In recent weeks, the Middle East has witnessed dramatic military escalation and an equally surprising pause. After the U.S. launched precision airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, following Iran’s support for a multi-front assault on Israel, an uneasy ceasefire has taken hold. Despite fears of region-wide retaliation, Iran’s response was muted, and its allied militias remained largely inactive. What was long feared as a trigger for all-out war has, for now, revealed the limits of Iran’s power.

The conflict began brewing after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel. Iran openly supported Hamas and Hezbollah, prompting Israeli and U.S. strikes that dismantled key elements of Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure. Iran’s expected allies; Russia, China, and North Korea, offered no tangible support. In fact, nations like China called for de-escalation, highlighting the fragility of so-called anti-Western alliances.

Though military action proved effective in neutralizing threats, it’s not a long-term solution. Both Israel and the United States must now engage diplomatically to prevent Iran from rebuilding its nuclear capabilities. The upcoming expiration of international sanctions in October presents a key window: Iran must return to compliance or face renewed sanctions and further isolation.

There are tentative hopes for a ceasefire in Gaza and revived diplomatic momentum potentially expanding the Abraham Accords and promoting regional cooperation. However, these efforts hinge on securing hostages and restoring stability in Gaza.

From a biblical worldview, these events underscore two truths: the volatility of earthly powers and the Lord’s unchanging sovereignty. While military might may restrain evil for a season, only the Prince of Peace can bring lasting peace. As Israel defends itself and nations reassess their alliances, believers are called to pray earnestly, faithfully - for God’s hand to move amid the shaking.

Prayer Pointers

1. Pray: that peace will be pursued through diplomacy, not just deterrence, and that leaders seek God's justice over political gain.
2. Pray: for the Lord to protect believers in Iran and Israel and strengthen their bold witness during this time of upheaval.
3. Pray: for the softening of hardened hearts among leaders, that they may respond to conviction and turn toward peace with humility.

Prayer – Prayer for the Church and those in Leadership

Lord, restrain the hand of the violent and raise up peacemakers. Turn leaders’ hearts toward truth, humility, and justice. Strengthen Your church in the Middle East to shine brightly, even in shadows. Let peace take deeper root. Amen.

Watch / Listen / Meditate to ‘The Lord is My Shepherd’ sung by Carolyn Hyde

“The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.”
 - Proverbs 21:1 (ESV)

More: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/30/politics/iran-israel-military-success-path-diplomacy-analysis