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Visit our Web site: www.bridgesforpeace.com | December 9, 2011 |
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1. Israeli Strike Kills Gaza Terrorists Planning Attack
2. Pessimism Ahead of Quartet Visit
3. Syria Test-fires Scud Rockets in Warning
4. Government Mulling Iron Dome System in Haifa
5. Elections in Egypt and the Repercussions for the Palestinians
6. Iran Could Be Nuclear in One Year's Time
7. 3.8-Mag Earthquake Felt in North Israel; No Injuries
8. IDF Introduces Groundbreaking Encrypted Communication Device
9. Commemorating the Carmel Fire
10. Israeli Hospital and Civil Administration Save the Life of a Palestinian Boy
1. Israeli Strike Kills Gaza Terrorists Planning Attack
The Israel Air Force successfully targeted two terrorists in the Gaza Strip on Thursday [December 8], both of whom were linked with a squad intending to carry out a terror attack against Israelis, according to the IDF [Israel Defense Forces] Spokesperson's Blog.
The IDF Blog said that one of the terrorists, Isam Subahi Isamil Batash, was a senior operative in the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades who had been involved in "numerous" previous terror attacks. Included in those attacks was the suicide bombing in Eilat in 2007, which killed three Israeli civilians. The IDF said "a number" of Batash's attempted attacks have been "thwarted."
IDF spokeswoman Lt. Col. Avital Leibovich said in her Twitter feed that the two targeted terrorists were "'busy' these last few days, planning other terror attacks" [and that] the IDF air attack was a "preventative defensive measure, destined to target terrorists." Following the Israeli strike, multiple rockets were fired from Gaza at Israel. At one point, five rockets were launched in an hour.
The simmering conflict between Gaza and Israel has heated up again slightly. In addition…in roughly the last 48 hours, two terrorist rocket squads were also targeted by Israel. The IDF Spokesperson's Blog said the squads were "preparing to launch rockets at IDF soldiers from two different locations" in the Gaza Strip. According to the Blog, "Successful hits were identified, preventing the rocket launches."
"The IDF will not tolerate attempts to harm the residents of the State of Israel or IDF soldiers, and will continue to take action against those use terror against the State of Israel. The Hamas, a terrorist organization, is solely responsible for any activity emanating from the Gaza Strip."
(Excerpts of an article by www.themideastupdate.com, December 8, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Praise the Lord that the IDF has been able to preempt these terrorist attacks, saving untold lives in Israel, but pray that the Lord will move mightily to bring these attacks to a swift end, so that Israel is not forced to take such actions in order to protect her citizens.
Scripture
"Have mercy on me, O LORD! Consider my trouble from those who hate me, You who lift me up from the gates of death, that I may tell of all Your praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion. I will rejoice in Your salvation" (Psalm 9:13-14).
The IDF Blog said that one of the terrorists, Isam Subahi Isamil Batash, was a senior operative in the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades who had been involved in "numerous" previous terror attacks. Included in those attacks was the suicide bombing in Eilat in 2007, which killed three Israeli civilians. The IDF said "a number" of Batash's attempted attacks have been "thwarted."
IDF spokeswoman Lt. Col. Avital Leibovich said in her Twitter feed that the two targeted terrorists were "'busy' these last few days, planning other terror attacks" [and that] the IDF air attack was a "preventative defensive measure, destined to target terrorists." Following the Israeli strike, multiple rockets were fired from Gaza at Israel. At one point, five rockets were launched in an hour.
The simmering conflict between Gaza and Israel has heated up again slightly. In addition…in roughly the last 48 hours, two terrorist rocket squads were also targeted by Israel. The IDF Spokesperson's Blog said the squads were "preparing to launch rockets at IDF soldiers from two different locations" in the Gaza Strip. According to the Blog, "Successful hits were identified, preventing the rocket launches."
"The IDF will not tolerate attempts to harm the residents of the State of Israel or IDF soldiers, and will continue to take action against those use terror against the State of Israel. The Hamas, a terrorist organization, is solely responsible for any activity emanating from the Gaza Strip."
(Excerpts of an article by www.themideastupdate.com, December 8, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Praise the Lord that the IDF has been able to preempt these terrorist attacks, saving untold lives in Israel, but pray that the Lord will move mightily to bring these attacks to a swift end, so that Israel is not forced to take such actions in order to protect her citizens.
Scripture
"Have mercy on me, O LORD! Consider my trouble from those who hate me, You who lift me up from the gates of death, that I may tell of all Your praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion. I will rejoice in Your salvation" (Psalm 9:13-14).
2. Pessimism Ahead of Quartet Visit
Western diplomats said on Monday [December 5] that nothing short of a political miracle was needed to see the stalemate plaguing the Israeli-Palestinian peace process dissipating. The statement was made ahead of the Middle East Quartet meetings scheduled for later this week.
The Quartet's proposal to renew negotiations came on the heels of the Palestinian statehood bid at the United Nations last month, but officials involved in the negotiations say they are not optimistic about the prospect of jumpstarting the peace process. "I believe in miracles," one Western diplomat told Ynet, while others expressed doubt that negotiations would resume in the near future.
Quartet envoy Tony Blair is set to meet with the four Quartet members in Israel on Tuesday, but the details of their meetings with Israeli and Palestinian representatives, scheduled for Wednesday, are still not clear.
A European source involved in the negotiations said, "There will be no problem meeting with Saeb Erekat [Palestinian negotiator], but there might be a problem with Yizhak Molcho's [Israeli negotiator] schedule, as he is set to return from abroad on Wednesday."
Officials in the Prime Minister's Office also expressed pessimism and doubt over the renewal of negotiations. "This meeting is not expected to result in a breakthrough. The Quartet determined the timetable, and it intends to keep up with it; this has no bearing on the renewal of negotiations," said the official.
Another Israeli source involved in the negotiations noted that "At the moment, everything is stuck. Israel is not planning on offering [Palestinian President Mahmoud] Abbas any gestures. If the Palestinians want to return to the negotiations table, they are welcome to do so without preconditions. Netanyahu is willing to hold direct talks anytime, anyplace," the source said.
Members of the top eight ministers' forum also opposed making gestures towards the Palestinian Authority, and the Prime Minister's Office recently denied a plan to declare a construction moratorium in the settlements.
Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman stated his personal position in public on Monday, saying that if there was one immediate and removable obstacle in the path to negotiations with the Palestinians, it would be Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
Pessimism was also expressed on the Palestinian side, an official in Ramallah telling Ynet that they do not have high expectations from the upcoming meeting with the Quartet. The Palestinian official also stated that Abbas is insisting on a full moratorium, which will include "not only governmental construction, but also private projects and construction in east Jerusalem."
Ahead of the meeting, chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat urged the Quartet to explicitly state which of the sides has been jeopardizing the peace process, adding that the Palestinian side is committed to international resolutions and the Road Map.
(By Attila Solfalvi, Ynetnews, December 6, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the Lord Himself will direct these meetings, keeping Israel from being pressured into any untenable position and preventing the Palestinians from using this as a propaganda platform to further influence international public opinion.
Scripture
"There are many plans in a man's heart, nevertheless the LORD's counsel - that will stand" (Proverbs 19:21).
The Quartet's proposal to renew negotiations came on the heels of the Palestinian statehood bid at the United Nations last month, but officials involved in the negotiations say they are not optimistic about the prospect of jumpstarting the peace process. "I believe in miracles," one Western diplomat told Ynet, while others expressed doubt that negotiations would resume in the near future.
Quartet envoy Tony Blair is set to meet with the four Quartet members in Israel on Tuesday, but the details of their meetings with Israeli and Palestinian representatives, scheduled for Wednesday, are still not clear.
A European source involved in the negotiations said, "There will be no problem meeting with Saeb Erekat [Palestinian negotiator], but there might be a problem with Yizhak Molcho's [Israeli negotiator] schedule, as he is set to return from abroad on Wednesday."
Officials in the Prime Minister's Office also expressed pessimism and doubt over the renewal of negotiations. "This meeting is not expected to result in a breakthrough. The Quartet determined the timetable, and it intends to keep up with it; this has no bearing on the renewal of negotiations," said the official.
Another Israeli source involved in the negotiations noted that "At the moment, everything is stuck. Israel is not planning on offering [Palestinian President Mahmoud] Abbas any gestures. If the Palestinians want to return to the negotiations table, they are welcome to do so without preconditions. Netanyahu is willing to hold direct talks anytime, anyplace," the source said.
Members of the top eight ministers' forum also opposed making gestures towards the Palestinian Authority, and the Prime Minister's Office recently denied a plan to declare a construction moratorium in the settlements.
Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman stated his personal position in public on Monday, saying that if there was one immediate and removable obstacle in the path to negotiations with the Palestinians, it would be Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
Pessimism was also expressed on the Palestinian side, an official in Ramallah telling Ynet that they do not have high expectations from the upcoming meeting with the Quartet. The Palestinian official also stated that Abbas is insisting on a full moratorium, which will include "not only governmental construction, but also private projects and construction in east Jerusalem."
Ahead of the meeting, chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat urged the Quartet to explicitly state which of the sides has been jeopardizing the peace process, adding that the Palestinian side is committed to international resolutions and the Road Map.
(By Attila Solfalvi, Ynetnews, December 6, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the Lord Himself will direct these meetings, keeping Israel from being pressured into any untenable position and preventing the Palestinians from using this as a propaganda platform to further influence international public opinion.
Scripture
"There are many plans in a man's heart, nevertheless the LORD's counsel - that will stand" (Proverbs 19:21).
3. Syria Test-fires Scud Rockets in Warning
Syrian forces test-fired Scud B surface-to-surface missiles during war games near the Iraqi border in an apparent signal that the army was still capable of functioning and a warning that it could strike beyond its borders. According to the official Syrian news agency SANA and state television, the exercise was carried out "under war-like circumstances" and to test "the capabilities and readiness of missile systems to respond to any possible aggression."
The rockets, which are capable of being armed with chemical warheads and have a range of some 300 kilometers (190 miles), were launched in the direction of the Iraqi border. Other smaller rockets were said to have been tested, too.
The exercise was seen as a signal not to Iraq but to Turkey, which has imposed economic sanctions and called for President Bashar Al-Assad to step down amid months of anti--government protests. Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Syrian secret police have started to defect, indicating that one of Al-Assad's best bases of support has begun to crack.
(By The Media Line, December 5, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the Lord will intervene, protecting the Syrian people and bringing stability to this situation that is extremely dangerous for the entire region.
Scripture
"When my enemies turn back, they shall fall and perish at Your presence. For You have maintained my right and my cause; You sat on the throne judging in righteousness" (Psalm 9:3-4).
The rockets, which are capable of being armed with chemical warheads and have a range of some 300 kilometers (190 miles), were launched in the direction of the Iraqi border. Other smaller rockets were said to have been tested, too.
The exercise was seen as a signal not to Iraq but to Turkey, which has imposed economic sanctions and called for President Bashar Al-Assad to step down amid months of anti--government protests. Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Syrian secret police have started to defect, indicating that one of Al-Assad's best bases of support has begun to crack.
(By The Media Line, December 5, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the Lord will intervene, protecting the Syrian people and bringing stability to this situation that is extremely dangerous for the entire region.
Scripture
"When my enemies turn back, they shall fall and perish at Your presence. For You have maintained my right and my cause; You sat on the throne judging in righteousness" (Psalm 9:3-4).
4. Government Mulling Iron Dome System in Haifa
Home Front Defense Minister Matan Vilnai said Tuesday [December 6] Israel was considering the permanent deployment of an Iron Dome missile defense battery in the Haifa Bay area to protect the oil refineries there. "The refineries are crucial to the continued functioning of Israel's economy at times of emergency," he said during a meeting with Oil Refineries CEO Pinchas Buchris and the company's chairman of the board, Yossi Rosen.
Hizbullah leader Hassan Nasrallah said earlier in the day that the Lebanese Shiite group was capable of attacking "way beyond Haifa." Vilnai said protecting the refineries was "vital to the continued functioning of Israel's economy at times of crisis."
Buchris and Rosen, for their part, briefed the minister on the various defense mechanisms recently installed in the refineries. They said the employees staged an exercise simulating an attack on the refineries. Vilnai was also presented with a plan detailing how the refineries would function at a time of war. According to the plan, work at the refineries would go on in order to maintain "economic continuity."
Vilnai's office has drafted a plan aimed at protecting the refineries in case of an attack. Israeli defense officials estimate Hizbullah would not hesitate to target the refineries. During the Second Lebanon War in 2006, a rocket fired from Lebanon exploded in an open area near one of the refineries in Haifa. A direct hit on one of the refineries may cause numerous casualties as a result of leakage of dangerous chemical substances.
(By Yoav Zitun, Ynetnews, December 6, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the government will move quickly to establish this safety net for the refineries that are so critical to the Israeli economy, particularly during times of crisis.
Scripture
"Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name. Let Your mercy, O LORD, be upon us, just as we hope in You" (Psalm 33:20-22).
Hizbullah leader Hassan Nasrallah said earlier in the day that the Lebanese Shiite group was capable of attacking "way beyond Haifa." Vilnai said protecting the refineries was "vital to the continued functioning of Israel's economy at times of crisis."
Buchris and Rosen, for their part, briefed the minister on the various defense mechanisms recently installed in the refineries. They said the employees staged an exercise simulating an attack on the refineries. Vilnai was also presented with a plan detailing how the refineries would function at a time of war. According to the plan, work at the refineries would go on in order to maintain "economic continuity."
Vilnai's office has drafted a plan aimed at protecting the refineries in case of an attack. Israeli defense officials estimate Hizbullah would not hesitate to target the refineries. During the Second Lebanon War in 2006, a rocket fired from Lebanon exploded in an open area near one of the refineries in Haifa. A direct hit on one of the refineries may cause numerous casualties as a result of leakage of dangerous chemical substances.
(By Yoav Zitun, Ynetnews, December 6, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the government will move quickly to establish this safety net for the refineries that are so critical to the Israeli economy, particularly during times of crisis.
Scripture
"Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name. Let Your mercy, O LORD, be upon us, just as we hope in You" (Psalm 33:20-22).
5. Elections in Egypt and the Repercussions for the Palestinians
Last week's elections in Egypt have showcased a striking phenomenon: the Supreme Command of the Armed Forces and the Muslim Brotherhood partnered up in a move that may develop into a future alliance to rule Egypt.
Their cooperation resulted in a peaceful election process, despite local fears that the elections would only deepen the rampant anarchy in Egypt. Whether this new-minted partnership will hold depends on the Brotherhood's acceptance of the new constitution, which will provide for a powerful presidency.
The Brotherhood's denial to nominate its own candidate for the presidency suggests it does not object to the status quo of a country led by a strong president. It is likely that the Islamic organization will be satisfied with assuming responsibility over domestic affairs, while leaving foreign affairs and defense to the president, who would be more closely associated with the army.
However, it is also possible that the military views its alliance with the Muslim Brotherhood as purely tactical and not as a long-term strategy or a genuine partnership. The staggering success of the Islamist parties, who received roughly 60% of the votes, may suggest to the army that an equal partnership with the Muslim Brotherhood is mere wishful thinking.
The developments in Egypt have a direct impact on the Palestinians both in the West Bank and in Gaza. The advent of Muslim Brotherhood to power in Cairo will shift the balance of power from Fatah to Hamas. While Mubarak's rule by and large favored Fatah over Hamas, the reverse may be true of the incoming government.
These developments are also likely to contribute to Mahmoud Abbas' long-anticipated exit from Palestinian politics in 2012 and will increase Hamas' interest in Cairo's affairs rather than Ramallah's. At the same time, Hamas will exploit Abbas' rush out of Palestinian governance to gain a better hold of the West Bank [Judea and Samaria].
Yet, one would be ill-advised to consider the partnership between the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas as a "fait accompli" [accomplished fact]. While the Muslim Brotherhood is a purely political party that refrains from violence, Hamas is a "resistance" party that disagrees with the Muslim Brotherhood on the strategy of an armed struggle in Egypt proper.
There have been splits in the past inside the Muslim Brotherhood on the matter of active jihad, which it fully supports in Israel's case. However, the Brotherhood is unlikely to welcome the spirit of "muqawama" [active resistance against aggression] in Cairo, which will better serve the interests of its radical rivals in the Islamist arena and spoil the delicate balance it seeks to establish with the military.
It is worth remembering that when the founder of Hamas, Sheikh Ahmad Yasseen, wanted to transform the political Muslim Brotherhood group in Gaza into the militant Hamas, Al-Azhar University refused to give its blessing to the venture. Instead, Yasseen was forced to approach the Salafist al-Madina university. To date, the Muslim Brotherhood's websites have ignored Sheikh Yasseen and have not promoted his adulation.
The test of the Muslim Brotherhood's relationship with Hamas will be the regulation of the Rafah border crossing - a critical issue for Hamas. Presently, the crossing does not operate on a regular basis as a full-fledged border station, but rather as an unregulated, ad hoc foot passage. Hamas has frozen its campaign over the crossing until Egypt's internal elections are over. Nonetheless, there is no doubt it will return to its demands once the new government in Egypt is in place.
It is expected that the Brotherhood will encourage Hamas to shift its tactics to "popular resistance" from military activity in order to facilitate support for Hamas in Cairo. Hamas leader Khaled Mash'al, who has so far been unsuccessful in his efforts to find accommodation in either Cairo or in Amman to replace his home in Damascus, has shown himself particularly amenable to the demands of the Muslim Brotherhood.
His recent declarations on the subject have been mostly aimed at achieving reconciliation with Fatah, but are also meant to convince both the Egyptian military and Muslim Brotherhood that Hamas will not engaged in muqawama affairs when in Cairo. Thus far, the army has remained unconvinced that Hamas would be able to honor its commitments.
(By Pinchas Inbari, World Jewish Congress, December 5, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that this change in leadership does not create a more favorable atmosphere for Hamas, actively supporting jihad or opening the Rafah border crossing.
Scripture
"The LORD is righteous in all His ways, gracious in all His works. The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. The LORD preserves all who love Him, but all the wicked He will destroy" (Psalm 145:17-20).
Their cooperation resulted in a peaceful election process, despite local fears that the elections would only deepen the rampant anarchy in Egypt. Whether this new-minted partnership will hold depends on the Brotherhood's acceptance of the new constitution, which will provide for a powerful presidency.
The Brotherhood's denial to nominate its own candidate for the presidency suggests it does not object to the status quo of a country led by a strong president. It is likely that the Islamic organization will be satisfied with assuming responsibility over domestic affairs, while leaving foreign affairs and defense to the president, who would be more closely associated with the army.
However, it is also possible that the military views its alliance with the Muslim Brotherhood as purely tactical and not as a long-term strategy or a genuine partnership. The staggering success of the Islamist parties, who received roughly 60% of the votes, may suggest to the army that an equal partnership with the Muslim Brotherhood is mere wishful thinking.
The developments in Egypt have a direct impact on the Palestinians both in the West Bank and in Gaza. The advent of Muslim Brotherhood to power in Cairo will shift the balance of power from Fatah to Hamas. While Mubarak's rule by and large favored Fatah over Hamas, the reverse may be true of the incoming government.
These developments are also likely to contribute to Mahmoud Abbas' long-anticipated exit from Palestinian politics in 2012 and will increase Hamas' interest in Cairo's affairs rather than Ramallah's. At the same time, Hamas will exploit Abbas' rush out of Palestinian governance to gain a better hold of the West Bank [Judea and Samaria].
Yet, one would be ill-advised to consider the partnership between the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas as a "fait accompli" [accomplished fact]. While the Muslim Brotherhood is a purely political party that refrains from violence, Hamas is a "resistance" party that disagrees with the Muslim Brotherhood on the strategy of an armed struggle in Egypt proper.
There have been splits in the past inside the Muslim Brotherhood on the matter of active jihad, which it fully supports in Israel's case. However, the Brotherhood is unlikely to welcome the spirit of "muqawama" [active resistance against aggression] in Cairo, which will better serve the interests of its radical rivals in the Islamist arena and spoil the delicate balance it seeks to establish with the military.
It is worth remembering that when the founder of Hamas, Sheikh Ahmad Yasseen, wanted to transform the political Muslim Brotherhood group in Gaza into the militant Hamas, Al-Azhar University refused to give its blessing to the venture. Instead, Yasseen was forced to approach the Salafist al-Madina university. To date, the Muslim Brotherhood's websites have ignored Sheikh Yasseen and have not promoted his adulation.
The test of the Muslim Brotherhood's relationship with Hamas will be the regulation of the Rafah border crossing - a critical issue for Hamas. Presently, the crossing does not operate on a regular basis as a full-fledged border station, but rather as an unregulated, ad hoc foot passage. Hamas has frozen its campaign over the crossing until Egypt's internal elections are over. Nonetheless, there is no doubt it will return to its demands once the new government in Egypt is in place.
It is expected that the Brotherhood will encourage Hamas to shift its tactics to "popular resistance" from military activity in order to facilitate support for Hamas in Cairo. Hamas leader Khaled Mash'al, who has so far been unsuccessful in his efforts to find accommodation in either Cairo or in Amman to replace his home in Damascus, has shown himself particularly amenable to the demands of the Muslim Brotherhood.
His recent declarations on the subject have been mostly aimed at achieving reconciliation with Fatah, but are also meant to convince both the Egyptian military and Muslim Brotherhood that Hamas will not engaged in muqawama affairs when in Cairo. Thus far, the army has remained unconvinced that Hamas would be able to honor its commitments.
(By Pinchas Inbari, World Jewish Congress, December 5, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that this change in leadership does not create a more favorable atmosphere for Hamas, actively supporting jihad or opening the Rafah border crossing.
Scripture
"The LORD is righteous in all His ways, gracious in all His works. The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. The LORD preserves all who love Him, but all the wicked He will destroy" (Psalm 145:17-20).
6. Iran Could Be Nuclear in One Year's Time
WASHINGTON - A report compiled by the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research (AEI) suggest that "there is a real chance that Western efforts to stop Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon will fail," Ynet learned Tuesday.
The AEI, a conservative Washington think-tank, is set to release its report, titled "Containing and Deterring a Nuclear Iran," later on Tuesday. The report was six months in the making and according to its authors, any serious US policy on Iran must operate under the premise that the Islamic Republic will become a full fledged nuclear power by 2013.
"The report is very much an acknowledgement of the very real possibility of failure of the strategy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and any responsible party should recognize that failure is an option," AEI Vice President Danielle Pletka was quoted by Foreign Policy Magazine as saying.
"There's been a huge disservice done by all who have spent their lives in denial of that possibility. Whenever you devise a strategy for what happens before a country gets a nuclear weapon, you should have a strategy for what happens after they get one as well."
The report presumes that Iran could realize its nuclear ambitions before the 2012 US presidential election, and that the Obama Administration is "unwilling to go to war with Iran before November 2012 over the issue."
"Make no mistake, it would be vastly preferable for the United States and the world to find a way to prevent Iran from crossing that threshold, and we wholeheartedly endorse ongoing efforts that might do so," the authors write. "But some of the effort now focused on how to tighten the sanctions screws must shift to the problem of how to deal with the consequences when sanctions fail."
"Iran remains the leading sponsor of international terrorism, a proliferator of missiles and nuclear materials, a regional aggressor, and an abuser of human rights. We cannot afford to risk the security of future generations on a policy of containment," the report concluded.
(By Yitzhak Benhorin, Ynetnews, December 6, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the nations of the world will take their heads out of the sand and stand with Israel in their unyielding commitment to deal firmly with Iran as a potential nuclear threat to the world and also a sponsor of terrorism and human rights abuser.
Scripture
"Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, 'Let us break their bonds in pieces and cast away Their cords from us'" (Psalm 2:1-3).
The AEI, a conservative Washington think-tank, is set to release its report, titled "Containing and Deterring a Nuclear Iran," later on Tuesday. The report was six months in the making and according to its authors, any serious US policy on Iran must operate under the premise that the Islamic Republic will become a full fledged nuclear power by 2013.
"The report is very much an acknowledgement of the very real possibility of failure of the strategy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and any responsible party should recognize that failure is an option," AEI Vice President Danielle Pletka was quoted by Foreign Policy Magazine as saying.
"There's been a huge disservice done by all who have spent their lives in denial of that possibility. Whenever you devise a strategy for what happens before a country gets a nuclear weapon, you should have a strategy for what happens after they get one as well."
The report presumes that Iran could realize its nuclear ambitions before the 2012 US presidential election, and that the Obama Administration is "unwilling to go to war with Iran before November 2012 over the issue."
"Make no mistake, it would be vastly preferable for the United States and the world to find a way to prevent Iran from crossing that threshold, and we wholeheartedly endorse ongoing efforts that might do so," the authors write. "But some of the effort now focused on how to tighten the sanctions screws must shift to the problem of how to deal with the consequences when sanctions fail."
"Iran remains the leading sponsor of international terrorism, a proliferator of missiles and nuclear materials, a regional aggressor, and an abuser of human rights. We cannot afford to risk the security of future generations on a policy of containment," the report concluded.
(By Yitzhak Benhorin, Ynetnews, December 6, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the nations of the world will take their heads out of the sand and stand with Israel in their unyielding commitment to deal firmly with Iran as a potential nuclear threat to the world and also a sponsor of terrorism and human rights abuser.
Scripture
"Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, 'Let us break their bonds in pieces and cast away Their cords from us'" (Psalm 2:1-3).
7. 3.8-Mag Earthquake Felt in North Israel; No Injuries
A 3.8 magnitude earthquake was felt in north Israel a little before 11 pm Sunday [December 4]. Israel's Geophysical Institute confirmed the report, saying quake's epicenter was in the Tiberias and Hula Valley region. Israel police said there were no reports of injury or damage.
Hundreds of Ynet readers sent emails saying they had felt the quake in the Galilee and Golan Heights regions, as well as further south. Emails were received from Kiryat Shmona, Nahariya, Akko, Metula, Tiberias and Majdal Shams.
"The entire house shook. We've never felt an earthquake before," Kiryat Shmona resident David Shushan told Ynet. "We heard sounds of stones falling from inside the walls. My wife and kids were very frightened."
Yaakov Shukrun, also of Kiryat Shmona, said, "It's not like anything fell off the walls, but the tables and chairs moved." A Kfar Giladi resident said the 15-storey building he lives in swayed from side to side. "We felt the quake for about three seconds," he said.
(By Ynetnews, December 5, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Praise the Lord that no one was injured in this minor quake. Pray that, as seismic activity increases in the region, the Lord will protect His people.
Scripture
"Praise the LORD! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty firmament! Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to His excellent greatness" (Psalm 150:1-2).
Hundreds of Ynet readers sent emails saying they had felt the quake in the Galilee and Golan Heights regions, as well as further south. Emails were received from Kiryat Shmona, Nahariya, Akko, Metula, Tiberias and Majdal Shams.
"The entire house shook. We've never felt an earthquake before," Kiryat Shmona resident David Shushan told Ynet. "We heard sounds of stones falling from inside the walls. My wife and kids were very frightened."
Yaakov Shukrun, also of Kiryat Shmona, said, "It's not like anything fell off the walls, but the tables and chairs moved." A Kfar Giladi resident said the 15-storey building he lives in swayed from side to side. "We felt the quake for about three seconds," he said.
(By Ynetnews, December 5, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Praise the Lord that no one was injured in this minor quake. Pray that, as seismic activity increases in the region, the Lord will protect His people.
Scripture
"Praise the LORD! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty firmament! Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to His excellent greatness" (Psalm 150:1-2).
8. IDF Introduces Groundbreaking Encrypted Communication Device
In the coming months the IDF will incorporate a new communication device into operational use. Elbit and the IDF jointly developed the new device called "Elad Yarok" (Green Elad), capable of communicating across radio frequencies as well as encrypted frequencies. The device will be integrated in all IDF units, including the Armored Corps and is expected to enter service this coming April.
While being able communicate with all existing transceivers, Elad Yarok will also allow the transfer of encrypted data over more advanced RPT channels. It is also equipped with a durable touch screen, that coupled with the advanced capabilities, will deliver various data including video and photos, to commanders in the field in real-time.
"This is, in fact, the first time that anyone has been able to connect traditional radio transceivers to more advanced communication devices capable of delivering media. We are the first to successfully develop such military capabilities," said deputy commander at an IDF training base, Lt. Col. Yigal Padel.
"The technology is progressing, and the need for alternative avenues of transferring information is growing. We are living in a fast-paced world that moves on a broad spectrum of technology, and everything pertaining to moving information is essential to digitally integrated forces. "
In the meantime, Elad Yarok will streamline the deployment of ground forces because most of its features are automatic, requiring no extra effort to navigate frequencies. "War has become a war of information. If the information arrives faster, the battle moves faster. What used to take two seconds will now take one. In the field, this is critical," explained Lt. Col. Padel.
(By The Israel Defense Forces, December 5, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the Lord will continue to give supernatural wisdom and innovation to the IDF and others as they struggle with the challenge of keeping Israel safe.
Scripture
"For You have armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me. You have also given me the necks of my enemies, so that I destroyed those who hated me" (Psalm 18:39-40).
While being able communicate with all existing transceivers, Elad Yarok will also allow the transfer of encrypted data over more advanced RPT channels. It is also equipped with a durable touch screen, that coupled with the advanced capabilities, will deliver various data including video and photos, to commanders in the field in real-time.
"This is, in fact, the first time that anyone has been able to connect traditional radio transceivers to more advanced communication devices capable of delivering media. We are the first to successfully develop such military capabilities," said deputy commander at an IDF training base, Lt. Col. Yigal Padel.
"The technology is progressing, and the need for alternative avenues of transferring information is growing. We are living in a fast-paced world that moves on a broad spectrum of technology, and everything pertaining to moving information is essential to digitally integrated forces. "
In the meantime, Elad Yarok will streamline the deployment of ground forces because most of its features are automatic, requiring no extra effort to navigate frequencies. "War has become a war of information. If the information arrives faster, the battle moves faster. What used to take two seconds will now take one. In the field, this is critical," explained Lt. Col. Padel.
(By The Israel Defense Forces, December 5, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Pray that the Lord will continue to give supernatural wisdom and innovation to the IDF and others as they struggle with the challenge of keeping Israel safe.
Scripture
"For You have armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me. You have also given me the necks of my enemies, so that I destroyed those who hated me" (Psalm 18:39-40).
9. Commemorating the Carmel Fire
One year after the devastating fire in the Carmel Forest the newly formed IDF [Israel Defense Forces] Firefighting unit held a special drill to commemorate the disaster that cost the lives of 44 people. The fire began at about 11 am on December 2, 2010.
It destroyed 12,000 acres of forest and also destroyed 74 buildings. It took four days to bring the fire fully under control. This was achieved with the help of fire-fighting aircraft from various countries, including the U.S., Greece, Turkey, Holland, France, Russia, Germany, Finland and Norway.
British RAF fire-fighting helicopters also assisted in containing the fire. The turning point in putting out the blaze was when the government decided to hire Evergreen's Boeing 747 Fire Fighting Supertanker from the U.S.
On 12 May this year, the Israel Air Force inaugurated the 249 Aerial Firefighting Squadron with seven Air Tractor AT-802 aircraft based in Sde Dov Airport in Tel Aviv. The AT-802 is manufactured in Texas and well over 2,000 of the aircraft have been sold around the world. The AT-802 is a single engine agricultural aircraft adapted for fire fighting.
(By Isranet, December 3, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Thank the Lord for Israel's new fire-fighting capability. Pray for the loved ones of the victims of the Carmel tragedy. Pray that the Lord will protect the Land from this kind of disaster.
Scripture
"Moreover the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day that the LORD binds up the bruise of His people and heals the stroke of their wound" (Isaiah 30:26).
It destroyed 12,000 acres of forest and also destroyed 74 buildings. It took four days to bring the fire fully under control. This was achieved with the help of fire-fighting aircraft from various countries, including the U.S., Greece, Turkey, Holland, France, Russia, Germany, Finland and Norway.
British RAF fire-fighting helicopters also assisted in containing the fire. The turning point in putting out the blaze was when the government decided to hire Evergreen's Boeing 747 Fire Fighting Supertanker from the U.S.
On 12 May this year, the Israel Air Force inaugurated the 249 Aerial Firefighting Squadron with seven Air Tractor AT-802 aircraft based in Sde Dov Airport in Tel Aviv. The AT-802 is manufactured in Texas and well over 2,000 of the aircraft have been sold around the world. The AT-802 is a single engine agricultural aircraft adapted for fire fighting.
(By Isranet, December 3, 2011)
Prayer Focus
Thank the Lord for Israel's new fire-fighting capability. Pray for the loved ones of the victims of the Carmel tragedy. Pray that the Lord will protect the Land from this kind of disaster.
Scripture
"Moreover the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day that the LORD binds up the bruise of His people and heals the stroke of their wound" (Isaiah 30:26).
10. Israeli Hospital and Civil Administration Save the Life of a Palestinian Boy
Suffering from a chronic kidney disease, Abdullah Ramal crossed into Israel to undergo a life-saving surgery back in September. The five-year-old Palestinian underwent rigorous dialysis treatments at Shaarei Tzedek Hosptial before moving to Bellinson Hospital in Petach Tikvah for the kidney transplant.
His father, Ibrahim was able to donate a kidney to Abdullah with the help of the Israeli Civil Administration, which coordinated and financed both operations. The cost of the procedures and associated medicine was 380,000 NIS [US $100,225], 100% of which was paid for by the Civil Administration.
Overall, the Civil Administration donated about 2.5 million shekels [US $ 659,623,000] in 2011 to ensure organ transplants for 5 Palestinian families.
Only a few years earlier, Abdullah's sister received a kidney donated by her mother. However, due to security concerns during the second intifada, movement across borders was highly restricted. Thus, the Ramal family had to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform the procedure.
Both transplants were successfully completed, however Abdullah's transplant is emblematic of the fruits of increased security and stability, and signifies the efforts of the Civil Administration to promote coordination and cooperation.
(By The Israel Defense Forces, November 29, 3011)
Prayer Focus
Praise the Lord for this opportunity for Israeli doctors to be instruments of peace. Pray that the Israeli Civil Administration will be able to facilitate more of these kinds of activities, helping to undermine Palestinian anti-Israel propaganda and showing the Palestinian people the true heart of Israel.
Scripture
"The LORD will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you" (Deuteronomy 28:8).
His father, Ibrahim was able to donate a kidney to Abdullah with the help of the Israeli Civil Administration, which coordinated and financed both operations. The cost of the procedures and associated medicine was 380,000 NIS [US $100,225], 100% of which was paid for by the Civil Administration.
Overall, the Civil Administration donated about 2.5 million shekels [US $ 659,623,000] in 2011 to ensure organ transplants for 5 Palestinian families.
Only a few years earlier, Abdullah's sister received a kidney donated by her mother. However, due to security concerns during the second intifada, movement across borders was highly restricted. Thus, the Ramal family had to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform the procedure.
Both transplants were successfully completed, however Abdullah's transplant is emblematic of the fruits of increased security and stability, and signifies the efforts of the Civil Administration to promote coordination and cooperation.
(By The Israel Defense Forces, November 29, 3011)
Prayer Focus
Praise the Lord for this opportunity for Israeli doctors to be instruments of peace. Pray that the Israeli Civil Administration will be able to facilitate more of these kinds of activities, helping to undermine Palestinian anti-Israel propaganda and showing the Palestinian people the true heart of Israel.
Scripture
"The LORD will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you" (Deuteronomy 28:8).
Note: All Scripture is taken from the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.
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