On this episode of 20Twenty, Mandy Worby joined us to talk about the growing conflict and especially the renewed fighting between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The situation has escalated in the Middle East after a ceasefire agreement fell apart.
This ceasefire had allowed for Hamas to gradually release hostages. However, delays and broken promises from Hamas have led to renewed fighting. Israel, encouraged by President Trump’s tough warnings about the hostage situation, has increased its military actions.
Israeli forces are now striking harder at Hamas while still warning civilians in Gaza to seek safety. “The Israeli ambassador told us that there are 59 hostages remaining in Gaza,” says Mandy. “And they believe 24 of them are still alive. As we know, Hamas is starving them, torturing them, and they’re not given any contact with their families.”
These harsh conditions are not only causing immense suffering but are also being used by Hamas as a tool for negotiation. Hamas has even threatened to kill hostages if Israel does not stop its military actions. In response, Israel insists on a complete release of the hostages according to the demands set by a U.S. representative and warns that for every hostage harmed, it will take more land from Gaza.
The Situation has Escalated in the Middle East
“The big thing for Hamas is the expulsion of Israel completely,” says Mandy. “They want no Jewish state at all, and through violence they’ve got the Gaza Strip. Which Israel only had because after the Six-Day War, Egypt didn’t want it back.”
Mandy also talks about Israel’s promise to follow international rules of war. These rules say that innocent people should be protected, prisoners should be treated fairly, and places like homes or schools shouldn’t be attacked unless they’re used for fighting. Hamas has been accused of breaking these rules, which damages its moral standing.
Recently, President Trump said that Gaza is now unlivable. Some people suggested moving the people to Egypt or Jordan, but those countries don’t want to take large numbers. Other places like Syria, Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland were also mentioned, but they have their own problems or don’t get along well with Israel. It’s also unclear if other Islamic countries will help with resettling people.
“Things are changing by the hour. That Biblical challenge to pray for the peace of Jerusalem; you can see just how powerful the peace of Jerusalem is. Because the whole world is influenced and becoming involved in this conflict, in some form or another.”
Listen to Mandy’s full message below:
