VFI News Netanyahu Nominates Trump for Nobel Peace Prize Amid Middle East Turmoil

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets former U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington for the third time since Trump’s return to office. What does this rare diplomatic meeting mean for the ongoing Gaza ceasefire negotiations, the fate of the hostages held by Hamas, and the broader Israel–U.S. alliance?

In this episode of VFI News, Barry Segal breaks down the geopolitical implications of this high-level discussion, as well as the latest developments in the war with Iran’s proxy forces like Hezbollah and the Houthis. We also explore tensions around Haredi IDF draft laws, the growing success of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), and how Vision for Israel’s bomb shelters continue to save lives during ongoing missile threats.

Plus, hear Barry’s powerful commentary on a recent Daily Telegraph column that frames Israel’s survival as a modern-day miracle — and what it means for people of faith around the world.

#Netanyahu #GazaCeasefire #IsraelNews #TrumpMeeting #VisionForIsrael

The Houthi insurgents of Yemen, possibly the last combat-effective Iranian proxy force in the Middle East, are threatening to continue missile attacks against Israel after a devastating Israeli airstrike on the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah.

Israel launched strikes against Houthi port facilities on Sunday after the Houthis attacked a Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned bulk carrier ship called Magic Seas. It was the first Houthi pirate attack against a civilian vessel in the Red Sea this year.

The Houthis hit the Magic Seas with small arms fire, RPGs, missiles, and bomb-laden drone boats. The ship’s armed security team fought back as long as they could, but eventually, the vessel caught fire and began taking on water, forcing the crew to abandon ship.

Houthi spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed responsibility, stating the ship was targeted due to its visits to Israeli ports. He threatened a blockade of Israel until military operations in Gaza cease.

In retaliation, the IDF bombed ports in Hodeidah, Ras Isa, Salif, and a power plant at Ras Kanatib. The IDF noted these sites are used to transfer Iranian weapons for terrorist operations.

Saree also claimed that Houthi air defenses intercepted Israeli jets and retaliated with hypersonic missiles targeting Ben Gurion Airport, Ashdod Port, and a power station in Ashkelon. Israel confirmed only two missiles were launched and both were intercepted.

Nasruddin Amer, head of the Ansar Allah media office, vowed to continue attacks on Israeli civilians, reiterating the group’s extremist anti-Israel rhetoric. (BB/VFI News)

"The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble." – Psalm 9:9

Iranian state media promoted a letter from "100 Muslim scholars and intellectuals" condemning President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as enemies of God and advocates of corruption.

The scholars denounced any normalization or cooperation with Israel or the U.S. as forbidden under Islamic law. They referenced Quranic verses labeling Trump and Netanyahu as "corrupters on earth" for their alleged roles in violence and occupation.

This follows reports of increasing normalization between the U.S. and Syria, under new jihadist leadership, and rumors of other Muslim nations considering ties with Israel. Iran, increasingly isolated after losing the 12-Day War to Israel, has responded with sharp anti-American and anti-Israel rhetoric.

The letter also condemned the Abraham Accords, called for jihadist retaliation, and reasserted Iran’s commitment to its nuclear program despite international pressure and military setbacks. (BB/VFI News)

On Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced sanctions against Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on Palestinian rights, for promoting efforts to prosecute U.S. and Israeli officials and companies.

Rubio cited her inflammatory statements, including labeling Israel an apartheid state and minimizing Hamas violence. Albanese has been criticized for antisemitic comments and for suggesting American companies aiding Israel should face legal consequences.

UN Watch and Israeli diplomats praised the move, with calls for further actions against other UN officials perceived as biased. The U.S. government emphasized its support for Israel's right to self-defense and condemned Albanese's agenda.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar called it "a clear message" for the UN to reevaluate its positions.

(Fox/VFI News)

"I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you." – Genesis 12:3

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, July 7, nominated U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize during a meeting in Washington.

Netanyahu praised Trump's role in the Abraham Accords and his current diplomatic efforts. Trump responded optimistically about peace prospects with Iran, while also affirming readiness for military action if necessary.

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff indicated nuclear talks with Iran may resume soon. Meanwhile, Netanyahu is expected to seek Trump's approval for preemptive strikes if Iran resumes suspicious nuclear activities.

During his visit, Netanyahu met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Discussions focused on strengthening U.S.-Israel ties and confronting regional threats.

(JPost/VFI News)

Lord, we pray that wise leadership would prevail and that You would bring true peace and reconciliation to the Middle East. Strengthen alliances built on righteousness and protect Israel from every scheme of destruction. Let truth, justice, and compassion lead our leaders in all negotiations and decisions.

Join Batya for this week's Parashat where she talks about Balak and the Gentile Prophet Balam. This week's Parasha is from the book of Numbers 22:2-25:9.

Residents evacuated from homes damaged by missile strikes during Operation Rising Lion are now being asked to leave the hotels where they have been temporarily housed.

While some evacuees have returned to properties that sustained only minor damage, others—whose homes require long-term repairs—are being urged to seek alternative housing solutions. Rising rental prices in missile-affected areas have made this especially difficult.

The Property Tax Authority will no longer fund extended hotel stays for homes with limited damage. Several hotels have begun asking evacuees to leave due to prior bookings.

At the Kfar Maccabiah Hotel in Ramat Gan, where over 400 evacuees were housed, half have already left. The remaining 200 were informed they must vacate by early next week. Hotel management cited obligations to incoming guests from sports delegations and local tourists.

It remains unclear where long-term evacuees will be relocated. Municipalities may help coordinate ongoing state support for eligible individuals.

(JPost/VFI News)

Lord, bring comfort to the displaced and provide for every need. Open doors for safe, long-term housing and surround families with compassion and help. May Your peace and protection be over every heart and home.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) announced Monday, July 8, that it has lifted all flight restrictions to Israel, initially imposed after missile attacks from Iran and a strike near Ben Gurion Airport.

Following these events, many European airlines suspended operations due to the EASA advisory. With the rescinding of the advisory, flights are expected to gradually resume.

The Lufthansa Group is set to restart service on August 1. British Airways, ITA Airways, and Wizz Air are also expected to resume flights.

(INN/VFI News)

A senior Israeli government official stated that a ground force led by Arab nations will be needed to eliminate the Houthis as a regional threat.

Despite Israeli airstrikes and a ceasefire with Iran, the Houthis continue to attack Israeli targets and international shipping. Israel's reach into Yemen via airstrikes has been notable, but air power alone is insufficient.

The official emphasized that Israel cannot commit ground troops but would support efforts by Arab allies to finish the job.

(BB/VFI News)

A senior Hamas official admitted the group has lost about 80% of its control over Gaza following extensive Israeli military operations.

Most of Hamas's leadership is reportedly dead, and the group has lost its command and control infrastructure. Salaries for fighters are delayed and often unusable, with many dying while trying to collect them.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated that Israel will ensure Gaza no longer poses a threat, affirming the goal to dismantle Hamas's military and governmental capabilities.

The IDF has emphasized progress in limiting Hamas's influence and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches civilians directly.

(JPost/VFI News)

Father, we ask for full deliverance for the people of Gaza from terrorist oppression. Raise up leaders who will build peace and protect life. Let Your light shine in the darkest places and restore hope to every broken heart.

The suggestions, opinions, and scripture references made by VFI News writers and editors are based on the best information received.

Want to see more from VFI? Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visionforisrael and hit “like” if you like us!
Barry Segal with the Editorial Staff