The Holy Land

Watchdog Alert: Who Are The Palestinians?

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In light of the most recent events in the Middle East surrounding a ceasefire and potential long-term peace deal between Israel and Gaza, I wanted to revisit a blog post I did in March of this year which highlights a very interesting and informative article published recently on the Jewish Press website by Dr. Harold Rhode titled “Most Palestinian Families Come from Immigrants from the Past Two Centuries“.

Here are a few excerpts from his piece.

“Prior to 1948, the date when the Jewish state was re-established, practically the only people who referred to themselves as Palestinians were the Jews who lived there. The others there, mainly Muslim Arabs, referred to themselves as Muslims.” 

“…The modern Palestinian identity was largely invented in 1964, when the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) was created.”

“…By the 19th century, much of what is now the West Bank and Gaza was sparsely populated and underdeveloped. Travelers such as Mark Twain and former U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant described the region as barren and largely uninhabited. These accounts, written without political bias, provide insight into the state of the land before the demographic shifts that followed.”

And in his conclusion to the article, Dr. Rhode states: “The historical connections between the people of Gaza, the West Bank and British Mandate Palestine are complex—shaped by centuries of migration, trade and political shifts. They are not one people, but a hodge-podge of peoples with no prior connection to pre-1948 Palestine, who settled there during the past two centuries.”

The biblical history of the region is clear – the land and the blessing were given to Abraham and his seed through Isaac by God’s covenant.

Genesis 17:18-21 (KJV) – 18 And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee!

19 And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.

20 And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.

21 But my covenant will I establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear unto thee at this set time in the next year.

They Said It: Israel/Gaza Ceasefire

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Bible Rebel continues to keep a watchdog’s eye on events in the Middle East and around the globe, bringing the latest news summaries to our readers. 

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres

“The United Nations will support the full implementation of the agreement and will scale up the delivery of sustained and principled humanitarian relief … He urged all parties ‘to seize this momentous opportunity to establish a credible political path forward towards ending the occupation, recognizing the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people, and achieving a two-state solution that enables Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security.” AJC

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer

“I welcome the news that a deal has been reached on the first stage of President Trump’s peace plan for Gaza … This is a moment of profound relief that will be felt all around the world, but particularly for the hostages, their families, and for the civilian population of Gaza.” VOZ News

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

“I extend my heartfelt greetings to my Palestinian brothers and sisters who have endured indescribable suffering for two years … We thank the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, who worked with us to make this Historic and Unprecedented Event happen.” AJC

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

“This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace … With God’s help we will bring them all home.” L’Orient Today

Watchdog Alert: UN Endorses Two-State Solution

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Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on events from around the world of interest to people of faith and brings that content to our readers.

Here’s some of the latest from UN action on issues in Israel and the Middle East.

Reuters reports that, “The United Nations General Assembly on Friday overwhelmingly voted to endorse a declaration outlining “tangible, timebound, and irreversible steps” towards a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians ahead of a meeting of world leaders.”

The declaration was proposed and advocated for by France and Saudi Arabia according to a previous report from Reuters.

They Said It: Four Famous Quotes On The Founding Of Modern Israel

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Regardless of what one my think about the purity of the Jewish bloodline today, the founding of the modern state of Israel in 1948 was a remarkable historic event.

Here are some quotes from some of the leaders of the time who witnessed and were part of that history.

David Ben-Gurion, May 14, 1948 (Declaration of Independence):
“The State of Israel will be open for Jewish immigration and for the Ingathering of the Exiles; it will foster the development of the country for the benefit of all its inhabitants; it will be based on freedom, justice and peace as envisaged by the prophets of Israel.”

    Chaim Weizmann, 1948 (first President of Israel):
    “Miraculously, the Jewish people have survived through the centuries, and now, with the establishment of the State of Israel, we have returned to our rightful home.”

      Harry S. Truman, May 14, 1948 (U.S. recognition of Israel):
      “I had faith in Israel before it was established; I have faith in it now. I believe it has a glorious future before it—not just another sovereign nation, but as an embodiment of the great ideals of our civilization.”

        Golda Meir (reflecting on 1948):
        “When peace comes, we will perhaps in time be able to forgive the Arabs for killing our sons, but it will be harder for us to forgive them for having forced us to kill their sons.”

        Watchdog Alert: Middle East Update

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        Bible Rebel continues to keep a watchdog’s eye on events in the Middle East and around the globe, bringing the latest news summaries to our readers.

        Iran Faces Existential Choice Between Diplomacy and Defiance

        Following a brief but intense 12-day conflict in June 2025—marked by Israeli and U.S. airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites—Iran’s leadership finds itself weighing a critical decision. Internal consensus appears to be shifting toward renewed nuclear diplomacy with the U.S., deemed essential for regime survival amid economic struggles, power blackouts, and public unrest. Hardline resistance remains strong, and external threats loom if Iran resumes uranium enrichment.
        From Reuters.

        Israeli Military Plans Major Gaza Operation Amid Intensifying Conflict

        On August 13, 2025, Israel’s chief of staff approved the core strategy for a new Gaza offensive, intensifying tensions with Prime Minister Netanyahu. The conflict has escalated into Gaza City, with allegations of scorched-earth tactics and civilian casualties—at least 25 people were killed while seeking aid. Meanwhile, international debate unfolds over post-war governance: Hamas has hinted at relinquishing control to a technocratic body, while the Palestinian Authority insists on authority in Gaza conditional on Hamas’ disarmament.
        From The Guardian.

        Australia Endorses French–Saudi Peace Plan, Backs Palestinian State Recognition

        Australia has publicly supported a French–Saudi peace initiative aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict and announced its intent to formally recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly. The plan, also backed by the UK and the Arab League, stresses disarmament of Hamas and the release of hostages. However, Saudi Arabia insists on significant Israeli concessions before normalizing relations, making implementation challenging.
        From The Australian.

        Middle East Crude Oil Benchmarks Spike Amid Russia Tensions

        Spot premiums for major Middle Eastern crude benchmarks—Oman, Dubai, and Murban—have climbed, driven by growing U.S. threats toward Russia. Markets are responding to the heightened geopolitical instability and potential supply risks, with Arab Gulf oil alternatively gaining in global value amid rising uncertainty.
        From TradingView.

        Watchdog Alert: Conflict And War Update

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        Bible Rebel continues to keep a watchdog’s eye on wars and conflicts around the globe, bringing the latest news summaries to our readers.

        Israel Declares Plan to Reoccupy Gaza

        On August 7, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced intentions for Israel to take full military control of the Gaza Strip—marking a potential reoccupation since the 2005 withdrawal—pending Security Cabinet approval. The shift comes amid failed ceasefire efforts and escalating civilian casualties, with over 61,000 Palestinians reportedly killed since the conflict’s onset.
        From The AP

        U.S.-Brokered Peace Corridor in South Caucasus

        Also on August 7, 2025, the U.S. reached a landmark peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The deal secures exclusive U.S. development rights over a crucial transit corridor through the region, dubbed the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity” (TRIPP), and signals a move toward dissolving the Minsk Group framework.
        From Reuters

        Ukraine-Russia War: Trump–Putin Meeting Looms as Zelenskyy Excluded

        Recent developments in the Ukraine–Russia war spotlight a potential meeting between President Trump and President Putin, likely hosted in the UAE. However, the Kremlin indicated that Ukrainian President Zelenskyy will not be included under current conditions—raising concerns about sidelining Kyiv in ceasefire talks.
        From The Guardian

        U.S. Pushes Lebanon to Disarm Hezbollah—Diplomatic Tensions Rise

        The U.S. is intensifying pressure on Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah, prompting doubts about its effectiveness and long-term risks. Analysts warn that pressing Lebanon too quickly could undermine the fragile state-building process and lead to dangerous political repercussions.
        From The Guardian

        Watchdog Alert: Wars And Rumors Of Wars

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        Here is Jesus, in Matthew 24:6-7, teaching his disciples about the end times. But also encouraging them to ‘see that ye be not troubled’.

        “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” (KJV)

        Much of what our Lord was prophesying here had to do with the coming destruction of Jerusalem and the Jewish Temple, which would happen within 40 years or so of this prophesy and his imminent death and resurrection.

        However there is no reason not to consider that he was also making a double prophecy, which is fairly common in the Bible, extending the meaning here to also warn of the time immediately preceding the Final Judgement, which is still future as of this blog post.

        Let’s remember, though, that people and nations in all times and places have experienced wars, famine, earthquakes, and pestilence. This prophecy is referring to a specific people in a specific place and time(s)- the people are those disciples living in the place, Jerusalem and Judea, at the time preceding the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD and also in some future time right before The End.

        Even so, as watchdogs living in this time and place we should always keep our ears tuned ‘rumors of wars’ and be aware of the seasons of God’s plans and purposes.

        So here is a brief recap of some of the international war news happening right now.

        U.N. Security Council Calls for Peaceful Dispute Resolution

        On July 22, 2025, the U.N. Security Council adopted a Pakistan‑drafted resolution urging all member states to resolve disputes peacefully through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration under the U.N. Charter. Secretary‑General António Guterres highlighted crises in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Haiti, and Myanmar, warning of record hunger and displacement. The resolution emphasized renewed trust in multilateral diplomacy.
        From The AP

        Israel Implements “Tactical Pauses” & Opens Aid Corridors in Gaza

        In response to mounting international pressure over famine in Gaza, the Israeli military has initiated daily “tactical pauses” in combat and established humanitarian corridors for aid delivery. Pauses are set from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in specific zones, and corridors operate from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. each day. Aid groups welcomed the move but cautioned it may not meet critical needs.
        From Financial Times

        Israel Resumes Humanitarian Airdrops into Gaza Amid Crisis

        Also on July 26, 2025, amid worsening famine conditions, Israel and the UAE resumed airdrops of humanitarian assistance into Gaza. Aid organizations criticized the method as inadequate and urged Israel to lift its blockade and allow unrestricted ground access. Meanwhile, civilian casualties mount—with over 60,000 Palestinians reported killed and approximately 2 million displaced since October 2023.
        From The Guardian

        Cambodia–Thailand Border Conflict Escalates; U.S. Mediator Steps In

        An armed conflict between Cambodia and Thailand has escalated since late May 2025, resulting in at least 32 deaths and displacing up to 200,000 people along their shared border. On July 26, former U.S. President Trump intervened—calling both leaders and demanding a ceasefire, even threatening tariffs on trade if hostilities continue.
        From Wikipedia

        Watchdog Alert: Latest From The Middle East

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        Picture via Lara Jameson pexels.com

        Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on events from around the world of interest to people of faith and brings that content to our readers.

        Houthi rebels attack cargo ship in Red Sea, killing 3 sailors

        Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched an assault on the Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned cargo ship Eternity C in the Red Sea. Using fast boats and bomb-laden drones, the attack killed three sailors and wounded two. It marks the first maritime strike by the Houthis since late 2024, raising concerns over renewed threats to vital global trade routes. From the AP

        Israel bombs hijacked British ship Galaxy Leader and Houthi targets

        On July 7, Israel carried out a major airstrike targeting the Galaxy Leader—a vessel hijacked by Houthi rebels since November 2023—as well as several ports in Yemen (Hodeidah, Ras Isa, Salif) and a coastal power plant. The strikes deployed ~50 munitions and were a direct response to sustained ballistic missile attacks from the Houthis. From The Scottish Sun

        Iran receives Chinese surface‑to‑air missile batteries post–Israel cease‑fire

        Following its recent cease-fire deal with Israel, Iran has reportedly imported Chinese-made surface-to-air missile systems in exchange for oil. This move is part of efforts to rebuild its air-defence capabilities that were compromised during the conflict. From the Middle East Eye

        Iran reports ~1,100 killed in 12‑day conflict with Israel

        Iran’s official bodies have confirmed approximately 1,100 deaths during the recent 12-day military confrontation with Israel. The toll, shared by the Foundation of Martyrs & Veterans Affairs, reflects the severity of the short yet intense engagement. From Shafaq

        Watchdog Alert: Latest From The Middle East

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        Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on events from around the world of interest to people of faith and brings that content to our readers.

        Military briefing: Israel and Iran size up war damage

        After 12 days of intense missile and drone exchanges, Israel’s precision airstrikes devastated Iran’s military and nuclear facilities — reportedly destroying over 120 buildings in Tehran, killing 627 Iranians and injuring nearly 4,900. Iran’s missile barrage (550 launches) mostly misfired, striking civilian zones in Israel, resulting in 28 deaths and 1,400 injuries. Analysts say Iran’s nuclear program is set back by months, though Israeli claims suggest delays could span years. From The Financial Times

        Ceasefire holds — Khamenei claims “heavy slap” and warns further strikes

        Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei declared the U.S.–led strikes “achieved nothing” while warning of future U.S. base attacks. He also framed the ceasefire as a regional victory, saying Iran “delivered a heavy slap to America’s face” and hinted at further military action if provoked. From Barron’s

        Pope criticizes “diabolical intensity” and humanitarian plight

        Pope Leo spoke out on the “diabolical intensity” of the region’s conflict, urging more humanitarian aid for Gaza and a return to international law. His remarks highlight the growing concern over civilian suffering in Gaza amid ongoing hostilities. From reuters.com

        Israel halts northern Gaza aid amid theft allegations

        Israel has paused humanitarian aid into northern Gaza after video surfaced of masked men on aid trucks. While Israeli officials allege Hamas diversion, clan leaders dispute this, stating they were providing security. From reuters.com

        Watchdog Alert: Latest From Israel/Iran War

        Rick TryonLeave a comment

        Here is Jesus, in Matthew 24:6-7, teaching his disciples about the times before end times. But also encouraging them to ‘see that ye be not troubled’.

        “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” (KJV)

        Here’s the latest from the Israel-Iran war as of 6/20/25:

        Iran Refuses Nuclear Talks Amid Ongoing Israeli Attacks

        Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced that Tehran will not enter discussions regarding its nuclear program as long as Israel continues its military strikes. The comments came during a Geneva meeting with European diplomats, which also ended without tangible diplomatic progress. Iran insisted diplomacy must wait until Israeli “aggression stops”.

        Bloody Exchanges Continue as War Enters Second Week

        A week into the conflict, both sides have carried out substantial airstrikes—Israel targeted missile and nuclear sites in Iran, while Iran responded with missile attacks inside Israel. One notable Iranian strike hit Haifa, injuring at least 19 people, and another hit Beersheba. Civilian casualties continue to rise amid escalating hostilities .

        Soroka Hospital Struck by Iranian Missile

        On June 19, Iran fired a Sejjil missile that directly hit the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba. Although the facility had been partially evacuated, the strike resulted in numerous injuries and structural damage, prompting Israeli officials and hospital workers to condemn it as a war crime .

        Europe’s Diplomatic Push Yields No Breakthrough

        European foreign ministers from the UK, France, Germany, and the EU met with Iran’s FM in Geneva to press for nuclear restrictions and de-escalation. While Iran expressed openness to diplomacy conditional on an end to Israeli attacks, talks concluded without resolution. The U.S. issued a two-week window for Iran to respond before potential involvement .