Update (Day 951) Swords of Iron “Joy – the Strength of Jerusalem”

The energy is high across Israel as dancing erupts in the streets for Yom Yerushalayim—Jerusalem Day—commemorating the reunification of Jerusalem after the Six-Day War in 1967. At the Western Wall, a huge Israeli flag was unfurled as people danced and celebrated.

And on the Gregorian calendar, May 14 marks the day David Ben-Gurion declared Israel’s independence. What a powerful reminder: we have survived, and more than that—we have thrived.

At the same time, these are significant days for Israel’s security. Major discussions are happening about Iran, Gaza, and Lebanon. Israel expects President Trump to make a decision on Iran very soon, and that could lead to a quick security response and a shift in alert levels here.

Inside Israel, political drama is also unfolding. A bill has been submitted to dissolve the 25th Knesset, which could lead to new elections. Would Netanyahu be reelected? Would someone else rise? We’ll see. Some religious parties believe it’s time for elections, especially amid controversy over the Haredi draft law and the ongoing debate about military service.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah continues causing damage in the north with attack drones. Israel is not standing by. The IDF struck more than 40 Hezbollah assets in the past day, including pinpoint strikes against high-profile terrorists. Hezbollah drones have hit areas like Rosh Hanikra, where I often serve, but Israel is striking back hard. We will not live under the claw of terror.

On Iran, our Energy Minister Eli Cohen has made it clear: Israel will not necessarily be bound by any U.S.-Iran agreement. If Iran continues advancing nuclear or ballistic missile programs, Israel will act forcefully. After the number of ballistic missiles they have already fired at us, we are not going back to that reality.

Around the world, antisemitism is rising sharply. In the UK, 1,200 Jewish people attended an Aliyah fair as more families seriously consider making Israel their home. A recent poll shows antisemitism in the UK reaching record levels. It is painful—but also a reminder that Israel is the home of the Jewish people.

And today, in the middle of all this, we celebrated my son’s bar mitzvah, the traditional coming-of-age ceremony for young Jewish lads who are becoming men. I’m not in uniform today. I’m home, rejoicing with family and friends, watching the next generation rise. One day, he may serve too—unless true world peace comes first.

This is a season of joy, faith, and strength.

In 2 Chronicles 20:22, as the people began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against their enemies, and they were defeated.

So we trust God, we do our part, and we believe we will see full victory.