On Saturday night, early hours of Sunday morning in Israel, Iran launched a direct attack against the State of Israel for the first time in the Islamic republic’s history. The tyrants of Tehran fired 170 drones, 30 cruise missiles, and 120 ballistic missiles. Incredibly, 99% of the threats were intercepted by Israel’s long-range Arrow air defense system and the Israeli Air Force and its allies. We’re really pleased that Britain’s RAF was involved directly in defending Israel last night, shooting down a number of drones and missiles, alongside the United States, France, Jordan and others.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said, “I can confirm that our planes did shoot down a number of Iranian attack drones. I want to pay tribute to the bravery and professionalism of our pilots flying into the face of danger to protect civilians.
“If this attack had been successful, the fallout for regional stability would be hard to overstate, and we stand by the security of Israel and the wider region, which is of course important for our security here at home.”
We have been aware over the past week of the likelihood of Iran attacking Israel in some form. When news was confirmed last night that Iran had launched drones set to reach Israel within hours, in was clear through our social media channels that Christians were moved into action in interceding for Israel. Many Christians in the UK who heard the news before going to bed, prayed into the night, joining many Christians throughout the world in praying for Israel’s defence. As Christians, we stand 100% with what the Bible says concerning Israel. The God of Israel does not slumber or sleep. Neither will we.
There has been worldwide condemnation of Iran. But we must not be complacent. As the war against Hamas has illustrated, it is one thing to support Israel when it is a victim of terrorism. But it also requires nations to stand consistently when Israel exercises its right to defend itself. Our prayer in the days ahead is that Britain’s support for Israel will remain no less than 100%.
Israel will almost certainly respond by striking Iran – something it has not been able to do directly until now. In fact, whatever Israel might choose to do military, we can be certain that God will not allow the Iranian regime to pass by without consequence, just like every other regime and empire that has dared poke the apple of God’s eye.
Our prayer today is one of thankfulness for Israel’s protection last night. In uncertain days ahead, let us not cease to for the peace of Jerusalem.
Israel lives because the God of Israel lives!