Netanyahu’s Hidden Card: When Iran Overshadows Gaza – and the Covenant Overshadows All
By Tania Curado Koenig
Washington, D.C. — Sept 28, 2025
The Signals Are Converging
In the last 48 hours, intelligence, media leaks, and official statements have pointed to a volatile new phase in the Iran confrontation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel knows where Iran is hiding approximately 400 kilograms of enriched uranium — a cache not destroyed by recent U.S. strikes — and that this intelligence is being shared with Washington. This suggests that Tehran’s nuclear ambitions remain active and that the nuclear file is far from closed.
Moscow Raises Its Voice
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has amplified warnings about possible new attacks on Iran and hinted that 'operational plans' are being discussed. This rhetoric runs alongside Russian pledges to invest tens of billions in Iranian nuclear facilities — a sharp irony that further binds Moscow to Tehran politically and economically.
Weapons Flow to Tehran
Recent reports indicate Antonov An-124 airlifts carrying Yak‑130 trainer/light combat aircraft to Iran, with earlier transfers of MiG‑29 jets. While not top-tier air superiority platforms, these deliveries symbolize deepening Russia–Iran defense ties and message resolve.
Tehran’s Closed-Door Decisions
Inside Iran, the Speaker of the Shura Council announced that 'important decisions' were made in a closed Sunday session. Observers interpret this as preparation for further steps away from nuclear treaty constraints, allowing Tehran to escalate more openly.
U.S. Planning and the Trump Factor
President Trump meets his top generals on Tuesday. Though the formal agenda is unreleased, multiple signals point to Iran as the focal point. Netanyahu’s assertions about hidden uranium, paired with Russia’s loud warnings, create a sense of urgency that may shape U.S. military planning windows and rules of engagement.
What Comes Next
If we connect the dots, a picture emerges: (1) a second strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure is being actively prepared; (2) Russia and China are now more deeply embedded in the Iranian file, raising the cost of escalation; (3) Iran has adapted after the recent conflict, dispersing assets and accelerating recruitment of collaborators inside Israel; and (4) the risk of diversionary attacks inside Israel — political or kinetic — is rising as Tehran seeks to deter action on its soil.
What Could Affect the Netanyahu–Trump Meeting (Mon, Sept 29)
Shifting Signals on Annexation: In recent hours, quiet indications suggest that President Trump’s position may not be as rigid as his earlier public statement that there would be no annexation of Judea and Samaria. While he voiced that line firmly only days ago, there are already signs that in private discussions he could be recalibrating, leaving more flexibility on the table than was first assumed. This nuance is critical, as it intersects directly with Netanyahu’s Iran card and the broader peace framework being shaped in Washington.
Church Prayer Brief (Intercession Points for Sept 29)
Scripture Anchors: Genesis 12:3; Joel 3:2; Psalm 122:6; Isaiah 62:6–7; Zechariah 12:2–3; 1 Timothy 2:1–2; Proverbs 21:1; Psalm 91.
A) Protection & Restraint: Pray for the Lord to restrain schemes that would ignite a wider war; confuse hostile plans; shield civilians in Israel and across the region (Ps 91).
B) Counsel from Above: Ask that President Trump, PM Netanyahu, and their teams receive wise counsel and fear of the Lord; that ungodly counsel be set aside (Prov 21:1; 1 Tim 2:1–2).
C) No Division of the Land: Appeal to Joel 3:2 — that no agreement or framework would divide the land; pray for language and decisions that honor God’s covenant purposes.
D) Hostages & Justice: Pray for the release and safe return of hostages; for justice against terror networks; for dismantling of hidden infrastructure.
E) Exposure of Hidden Things: Ask God to expose clandestine uranium stockpiles, covert tunnels, and covert operations; frustrate proliferation and sabotage plots (Isa 62:6–7).
F) Protection from Diversion: Pray against provocations or false‑flag operations intended to spark internal chaos in Israel; guard border communities and decision centers.
G) Restraint on Great‑Power Escalation: Pray that Russia/China posturing does not spiral into a larger conflict; for de‑escalatory channels to remain open.
H) Salvation & Mercy: Pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Ps 122:6); for salvation and comfort for families on all sides; for righteous leadership to arise.
Suggested 15‑Minute Prayer Flow
1) Exaltation (1 min): Declare God’s sovereignty over Israel and the nations (Ps 24).
2) Repentance & Mercy (2 min): Ask for mercy over the land, leaders, and the Church.
3) Leaders & Counsel (3 min): Pray by name for Donald J. Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, and key advisers.
4) No Division / Covenant Alignment (3 min): Declare Joel 3:2; reject dividing the land.
5) Protection & Exposure (3 min): Psalm 91 over Israel; exposure of hidden plots and stockpiles.
6) Thanksgiving (3 min): Thank God for answers already in motion; seal in Jesus’ name.
Above all, praying for Israel.
“They shall not divide the land.” — Joel 3:2
