(Day 823) Swords of Iron – “Iran threatens Israel Again”

If you want to support our troops, we still need better uniforms, drones, tactical gloves, coats, and winter gear as we continue to defend Israel on all fronts. We’re grateful for the frontline care packages as well—beef jerky, Zipfizz, and electrolytes. We can’t get those things here, and they mean more than you know.

There was a large protest in Jerusalem over the military draft. Many Israelis want to see everyone share the responsibility of defending the country, while much of the ultra-Orthodox community continues not to serve. This has been a longstanding and painful issue. Around 10,000 ultra-Orthodox Jews protested against conscription. Tragically, during the protest a bus was blocked, continued driving, and one man was killed while three others were wounded. This issue is coming to a head. We all need to carry our weight. We all need to be good shepherds and defend Israel.

I’d like to hear your thoughts in the comments. This is a sensitive and important topic. Many argue that dedicating themselves to studying Torah and Mishnah should exempt them from service.

What do you think?

Meanwhile, Iran is again threatening to strike Israel—twice in less than 24 hours. General Amir Hatami warned that any escalation against Iran would be met with force, even as massive protests continue across the country. The regime is using tear gas and live fire against its own people, while blaming Israel for the unrest. We’re not seeking conflict—we’re seeking survival and freedom from nuclear threats.

What’s happening in Iran, Venezuela, and elsewhere shows just how unstable the world is right now. Dictators should beware: people are no longer willing to live under tyranny. Senator Lindsey Graham warned Iran’s leaders that continued violence against their own people would have consequences.

Many are praying and believing that this reign of terror and extremist oppression will end. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the Shah, has publicly expressed solidarity with Israel. At the same time, global tensions continue—oil seizures, Russian interests, and the clash between freedom and authoritarianism.

Here in Israel, we will continue removing terrorist threats in Hezbollah-controlled southern Lebanon. And in the midst of all this, Aliyah continues. Jewish families fleeing antisemitism are coming home, and we are helping them rebuild their lives here in the Galilee.

Isaiah 60:8 says, “Who are these who fly like a cloud, like doves to their windows?”

And Isaiah 43 declares, “I will bring your offspring from the east and gather you from the west.”

This is happening now, friends.

Help us help them this year.