On October 6, 2023, the fabric of Israeli society seemed to be tattered and torn. Riots were brewing in the streets of Tel Aviv and the Israeli radical left was intent on running Benjamin Netanyahu out of office. Similar to what was occurring to Donald Trump in America, Netanyahu was on defense, attempting to exonerate himself from several trivial lawsuits. The nation was torn and struggling with domestic issues.

Then, October 7 happened. It was clear almost immediately that Israeli intelligence had failed. While tensions remain, the State of Israel has turned a page, enabling them to stand strong in the face of threats from enemies, with or without the backing of America.

In the months following that horrible day, Israeli leadership, while in disagreement at times, have solidified into a mostly unified team when it comes to Israel’s defense. They disagree on details of HOW to accomplish the mission, but they seem to be agreement that they MUST do what is necessary to win the battle.

Once the “little brother” of America, forced to seek the approval and backing of the world’s greatest superpower, Israel has morphed into a more independent nation with military might that enables them to set the standards of war for Israeli troops. Example: Israel’s entry into Rafah, which America adamantly opposed. Had Netanyahu bowed the knee to pressure from the US, Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar would still be alive, and likely leading operations safely from a different country.

These days, Kamala Harris appearances are interrupted by radical leftists protesting the “genocide” happening in Gaza at the hands of the Israelis. In some cases, Harris cedes them ground, agreeing to the foolishness they spew. The current American administration sits by, condoning such action with their lack of fortitude to call out those who seem hellbent on causing Israel’s destruction. Meanwhile, the Biden administration sent Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Israel to press Netanyahu not to attack Iran, to enact a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and to provide more humanitarian aid to Gaza (where Hamas continues to steal it).

Suddenly, Israeli leadership seems much less inclined to play “mother may I” with the American administration. They pressed into Rapha and the Philadephi Corridor despite US pressure. Netanyahu seems summarily opposed to America’s insistence on ceasefires, and will await the perfect moment before proceeding with an attack on Iran, despite the Biden administration’s pleas not to do so.

The argument is strong that Israel is a different country today than they were prior to October 7. Throwing caution and America’s approval to the wind, Israeli leadership is consistently taking steps to implement plans to defend their borders and their people, and push toward making it possible for their citizens to safely return to their homes.

By God’s grace, America has stood by Israel’s side throughout their history, yet under the current American regime, that support is slipping. We need strong leadership in our country, including leaders who will take seriously the command to stand with and support Israel.

Meanwhile, as believers we should pray for Israel’s continued maturity as a nation, and continued boldness to make difficult decisions in the face of US pressure.

Will you pray?