The war against Israel has once again escalated after the United States vetoed a United Nations resolution on Algeria calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. This is a continuing and growing international concern since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7, 2023. However, for the third time since the war began, the US government has vetoed the cease-fire and is currently drafting and proposing a deal.According to a new resolution on hostage negotiations washington post.
While Israel has every right to defend and protect itself, the draft law does not force Israel to move into Rafah, where many Palestinians have been displaced due to the ongoing war. I’m asking you to exercise self-control. The US government is currently facing a lot of backlash over its veto, and has been widely criticized for endangering the lives of Palestinian civilians.
Tensions over the hostage trade are rising as more disturbing and heartbreaking footage emerges of families in makeshift shelters on the streets of Rafah and along the Egyptian border. But with March 10 marking the start of Ramadan, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suggested an attack could take place before then, and pressure is mounting.
by wall street journal, the anxiety and uncertainty of this war is increasing around the world, as many leaders and ambassadors feel that compromise and negotiation are not a strategy and are growing impatient with the outcome.China said ‘veto sends the wrong message’, France and Qatar also shared concerns and expressed concern (nbcnew.com).
The US government circulated a draft resolution calling for a temporary ceasefire “as soon as practicable.” Still, mistrust is growing between President Biden and his allies with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has vowed to move forward and become a stronger force if civilians are allowed to evacuate.
However, while the United States supports Israel and continues to do so at this point, the heavy casualties and hostage situation, as well as international pressure, seem likely to cause Biden to change his stance. Earlier this month, Biden made strong statements that the Israel Defense Forces were “overstretched” and that military action in Rafah “should not proceed without a credible and executable plan to ensure the security of civilian aid.” did. (CNN).
Our response as Christians
As believers, how should we respond to this worrying news?
First, we need to understand that God hates war and the loss of any human life (Proverbs 6:16-19). Death was not part of God’s perfect plan of creation. However, because we live in a world full of sin, conflicts arise. War is sadly the result of human evil.
Having said that, Romans 13 Authorizes the government to take military action against those who commit evil acts against innocent lives. Israel was attacked by the terrorist organization Hamas on October 7, 2023, and many innocent lives were lost. Israel may not back down and attack with its powerful army. However, they have the right to do so.According to Prime Minister Netanyahu, we must also recognize that Israelis are dealing with Hamas’s evil intentions and negotiations will not be easy. (CNN).
Therefore, instead of taking sides, we must stand on God’s side. We must choose to pray for the protection of all innocent lives, for God’s will to be done, and for restoration and peace.
from a prayer perspective
Father, we come to you with heavy hearts, seeking your divine will during the ongoing war in Israel. We know that tensions are high and that the world and its leaders are deciding next steps regarding this ceasefire resolution. Although we are called to obey your orders and obey government officials, (1 Peter 2:11-15), we put our faith and trust in You alone. Please place your mighty sovereign hand upon the land of Israel and the innocent civilians of Rafah. Please help us resolve this war and lead the way to peace. Your will be done.
In the name of Jesus,
Amen.
Photo provided by: ©Getty Images/Ahmad Hasabara / stringer
