In a discussion held at the last National Religious Broadcasters Association ("NRB") Convention in Nashville, Christian media-creators stationed in Israel -- CBN News' Chris Mitchell, ICEJ President, Dr. Jurgen Buhler,
and author/journalist Joel Rosenberg -- discussed the complex realities of the ongoing conflict in
Israel, contrasting Israel's military actions aimed at protecting Palestinian
civilians with Hamas's disregard for civilian safety.
The discussion, held before a packed ballroom, was moderated by Billy Hallowell, a host and interviewer for Faithwire and CBN News.
The reporters' recount harrowing
personal stories from the violence, emphasizing the brutal attacks on October 7
and the ensuing desperation of those trying to rescue loved ones amidst chaos.
The speakers highlight the ideological battle, noting that Hamas's goals extend
beyond territorial claims to a broader aim of subjugating non-Islamic nations,
and express concern about the radicalization of youth in the West supporting
such ideologies. They stress the importance of international cooperation for
securing hostage releases, reflect on the emotional toll on Israeli families,
and underscore a rising openness to faith discussions despite the ongoing
strife. The conversation concludes with calls for sustained U.S. support for
Israel, the critical need for prayer amidst uncertainty, and an acknowledgment
of the profound spiritual impact the crisis has had on the Israeli populace,
who are increasingly seeking spiritual solace during these tumultuous
times.
Dr. Jurgen Buhler spoke with us after the session (which we summarize after this interview video).
- 00:00 The
speakers discuss Israel's military actions and the contrasting behavior of
Hamas during the ongoing conflict. They emphasize that Israel takes
measures to protect Palestinian civilians, such as issuing warnings and
sending leaflets before military operations, while Hamas actively places
civilians in danger and disregards their safety. The speakers paint a
stark picture of the atrocities committed by Hamas, describing horrific
violence on October 7 that included indiscriminate killings and extreme
brutality. They recall a story about a family forced to hide in a bomb
shelter, emphasizing the inadequacies of these shelters against the actual
threat posed by invading terrorists. Additionally, the speakers illustrate
the desperation of loved ones attempting to rescue family members amidst
the chaos.
- 5:00 The speakers share intense personal accounts from the recent violence involving
Hamas and Israelis, highlighting a couple who, while under threat, help others
escape a dire situation and later find themselves in the midst of combat. They
discuss the ideology behind the conflict, emphasizing that Hamas's goal is not
merely about territory but a broader mission to subjugate non-Islamic nations.
The conversation also touches upon the troubling
response to the violence seen in Western college campuses, where
pro-Palestinian sentiments echo support for Hamas, raising concerns about
the radicalization of youth globally. The speakers stress the importance
of Israel receiving unwavering support from the United States and advocate
for a firm stance against negotiating with terrorists to prevent further
emboldenment of extremist movements worldwide.
-
10:00 The
discussion centers around the urgency for Israel to negotiate the release
of hostages taken by Hamas during the recent conflict, highlighting the
collective pressure within Israel to bring all hostages home. Participants
emphasize the need for coordinated international efforts, particularly
through partnerships with the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, to secure their
release. They reflect on the complex situation stemming from the surprise
attack on October 6, which undermined Israeli security and illustrates the
tactical challenges posed by Hamas, including their extensive network of
tunnels throughout Gaza. The conversation underscores both the
humanitarian imperative to free those kidnapped and the strategic
necessity of addressing the broader security concerns within the region.
- 15:00 The
speakers share their experience of visiting a site in Gaza where hostages
were held, reflecting on the emotional impact of witnessing the conditions
and the presence of evil as they prayed for the hostages' freedom. Joel
Rosenberg recalls taking communion in a highly charged atmosphere of
conflict, highlighting the surreal contrast between their faith and the
ongoing violence surrounding them. The discussion pivots to the Western
response to the current situation in Israel, with Dr. Buhler noting an
initial wave of support from various political groups that later seems to
wane under pressure from the Islamic world, leading to concerns about
long-term support for Israel amidst calls for a ceasefire and a
Palestinian state, while expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of
the Palestinian Authority's governance.
- 20:00 The
discussion focuses on the emotional and spiritual toll of the ongoing
conflict on Israeli families, particularly those with children serving in
the military. Jurgen Buhler shares his concern for his two sons, one
stationed in Gaza, and reflects on the shared experience of anxiety and
fear faced by many Israeli families. He expresses the deep need for global
support and prayer for the Jewish people and the Palestinian population
suffering under Hamas. A story is shared about an encounter that brought
peace to a mother worried for her son, bolstered by dreams of divine
protection, highlighting the importance of faith and community support
during such challenging times. The speaker emphasizes that prayer has
played a critical role in their lives and the lives of soldiers,
recounting miraculous moments of safety amidst danger, while calling for
continued global prayer for Israel and its people.
- 25:00 The
discussion highlights the profound impact of the current conflict in
Israel, describing it as the nation's darkest hour since 1948, with many
believers actively supporting their country in various capacities.
Individuals and families are struggling with uncertainty, yet there is a
growing openness to conversations about faith and spirituality, especially
around the figure of Jesus. Many efforts are underway to provide
humanitarian aid and strengthen local churches, emphasizing the unusual
spiritual openness among Israelis to consider faith in Jesus as the
Messiah. The speakers call for prayer on multiple fronts, including the
safety of soldiers, the return of hostages, and the spiritual well-being
of countless Israelis who are grappling with existential fears. They also
stress the importance of U.S. support for Israel in the context of the
current political landscape and the moral imperative of blessing Israel as
outlined in biblical texts.
- 30:00 The
discussion highlights ongoing political tensions and the significant
decisions Israel faces regarding the situation in Rafa and potential
conflicts in the northern regions, particularly concerning the Iranian
nuclear threat. The importance of vigilance, likened to the "Watchman
on the wall" from Isaiah 62, is emphasized, urging that prayer and
support for Jerusalem should continue until it becomes a source of praise
throughout the world. The panelists' insights underline the urgency and
complexity of the geopolitical landscape, concluding with applause for
their contributions.
