Conflict in the Middle East is nothing new!  In fact, since the days of Isaac and Ishmael there has been dispute after dispute over the tiny piece of real estate we know as Israel.  But the current dispute seems to be fueled very differently.  We’ll get to that in a moment, but first, what are the core tenants of the current conflict?
Israel wants:

• Peace!  Throughout history, Israel has given away land in hopes of promised peace.  It has never worked.
• Palestinians to acknowledge a Jewish state of Israel.
• Security for her people.
• To maintain Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
• Jewish settlements in disputed territory to remain Israeli settlements.

Palestinians want:

• More land.  (They want Israel to hand over virtually all of the West Bank, including Jewish settlements.)
• To avoid recognizing Israel as a Jewish state.
• To claim Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital.
• Ultimately, the elimination of Israel altogether.

American Secretary of State, John Kerry, is the most recent world leader to attempt to broker a peace deal between the two entities.  As Israel’s long-time ally, one might think that John Kerry is doing a noble thing in trying to bring peace to the Middle East.  However, we must take a closer look at what is going on in these negotiations.
If news leaks out of Israel (and elsewhere) are true, then it appears that the Obama Administration (via the direct negotiations of John Kerry) are secretly putting pressure on Israel to agree to a peace plan or face boycotts and international isolation.  So, what does the proposed agreement contain?  Nothing “official” has been released, but here is what is suspected:

• Israel will give up 90% of the disputed territory of Judea and Samaria (West Bank).
• A compromise of the Jewish character of Israel.
• Less Israeli security than desired in the Jordan River Valley.  (This has the potential to put Jerusalem in tremendous danger of terrorist-launched rockets.)

Unfortunately, it appears that Israel is prepared to make “painful concessions.”
So what?  Well, the Bible has strong warning for those who scatter God’s people and divide up God’s chosen land (Israel).

For behold, in those days and at that time [end times], when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem,
I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the valley of Jehoshaphat.  Then I will enter into judgment with them there on behalf of My people and My inheritance, Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations;
and they have divided up My land.    ~Joel 3:1-2

Woe to America in taking part in brokering a deal that divides the Holy Land.  Yes, American’s should be concerned about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict….and should pray fervently for a change of heart in our leaders, so America might avoid the judgment that is to come.

Be diligent to pray, my friends!

Next up (in a couple days!): Should Americans be Concerned about Iran?