Will Israel attack Iran’s new Bushehr nuclear reactor before Russia loads fuel on Saturday? Former US ambassador to the UN John Bolton warned this week that once Russia installs the fuel Israel would no longer be willing to strike for fear of triggering widespread radiation.

“This is a very, very big victory for Iran,” Bolton said. “This is a huge threshold.” He added that when Russia announced their plans last Friday, “the element of surprise was essentially taken away” from Israeli calculations.

The US has increased sanctions on Iran in an ongoing effort to pressure Tehran to halt its nuclear program. But with Russia and other countries lending full support to Iran’s program, sanctions have had little impact. In recent months Iranian leaders have issued repeated threats to Israel both verbally and in overt support of terrorists planning attacks against Israel.

Israel needs prayer today…

“God, we again pray for your people, the Jews and your land, Israel. We pray for your Divine hand of protection. We ask you to guard and guide. Give wisdom to Israeli leaders. Give boldness and prudence and supernatural insight for how to navigate this crisis. Give them solutions they have not imagined. Bolster support for them among their few friends in the world. May the US continue to be a bold partner of Israel. Resist Iran’s efforts to gain nuclear weapons. Frustrate their plans and actions. Bring a change in leadership in Iran. Give courage to progressive voices there who want to moderate Iran’s positions. God bless the growing Christian movement in Iran. And bless Iran through them. Protect your people, Israel. Remember them. Bring peace to Jerusalem. Our heart is there, with you Lord! In Jesus…”