Week of August 19, 2025

On Sunday, a “People’s Strike” was held throughout Israel to demand the release of the 50 hostages held in Gaza for twenty-two months. Many major roads were blocked, businesses closed in solidarity, and thousands massed together in their local communities to show support.

When the day began, a massive Israeli flag was unfurled at Hostage Square, showing the pictures of all the hostages—both dead and alive. Former hostages, current hostages’ families, and bereaving families spoke at the focal point demonstration throughout the day, beseeching the government to bring them home. Vicki Cohen and her son Yotam, whose son and brother Nimrod has been held for 681 days, said, “It can’t be that people enjoy their morning coffee while Nimrod is being interrogated and starved in captivity. All Israelis—secular and religious, right and left—must come out today and show that the war must end and everyone must return home.” President Isaac Herzog visited Hostage Square to show solidarity. “We do not forget you for a moment. We are doing everything to bring you home safely. Israel and the world must pressure Hamas to release them immediately.”

In solidarity, many companies, universities, and municipalities supported the demonstration, allowing their employees to attend a demonstration instead of reporting to work. Some municipalities even gave free transportation to those who wanted to travel to Tel Aviv.

As thousands gathered outside in unprotected spaces, a ballistic missile was sent from Yemen.  People had to seek shelter or lie down on the ground while covering their heads.  The IDF intercepted the missile and no injuries were reported.

Friends and families of the hostages are demanding the government to plan a strategic deal for the release of the hostages first and then to deal with Hamas in Gaza second. “We are united in a single demand: put an Israeli plan on the table today for a comprehensive deal to end the war and bring home the remaining hostages,” the families said. “No slogans, no sabotage—it’s time to end this nightmare that has gripped the nation for 22 months.”

Please pray for the swift return of all the hostages. Please pray they are safe and given food and water in their captivity. Please pray for their families who wait in anguish for their return. 

For multiple days last week, Israel experienced record-breaking temperatures throughout the country. On Tuesday, Israel experienced its highest overnight heat since records began; Mount Sodom near Eilat did not cool below 98°F all night. The Meteorological Service issued a nationwide severe warning for extreme heat with risks including heatstroke, dehydration, wildfires, and risk to sensitive populations like the elderly, sick, pregnant, and young children.  The electricity grid was put to the test with its highest use of electricity, which was rising each day. Safety experts urged the public to take precautions by avoiding outdoor activity, staying in shade or air-conditioned locations, drinking water, and checking on elderly neighbors. There was an increase in home births because of the heat stress, and dehydration likely caused early onset labors.

Please pray for those who cannot afford air conditioning or do not have it, as the summer heat will linger until the end of September. Please pray for their safety and comfort.

Despite increased prices of plane fares, less airline choices, and unstable regional security, Israelis still love traveling. This past Thursday, almost 86,000 passengers traveled through Ben Gurion Airport—the highest number of travelers in a day since the war with Hamas started.  August is looking to have 2.1 million passengers pass through, compared to 2.8 million in August 2023.

As a result of many foreign carriers canceling their flights to and from Israel after October 2023, many of them have not returned—and if so, at a reduced schedule. This has caused flights on Israel’s national airline carrier, El Al, to be much sought after, resulting in increased prices.  Rome—a top destination—as seen a massive 119% price increase. Flight prices to Amsterdam and Berlin increased by 90%.

Ben Gurion has remained open since October 7, 2023 despite the rockets launched from Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. During Iran’s onslaught of ballistic missiles for twelve days in June, Ben Gurion was closed to all air traffic, stranding thousands of passengers.

In the coming weeks, our ministry will be taking a group of young Israeli men to Europe for one week of care, Bible study, and refreshment. They are all active or reserve duty Israeli soldiers, believers in Jesus, and needing some time to process and recuperate from their service. This program has been active for several years, and each year’s program proves critical for each young man. Many have said that it was one of the most poignant, life-changing moments in their life. Our staff member who loves and cares for these soldiers—along with a team in Europe—is dedicated to their spiritual growth. He asks for prayer now as they put together the final details, as well as for the young men as they are preparing for this important trip.

Please pray for anointed fellowship, Bible teaching, healing, and growth to come!

Donate Today