Iran’s defensive preparations.

In response to the growing threat of an Israeli military attack, Iran is planning a massive defense drill in October, involving their air defenses, army and revolutionary guard (Reuters, September 1, 2012).  “Today our systems are prepared in a serious way for modern air threats,” noted Iran’s air defense commander (ibid.).  An Iranian naval commander said that Iran now sees Israel and the U.S. as one, so if Israel attacks Iran, Iran will counter-attack both Israeli and U.S. targets (Reuters, September 5, 2012).  Turkey’s prime minister has stated that an attack on Iran could cause an “apocalypse” in the region (Ynet News, September 5, 2012).

As tensions rise, the U.S. is moving another carrier group to the Persian Gulf to join with two existing fleets for a 12-day naval exercise from September 16-27 (DEBKA, September 5, 2012).  This exercise involves militaries from 25 nations including Britain, France, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (ibid.).

Tensions are rising as the biblical Holy Days approach in late September and early October.  Will Israel attack Iran, with or without the U.S.?  Will Israel back down or be pressured to do so by the U.S. and EU nations?

The Bible tells of a coming temporary peace between Israel, Middle-Eastern, and European nations (Daniel 9:27; Psalm 83:1-8) and that no matter what happens with Iran, Jerusalem will not be destroyed; however, it will be controlled by armies of the coming Beast power (Luke 21:24) and become a seat of power for the prophesied Man of Sin (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4).

For more on this exciting topic, review our booklet The Middle East in Prophecy.