Update (Day 938) Swords of Iron-Lion’s Roar “Hard Decisions Today For Security Tomorrow”

Shabbat shalom. It’s good to be home for the weekend—but the reality remains difficult. Suicide drones continue to threaten our forces. Two of our soldiers were injured today, and this tactic traces back again to Iran—the head of the octopus of terror. Until that root is addressed, the threat continues.

At the same time, we’re seeing these so-called “flotillas” heading toward Gaza—more virtue signaling than real help. Even the United States condemned this latest attempt, noting it bypasses legitimate humanitarian channels. Israel’s navy intercepted the vessel, emphasizing what’s clear: there are proper ways to deliver aid, and this isn’t one of them.

Today, we laid to rest Liam Ben Hamo. Thousands came to honor a hero who gave his life defending Israel in southern Lebanon. May his memory be a blessing.

On the ground, progress continues. Over 24 tons of explosives were used to destroy a 140-meter Hezbollah tunnel, packed with weapons and operational infrastructure. Another tunnel stretched 800 meters. These are not small threats—they are deeply embedded systems designed for attack.

Our units—the Alpine Unit in the north and Yahalom combat engineers there and in Gaza—are working tirelessly to dismantle these threats. Vigilance is critical.

Meanwhile, Iran’s leadership remains defiant, openly declaring threats against the free world and their intent to advance nuclear and missile programs while rejecting pressure from Israel and the U.S. Tensions are far from over, though international pressure—especially in the Persian Gulf—is increasing.

Globally, security concerns are rising. The UK is increasing funding to protect synagogues, ensuring Jewish communities can worship safely this Shabbat. That should be a given everywhere.

Israel also continues contributing to regional defense—like providing the UAE with advanced drone detection systems. The free world benefits from these innovations.

As Shabbat begins, remember: what’s happening in the north matters deeply. Ezekiel 38 speaks of threats coming from the north—but also of ultimate victory. History shows that those who rise against Israel do not prevail.

Even in the darkest times—like the Holocaust—there were moments of clarity. One teaching stood above all: “Love the Lord your God” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.” That truth could not be taken away, even then.

That’s what sustains us.

Stand firm. Stand for what’s right. Shabbat shalom.