Israel - ceasefire and hostage deal
After two years of intense conflict, a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been announced, offering the first real hope for peace in Gaza since 2023. The agreement, reached after marathon talks in Cairo and Washington, includes a phased hostage exchange, humanitarian access, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from certain areas of the enclave.
According to reports, Hamas will release around 20 hostages in the first 72 hours, while Israel will free several hundred Palestinian detainees, many of whom have been held without trial. The deal also commits both sides to allow vital aid into Gaza under international supervision. Although military analysts remain cautious, leaders worldwide have hailed the agreement as a potential turning point.
For millions of civilians, however, the scars of war remain raw. Gaza’s infrastructure is shattered, with thousands displaced and hospitals overwhelmed. In Israel, families still wait anxiously for news of loved ones. Whether this ceasefire will hold depends on restraint, forgiveness, and sustained international support for rebuilding.
Prayer Pointers
- Pray: for the safe release of all hostages and healing of trauma. “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted.” (Psalm 34:18, NIV)
- Pray: for wise leadership that chooses reconciliation over revenge. “If it is possible… live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18, NIV)
- Pray: for peace to take root in both Israeli and Palestinian hearts. “He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth.” (Psalm 46:9, NIV)
Prayer for Israel and Gaza
Lord, You are our peace. Heal broken families, rebuild ruined homes, and turn hostility into understanding. Let this fragile truce become a foundation for lasting peace in the land You love. Amen.
Ukraine - strikes on energy infrastructure
Ukraine has endured one of the largest overnight bombardments of the war, as Russian forces launched more than 450 Iranian-made drones and 32 missiles across the country. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the strikes targeted vital energy facilities, leaving multiple regions temporarily without power and water. In Kyiv, explosions shook neighbourhoods before dawn, while engineers worked through the night to restore electricity and repair substations damaged by falling debris.
Ukraine’s air defences intercepted the majority of incoming drones, yet even a handful that penetrated proved devastating. Several thermal plants and power distribution centres sustained heavy damage, underscoring how Russia continues to weaponize winter by striking civilian infrastructure. Emergency workers battled fires while local churches opened their doors as shelters and distribution points for food, blankets, and prayer.
International condemnation was swift, with European leaders pledging more air-defence systems and humanitarian support. For millions of Ukrainians facing another harsh winter, the attack renewed both fear and resilience - a determination that darkness will not win.
Prayer Pointers
- Pray: for God’s protection over civilians, workers, and responders. “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1, NIV)
- Pray: for wisdom among world leaders to pursue justice and lasting peace. “He has shown you… what is good: to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8, NIV)
- Pray: for the Church to shine as a refuge of hope amid the cold and fear. “The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10, NIV)
Prayer for Ukraine
Father, shield the weary, warm the cold, and strengthen those who rebuild by candlelight. Let Your light overcome every shadow, and bring an end to this war. Amen.
More: https://news.sky.com/story/russia-used-more-than-450-drones-in-targeted-attack-on-energy-volodymyr-zelenskyy-says-13447902
India — Rajasthan attacks
Reports from Open Doors and local advocacy groups reveal a sharp rise in persecution against Christians in Rajasthan following recent moves toward an anti-conversion law. The proposed legislation mirrors similar laws in a dozen Indian states, which critics say are often misused to intimidate or criminalise ordinary believers for sharing their faith.
In recent months, house churches have been raided, worship services interrupted, and pastors accused of “forced conversions.” Several believers have been detained without charge. Families face social ostracism for attending prayer meetings or owning Bibles. Christian leaders urge believers to remain calm, continue worshipping, and respond with grace rather than fear.
Despite mounting pressure, the Church in Rajasthan continues to grow. Testimonies of answered prayer, miraculous healings, and community service are inspiring many to seek hope in Christ. Yet concerns remain that legal restrictions could embolden extremists and deepen social divides. Indian Christians are calling on the global body of Christ to intercede—for courage, protection, and wisdom in these challenging days.
Prayer Pointers
- Pray: for believers to stand firm and show Christ’s love amid hostility. “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10, NIV)
- Pray: for justice and integrity among lawmakers and police. “The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.” (Proverbs 21:1, NIV)
- Pray: for revival and unity within the Indian Church. “Remember those in prison as if you were together with them.” (Hebrews 13:3, NIV)
Prayer for India
Lord Jesus, strengthen Your people in Rajasthan. Fill them with peace that passes understanding and love that disarms fear. May their witness draw many to You. Amen.
More: https://www.opendoorsuk.org/news/latest-news/india-rajasthan-attacks
Sudan: El Fasher Siege
El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, remains under siege as fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) traps more than 260,000 civilians. Satellite images reveal trenches and sand berms sealing off escape routes. Markets are empty, food warehouses looted, and hospitals overwhelmed with casualties. Humanitarian agencies describe conditions as “catastrophic,” with famine looming and medicine nearly gone.
International negotiators have tried repeatedly to secure a humanitarian corridor, yet ceasefire promises collapse within days. Aid convoys have been attacked or blocked by rival factions. Both sides accuse each other of atrocities, while ordinary families endure starvation, disease, and relentless shelling. Churches have opened their doors as makeshift shelters, offering prayer and limited relief.
Diplomats warn that El Fasher’s fall would devastate hopes for peace nationwide. The African Union and United Nations are pressing for a monitored truce, but progress is slow. Still, testimonies emerge of believers sharing food, caring for the wounded, and reading Psalm 91 aloud amid explosions. Their faith stands as a quiet protest against despair.
Prayer Pointers
- Pray: for protection and humanitarian access to reach every trapped family. “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” (Psalm 82:3, NIV)
- Pray: for an end to siege tactics and for peacemakers to prevail. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9, NIV)
- Pray: for the Sudanese Church to shine with courage and compassion. “The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” (Psalm 9:9, NIV)
Prayer for Sudan
God of mercy, break the grip of violence and open the way for food and healing. Strengthen Your people to be light in the darkness, and let peace cover Sudan once again. Amen.
“Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance.” (Psalm 2:8)
‘Rise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.’ (Isaiah 60:1)
