(Day 837) Swords of Iron – “Much Is At Stake”

People ask, “What are we doing in the middle of the night in Gaza in the winter?”

Well, we are locating tunnel shafts on the Israeli side of the ceasefire line, my unit Yahalom and other units, uncovering enemy RPGs, firearms, and other military equipment, and removing those threats so they cannot continue to be used in the future.

At the same time, in Judea and Samaria—what some mistakenly call the West Bank—we’re seeing weapons caches in places like Hebron. IDF forces and bulldozers are moving in to remove illegal structures, clear roads, and ensure there are no IEDs.

Meanwhile, President Trump is warning Iran of total destruction if they attempt to assassinate him or carry out a direct attack. The activation of the so-called doomsday plane and increased military readiness suggest preparations for a possible strike. People are asking when it might happen. Netanyahu has been clear: “Cross this line and it’s game over.” One missile, one drone, one cruise missile from Iran would trigger a devastating response. The world—and Iran—needs to listen.

Trump is seeking decisive options, which explains the deployment of aircraft carriers and other assets. The question raised by former U.S. officials is whether airstrikes alone can topple the regime or whether a long-term strategy would be required. The movement of KC-135R refueling aircraft from U.S. bases across the Atlantic into Europe, including Morón Air Base in Spain, signals something serious is developing.

Looking ahead, 2026 and 2027 appear to be critical years. Many Jews are expected to make aliyah, and Israel must strengthen its domestic weapons production. There are also warnings of major earthquakes, underscoring the need for preparation. The urgency is real. Some are responding spiritually, beginning a 40-day fast leading to Purim, echoing the fast of Esther.

Internal challenges remain, including tensions over ultra-Orthodox military service. Regionally, concern is high over Hezbollah, following strikes in Sidon and southern Lebanon aimed at removing weapons. Whether Hezbollah will stand down and whether the Lebanese army can intervene remains unclear.

Returning to Gaza, Trump has proposed a permanent Middle East “board of peace,” inviting Netanyahu as a founding member. Permanent members would contribute $1 billion. Countries invited include Egypt, Azerbaijan, Kosovo, Bahrain, the UAE, Morocco, Hungary, Belarus, and Canada, which agreed in principle; Italy declined. Putin was also invited. Figures such as Jared Kushner, Tony Blair, and Steve Witkoff are involved.

The message is clear: it’s time to confront extremism and remember Genesis 12:3—those who bless Israel will be blessed, and through Israel, all the families of the earth will be blessed.