(Day 832) Swords of Iron – “Convergence Time”

Planes are flying overhead constantly throughout the night, circling to intercept any incoming threat—whether from Syria, Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, the Houthis, or Hamas.

Abu Talib al-Saidi, a senior member of the pro-Iranian militia in Iraq called the “Hezbollah Brigades”, stated that their missiles and drones are ready to strike American bases in Iraq. This makes it clear: this is bigger than one front.

If the United States strikes Iran, Iran has said it will strike Israel. Syrian forces reportedly intercepted shipments bound for Hezbollah earlier today, underscoring how critical it is to stay awake, alert, and vigilant. Any weapons that get through will be used against us.

There is a moment of collective breath-holding right now. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had previously instructed regional militias not to intervene—but that posture has changed. Militias are now on high alert, warning that if the U.S. attacks Iran, American bases in Iraq and neighboring countries “will not escape our missiles and drones.” These threats are very real. Every region is on high alert. We are seconds from potential disaster.

In Gaza, there was a report that an IDF unit narrowly avoided being hit by a suicide drone—it was intercepted at the last moment. People are asking why the strike on Iran didn’t happen. The New York Times reports that Prime Minister Netanyahu asked President Trump to delay the attack, possibly to allow more time for preparation before retaliation. Others say Trump changed his mind. We don’t know for certain.

What we do know is that Iran is under full martial-law–style curfew. No one is allowed out after dark. As the sun sets and Shabbat approaches here, civilians in Iran face the threat of death if they leave their homes. There is no verified intelligence that the killing has stopped, despite claims to the contrary.

David Barnea, head of the Mossad, has flown to the United States for high-level strategic talks on Iran and to provide a security overview. CNN reports there is still no intelligence indicating that the shooting of protesters has ceased.

There is much to prepare for and much to be ready for. Even natural signs are present—big earthquakes were felt recently around the world, including a 4.2 magnitude one here in the Jordan valley which reached as far as Jerusalem. We are living in times of wars, rumors of wars, and upheaval.

Proverbs 30:5; “Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.”

That is what we must do—put our trust in God.

Until next time, I’m Sergeant Major Chaim Malespin.