Yesterday, on a return flight to Tabriz Iran from the dedication of a dam on the border between Iran and Azerbaijan, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdullahian, and 7 other provincial government officials and flight crew members perished when their helicopter went down in foggy, rainy weather in the rugged mountains of northern Iran.

Iranian news outlets were silent for hours, but fireworks began filling the skies over some Iranian cities, and Sunni rebels in Aleppo Syria handed out sweets. (A customary form of celebration among Arabs.)

Though Raisi also had dedicated followers who gathered in mosques to pray, he was not a popular figure in Iran. In fact, he was known as the “Butcher of Tehran,” and (as an example) was a major player in the policies that led to the death of 22-year-old Iranian woman, Mahsa Amini, who was brutally beaten by Iranian “morality police” for not wearing a hajib (Arab head covering). Amini went into a coma and died a few days later, sparking protests throughout Iran and around the world.

While there was celebration in parts of Iran because of the death of Raisi, not a single firework or celebratory event occurred in Israel. However, it is only a matter of time (if it hasn’t happened already), that Israel is blamed for the accident and/or the death of Ebrahim Raisi. When something tragic occurs, Iran typically points the finger at Israel. Will this situation be any different?

There are already reports of a meme making the rounds, indicating that Israeli Mosad agent Eli Copter piloted the aircraft. Read the supposed agent’s name slowly and you will likely understand the play on words which forms the basis of this false report. However, expect the story (despite the name) to gain traction. Just another propaganda tool.

Here is Amir Tsarfati’s latest report (at the time of this writing).

On a totally unrelated note, Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) was scheduled to travel on state business yesterday but cancelled official meetings due to the illness of his elderly father, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

As you see, amidst war in the Middle East, there are also dramatic issues involving key leaders in the region. That chaos is growing, even in Israel. Check back tomorrow when we’ll focus on the internal strife happening within Israel’s government.

Meanwhile, as believers, we must recognize that such chaos will grow as we progress through the last days. We are hearing of wars and rumors of wars, instability in nations around the world, natural disasters and celestial events (such as recent sun and meteor events) in proportions never before recorded, and many other signs of the times.

Keep your eyes on Israel, the Biblical center of the universe, and be strong in the Word of God. Those not anchored there may soon find themselves adrift. So, cling to the Anchor of Life (Jesus our Lord) and trust in the Word of God! Our Savior reigns and will see us through the chaos!