Signs of the times – “Israel’s security”

As we embark on a new year, by God’s grace, security remains a pressing issue for Israelis. At a recent visit to Jerusalem by US officials, headed by the National Security Adviser John Bolton, one matter discussed was the forthcoming “US withdrawal from Syria and the implications for Israel, particularly on the Golan Heights.

‘The Golan Heights is tremendously important for our security,’

Netanyahu said … during a joint press appearance with Bolton.

‘President Trump has said repeatedly that he backs Israel’s right to self-defence. He says it proudly and unequivocally,’

Bolton said.

‘And I would just say to any nation in this region – or not in this region – that has any doubt about America’s support for Israel’s self-defence – it better think about it again’” (ICEJ News, January 7).

Israel seems confident that it can manage without the presence of US troops in Syria. As one commentator put it:

“How the US wields influence in the world matters more to Israelis than how it projects power in north-eastern Syria” (Zev Chafets, “Bloomberg Opinion”, January 8).

While we may expect Washington’s support for Israel to waver at some point – allowing the Gogian invasion to take place with only a verbal protest (Ezekiel 38:13) – at present America’s commitment remains firm.

With thanks to Brother Roger Long