to have any inkling of what happened.

 Leaving synagogue, I went to my cousins’ home to partake in a traditional festive meal for the Holiday. It was at the meal that I was able to hear several details regarding the terror that struck our brethren in the south. One of the attendees of the meal who had walked all the way from the center of Jerusalem was warned by a passing driver that it was unsafe to walk near the highways and thoroughfares because “a war was going on.” All that everyone knew at the table was that a few people were abducted into Gaza by Hamas terrorists. My heart sank, having been overcome with anger, sadness, and concern, all of which was compounded by our inability to check the news due to the restrictions of the Sabbath.

 At the end of the holiday, everyone turned on their phones to get updates. The news was practically unbearable to digest—Over 100 innocent Israelis were murdered in cold blood and dozens more were taken into captivity. Shock overwhelmed me, and I couldn’t think clearly. Concern for the victims, our nation and my family also consumed me. Public transportation was not available for us to return home but our cousins, without hesitation, gave us a car to borrow.

 We drove home through empty streets guarded by police cars at different intersections, which was most unnerving. Still shocked from the news of the day, my wife and I, after getting home, tucked our daughter into bed with us as we imagined the pain of families who have just been torn apart. While tucking her into bed, I looked at my daughter and started crying, knowing that dozens of other families were just ripped apart. Knowing that a father who watched his wife and two daughters taken into captivity was no longer able to tuck his daughter into bed. I started praying for this father and husband to somehow reunite with his family.

 Having read the news of the past day and seeing all the horrifying images, sleep eluded me for a while. After managing to eventually doze off, I woke in the middle night, reminded of the terror that had befallen many in the south. I stayed awake due to a protective instinct to be on guard for my family.

 The next morning brought an eerie silence to Jerusalem’s streets, akin to any Sabbath. The country had come to a standstill, not like the joyous standstill on the weekly Sabbath but rather a somber one. It forced introspection: How could we respond effectively to this terror? How could we best support our brothers and sisters who are suffering?

 Friends of ours were being called up for IDF reserves, all of whom did so with courage and dedication. I decided to donate blood to Magen David Adom, heartened to find that many others had the same idea. It was a reminder of the unity the People of Israel and its dear Christian friends all over the world exhibit in times of tragedy.

 As we face the challenging days ahead, I take solace in the resilience of the People of Israel and the support of our Christian friends around the world. Together, we will endure and overcome these trying times.

 “See, the Guardian of Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps!”—-Psalms 121:4

Monday, October 9, 2023
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Today’s update is a video from Sondra Baras, CFOIC International President. In today’s update, Sondra gives the death toll as 700. Since she filmed the update, that number has been updated to an estimated 900 dead.  There isn’t a family in Israel who doesn’t know someone who has been killed, kidnapped or wounded.

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror #Sunday #standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Sunday, October 8, 2023
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Today’s update is a video from Shmuel Junger. 

#AmYisraelChai #israelisunderattack #Israel #PleaseShare #prayers #Gaza #DidYouKnow #terror #Sunday #standwithisrael #CFOICHeartland #pray #share #give

Saturday, October 7, 2023
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I must share with you the somber and devastating situation unfolding in Israel at this very moment. Since 6:30 a.m. Israel time this Saturday morning, more than 3,000 missiles have rained down upon Israeli civilian communities from Gaza, and hundreds of terrorists have breached the security barrier in Gaza to infiltrate Israel. The consequences have been truly heartbreaking, with at least 250 Israelis tragically murdered and over 1,500 people sustaining injuries (numbers are continually rising). The southern Israeli communities now face the ominous presence of these ruthless terrorists.

Reports and distressing videos released by Hamas reveal the abduction of innocent civilians, both young and old, by these heartless individuals. Families find themselves held hostage in their own homes, and these events are cruelly live-streamed on various platforms, amplifying the fear and anxiety gripping the region.

This is not a scene from a horror movie; it is the stark and painful reality that Israelis are facing today. This ongoing horror serves as a grim reminder of the relentless threat Israel faces from a terror organization that refuses to acknowledge our right to exist and continues to target civilians in the name of ideology.

We implore you to stand steadfastly with Israel as it exercises its right and responsibility to protect its citizens, just as any nation would in similar dire circumstances. Let us unite in unwavering solidarity with the people of Israel during these extraordinarily trying times. 🙏🏻

We understand that many of our friends from around the world are currently in Israel to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. We acknowledge the deep unease you must be feeling, being on the sidelines and uncertain about what the future holds. Please be assured that we are here to assist you. If you or a friend or family member is currently in Israel and need help or have any questions or concerns, please reach out to any member of our team at +972-9-792-0958 or directly to me at +972-54-565-9373.

We realize that this will not be a short-lived operation, and your support will be crucial. There will be numerous avenues through which we can provide aid and support to the brave soldiers protecting our country and the families affected by this unimaginable tragedy. We humbly ask you to consider contributing to this special cause.

Below is a video made and distributed by the Israel Ministry of Public Diplomacy. It is important that friends like you help us spread truth on Social Media. This is a war that is being fought on the streets of Gaza, but almost as importantly, it is also a war of public relations being waged online through Social Media. We need you to join the fight by helping us spread truth!

May God watch over us, and may God watch over Israel during these challenging times.

Shalom,

Shmuel Junger
Director, Israel Office
Christian Friends of Israeli Communities
shmuel@cfoic.com
+972-54-565-9373

P.S. Please keep all of Israel in your prayers. Help us spread the truth from Israel on Social Media. Donate today to support families whose husbands and fathers are serving on the front lines.

Stand with Israel by donating to support the families whose husbands and fathers are on the front lines!

Special Prayer Requests
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  1. Safety for our soldiers as they fight this unspeakable evil. 
    (Specific soldiers to pray over:  Yossi, David, Yaniv, Yehuda, Ari, Micha, Eitan)
  2. Protection for our civilians who are on the front lines.
  3. Wisdom and courage for our leaders.
  4. Healing for those who have been wounded.
  5. Peace and protection for those who have been kidnapped.
  6. Comfort for those who have lost a family member. 

Tuesday, November 14, 2023
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6 thoughts on “Israel Under Attack”

  1. God Bless Israel! Pray without Ceasing! We are Crying out to you Lord, Help us!! Thank you in advance, because We know who our God is, and God Loves his people of Israel… And We know who already Won this Battle, Help us through it Lord….Hallelujah to our King, our Lord and Savior!

    Reply
  2. God is still in control. We don’t always understand why things happen but we do know that He will never let go of his people. Our Father hears every prayer for Israel and we can only keep trusting Him. May God continue to bless Israel and may He comfort those who are mourning, those who are devastated and confused, those who are injured and suffering. God, have mercy. May all those with evil intent be thwarted before they carry out their cruel and despicable deeds – in Jesus name. Amen

    Reply
  3. Hamas will murder the RedCross members as they hate Americans and those calling themselves Believers in Yeshua HaMashiach. They are extremist Islams who accept only Muhammad as HaMashiach.

    What’s going with Yisrael kicking out those living in Dimona? They serve in IDF, were born in Yisrael. They do not have citizenship elsewhere. Also, no Yisraelite person who confess Yeshua as HaMashiach cann

    Reply
  4. Thank you Sondra for sharing. I am so sorry for the loss of the your lovely nephew. What a hero…thank you for sharing form your heart and for telling it as it is…such a hard journey with so many daily missiles stillcoming in and many have eben moved out too. We are with you with prayers and where we can giving and asing God to lead in voctory and give His strategies, His faith and His divine protection and we pray all in israel know Gods love and orvidence at this time of incedible grief, loss and crisis.
    No matter what god has called each Jewish person and has guven the land to them and its not for others to take away what god has given …he will watch over Israel and Samaria and the people He loves, as the Good Shepherd gathering in His lambs and sheep.

    Reply

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