Peace Talks

A potential ceasefire is again the talk of Gaza.

Reports late Saturday indicated that Hamas had dropped its key demand that Israel agree up-front to a permanent end to the fighting, saying it would allow negotiators to work towards that during the first phase. Phase 1 includes a six-week ceasefire and the release of some hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

By Sunday, those reports were already being contested. Some officials said Hamas had not dropped the demand; others said Hamas was waiting on a response from Israel. 

Yesterday marked nine months since the war began, and Israelis have mixed views: 39% say the response has “been about right,” 34% say it has “not gone far enough,” 19% say it’s “gone too far,” and 7% “don’t know.”

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CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
War is a heavy burden that impresses upon us our world’s need for restoration. Jesus came to bear that burden of sin, lighten our load, and restore our world. Pray that the Middle East would experience that restoration and glorify the Messiah Jesus. 

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28–30 (CSB) (read full passage)