As US CENTCOM Commander, Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, travelled to Israel to meet with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, Russian Sergei Shoigu, the secretary of Russia’s security council, met in Tehran with new Iranian president, Masoud Pezeshkian. Much could be said of these meetings, but here are some key take aways:

• The visit by US CENTCOM sent a message that America stands with Israel. Gallant thanked Kurilla for his “leadership and personal commitment to restoring regional stability and ensuring Israel’s security.” (All Israel News, accessed 8/5/2024) That’s great news, but the US must now put their military where their mouth is.
• Russia and Iran continue to cozy up. Reportedly, Russia will provide advanced missile defense systems (S-400) to Iran in defense of possible attacks. Anytime Russia and Iran snuggle up, it should bring Ezekiel 38 to mind! Look for that alliance to strengthen.

Meanwhile, there is plenty of other activity in the region.

Another day, another high-level terrorist commander taken out by the IDF. This time it is Hezbollah Radwan Force commander, Ali Jamal Aldin Jawad. Killed in a strike in southern Lebanon, the assassination is believed to reduce the Radwan unit’s ability to carry out terrorist attacks into northern Israel.

Also during a crazy day, the United Nations finally admitted staff members of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) were involved in the brutal October 7 attacks in Israel. Though many more are suspected, 19 were investigated and 9 were terminated “in the interests of the Agency.” Reading between the lines, this is the UN’s attempt to save face following clear evidence that UNRWA facilities and employees in Gaza were involved in armed attacks. Many more likely fired rockets and/or aided and abetted Hamas terrorists who operated from UNRWA facilities.

On another very sad front, at least 2 American service members were killed in a rocket attack on Ain al-Asad Airbase in Iraq. The US is bolstering its strike forces in the region. Let’s hope they put them to work against those determined to take out our brave heroes.

Day-by-day it seems the world approaches widescale war. Void of strong leadership and swirling in unrighteousness, our world is looking more and more like that described in end times. Yet, as believers, we have no fear. We can be certain that God’s promises are true and His faithfulness is sure! The God of Israel never slumbers or sleeps (Psalm 121:4), and Israel’s enemies will be defeated. (Zechariah 12) Israel is not going anywhere!

Likewise, our faith in Jesus tells us we are secure in Christ. Regardless of what transpires on this earth, we know our eternal destiny is heaven with our victorious King! That is why Bible prophecy should not scare us, but prepare us! The time is coming when Jesus will redeem us from this world.

If you don’t know Jesus as Savior and Messiah, you have no such guarantee. Today is the day to surrender your life to Him and be certain of your eternity.