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June 30, 2025

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A Spirit of Division. 30 June, 2025

This is the absolute hardest post for me to write. I’ve sat on this subject for over a year and a half now. I hate to make waves. I shun confrontation. I just want to live peacefully, yet I can stay silent no longer. I must face head on the misinformation and downright lies that are pouring from certain media pundits, news outlets and social media influencers, many with huge followings and at least some credibility. It is nothing short of antisemitism veiled under the cover of antizionism and it has become very dangerous.

I know I will upset many people who read this blog. I am pretty sure I will lose some of my subscribers. It is the risk I’m prepared to take. Many of my family and friends in the U.S. are Jewish. I also have very close relatives and very close friends who are Catholic. We enjoy dialogue and intimate friendship. For years in Los Angeles I served on the board of Jewish and Catholic Women United in Dialogue. We had rabbis and priests as our advisory council to help guide us in our communication and understanding of one another’s faiths, cultures and tradition. There was no proselytizing from either side. Deep friendships were formed.

Ever since the 7 October, 2023, and the breach of the Israeli border from Gaza with the rape, torture, murder and kidnapping of innocent men, women and children (not just Jewish people, but Muslims, Christians and foreign workers and exchange students), a deep rift has opened up between many Catholics and Jews. It is a chasm that I hope can be bridged and repaired.

Several Catholic news outlets, media groups which were fair and unbiased, delivering not only church news, but covering international stories, have become completely unbalanced and even unhinged in their coverage of Israel. Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas War there has been no mention whatsoever of the fight against good and evil. There has not been any statement that acts of terrorism are wrong. There has been absolutely no condemnation of Hamas, Hizbulla or any other group that not only seek to kill Jewish and Israelis, but hold their own countrymen (the truly innocent Christians) hostage. The stories and editorials have consistently been vehemently anti Zionist regime (a.k.a. Israel, the Jews).

One of the main culprits is LifeSite News. From the very beginning of the war, this once reputable media establishment has become very vocal in its anti Israel reporting. At first, the stories were concerned about the plight of innocent civilians, namely the small Catholic community of the Shejaya neighborhood in Gaza City. They were absolutely correct and upright in their concern over innocent civilians and fellow Catholics trapped in a war zone. However, soon enough, complete fabrications of stories were daily occurrences.

Leading stories include – an IDF tank mortar purposely striking the church; the Christians huddled inside for safety were starving and without electricity and their one small generator would soon have no fuel. Israel intentionally would not allow any humanitarian aid to go through and the parishioners were on the brink of starvation. The IDF assassinated in cold blood a woman parishioner and her mother as they left the church. (Only a partial story: The people were told to remain inside because there would be live fire. The woman was found to be a spotter for Hamas. It was heartbreaking and unfortunate that she was shot. Her daughter had run out to help her and was also shot.) The Holy Family school was completely bombed out by the IDF. (This also was a partial truth. The IDF did bomb, go after and eliminate four high ranking Hamas commanders as they hid inside the school attached to the church. Terrorists used it as a base to fire from, and they refused to come out. There actually was an admission by the Patriarch, and the question begs as to why armed terrorists were allowed to seek a hiding place inside the premises?)

Many of the stories proved highly exaggerated at best. In most cases they were completely fabricated. There were feature stories, op eds and news items every day that vilified the Zionist regime. Life Site News relied on the Gaza Ministry of Health, a propaganda arm of Hamas, the Red Crescent and Al Jazeera for sources. Also often quoted are far far left leaning sources like Politico, Haaretz, the Guardian and Axios. Haaretz is a far left leaning Marxist media outlet in Israel that is always against the current government and leans very pro-Palestinian. At times, “Jewish” sources, such as the fanatical and cultish splinter group, Neutrei Karta are used to bolster their stories. Neutrei Karta claim to be ultra Orthodox Jews who are anti Israel. They align themselves with the Palestinian cause and are often seen in their Hasidic garb while wearing keffiyehs and holding Palestinian flags at New York pro-Palestine rallies. They are not reliable witnesses for the majority of Jews. In fact, they are repudiated by most.

As you can see from just some of these headlines collected over the course of two years, LifeSite News is very inflammatory. Israel and the Jews are seen as controlling the world and they are responsible for the start of World War III with every military action they undertake. In Gaza, the IDF is labeled genocidal and evil. And on more than one occasion Israel has been accused directly of going after the Catholic parishioners of Shejaya. This is libelous and slanderous, and is completely false.

The Catholic Mass from the Holy Family parish is often filmed. Many services are live streamed and are posted to YouTube. The late pope, Francis, would call to speak to the children each night, which was a lovely gesture. But if you look at the service, the church is clean and intact, always with lots of fresh flowers (they have fresh floral arrangements in the middle of the war!). There is a range of young and old, all seemingly well fed and in nice clothes. There is electricity and music. How can one claim starvation, genocide, the killing of innocent civilians, and a bombed church? I am very thankful they all seem to be doing so well. It is actually a testament to the fact that they are not targeted for destruction.

https://youtu.be/1Em1hpDyYQ8?si=P_9VEQyAq3x86BfE

Last week, the leading article picked up in The Loop, (another Catholic daily news outlet and subsidiary of CatholicVote, based in the United States led with the following headline:

“It was a massacre,” one Palestinian man quoted by AP News said, describing how Israeli forces opened fire “even as we were fleeing. Many people were either martyred or wounded.”

Another witness said drones hovered overhead before gunfire broke out, creating a “chaotic and bloody” scene. As he fled, he saw at least three motionless bodies on the ground and many others wounded.

According to AP News, the Awda hospital in the urban Nuseirat refugee camp, which received the victims, confirmed 25 deaths and said 146 others were wounded. It said 62 were in critical condition and transferred to other hospitals.

I immediately researched this claim, and have found the story to be completely fabricated. Originating from the Gaza Health Ministry at a time when Gaza was out of the media spotlight during the Iran War, perhaps this story was floated to bring attention back to the Strip. Listen to Col. Richard Kemp, former commander of the UK Armed Forces. He has been an independent observer of the Israel-Gaza War. Just Saturday he came out with this statement:

https://youtube.com/shorts/QcAUwnErlBE?si=4sokvn1LMIJ1r70C

I also refer you to this news clip-

I am both disappointed and alarmed that the Loop has become another outlet for Islamic propaganda. Antizionism is veiled antisemitism and news stories should be verified before they are published. This dangerous rhetoric leads to violence. It has happened countless times throughout history and needs to be stopped. America does not have boots on the ground in Israel and the United States will not be sending its children to Israel to die. World War III is not an imminent threat because the limited joint efforts by Israel and the U.S. in Iran stopped the Shiite regime from having nuclear arms.

There has also been much damage done by celebrity pundits. Once a fairly reliable conservative news commentator, Candace Owens, who got her start from Dennis Prager before she moved on to The Daily Wire, now spews forth anti Jewish and antiIsrael vitriol. From “the Jews involved in a global cabal to take over the world;” to genocide and war crimes in Gaza perpetuated by Israel, she has discredited herself countless times with false news and overt exaggerations. Sometimes teamed with podcaster, Nick Fuentes, the pair foment a radically unbalanced Jew hatred. They present themselves as devout traditional Catholics who believe the Catholic Church has replaced any covenant or blessing made by G-d upon the Children of Israel. I am very afraid that this kind of talk will one day, ignite a fanatic or mentally unbalanced person to acts of violence. This is just one video clip of Ms. Owens spouting hateful libels against Jews. She is even worse in her rants against Israel and Netanyahu in particular. I selected this one video out of many because it is short and to the point.

https://youtu.be/KUDUvrf_KGM?si=_enBVIqq7Le_Wdsb

Perhaps the worst of all I have saved for last. He is a prolific author and Catholic apologist. Founder of the very based and reputable New Saint Thomas Institute for online Catholic education, Dr. Taylor Marshall in just the past year has become one of the most vitriolic antisemitic people on social media. Dr. Marshall enjoys an extremely wide following, and has several paid sponsorships for his programs, which can be found on Facebook, Instagram, Rumble and YouTube.

The United States is already becoming increasingly divided in a dangerous way. Actual facts can be twisted in such a way to make conspiracy theories appealing. Dr. Marshall’s latest videos have included a dissection of the recent debate between Tucker Carlson and Sen. Ted Cruz. The debate itself is incredibly cringe and uncomfortable to watch. Two former friends have now become now hostile. No love. No peace. No understanding. Just gotcha moments, all of which are anti Israel. And Dr. Marshall lavishes in it. You can watch it on YouTube. His discussion is from his own Catholic perspective. It is against both Protestant Christianity as well as Judaism as he explains the Catholic Church has taken the place of the ‘perfidious branches that were cut off to be thrown into the fire.”

I have listened to several of his programs. A Catholic friend in California sends them to me and asks my opinion. “Is this what Jews believe?” It has been years since I have heard the terms ‘perfidious Jews’ and ‘synagogue of satan.’ His videos include the likes of “Why Christian Zionism is a Dangerous Heresy,” “How a FOREIGN Country CAPTURED American CHRISTIANS,” and “1948 Israel.”

The latest video from Dr Marshall, out just yesterday, begins: “What if I were to tell you, this man, with the Hebrew tattoo around his neck was planning to kill 14 Christian pastors and. Catholic priests?” What a lead in!! In fact, the mentally unstable murderer, Adam Sheaf, is not at all Jewish. No observant Jew would even write the holy name of G-d, in English, Hebrew or any other language, much less as a tattoo on their body. The killer was a lunatic, but Marshall stirs up fears in his mostly Catholic audience, telling them to “stay vigilant in this time of escalating evil“ and to “guard themselves against members of the synagogue of satan who have ill motives against us.”

In 1965, the Catholic Church produced a document, Nostra Aetate, which was a profound statement on the relationship between the Church and the Jewish people. It acknowledges the passages of Scripture that “the gifts and callings of G-d are without repentance,” in other words, they stand the test of time. When G-d makes a covenant with a people, it is eternal. It is irrevocable, not replaceable. Therefore, by definition, the covenants made (Adamic, Noahide, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic) to the Children of Israel are binding and eternal.

In a short history of the reparation of the breach between the Church and the Jews, Pope John XXIII, in 1963 wrote a (nondogmatic) letter to the Catholic Church that set the stage for reconciliation.

We are conscious today that many many centuries of blindness have cloaked our eyes so that we can no longer either see the beauty of Thy Chosen People nor recognize in their faces the features of our privileged brethren. We realize that the mark of Cain stands upon our foreheads. Across the centuries our brother Abel has lain in the blood which we drew or shed the tears we caused by forgetting Thy Love. Forgive us for the curse we falsely attached to their name as Jews. Forgive us for crucifying Thee a second time in their flesh. For we knew not what we did

In ‘65 Nostra Aetate came out as an offshoot of Vatican II. It led to great interreligious dialogue and understanding between the two faiths. When Pope John Paul II became the successor to the Chair of Peter, he called the Jewish people “our elder brothers in faith.” He visited the Great Synagogue in Rome and also Jerusalem (the Western Wall) among other places as a sign of friendship and admiration. His successor, Pope Benedict XIV also worked to repair the breach between brothers.

Entire university departments were set up to foster Jewish-Catholic Studies and Dialogue. Professors of Yeshiva co-taught with Catholic priests (One of my daughters received her Bachelors in this area). Great Jewish theologians and Catholic apologists studied together and co-authored books. It was a great era of reparation. In a spiritual sense, Jacob and Esau were coming together in mutual respect and understanding.

When there are great advancements, there come greater divisions to tear down what was being built. I will not go into the history of the State of Israel, but from its return on the timeline, there have been those that have been opposed to its establishment and its continuance. From the first wave of Jewish immigrants to their ancient Biblical homeland (as covenanted by G-d), there has been stiff opposition, most notably by radical Islamists. And unfortunately today, by some Catholics. I know this does not include most Catholics, but I do feel I must point this out because the voices are seeming to grow louder in their intensity and frequency.

Time and time again, the tiny nation of Israel faced existential threats from invading countries. They developed a sound and strong army to defend themselves against the Arab nations. A democracy was set up, allowing not only the Jews, but Christians, Muslims, Druze, Baha’i, and Circassians full citizenship with all the rights that accompany it. And still, there were naysayers that arose. People that for whatever reason, twisted facts. People and institutions that stood in opposition to the idea of the Jewish State-

There is a nefarious spirit out there that seeks to divide and destroy. Whether through the written word or the twisting of the truth. This spirit will not seek out facts. It will not make a distinction between good and evil, right and wrong. It seeks to divide allies. To come between friends. Division creates weakness in a society.

Let us strive to come together. Let us, and I’m speaking to all members of the Judaeo-Christian faiths, seek to find our commonalities, because we truly are on the same side. There is strength in unity. Let us seek to resolve our differences, seek out the common truths we all hold dear. Let us strive for the higher ground together and stand united against that spirit of destructiveness.

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twdunbar2015

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June 25, 2025

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Iran, israel, Israel Gaza war, israel news, israeli hostages in Gaza, Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, MidEast, Politics, War stories

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The Wrap-Up. War Stories. Day 628. 25 June, 2025

Here in Israel, it’s “The Day After.” Most of us, of all the people I’ve spoken with, are still trying to figure everything that happened out. It started so suddenly… a loud blast on our collective cell phones, radios and televisions at around 3:30 am on June 15. It was intense. Incessant. Daring. Victorious. And horrific. And it ended even more suddenly and confusingly than it started.

First, I try my best to research each subject before I write for this blog or for any other source. I need my information to be verifiable and try to stick to primary source material whenever I can. I scour many different news sites (print, broadcast and social media) as well as speaking to experts when I can. That said, I am not infallible and will issue retractions when wrong. I do try to present both firsthand and “news” in their post and strive for clarity. That said-

Late Monday night, a ceasefire was brokered between Israel and Iran by President Trump. These are the exact terms of the agreement.

I’m not sure how confusing this was, but the ceasefire – no missiles, no airstrikes, no UAV drones – was to start at 07:00 am Israel Standard Time. Israel did target some 100 sites in Iran to strike by jet. They included IRGC headquarters, Basij (secret police/Gestapo) stations, weapons launch platforms, weapons production factories, both large and small. These were all hit on Monday night, before the ceasefire was to go into effect.

The Iranians fired a wide salvo of missiles throughout Israel at 03:16 am. Again shortly after 05:00 in which a BeerSheva high rise apartment complex received a direct hit. 4 people were killed and scores injured, 5 critically. Another barrage came shortly after 06:00 I the morning followed by another at 06:38. They were all aimed at high density residential areas and population centers. There were multiple injuries, but none serious.

A ceasefire went into effect at exactly 07:00 Israel time, after which Iran fired off another heavy missile barrage at 07:16. They claimed the missiles had already left Western Iran before the ceasefire went into effect. Again at 10:30am a huge swath of Israel was targeted by Iranian launches. This was a true breach of the agreement.

Members of Knesset and the War Cabinet which were convening throughout the night and into the day called for a retaliation. Fighter jets were launched from Ramat David Air Field. They were mid air when Trump issued a stand down. The IAF released one missile, destroying a lone radar installation.

Later in the day, President Trump issued a strong reprimand to both countries to stop the fighting.

Iran has been coming out with propaganda videos saying that the entire city of Tel Aviv is burning, Haifa is obliterated and that tens of thousands of Zionists have been killed. There were direct hits. 28 civilians were killed, which is not something to be ignored. But their news is incorrect. They claim to have hidden the enriched uranium. There are supposed satellite images put forth by CNN showing 16 truckers entering and leaving the Fordo facility on two occasions before the US strike. Whether this is true or not, I am unable to verify at this time.

Early intelligence assessments suggest the U.S. strikes on all three nuclear facilities in Iran did not completely cripple Tehran’s nuclear capabilities. They did, set the program back by months if not years according to the Defense Intelligence Agency of the Pentagon. Even if they do have some of their enriched uranium, their nuclear scientists have been eliminated. There is zero access to each facility, as both the access roads and the sites themselves are under rubble. This was a historic operation by both countries that was months if not years in the planning. By all accounts, it was a success and necessary to keep the bomb out of the hands of radical Islamist “twelvers” who would use it. Still, much conflicting information is being bandied about as to whether the mission was successful.

As of this writing, there are still reports coming out with much opposing information, some saying the nuclear program of Iran was decimated, others that the US strikes were underwhelming at best. Trump has just come out with a statement that Israelis (Mossad??) has actually gone inside Fordo and Natanz to check the facilities and that they are totally obliterated. My question is…by saying this is he giving classified info and is he endangering any Israeli/Mossad agents that are still boots on the ground? Why would he make this kind of statement? National security on both sides are saying the nuclear program is destroyed. Is this just to justify a multi billion dollar operation or to save face? I offer no conspiracy theories, but you must decide for yourself.

To sum up: Iran managed to launch approximately 550-600 ballistic missiles and over 1000 drones at Israel. 571 UAVs entered Israeli airspace. All were shot down except one which crashed into a residential building in Beit Shean causing significant damage. There was massive property damage to hundreds of buildings and homes. The Haifa refinery was hit as well as the Weizmann Institute for Scientific Research in Rehovot. Two. Israeli UAVs were shot down. The Israeli air defense system (Iron Dome, David’s Sling, the Arrow)) intercepted between 80-90% of the Iranian missiles. Approximately 60 made impact. There was a 99% interception rate of drones.

There were no IDF boots on the ground in Iran. All the strikes were done from the air. All planes returned safely to Israel. There were 17 teams (pilot/navigators) of women flying the fighter jets. This was a first. Air superiority was quickly established and within 72 hours the airspace had been completely cleared of threats of radar and satellite imaging.

Using the Mossad, who gained entrance to Iran secretly, all of the nuclear scientists, top IRGC command, higher up leadership and government eliminated. 40% of their ballistic missiles have been destroyed (800-1000 missiles were destroyed by the IAF before they could even be launched). 65% of their missile launchers were destroyed. It is believed they still hold about 1250 missiles.

The entire top leadership of the Iranian Air Force was eliminated during a secret meeting they held on the first day of the conflict. Two senior Basij police and al QUDS forces were taken out. Hundreds of lower ranking IRGC soldiers were eliminated in a series of attacks in Tehran. The Arak heavy water reactor and key missile production sites were destroyed. The gates of the are in prison were blown open. This is the prison that holds and tortures political dissidents, LGBTQ and modesty laws violators. It is safe to say that Iran no longer poses an existential threat to the Middle East. All of this was accomplished in 12 days. It was a war of historic proportions. Netanyahu declared that Israel achieved all its objectives and much more in his speech to the nation last night.

As of this morning, Iran announced they were pulling out of the International Atomic Energy Association. Just before this war started, the IAEA reported that the Iranians were in fact enriching weapons grade uranium and that they would have enough of the fissile materials to produce 9-15 nuclear warheads. Today, Iran’s parliament passed a bill to suspend cooperation with the IAEA over recent stories. The final decision now lies with the security council. Tehran has stated they would immediately begin their nuclear activity once again.

Israelis remain perplexed as to whether our mission was, in fact, complete. There will be no press to topple the current government or to fight for a regime change. The Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi said I. A press conference yesterday,”This is our Berlin Wall moment.” He has called on the Ayatollah to step down and urges global backing for a democratic Iran. It remains up to the will of the Iranian people as to whether they will force a regime change.

Also, all of the Iranian weapons and launching apparatus have not been eliminated. They still hold the capacity to strike, although the IDF says it is watching them very closely and will try to prevent any further escalation. The Iranian regime has already violated the cease fire multiple times, each time denying their culpability. This morning two Iranian drones were shot down before they could enter Israeli airspace.

Over 11,000 Israelis, mostly from urban areas, have been displaced due to structural damages of their residences. Property damage claims exceed 38,700. There are still 3,493 wounded in hospitals throughout the country. The war seems unfinished to most Israelis.

All of the situational restrictions, aka lockdown, have been lifted in Israel. Citizens are free to travel and resume normal activity. Schools are open. Commerce and transportation are up and running. Ben Gurion reopened its airspace. Over 100 new immigrants from UK, France, Spain sand the Netherlands arrived this morning, including a number of young families and Lone Soldiers.

Babies are being born and Israel is simultaneously mourning its dead. Funerals held today for those killed in Beersheva and the elderly couple in Ramat Gan. Also, 7 IDF soldiers were killed last night in Gaza (Khan Younis) when an IED was planted on their armored vehicle causing it to burst into flames. One of the deadliest attacks in months, the Engineering Corps soldiers were unable to be reached by fire rescue forces.

A completely false report/piece of propaganda was put out by the Gaza Health Ministry early yesterday morning. They are an extension of Hamas, and the story was picked up by the AP and Reuters and released to the world. According to the GHM, 28 innocent civilians were massacred when the IDF opened fire on them as they went to get humanitarian aid. It was a deadly massacre in cold blood according to anonymous sources. Except that it never happened. Nothing of the sort. The news was debunked shortly after it came out, but rapidly circulated through9t the world. I am planning on doing an entire piece on this tomorrow-

Ceasefire negotiations with a full hostage release are underway in recent hours, says a senior level Hamas official. Supposedly, President Trump has sent his envoys to the Middle East to further talks with all parties. Despite the ceasefire and easing of restrictions, tensions remain high. The next steps all seem uncertain. There is much left unresolved, namely the threats from Iran and its proxies.

In New York, pro-Palestine Mamdani won the democratic mayoral primary. The 33 year old former rapper has never held public office. Hailing from a radical extremist family, Mamdani founded the Students for Justice in Palestine at Columbia,Maia University and is a pro-Hams, pro-Iran activist who supports BDS of Israel. He has stated he would have Netanyahu and other members of the Israeli government arrested for war crimes if they ever set foot in New York. This self proclaimed socialist is very anti Israel and antisemitic. He is pro setting up Sharia law courts and neighborhoods throughout parts of the City.

Lastly, most Israelis I have spoken with (my husband and I have interfaced with many from secular to Orthodox) are very upset at the way Trump handled yesterday’s ceasefire breach. They felt his demeanor very patronizing. “He talks to us as if we were children,” stated Hanan B.. Liora L. believes he was most unprofessional and very naive if he believes Iran will behave in the way he wants them to. She remains skeptical as to Iran’s next actions and still considers them a threat. Gali Z. feels that Trump is just concerned with making peace for the whole world and getting the Nobel Peace Prize. She feels he is doing this for his own ego and hopes people won’t think of him as the Messiah. Eli M. said, “You can’t make deals with the devil. Trump has no idea how people are in the Middle East. Trump is being very naive.” And Efrat just shrugs and says, “Now where do we go from here?”

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twdunbar2015

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June 24, 2025

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Iran, israel, israel news, Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, MidEast, Politics, Uncategorized, War stories

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It’s Not Over Yet. 😩 War Stories. Don’t even know how many days

It’s not over until the fat lady sings, and I’m not singing yet!

We knew from past experience. From Iran. From Hizbulla. It’s always the same. We agree to a pre-set cease fire and they shoot rockets right up until the last minute. They must have the last word. That’s how they display superiority. Like their grand farewell to arms. Or is it?

Last night Trump announced a peace deal. Great. Iran last night was trying to save face. To go out with a bang. To retaliate for the US bombing of their nuclear sites, they pre-planned their attack on empty military bases in Qatar. Real friendly country, that Qatar. They did it in a way that the US didn’t have to retaliate. Iran notified their partners of a strike, who in turn, informed the US so interceptions could be made. And boom. It was over.

Now for the little satan. We knew our turn was coming. The cease fire deal was to happen at 7 am. We got the first alert (the banshee wail that screams through our phones) at 05:31 this morning. By 05:42 the red alerts began. We were already in the safe room. Once again, a very heavy barrage throughout Israel from north to south. Almost immediately, I received a feed that a large apartment complex in BeerSheva had taken a direct hit. Magen David Adom, Home Front, Search & Rescue and ZAKA were on their way. Multiple casualties. At least two dead. Then three. Children being pulled from the rubble. Many injuries. Some quite severe. Then another found dead. News travels quickly here.

Then came the second barrage. Scattershot throughout the country. It was 06:12 and we still had about 45 minutes to go. It was going to be a rough day. A third barrage went to the south again, towards the desert…the nuclear power plant. We didn’t have to shelter in place for that one.

John was already sound asleep again, so I went out on the mirpesset to say my morning prayers. Then to pick some vegetables and pull some weeds. It was 06:44, and while I was outside received another alert for the central Israel area. It’s a really small country. When a missile lands near the Dead Sea or in Netanya, we can hear the thuds. Faint, but still… perhaps you can pick up the “pops” midway through- I apologize. I’ve worked on this all day and am having major problems uploading videos…

Took my tomatoes and squash inside and no sooner was I in, than another local area siren outside signaling more incoming. It was 06:56. I guess that was the end of it. I decided that tonight I’d take a sleeping pill and finally get a good shower and shut eye.

But no….of course not. It was not quite over. Not yet, because just as we emerged from our hidey holes….another alert. More sirens. This is really getting old, and I’m about to lose my patience. Lord help me. Come to the aid of your people.

Aaahhh… finally. A sigh of relief. Breathe…just breathe. It’s really all over. I’m out on the mirpesset again. It’s 07:15 and the cease fire is in effect. Peace! Then the red alert on my phone is activated for communities in central Israel. Near the airport. Netanyahu’s Caesaria home. Tel Aviv. Modi’in. It wasn’t near us, so I decided to film any incoming. Again, the thunder is not thunder. You have to wait until almost the end of the video clip and put your sound up… sorry another video I cannot post. You’ll have to take my word for it.

So, Iran denied that they violated the agreement. Their excuse was that the last round of missiles was fired before the cease fire, but from the west, so they just took longer to reach Israel. Do I believe them? Do they have a record of telling the truth? I decided to put the coffee on, answer emails and start the day. Believe me, this is all really exhausting. John and Haggis had gone back to bed again, hoping to catch up on missed sleep.

My neighbor and I planned a barbecue for tomorrow. They would do the grilling and provide the drinks. I’d bring the meat and all the ingredients for s’mores that I’d brought back from the States. Their kids would love it. I’d been promising them we’d do this, but then life happened. Now we had reason to celebrate. We stood outside between our houses chatting. It was a gorgeous day. Peace is sweet. Peace is quiet.

Then at exactly 10:30: it came. Without warning. The siren. O.K. Now I’m flaming hot mad. Seriously angry at those bloody jihadis. Ceasefire!?!?! Yeah, right. Pardon my messy home and my harshness in the video. I’m just so over this. I cut the filming just as the interceptions crashed above and I made it to the mammad – John and Haggis right behind me.

Israel is vowing to retaliate with force. “Iran broke the ceasefire and they will pay!” promises a member of Knesset. Tehran denies it fired missiles at Israel. There were definite interceptions. We heard them from the safe room. Two loud ones. So what were they doing? Lobbing. shawarma? Ben Gurion was just about to open its airspace. We had just received the all-clear, everything back open an hour before this. (By the way, when John went to pick up my prescription yesterday, everything but the main clinic and pharmacy and small corner mini market was closed).

Where do we stand now? It’s exactly noon. I have no idea what is going on. Of course, I’ve talked to several friends and neighbors. All have said that Trump was naive. That we should have at least gotten the hostages back as part of the deal. And then, the unconfirmed news: the Ayatollah Khameni’s son, Mojtaba Khameni was reportedly killed by an unknown suspect at close range in Tehran. World’s shortest ceasefire.

So, one really nice and totally amazing thing just happened. A lady from the city municipality just called. Somehow our name was on a list? She was checking to see how we were? Do we have a safe room? Are we okay? Do we need anything…food, water, medicine? Are we alone or do we have family? Were there any damages? My goodness. I’ve never received a call like this. These people are phenomenal!!!

Now we wait. I guess I can do a deep clean of the kitchen. We did all the windows last week. All of us here need a long vacation. Amalfi Coast anyone?

I’m back. It’s now almost 6pm and we still have no idea what is going on. One missile actually landed on the mountain across from us and killed a bunch of cows. Seriously. That was at 10:30. I know Trump was more than angry…all the posts on Truth Social. The IAF did not retaliate, but turned its jets around mid air. Where do we go from here? No clue? Can we plan for tomorrow? No clue. But one thing is certain. I will not be taking that sleeping pill. Tonight – just in case. May G-d have mercy on us all.

Posted by

twdunbar2015

Posted on

June 22, 2025

Posted under

Iran, israel, israel news, Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, MidEast, prophecy, spirituality, Uncategorized, War stories

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We’re Fine. Really. War update. 22 June, 2025

We’re fine. really. Despite little sleep. Despite bouts of surfing the news. Meditating and praying. Watching Mission Impossible 2 and The Dictator for diversion. Despite running to bomb shelters and hearing the loud booms and rumblings of thunder which is how we know there’s been a direct hit – when the floor below shakes for minutes.

The game changed a bit last week, when we realized Iran had kept the Big Boy Toys for themselves. Those hypersonic. Those cluster bomb missiles that create menacing ripples in the sky. That fly under the defense system. That sneak through and hit civilian targets. These are not your friendly Hamas or Hizbulla rockets. Oh no. They are something entirely different with the capacity to flatten city blocks and kill thousands.

But we’re fine. Really. We’ve seen open miracles. The IAF knocking out the entire air defense of the giant in less than 72 hours. The elimination of evil players – a Roayal Flush in the IRGC deck of cards. We’ve called their bluff. Militarily, we have proven our superiority, our determination, our resolve, our courage and our faith that we do not go it alone, but with the hand of G-d to lead us to victory. So we are just fine.

We have seen hospital buildings evacuated just hours before a strike. We are witnessing the Israelis taking the call to shelter seriously. We now know to run to a protected area is to save a life. Although every loss is a tragedy, Israel has a remarkably low fatality rate – less than 30 civilians have been killed thus far since we struck Iran. Missiles have crashed into homes and stuck in the roof without exploding. Babies have been rescued intact from the rubble. People reunited with missing pets they thought killed. Huge pieces of shrapnel fallen from the sky only to land at a front doorstep or side yard. We are doing well. To live in Israel is to believe in miracles.

Friday a huge ICBM stuck downtown Haifa. The few people who were out sought cover for the most part. Two mosques down the street from each other along with a recently abandoned building were demolished. An imam was injured. Also a woman who suffered a heart attack due to the siren. And one other person. We could see the smoke rising from our balcony. We knew from the sound of impact it was bad. But we are doing fine.

An IRGC missile on its way to Israel, missed its intended target. Instead, it struck a Syrian oil facility. Another lucky hit, I guess. Most of the ICBMs that have gotten through have landed in empty space. Another lucky miss, I guess. You spend 4 hours trying to find a vacant parking space in central Israel, but the bombs? We’re really doing okay here. A little overwhelmed, a lot exhausted, but we are fine. Really.

Today we woke up to another early alarm. It was a large barrage accompanied by the news of Trump and the US aid the military gave to strike the nuclear powerhouses that we couldn’t reach. I’m actually really glad that threat has been neutralized and pray it will not lead to anything larger. In the meantime,

I appreciate most of the letters I’ve been getting. And those videos. So many videos. Yes I did see the Tucker Carlson kumzits with Ted Cruz. I’ve begun to watch at least some of the homilies you’ve sent me from your pastors. I can assure you. Things are well. They are well. With our souls. John said to tell you we have a large rooftop balcony with patio furniture and ice chest filled with drinks and snacks. We have a front row view of Armageddon which is 18 miles as the crow falls. We are not afraid. We are fine. Really.

As far as missions work. Aid to infants, widows and the still starving, still poor, still innocent victims in Gaza. I assure you. We neither can nor will travel there to help with humanitarian aid. Seriously. There’s much to be done here in Israel. Many ways to help and to be involved. Neither John nor I desire to join a resistance movement protesting the current situation. We will not drive to Jerusalem. We will not drive to Tel Aviv. We will not hold placards to stop the war. We will not take our voices to Bibi’s residence. We are doing just fine where we are. We actually think our u irked government has navigated the entire situation masterfully. We are in good hands.

Yes. Blessed are the peacemakers. Make love, not war. We truly desire peace. Here at home. Here in the Middle East. Throughout the entire world. But there are just wars and we have just collectively cut the head off the viper. Yes. Blessed are those who can forgive their enemies. Forgive the snarkiness, but no one from Hamas, Hizbulla, Houthieville or Iran has called me offering a sincere apology for the years of terror and bald faced threats to kill me and my countrymen on both sides of the globe. I carry no grudge with the people of Iran. I hope the people can be liberated from their evil oppressors and we can resume friendly relations again. We are good with that. We just want peace and to resume our normal routines.

For the ones who are “just absolutely scared to death for you!” Thank you for your concern. If you have ever lived in Israel, you know that we value, cherish and love life. It is a precious and fleeting gift. We do not take ur blessings for granted. And we live every minute as it is our last. Every moment counts. We are not afraid. Exhausted. Overstimulated. A bit anxious even. But not scared to death. We have a firm belief that our lives are in G-d’s hands, and that is not a bad place to be. So stop your doomscrolling social media and listening to the fear mongering of divisive media outlets. Pray. Do good deeds for others today. Pick 3 things to do that will be a blessing each day. But don’t be scared to death. We are fine. We will be fine.

And for those wanting to know what we think about the Final Battle. As my tzaddik of a husband repeats, “It’s all in G-d’s hands. Whatever is supposed to happen will happen and we cannot stop it. He who made all things can turn the worst possible scenario into the miraculous, into blessings. We just need to believe. And pray. And walk in love.” Then we will be fine. Really.

Now if I can just stay away from the bag of chips and get a shower and some sleep….I’ll be fine. Really.

I hope I’ve not offended my subscribers, my old high school fellow students or past neighbors. After I hydrate, get some protein and a few winks, I’ll be back to my old reporting. In the meantime, we’re okay. Really truly-

An IDF sapper this morning carries an unexploded missile out of a house in Haifa

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June 19, 2025

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Iran, israel, israel news, Israeli-Gaza War, Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, medical centers, MidEast, Negev, Uncategorized, War stories

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Close Calls and the Miraculous. War Stories. Day 621/7. 19 June, 2025

After a restless night of running to the safe room, we were awakened again this morning to the sound of the red alerts They were first signaling UAV invasions into the Golan and Jordan Valley. Then came the huge missile barrage.

We are witnessing days of the miraculous, my friends. Last night, there was an emergency meeting of the board at Soroka Hospital in BeerSheva. It was decided for some reason to move the outpatient clinics and one-day surgery underground. At 07:15 am the sirens began to blare throughout the county signaling imminent attack. Shortly afterwards we received the news. Soroka had taken a direct hit.

Soroka is the largest hospital in the south serving all the Negev and Gaza Envelope communities. It is also one of the largest rehab units for wounded soldiers and is always full of patients. The missile hit one of the main buildings and yet no one was killed because it had been evacuated the night before. There were almost 90 wounded: 2 seriously, an 80 year old man and a 78 year old woman. There are 6 others in serious condition and 9 in moderate condition, but no deaths. Baruch haShem! Praise the Lord!

Now for my op ed. Last year, the IDF was quickly and falsely accused of bombing a Gaza hospital. It was immediately (within 15 minutes) reported that there had been over 5000 casualties! This was soon toned down to over 1500. The news spread throughout the world as reported by the unreliable propaganda arm of Hamas, the Gaza Health Ministry. Shortly thereafter, it was reported the rocket landed in a parking lot, killing 23 people. After a thorough investigation and review of drone footage from aerial surveillance, it was discovered that Hamas had launched a rocket from a pickup truck at the back of the hospital, which misfired and struck the hospital. The damage was done, and people still believe the IDF targets hospitals and innocent civilians.

The IDF targets terrorists. We have seen it in Gaza as well as Lebanon and now Iran. They go out of their way to evacuate civilians from active military zones and will abort a strike if there is the chance of killing an innocent people. Hamas placed their weapons in and underneath hospitals, schools, mosques and UN facilities. Underground tunnels are burrowed under homes and public places. Iran has exclusively been targeting civilians, mostly dense packed urban areas. Now a hospital. This is a war crime. Where is the outrage from the world?

Also this morning, a kindergarten/day care was hit in Ramat Gan (all of this news has been cleared for publication. I reveal no secrets). All of the little children are fine as the classrooms were held underground. Rescue workers were there to evacuate all the little children and reunite them with their parents. Another miracle and narrowly averted disaster!

Two days ago, a direct strike hit the Weizman Institute of Science, one of Israel’s most prestigious research centers. Dozens of experiments were destroyed. The ICBM struck more than ten biology labs, including those focused on cancer, aging and A-I based personalized medicine. Work that was in progress for over a decade was all destroyed. Israel aims at life-saving research, for the benefit of mankind.

Hundreds of Americans on Israel birthright trips were evacuated by cruise ship to Larnaca, Cypress. They had survived the Iran bombardment. 1500 people were on board the ship, escorted by the Israeli navy. Florida governor, Ron DeSantis chartered four jets to pick them up and fly them back to the States where they can then take other connecting flights home.

Thousands of Israelis are waiting at American and European airports to return to Israel. Airspace opened yesterday for two packed flights (including scores of returning soldiers) to land at Ben Gurion. This morning, another inbound flight from Cypress was diverted mid-air back to Larnaca due to Iranian missile barrages. Hopefully flights will soon resume to bring stranded tourists and foreign nationals back home and pick up the returning Israelis.

Israel yesterday destroyed Iran’s digital nuclear archive backup, the last copy of knowledge on how to build a bomb. There are now no top scientists. No documents. And for now, limited ability fore a nuclear future. Strikes have been made on Iran’s Arak nuclear wastewater facility after the evacuation of all civilians in a wide radius. One of the last things left to do is to somehow destroy or incapacitate the Fordo nuclear facilities, which lie deep underground. Whether this can be done by stealth or even remotely remains to be seen. The only bomb that can reach the bunkers that far down are held by the United States and is carried by the stealth bomber. I pray America does not have to enter into the war!

Last night, the Iranian broadcasting company was hacked. Images of demonstrations and calls shown on screen for the Iranian people to take to the streets and protest against the regime were shown. The Crown Prince, Reza Pahlavi made a statement from outside the country: “The Islamic Republics has come to an end and is falling. What has begun is irreversible. The future is bright and together we will navigate this sharp turn in history. Now is the time to stand. It is time to take back Iran. May I be with you soon.” There have been reports of major demonstrations and young girls and women are throwing off their burkas and head coverings. The Iranian government cut the internet at the beginning of the war, but it was quickly restored (by Elon Musk) through Starlink. The channel also broadcast a statement from Netanyahu telling the citizens of Iran that Israel does not fight against them but against the totalitarian regime. The time of the people will come shortly.

German Chancellor Freidrich Meira, at the recent G-7 said, “ Israel is doing the dirty work for all of us.” There are unconfirmed reports which claim that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khameni is dead. In the meantime, Iran continues its own threats. “We are about to launch the largest and most violent attack in history on Israeli territory.” That was three days ago.

In the meantime, IDF estimates that over 60% of Iran’s missile launches have been destroyed by the Israeli Air Force. Still, over 100 remain operational. The IRGC has switched from static launches to mobile launchers which shoot much fewer missiles simultaneously, but can be moved around. Several have been hit within the streets of Tehran as well as adjacent to large mosque complexes. Israel is able to eliminate them with surgical precision strikes, that do limited damage to nearby surroundings (unless the launchers are loaded). The IAF reigns supreme over the wide open Iranian airspace.

In lighter news, an elderly British-Israeli couple were visiting their children in England when they became stranded. Taking matters into their own hands, they dressed as Muslims, traveled to Egypt and somehow found their way back into Israel through Eilat.

We wait with bated breath to see what will happen next. I shall try to keep you posted. Again, we watch and pray for good news. May peace come soon to all of us.

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June 17, 2025

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The Hasbara Edition. War Update. Day 620. or Day 5. 17 June, 2025

Hasbara. הסברה. (Has- bah-Rah) Definition: defensive explanation; Publicity as in apologetics or setting the record straight; an Israeli/Hebrew word not directly translated easily to English….what I will be doing in this blogpost

Over the past four days we have been receiving emails and phone calls and other text messages and videos from people outside Israel (mostly Americans). Most are well wishers, whom we appreciate very much. Old friends, family, neighbors who are concerned about our well being. I assure you that despite the difficult circumstances we are undergoing here in Israel now, we are strong, resilient and quite well.

I am shocked by some of the conspiracy theories, A-I generated videos and stories, fake news and scare stories being pushed. I know people mean well and are yearning for the truth…aren’t we all? Most of these stories are incredibly overblown and in fact, very anti Israel. I hope to give my best explanations here based on lived experience in the Middle East and scouring of news sources as well as verifiable accounts of what has happened. In essence, Hasbara.

Why is the United States letting Israel drag us into a war and why are we giving them so much money?

Let me answer the second question first. Israel and the U.S. have been allies for over 75 years now. Yes. The American government gives Israel billions of dollars, but it is all under contract. Israel must spend that money in the United States, using defense and aviation companies like Raytheon and Lockheed Martin (F-35s); McDonnell Douglas/Boeing (F-15) and General Dynamics (F-16). We buy parts, jets and some ammunition from the U.S.. In return, Israel supplies the United States with intelligence information, technology (Iron Dome, Trophy Active Protection anti-tank systems, high tech computer navigation systems, various defensive drones, cybersecurity innovations and telecommunications technology). Israel contributed to the Arrow Missile Defense System. This, in turn, creates thousands of jobs for Americans, thus bolstering the American economy. These are just some of the contributions that Israel makes to American security.

The two countries regularly train together, strengthening both countries militarily. Israel also lets the U.S. store its weapons here as a MidEast stockpile in event of regional emergency. Most were depleted/taken back under the Biden Administration. That said, we are allies and share the same enemies and threats, albeit Israel more existentially. Israel is not “dragging the U.S. into a war. So far, Israeli pilots have done most of the work in clearing the airspace over Iran to bomb precise military and now IRGC and government targets (air bases, weapons storage facilities, weapons factories, missile launch sites, nuclear facilities, and in Tehran- the IRGC headquarters, Finance Ministry, Intelligence Ministry, Iranian Broadcasting Systems, etc). This has been done single-handedly by the IDF in cooperation with Mossad operatives who were able to embed themselves inside Iran.

The United States has helped shoot down drones, when over 100 heavily explosive laden suicide drones were launched from Iran last Thursday night/Friday morning. Jordan also helped. The U.S. is not involved in active combat. The Trump Administration has sent aircraft carriers to the area as a show of force and to prevent the Straits of Hormuz from becoming blocked. That is a defensive measure to protect one of the world’s most heavily traveled trade routes. Thus far, that is the extent of their involvement.

This is a preemptive war. It is surgically conducted. It is targeted. It is precise. It is not a call to war or the start of World War lll. It is not a land invasion to conquer more territory (colonialism). It is a neutralization of a terrorist regime. It is between Israel and Iran.

Whether the U.S. will use the stealth bomber, the MOAB or other heavy bombs to destroy the Fordo Nuclear Weapons Facility located deep underground in heavy fortified concrete is to be seen. This is one of the last things to be done if there is not a complete surrender first. Hopefully this war can end without U.S. involvement. What will be, remains to be seen.

2. Does Israel really want to start a war with Iran? Isn’t that reckless, especially since they were in the middle of peace talks and signing a non-nuclear agreement?

Iran has been threatening Israel (and the West/America) with nuclear annhiliation. They are radical Shi’ite Islamists operating under a (madman, opinion mine) Ayatollah and mullahs who believe in the imminent coming of the 12th Immam or Mahdi, their version of a Messiah. They believe that the only way to issue in the Mahdi is through global chaos and bloodshed. Also through the complete elimination of the Zionist State, aka Israel/the Jewish people. For them, to die as a shaheed or martyr is the greatest honor, a ticket straight to Allah with the gift of 72 perpetual virgins. When they say they will attack, they need to be taken seriously. First Israel, the little satan, then the United States, the great satan.

Despite the JCPOA, Iran has been secretly enriching weapons grade uranium. They were at the point of equipping nuclear warheads (estimates range between 9-15) on ICBMs. They had reached breakout level. And verifiable documents have been released proving they were intent on getting those weapons to Yemen, Qatar and two other rogue nations. Two weeks ago, I believe, the Atomic Energy Commission verified all this, with Iran admitting and even saying they had constructed a ‘secret weapons facility.’

Iran has been the main sponsor of terror groups and nations, forming, supplying and fomenting groups such as Hizbulla, Hamas, the Houthis, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and other terrorist organizations. They are partially behind the flooding of Europe, the United States and greater Western World with “refugees,” namely single males between the ages of 15-40.

They have never been genuine in their “peace talks” or non-proliferation or enrichment promises, not with the world or with Israel. They are not to be trusted. Seriously. Time and again, with Hamas (under Iranian and Qatari control), pauses in fighting have taken place in Gaza allowing the terrorist regimes to regroup and restock. The same scenes have been played out repeatedly through the years. If they are truly serious about negotiating, why doesn’t Iran first order Hamas to release the remaining 52 hostages? That would be a start.

3. How can you live in a country that is a genocidal regime that targets civilian populations? I always thought you (personally) were peaceniks.

We don’t love war. Absolutely. We decry when any innocent civilians is killed. Who wants to live in a place where one constantly is running to protected areas or is continually under the threat of annhilation? We crave peace. But more on that later.

The IDF is the only army that I know of that issues evacuation orders or actually takes the time to strategize the movement of innocent civilians to safe spaces and out of active war zones, i.e. Gaza, Tehran. (Until this latest war) Israel is the only country I know of that drops leaflets and then knock bombs (bombs that tap/shake the roof of a building without exploding) as a warning to clear that particular building before an attack, i.e. Gaza City, Khan Younis, Rafah. What other country delivers water, power and humanitarian aid (despite what you hear on social media) to its enemy in wartime? What other country pauses in the middle of military operations to administer polio vaccines to children? What other country sets up triage tents and evacuates sick children and wounded civilians back to its own country for hospitalization and treatment while delivering humanitarian assistance, i.e. Operation Good Neighbor in Syria, 2018-2020?

The definition of genocide is to eliminate a certain population due to ethnic cleansing, religion, race, health/medical undesirability (eugenics) or to completely annihilate a certain people. That said, if Israel has been involved in “genocide of the Palestinian people,” then how has the population, say, of Gaza grown from 297,638 in 1997 to 2.2 million in 2025? That does not sound like a genocide to me.

On the other hand, Gaza had a Jewish population going back over 3,000 years. Most Jews living in Gaza fled during the 1929 Palestinian massacre and riots. In 1945 there were 80 Jews left. The Gaza Strip had 146,207 Jewish people living there fairly peacefully with their Muslim neighbors until 1995, when every single Jew was forcibly expelled (by their own Israeli government) according to the Oslo Accords Treaty. Today there are no Jews left in Gaza. They were not killed, but they were kicked out.

Need I mention the Holocaust? Or the Farhud? These are examples of ethnic cleansing and genocide. What about the Armenians in Turkey? Or the Rwanda genocide against the Tutsis in 1994? Why does no one mention or stand up against a real genocide, the massacre of thousands of Nigerian Christians by radical Islamists (Boko Haram, jihadi militant groups, Fulani)? According to the report “Martyred Christians in Nigeria” over 52,250 Christian men, women, children, infants have been brutally murdered since 2010. Over 18,000 churches have been set on fire. This, my friends, meets the definition of a genocide.

4. Why don’t you leave before it’s too late?/ I read that Israel is preventing its own people from leaving the country.

John and I did not take the decision to move to Israel lightly by any means. We had been planning for years to move out of the failing stater of California. Selling house and moving far away from all family and friends was not a passing whim or middle aged crisis. Our children were grown and leaving home and there were many, many factors involved in our decision. Not the least of which was the fact that we believe with all our heart in the Zionist ideals: that the ancient Biblical and ancestral homeland of the Jewish people always was and always will be Israel. This is provable by history and archaeology despite the fact that the Jews have been in diaspora for 2000 years. It is also the birthplace of Christianity. I have been deeply committed to and involved with inter-religious dialogue for decades.

As for our leaving: this is now our home. We are still American citizens, but this is where we have chosen to stay, again for very many reasons. At this point, the international airport is closed to everyone. Airspace over Israel is understandably restricted due to threat of attack. As for the post on Twitter that was sent to me:

I had never heard of this woman, so I did some research. Ms. Fenigson is a chief marketing officer of several global companies, now turned activist and podcaster of “You’re the Voice.” She rose to stardom during the pandemic as an independent journalist and labels herself “a dissident.” Ms. Fenigson is very left leaning and is often very outspoken against both the current Israeli government and the Trump administration. She has become a well known international speaker and “freedom activist” ( all quotes hers).

That said, yes Israel has forbid all flights to everyone. And yes, Kaitlin Jenner, who was here to tour the Gaza Envelope communities did get out last Friday morning. However, for safety precautions, Israel has removed a large percentage of its planes to other countries, that I will not mention here. Discussions are currently being held on how to get stranded Israelis and Lone Soldiers back home. Possible options are flights to Mediterranean countries followed by chartered cruise liners home. All Israelis are seriously advised against traveling through Egypt or Jordan (Jenner was escorted to Amman as an American citizen and then flew back to the States from Jordan) for their own protection.

After Israelis are brought back, the first priority will be given to tourists and those with dual citizenship. Privately chartered airlines are being considered for this once the airspace is deemed safe enough.All people are being kept as safe as is absolutely possible. Tourists are being put up at Israel’s expense. We want no casualties. This only makes sense.

The state control of phones: every single Israeli phone line has been receiving those banshee like, horrific sounding, extremely loud signals as soon as an Iranian missile launch is detected. We get these alerts at all times of the day and night, and. Most definitely, it can be jarring/nerve unraveling. However, it is not to panic us, but to alert us that we have less than six minutes to take cover. At the minute before impact there is another signal and country-wide red alerts and sirens go off 15 seconds before impact in the surrounding area. This is to ensure that all people have a chance to get to a protected space or to stop their vehicles, exit and take shelter in a more protected area. I thank G-d and the State of Israel for coming up with this systems. It saves lives.

From the magnanimity of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews and the KKL, concrete bunkers or shelters have been placed everywhere through the land. We, here value life, not death. This also pops up on all phones.

As far as I know, they are sent in Hebrew, Arabic, Russian, Amharic, French and Spanish. Many times, we have to use Google translate-

The last question I’ll address at this time (I’ve already gone too long) is from a girlfriend in the States who wanted to know –

5. I was listening to a podcast where this was discussed and I wanted to know what you believe. Netanyahu and Mossad are only interested in endless perpetuation of war and controlling regime changes.

We live in a really tough neighborhood. Israel is completely surrounded by the Arab world. Some of the countries are more friendly than others, but many want us dead (From the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea is all Israel). The Arabs comprise 99.6% of the MidEast. Israel has 0.4%

I truly believe the Iran situation is completely different than U.S. or Israeli involvement in Iraq (where Israel was told to stand down and did), Syria, Libya or Afghanistan.

Iran, pre WWll used to be Persia. The Islamic grand mufti with Adolph Hitler to discuss the Final Solution. The name of Persia was then changed to Iran from Aryan and the Farhud was soon enacted throughout the Middle East. (Long history. Look up for yourself). In 1979 the Persian monarchy was completely dissolved (under Pres. Carter’s admin). Shah Rena Pahlavi and his family escaped and went into hiding. They were replaced by the Radical Jihadist Ayatollas, mullahs and Shiite clerics. Again. Do your own study of history.

Persia/Iran was a highly educated, highly Westernized, free country. Women had full rights. The Jewish and Christian communities flourished. As the Islamist radicals came to power, many Persians also fled to Paris, New York, Miami and Los Angeles among other places. Those more liberals who stayed behind were imprisoned and tortured and killed. Read the true historical accounts in Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafsi. Please!!

Women were forced to completely cover themselves in burkas. Universities were taken over, extreme censorship ensued. All. Things Western were deemed Satanic. (movies, books, music outlawed). The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps was formed under strict Sharia and the military began to build its might, eventually exporting its jihadi terror to other Islamic countries. This is a sliver, nutshell synopsis. I’m probably skipping a lot.

Today, the Crown Prince of the Persian Pahlavi dynasty remains in exile. The Persians support him and many Iranians today long for freedom. Women are daringly removing their burkas and have literally been dying for the cause of freedom. In the past week, millions of Iranians are coming out in support and thanks of what they see as Israel liberating them from an oppressive regime.

Do I personally support a regime change with the restoration of freedom? Most certainly? Do I like war? Absolutely not. Do I endorse the IDF taking the chutzpah and initiative to cut the head of the Medusa that strangles and terrorizes? Of course. Do I want American boots on the ground? No.

Nothing is always black and white. We find ourselves in a complex situation. What we do next is a Sword of Damocles. (Look that up if you need to) Yet what we do next, what Netanyahu, what Trump decides is precarious.

Israel is completely united at this time. We are all on the same page. The United States needs to be firm, steadfast and united. The world is watching. Iran or what is left of it is watching. The enemy thrives on division. They see it as a sign of weakness. Please stop the infighting. Discussion tables are important. Infighting is not. Hatred of our fellow man is not.

Stay away from conspiracy theories. Stay away from fake news and scare tactics. Stay away from fear monger if and slandering. From A-I and deep fakes. It’s getting very hard to tell the difference these days. Listen to that still, small voice inside you.

All I can say to this is this is the time to pray. Fast and pray. Pray for world leaders to make wise decisions. Pray for all plans to go well. Pray for the protection of all innocent citizens, wherever they may be. Pray for peace. But whatever happens, I take comfort in what my husband continually repeats to me. It gives me great comfort. “Everything that happens is in G-d’s hands. He alone has the ability to turn evil to good, to shape the future. Things have to happen the way they happen. Our job is to trust, believe, pray and put ourselves in His hands. Then all will be well.”

If you find this post informative or inspiring in any way, please please share it.

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twdunbar2015

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June 13, 2025

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Hizbulla war, Iran, Israel Gaza war, israel news, Israeli-Gaza War, Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, MidEast, Politics, Uncategorized, War stories

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In the Heat of the Night. Day 616. War Stories Friday the 13th, 2025

We’ve known something was up. It was right there before our faces. The Iranian threats. The Yemeni threats. The Qatari threats. The countdown for the peace talks/ nuclear talks with U.S. and Iran. The recalling of Ambassadors, military families, and others out of the Middle East. The US State Dept. messages to American citizens to stay in certain areas only traveling to the airport. There has been so much drama since last Tuesday. And then on Wednesday our government collapsed.

There has been a long-standing debate in Israel as to whether to force the Haredim, the Ultra Orthodox to serve in some capacity in the IDF. The men sit in the Yeshivas all day studying Torah at the expense of the taxpayer. Most live off of the generosity of the government dole. And many Israelis think it’s just not fair. Unfortunately, or fortunately, they make up several seats of the parties that have kept the coalition or government together. And Tuesday they called it quits. Dissolve the entire government. Force new elections. Bibi, you just lost control over your own government. And the EU and other countries are sanctioning our right wing politicians, Ben Gvir and Smotrich. Things are falling apart. (Well orchestrated smoke screen???)

Trump and Elon had a huge falling out/romantic and dramatic breakup of their bromance last week, which caused the diversion of much public attention from the Big Beautiful Bill and foreign affairs….until the riots started. Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Atlanta. My how our heads were spinning this way and that just to keep up.

The Iran negotiations deal was stalling. Trump reported that the Iran talks were proving to be tough, which is interesting, seeing as Israel has already said they will completely dismantle their whole system if a stalemate is reached. It seemed as if the Trump/Bibi friendship, too, was on the rocks. Bibi was snubbed completely during the US/Trump whirlwind tour of the Middle East 10 days ago. Trump had repeatedly told Bibi to stand down. The last nuclear talk would be in Oman on Sunday. Wait. Don’t act. Just stand down, Netanyahu. (Was this part of the brilliant smokescreen created to lull the Iranians into at least a temporary complacency???)

Israeli fighter jets have been strafing the skies all day since Monday. That’s not altogether unusual, it’s just that it’s been really, really quiet here the past few months. Like zilch. Nada. Nothing in the skies. Still, we continued to make plans. On Tuesday we went cherry picking in the Golan with some friends. It was an idyllic day, and I’ve never seen so many cherries on trees before. All the thousands of rows had branches laden to the ground. Schoolchildren on field trips ran through the rows scarfing up the red and yellow jewels. We couldn’t ask for a better day. We were right up against the Syrian border, literally. And all was as peaceful as can be.

We continued to make plans for the weekend and into next week. We would go with friends to an art museum in Haifa at the top of Mt. Carmel on Monday to see the museum and the views. Spectacular views of the Mediterranean and Haifa port, looking North into Lebanon. A lovely café afterwards. On Tuesday, I made plans for a girlfriend from India to come over. I have 2 kg of organic fresh-picked apricots. It’s chutney season.

My Torah partner, Shari, and I met again last night to discuss the week’s Torah portion: Numbers 8-12. We discussed some current events as well and how the Scripture always seems relevant to our situation today. The Children of Israel are assembled and ready to venture forth into the Promised Land. The tribe of Judah/Yehudah always leads. Judah basically means “praise G-d” so praise goes before everything else. Something to remember.

Ch10:9 “And if you go to war in your land against the enemy that tries to destroy you, then you shall blow an alarm with the shofar; and you shall be remembered before the Lord your G-d, and you shall be saved from your enemies.”

Numbers 10:35 “Arise, o Lord, and let your enemies be scattered: and let them that hate you flee before you.”

It’s interesting that before any battle or any major operation (or before going into Gaza) the IDF soldiers pray. And Numbers10:35 is a main verse besides asking for His protection and His victory. I think it’s pretty cool that the modern army follows Torah so closely.

Two days ago, Prime Minister Netanyahu went to pray at the Western Wall with the President of Argentina, Javier Milei. Bibi placed a note in the wall that read “He shall rise like a lion and lift himself up like a king of beasts.” The military operation (all are named ) is called ‘Rising Lion’.

My other girlfriend from the States called to check up on us. To see if we were staying or leaving. If we’d been making plans or were ready. The news when she had awakened in California was less than hopeful. She was praying for Israel as were many members of her congregation.

I have a confession to make. John and I were pretty late to the game, but we’ve become absolutely addicted to the TV series, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” We’ve been binge watching for the past two weeks. Yes. There’s a lot of foul language, but so many parts of it remind me of my childhood – my favorite uncle’s garment factory on the lower East Side. The food. The music of the Barry Sisters. The resort hotels of the Borscht Belt, where my parents worked their way through university while on summer break. The names (Weissman is my last name). The clothes. The arguing. It’s my story, too, in a way. So last night we decided to get in the last three episodes of season 3 before bed. It was 1:40 when we finished, and I decided to take a sleeping pill so I could get in one last good night’s sleep before any fireworks started.

At exactly 3am, we were spooked out of bed by the loud (loud doesn’t even begin to come close, was the siren in our bedroom window?) siren. It was a bit different from the ‘incoming’ siren, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. I grabbed my phone and charger. John and the dog were marching down to the mammad. I decided to go out on the balcony to see what was up. Eerily quiet except for the blaring siren. Completely fogged in. Like milk. I could see nothing. Eeeewwwwww. Kinda creepy. No point staying out there, I began to head towards the stairs when both our phones let out this bansheeeeee waaaaiiiiilllll like we’ve never heard before. Pierce your eardrums wail. What the hell???

It was not the usual red alert. It was weird. The messages that were coming were all in Hebrew. No use now to sit and decipher. It’s off to the saferoom. Something big is up. About 20 minutes later, after hearing nothing, John went up to the bedroom. He had no desire for just hanging out waiting. He needed his sleep.

I went into the kitchen, scouring the internet for why this was happening. What was up. Something really big. We were soon to find out all schools and all unnecessary activities would be closed. No large gatherings. Stay close to a shelter. Extreme high alert elevation emergency no fooling around time. All things canceled. Stay home. The instructions started pouring in from Home Front Command. Then, our mayor came on and gave a talk about staying calm, everything was under control. Be prepared, and read all the alerts being given. Wow. We had just launched a surprise attack against Iran.

Israel launched the craziest pre-planned-to-a-tee attack on Iran’s nuclear capabilities. 61 days ago, Trump announced that Iran had 60 days to make a deal. After that, all bets would be off. Bibi and Trump had been playing this game that they were not at all on the same page and the US would not be a part of any strike. This night was Day 61 and BAM! Just had confirmation that 4 of the leading IRGC generals have been eliminated. Several nuclear facilities have been hit including the Nanatz Nuclear Facility. Wiped out. Mossad agents on the ground in Iran doing other targeted eliminations. Ballistic and nuclear capabilities are being taken down.

Israeli official report: Alongside extensive strikes by the Israeli Air Force, the Mossad led a series of counterterrorism operations deep inside Iran. These operations were designed to damage Iran’s strategic missile array and air defense capabilities. Major explosions rocked Tehran overnight. Israel is now preparing for a large-scale missile and drone retaliation from Iran.

Early this morning, the phone alert system went off again. About 8am. Stay close to shelters. All days activities canceled. Only necessary and emergency activity (Shopping for Shabbat?) Iran had launched over 100 drones towards Israel according to IDF spokesman, Gen. Effie Defrin (did I tell you how much I miss Daniel Hagai, our last IDF spokesman. Daniel. Come back!) IDF forces are actively engaged in intercepting the aerial threat…. I’m up watering the garden and picking tonight’s veg.

Oh….and this is super amazing. So there are people praying at the Western Wall, the Kotel 24/7. People are ALWAYS there at all hours of the night, in all weather, sending up their petitions. Interceding for Israel. Last night was no exception. After the sirens rang out throughout the country and it was announce the war had begun. several men began to blow their shofar. (Numbers 10:9 and recite the prayers. I have it on my army news feed. Its spine-tingling king in its Biblical veracity.

Now for the facts from today’s news:

The attack on Iran was preceded by a deception operation that included media and political components, both domestically and internationally, with the participation of various parties. Israel managed to surprise Iran with mind-blowing maneuvers.

Only a few secret partners jealously guarded the plan. As part of the deception plan, the Prime Minister’s spokesman distributed various announcements and briefings in the days leading up to the operation, among other things, in an attempt to influence the internal discourse in Israel and Iran.

Likewise, the Prime Minister’s office did not deny completely unfounded quotes supposedly from Netanyahu’s and Trump’s conversations (referring to the N12 report that Trump expressed opposition to the attack) on purpose, to project a public debate between Israel and the United States.

The goal was to make the Israelinpujblic and the Iranian leadership think that there would be no attack, and if there was, then not in the immediate future. This is out of fear that any information could ruin the surprise effect and the plan.

Now we are finding out the Tabriz airport has been taken out. The entire Iranian general staff and top nuclear scientists are reportedly eliminated in IDF strikes. air defense systems were wiped out. Radar installations and surface-to-are missiles have been destroyed. Israel has done this alone. Completely unaided, however, the some people in the US administration were in the loop. They had absolute coordination and understanding/cooperation of the US. The attack was a massive surprise. Israel couldn’t allow the world going on denying that Iran was not planning something.

Even yesterday he UN Security Council ruled that over the past 20 years they knew that the terror sponsor of the world was enriching uranium to make and use a nuclear weapon on Israel and the States. The Board of Governors of the Atomic Energy Agency censured Iran for the first time in two decades Thursday after it refused to work with inspectors. Iran immediately announce it would establish a third enrichment site and swap out its older centrifuges for more sophisticated ones. Israel had to take the action they did on a remarkable surprise attack, taking out scientists, government, military leaders, weapons sites, weapons launch sites. The next few days a lot more will happen. We will be getting a lot more news about what is occurring.

This is just the beginning. There is more to be done. Hopefully, this will be the time for the beautiful Iranian people to step up and take back their country. We have the expectation that Iran or any of its proxies will retaliate in the next few days. Which is why it is so important that Israel took the action it did.

“ I was briefed on the attacks in advance, no surprises, but the US is not militarily involved and hopes Iran will return to the negotiating table. We are waiting to see what the Iranian response will be, we will defend Israel if absolutely necessary.” – President Trump.

It is now just past 1 pm here. I’m behind on my Shabbat cleaning and cooking. Iran’s supreme leader, Khameni has just replaced the top military commanders. Russia, the EU, the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and other nations are calling out Israel in violation of international law. Israel shot down over 200 UAVs this morning. Netanyahu and Trump are playing 4D chess. “ After a successful salvo of opening strikes, we will achieve many more, with G-d’s help.” No civilians have been targeted. Only terrorists and their leaders.

Israel, under complete cover, spent years preparing for last night. This included….. get this one! Building a drone base inside Iran and smuggled precision weapons into the country. According to the official, Mossad agents set up a drone base on Iranian soil near Tehran. The drones were activated overnight,striking surface-to-surface missile launchers aimed at Israel. In addition, vehicles carrying weapons systems were smuggled into Iran. These systems took out Iran’s air defenses and gave Israeli planes air supremacy and freedom of action over Iran. The third effort was Mossad commandos deploying precision missiles near anti-aircraft sites in Iran.

Israel has issued a severe warning to all Jews and to all its citizens abroad all around the world to be extremely vigilant.

i24 NEWS has stated that the strikes on Iran ‘achieved something on a scale that cannot yet be described.’ The head of the IRGC’s Air Force Amir Alihajizadeh was eliminated along with the top chain of command as they convened in an emergency meeting in an underground command center. 24 of the most important people in the Iranian army were eliminated last night in what will become known as one of the most daring and unbelievable missions I. The history of war. Do I hear movies forthcoming????

Attacks from Iran are expected. During Shabbat.In the heat of the night. We pray that G-d will rise and our enemies be scattered.

I’ll be back soon- in the meantime, please pray for all of us as well as your own safety. Could be an interesting weekend.

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Posted on

June 11, 2025

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A Continuation: the Plight of the Christians

I last wrote about the difficult situation faced by Christians in the MidEast. The Druze fight back against their Muslim oppressors. The Christians either become martyrs, preferring not to make waves, but to try to live in hopes of peace and tolerance – or they escape to places they feel will be safer. And that is exactly what the Islamists want.

The Christians population of Bethlehem has been completely routed. It is now over 98%Muslim. The Christians are being chased out of Nazareth with both ‘Arab mafia’ threats and acts of violence to person, home and business as well as ‘softer violence.’ This northern Israeli city, once home to Israel’s second largest Christian population continues to sink into neglect. The Muslim mayor, Ali Salaam, must be fired.

Streets adjacent to the Basilica of the Annunciation are being flooded with trash, garbage bins are not being emptied and are overflowing, the city smells pungently horrific. On Sunday, the holy feast of Pentecost, city workers came and set fire to the trash heaps near the Greek Orthodox Church and the Catholic Basilica. Burning plastics and toxic fumes filled the alleys and the buildings of Christian homes and convents/monasteries nearby.

One of the Catholic priests narrates in Italian. You can get the gist of what he is saying

Saher K., is a multi-generational resident. His family has lived in Nazareth for over 16 generations. Saher stated, “We live in a dump. It’s just like that. It’s a health hazard. It’s a shame. And we are alone in the battle. Many are just giving up. We can no longer get the value back for our homes.”

The Archbishop, Rafik Nahra, the Orthodox clergy and other Baptist and evangelical pastors have complained to the Minister of Health and to the Minister of the Interior. Some of the recommendations included that the current mayor and all members of the city council be dismissed due to the ongoing neglect and violence. This is a highly unusual step for a head of state to act against local authorities, and the complaints have gone unheeded. Now the residents are giving up.

Last weekend billboards went up throughout Nazareth advertising snack foods. The posters, abusive advertisements published by the Palestinian company “Qasrawi” mock the Last Supper. Designed to be egregiously offensive to the Christian population, Jesus and his disciples appear in the form of sheep. The Eid-Al-Adha holiday is a sacrificial festival in which sheep (and other animals) are slaughtered by the Muslims. Would Muslims accept such an insult to their prophet Mohammed?

Over the past year, a new group has formed under the head of Retired IDF commanding officer, Lt. Col. (res) Ihab Shlayan. A patriotic Israeli citizen, Ihab has spent the past year trying to unite the wider body of 250,000 Christians in Israel under one flag, literally.

Lt. Col. IDF, Ihab Shlayan, Israeli Christian

The VOICE, or Voice of Israeli Christian Eagles is fighting back with words, legal action, petitions to the government, and unification of the different branches of Christians in Israel. They promote military service or a year of community service after high school graduation. They would like to have oversight of their own private religious education. The VOICE seek full recognition as Israeli Arabs by the State of Israel and representation at all levels of government, university, military and in social platforms.

Ihab Shlayan today, sent an official letter to the Minister of the Interior, members of Knesset, Minister of Health. It reads:

This is not Syria. It is not Iraq. And it is not Gaza.

This is Nazareth – the City of the Annunciation, the holy city of Christians – now neglected due to failed leadership of the Nazareth Municipality and lack of involvement by Israel’s Ministry of the Interior.

Members of the Christian community are calling on the Government of Israel to take responsibility, reclaim control, and liberate Nazareth from Arab political dominance, restoring proper governance, public safety and cleanliness to this sacred city for Christians.

With respect, Lt. Col. (Res.) Ihab Shlayan. Chairman, The Christian Voice Association

In the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem, a huge banner hangs in front of the Holy Sepulchre, the holiest place in the world to the Christian community. It reads in Arabic and in English “Jesus is a slave to Allah. ‘Jesus said: I am indeed a slave of Allah, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship him alone. Quran 3:51” It is in English so all the pilgrims can see it. This is the most important church in the Christian world, the site of the execution, burial and resurrection of Jesus. And of course, many years ago, a mosque was built right in front of the mosque. Visitors can hear the loud call to Islamic prayer five times a day within any part of the Holy Sepulchre building. This is a message to Christians from the Islamic institution.

Several months ago, the Muslims of Nazareth put up another banner. It is at the entrance to the Basilica Cathedral of the Annunciation. A shrine noted as the place where Mary was visited by the angel Gabriel, it is not only the largest church in the MidEast, but attracted millions of pilgrims each year (in the preCOVID days). Also, note that a large mosque with loudspeakers was built at the foot of the hill right down the street from the Cathedral. The imam of Nazareth can be heard making public addresses during their holy Mass services.

The State of Israel can no longer look away. The. Christian community in Israel is a generally peaceful one. They are our doctors and nurses. Most are highly educated. They run large businesses and serve the country patriotically. Sports coaches, restaurant and hotel owners, leaders and members of the Christian Scouts, engineers, and our friends. And they are being forced out by radical Islamists. This is not just Arab on Arab violence. It is a serious problem that must be addressed because it is spreading.

Not only is it spreading to our own community in Karmi’el and to cities throughout Israel, but is already posing major problems throughout Germany, the Netherlands, France, Spain, the UK…. and soon to be the US. It is not just a question of antisemitism or antizionism, but it is the soft conquering of Western civilization. The current rioting in Los Angeles and New York is a coming together of Marxists, Progressives, Socialists and radical Islamists. You can see by what they are wearing – their kheffiyehs, their headbands and black outfits. They are not trying to hide anything. It is not about deporting illegal immigrants. They are launching color revolutions throughout the Western world to overthrow the governments and the culture/heritage.

Please share this article with anyone who will listen. It is no longer a local problem.

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twdunbar2015

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June 9, 2025

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The Plight of Christians in the MidEast

When I started this blog, I had decided to stay away from anything political, contentious and anything that would possibly offend or be misconstrued. I shied away from all the elephants in the room, not wanting to ignite a firestorm. I have received beautiful letters of solidarity and friendship from many of my readers along with personal texts and emails. On the other hand, I have chosen to delete several messages from “trolls” who are either antithetical to Zionism (the belief that Jewish have the right to return to their ancient and ancestral homeland), to the Jewish faith and to Israel’s position to fight against evil and terrorism militarily.

The Israeli Defense Forces are not just fighting an existential war against terror and evil to protect the Jewish nation, but they realize they fight to protect other ethnicities, innocent civilians, both within Israel and abroad. So in the next article or two, I hope to address the elephant in the room. The Christians in Israel and Syria who are being heavily persecuted by the radical Islamists.

Christians in Israel make up about 5% of the population. They are divided mostly into Eastern/GreekOrthodox (Melkite); Latin/Roman Catholics and Maronites; Arameans; with a smattering of Anglican, Baptist and other believing sects. The majority are Arabic speakers. Many are indigenous to this land, the original Christians; others are refugees from persecution in Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan and other Middle Eastern countries.

Bethlehem in Judaea is the birthplace of Jesus, the second holiest site in Christianity. The city was 98% Christian just two decades ago. It lies in the mostly Palestinian part of what is called the West Bank, just about 8 miles from Jerusalem as the crow flies. Jewish people holding Israeli passports are not allowed entrance to this territory without a special tourist permit. Today the Christians total less than 2% of the total population, most of them being clerics.

The Muslims who live in this once Christian area have what we call their own “mafia.” They impose large taxes –jizzia or protektzia – upon small the Christians – mostly multi-generational, family owned business, artisans and sellers of religious objects, restaurants, cafes and hotels in return for having no harm come to their places of livelihood, homes or family members. It is extortion followed by violence.

Unfortunately, this all too often has gone unseen or has been couched under “Arab on Arab violence” and has not been curtailed by Israel or the Palestinian Authority. In addition, as Christian families flee for safer cities within Israel or abroad, the Muslims move in. Because of the newer, Muslim majority, Palestinians who are unfavorable towards Israel, more radical Muslim mayors have been elected. The Israeli Jews seem to be too busy fighting other wars to address this serious problem.

The radical Islamists even seem to have sway over the different Bethlehem churches. At Christmas celebrations, since the tourism has sharply declined from the time of the pandemic to today, Christmas celebrations have been curtailed or cancelled by the local authorities. Lights displays are no more. Christmas trees in the town square have been replaced by martyrs trees (decorations are the faces of Palestinian terrorists eliminated by the IDF while committing an attack). Traditional nativity scenes have been replaced by displays of “Christ in the Rubble,” a political statement. Negative propaganda put out against ‘the occupation’ by the Churches are part of the protektzia. Look it up. See for yourself. Martyrs tree, Bethlehem. Christ in the rubble.

We live in the Northern part of Israel, the gorgeous and mostly peaceful Galilee region. Small Jewish kibbutzim and moshavim and medium sized towns are being surrounded by an ever-growing Muslim presence. Our city is less than a half and hour drive from Nazareth. This city, most famously known as the place where Mary was visited by an angel and where Mary, Joseph and Jesus lived and worked as an observant Jewish family of carpenters, is another one of the holiest sites for Christians worldwide. The largest Catholic Basilica Cathedral in the Middle East, the Church of the Annunciation, is located in the heart of Nazareth. In Israel. The city also has a large Orthodox presence, centered around Mary’s well. In 2010, Nazareth was 99% Christian.

Nazareth received most of its income from Christian tourism. There are more convents and monasteries in Nazareth than any other Israeli cities outside Jerusalem. They used to be beautiful, welcoming places. Now, most are hidden behind tall, barb-wire topped walls for protection. In Nazareth, too, the Islamists have taken over. Threats against Christian businesses have become commonplace. Targeted killings have occurred since 7 October. Unfortunately, Israel expects the local governing bodies to police their own towns, but the mayor of Nazareth is now Muslim. For the past several years, the Christmas celebrations have either been curtailed or cancelled altogether. (Nazareth also boasted the largest Christmas tree in the MidEast with Christmas markets and parades.)

Large concrete walls throughout the city have been painted with Palestinian flags, swastikas, slogans against the “occupation,” and pictures of the martyrs, aka eliminated terrorists. They are often whitewashed, only to reappear, making the city a most unwelcoming place for non-Muslims. John and I personally know families from Nazareth who have left for our pluralistic, safer-feeling cities like Haifa, Karmi’el and the Kryot and for immigration to Canada and the United States. One family who we know, left without a word one weekend, after receiving numerous death threats. We still have no idea where they went.

Until the last five years, there were Christian majority Northern Israeli towns: Shefaram, Deir Hanna, Deir Al Assad, and Ibillin. Here, too, these towns are facing the same predicament. The “Arab mafia” has moved in. As an interesting aside, the word Deir, is Aramaic, for monastery. These towns from the 4th century once centered around ancient Byzantine Churches supported by the indigenous Christian population. Deir Hanna is the Monastery of St. John. Deir Al Assad, is the monastery of the lion, or St. Mark’s Monastery. The Muslim Arab population who moved in did not bother to change the original Christian name of the town. There is the clue, the reminder.

The problem of Islamic persecution of Christians is not just a phenomenon in Israel. It has happened throughout the Middle East. Entire countries have persecuted and killed and expelled almost their entire Jewish and Christian populations: Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Just this past week the Egyptian government took over all property rights to St. Catherine’s Monastery in the Sinai.

Located at the foot of Mt Sinai , it is the oldest, continually inhabited Christian monastery in the world. Founded in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinian, St. Catherine’s is home to some of the most ancient icons, relics and manuscripts. The Greek Orthodox monks have preserved the spiritual integrity of the site for over 1500 years. The monastery is said to be built around the burning bush of Moses/Exodus fame. It is now part of Egypt’s public domain. They have also appropriated 73 smaller Christian sites surrounding.

Because it has been a site for pilgrims from throughout the world, the government is considering turning this into a resort tourist area. Since 1980, the monastery has submitted documents of ownership for the 74 places including receipts, land rights and tax documents. The state has refused to recognize any of this. The monks are now being ordered to pay rent for use of the properties. The monks yesterday, Pentecost Sunday (the birthday of the Church) closed their doors to any and all outsiders. See Acimena.com for more information.

In Syria, the new rebel government that ousted Assad are now seen to be the ‘good guys.’ Formerly one of the heads of alQaeda, the new Syrian president has labeled himself a moderate and recently has had a seat at the world’s negotiating tables. This past week has seen Syrian Islamic terrorists going from village to village murdering Christians and Druze. Local sources confirm massacres in minority communities. Young women are being raped and taken against their will. Entire villages are being emptied and burned in areas of southern Syria near the Israeli border.

In response, Israel has launched targeted airstrikes aimed at stopping the attackers and preventing further atrocities. The international community has said nothing about this Syrian Islamic extremist violence against vulnerable religious minorities. We ALL must demand coverage by the press, truth from the international arena and accountability from the Syrians.

Nigeria has been hard hit as Islamist radicals are wiping out entire villages of Christians. These are actual genocides as complete and targeted minority populations are being massacred. Women and children beheaded. Congregants bolted into their churches as they gathered for Mass. Last week, Fr. Alphonse’s Alina, Nigerian pastor of Catholic Church in Fairbanks, Alaska returned home for a visit. His Mass was attended by over 200 people. While traveling to another village in the northern part of the country, Fr Alphonse’s was kidnapped by the jihadists group, Boko Haram. They desire to see Nigeria turned into an Islamic state, and the current government is doing nothing. Bishop Steven Maekawa has asked for continued prayer for the father’s safe release.

This Islamist jihadi madness is not localized in Israel (think from the River to the Sea chanters). Paris was overtaken on Saturday once again by thousands of Muslims at prayer around the Eiffel Tower. Tourists had no access. This occurred after riotous jihadists burned tired and cars and broke windows throughout the city just nights prior. Innocent women passengers were pulled out of cars and raped. Stores were broken into and looted and buildings and monuments grafittied. All this to further the freeing of Palestine.

London is a nightmare. Marchers, demonstrators, a literal infiltration into the highest of government offices are part and parcel of the agenda. Today, on the streets of Brussels, Belgium a dramatic reenactment was held of the 7 October massacre in Israel. Blood and bodies on the ground and people staging the kidnappings. All to the background of French music and keffiyeh covered “actors.” There are similar weekly demonstrations throughout Europe. Truly the Intifada (aka wipe out Israel and the Jews) is being globalized. Los Angeles riots throughout the weekend show not only a protest against ICE and deportation of illegals but a stand of solidarity with Gaza. It’s time to wake up, people….

As an aside, I’ve spent the last hour scouring YouTube for footage of these events. Footage I saw just this morning. As soon as a video showing pro-Palestinian rioting or violence is posted, it is taken down. Apologies for this. I shall continue my search-

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Posted on

June 3, 2025

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Feeding Frenzy War Stories-Day 606. 3 June, 2025

Two and a half weeks ago, a man was eaten alive by sharks in the Mediterranean off the coast of Hadera. It was a feeding frenzy. A horrific story. The man supposedly entered the water knowing the sharks were there and wanting to see them up close. Some say he was there to feed them. And that he did.

There has been a lot of false information fed to the mainstream media by the Gaza Health Ministry since the beginning of the war. The journalists eat it all up without even the slightest attempt to verify. The BBC, CNN, MSNBC, the Guardian, NPR, Le Monde and many others. Tablet Magazine calls one such meal “The Great Famine Hoax or how a fake humanitarian crisis became the West’s most effective weapon for saving Hamas.”

It started while IDF troops were still amassing on the ground, even before they entered the Gaza Strip in 2023. The propaganda was always shifting to ensure the survival of the terrorists. As early as 16 October, 2023, barely a week after the Hamas incursion into Israel, the World Health Organization and Gaza Health Ministry put out a false claim that because Israel had cut off all water and power a looming humanitarian catastrophe was imminent. Thousands of innocent civilians would die.

Israel has continued to agree to let aid in the form of food, water, tents, medicine, clothing, blankets and hygiene items into Gaza since the beginning of the war. It is the only time in history when one country feeds and offers humanitarian assistance to the enemy it is fighting. From the get-go, the Hamas terrorists have commandeered the trucks, often shooting the drivers, always at gunpoint, and pirated the food and aid away from civilians to their vast warehouses. They, in turn, sell the goods at exorbitant prices to the innocent civilians. It funds their war chest. They also hold the aid ransom for allegiance to their organization.

Israel has just allowed in more tons of supplies, this time with the proviso that an American security group would organize and distribute the boxes at a designated high security site. So what are the problems now? It’s about the labels. The labels are in Hebrew, from Israeli factories like Osem and Sugat. You see, now “the Jews (who control everything) are being accused of profiteering from feeding the Gazans.” Go figure. It’s never about the truth. Or the innocents. Or aid. Only hate. Because feeding hungry Gazans Israeli food is just as bad as a complete famine. And so it goes.

The irony is that seeing pictures of the Gazans as they crowd into city squares for hostage releases or to retrieve their comestibles, none of the people seem emaciated. The reality is that those who are truly starving are the Israelis that have been held captive for over 600 days. After they are released from their subterranean tunnels where they are held in cages – all report that they are fed one-half a stale pita a day, rancid water, and sometimes a handful of rice.

As the aid was being delivered over the past week, Hamas executed four of the Gazans for “attempting to steal the aid.” What does this mean? That civilians reached the trucks before Hamas did. Of course, it was blamed on the IDF, who “ target civilians.” Thousands of Gazans have flocked to the aid centers, defying Hamas orders.

At first, the humanitarian zone was breached by stampeding Gazans, who began stealing the boxes filled with flour, oil, sugar, tuna, pasta, rice, canned goods, biscuits and dried beans. The newly hired American team was, at first, unprepared for the onslaught and retreated. IDF helicopters flew in to disperse the growing crowd and it was said the IDF opened fire. This was false news. Over the past week, the US organization has fortified its distribution bases and is now insuring over 900,000 boxes are being distributed to unarmed civilians.

Why is this significant? Despite, Hamas’ attempts to prevent the population from reaching the distribution sites, it is failing and the terrorists are losing the war. Their military capabilities are all but gone. Sure, it fires off a rocket or two into Israel, but their fighting ability is growing weaker. They are last ditch efforts. In precision targeted strikes, Israel has eliminated all of the top Hamas commanders. Their military infrastructure is being decimated. Public sentiment in Gaza is shifting towards the United States….and Israel, further undermining Hamas’ control.

Over the last week, President Trump has sent Steve Witcoff to various locations in the Middle East to broker a “deal.” A ceasefire in exchange for the release of the 58 remaining hostages. Both Netanyahu and Trump have declared a deal forthcoming – a matter of hours. Each time it has been Israel who has signed off on the ceasefire and Hamas who has rejected the terms. This remains the only ‘genocide’ in the history of war where the ‘victims’ refuse to end it.

The Hamas plan called for 10 hostages to be set free in two stages: 5 living on Day One and 5 bodies to be returned in exchange for a 7 year ceasefire. The plan also included full IDF withdrawal from the Strip, and unrestricted humanitarian aid supplied by the UN. They have called for an Iranian backed governing body to oversee the rebuilding of Gaza. Nope. No way Israel would agree to these terms.

France and the UAE seem bent on recognizing a Palestinian state within the official borders of Israel. It seems as if the UK will also go along with this. In response, a majority of Israelis (mostly religious) are pushing for Israel to recognize complete sovereignty over Judaea and Samaria (the West Bank).

Two weeks ago, I had reported on a car attack in Samaria. A young couple was on their way to the hospital to deliver their third child when their car was ambushed by local Palestinians. Gunshot sprayed into the oncoming vehicle. Tzela Gaz, the mom, was killed. Her baby delivered by C-section and immediately brought to NICU. He was put on life support, as he had been deprived of oxygen for almost a half an hour. The father, who survived the attack, named the baby Ravid Chaim.

Here’s where the story gets a little strange. The mother always loved the name Ravid, but it was similar to Lavi, her older son’s name. Plus, Ravid, in Hebrew means really expensive, like an expensive piece of jewelry. The husband did not love this name choice, but Tzela really wanted it. The baby was between life and death all the time, and the rabbi decided he should have a name before the circumcision as people wanted to pray for him. So the little one was given the name Ravid Chaim. Chaim meaning ‘life.’

That Shabbat, the army was in the village where the attack originated. It is a very dangerous village, filled with terror cells. One person planning, one group smuggling weapons, one group carrying out the attack. There were a lot of people involved. The IDF was able to zero in on the perpetrator who started to scream “Allahu akbar.” All the dots were connected and the IDF got the positive ID of the killer. The commander of the IDF operation verified, chased him down to catch him and kill him. Why was this so crazy? The commander’s name….Ravid Chaim. A bizarre set of circumstances.

Very very sadly, little Ravid Chaim died last Wednesday. He was just 15 days old. Not one international media organization carried any of this story that I am aware of. Two truly innocent lives stolen. The funeral was held on Thursday. The newborn was buried. This is not normal…

The new Israeli weapons system developed by Raphael Defense Technologies is called Iron Beam. It’s a directed energy laser system that can take out incoming missiles and drones. Used successfully against Hizbulla drones last September, it only costs about $5 USD as opposed to thousands of dollars per interception as does Iron Dome. This is an exciting game changer. Already, several countries have come forth and offered to buy this technology from Israel. Plus, this is way more accurate than the older Iron Dome anti-missile missiles. So for all those conspiracy theorists out there, yes. The Jews actually do have space lasers. And yes, it’s literally in our back yard.

Day 603 and Hamas rejected yet another ceasefire proposal. David Levi (I do not yet have a photo), only 19 years old, was working as a private contractor for a security company working in Gaza. He was killed last Friday, but is not officially recognized as an IDF casualty of was even though he is an Israeli citizen. More investigation to follow. We woke up this morning to the sad news that three more young IDF soldiers, all age 20, were killed in a roadside ambush. They are, Staff Sergeants, Lior Steinberg and Ofer Barhana, both paramedics. And Omer vanGelder, all of the Givati Unit. May their memories be for a blessing to all.

And today, in an attempt to smear Israel, the international media are reporting a massacre at an aid distribution center. Red Crescent, the equivalent of the Red Cross was the source. It never happened. Not even close. They are reporting that at least 21 innocent people have been shot by Israeli troops. 175 are severely injured. Again, immediate count and reporting by Gaza Health Ministry. CCTV footage has just been released from the time of the alleged shooting at the Rafah distribution site. This is what the camera shows. And this is what GHF (Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a US team) reports as a back up: 15,360 food packages were delivered calmly and safely. 900,000 meals provided in total in one day. The boxes went directly to the civilians, Hamas was unable to steal it.

A Hamas fake account online which spread its news to the international media also accused IDF soldiers of opening fire on humanitarian relief sites in Rafah, killing dozens. Even Opposition leader, Naftali Bennet refuted the fact that shots were fired at all. Hamas executed by hanging 2 IDF collaborators. 11 public executions by firing squad. They even posted the video, but no media has picked up that story.

The GHF has become a game changer. The more aid that comes in and goes to the people, the louder the fake news. Gaza is losing control.

And to top off all this news, Greta Thunberg is sailing in her little humanitarian flotilla today. Destination Gaza. “I’m coming to Gaza help the people of Palestine. Let’s hope she encounters no hungry sharks en route….

Israel Dreams

"When G-d will return the captivity of Zion, we will be like dreamers. Then our mouths will be filled with laughter and our tongues with glad song." Psalm 126

Category Archives: Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

A Spirit of Division. 30 June, 2025

The Wrap-Up. War Stories. Day 628. 25 June, 2025

It’s Not Over Yet. 😩 War Stories. Don’t even know how many days

We’re Fine. Really. War update. 22 June, 2025

Close Calls and the Miraculous. War Stories. Day 621/7. 19 June, 2025

The Hasbara Edition. War Update. Day 620. or Day 5. 17 June, 2025

In the Heat of the Night. Day 616. War Stories Friday the 13th, 2025

A Continuation: the Plight of the Christians

The Plight of Christians in the MidEast

Feeding Frenzy War Stories-Day 606. 3 June, 2025

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