Hamas wants to ruin the very land they seek to conquer
May 1, 2025
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Suspected arson attacks ignite massive wildfires in Israel
On Israel’s Memorial Day, wildfires began spreading outside of Jerusalem. By today, Israel’s Independence Day, 5,000 acres have burned, and the police have several suspects in custody for arson attacks. We are grateful for the heroic bravery of emergency personnel risking their lives to protect residents, property, and historic sites of this holy land. While the fires raged, Hamas posted on Telegram calling for followers to “burn everything they can in the groves, forests and settlers’ houses.” Hamas not only destroys life but is also ready to ruin the very land they seek to conquer. We pray for strength for Israel and justice for those who wish to destroy her.
U.S. troops withdrawing from Syria despite escalating tensions
U.S. military personnel in Syria are withdrawing from bases along the Syrian-Iraqi border. The argument from the Department of Defense is that the ISIS caliphate was defeated in 2019 and no longer poses a threat due to regional shifts. However, experts warn that a premature withdrawal could leave room for the Islamist terror group’s resurgence, particularly as al-Sharaa’s control of Syria is fledgling with this week’s outbreak of violence in Druze communities and last month’s tragic massacres of Alawites in Syria’s coastal towns. U.S. intelligence reports show that ISIS attacks against U.S. positions have nearly doubled in the past year. Though it had significant territorial setbacks, ISIS remains the largest Islamist terror group in the world. We hope the administration makes the correct assessment that does not regress the region into the cycle of violence it appears to be climbing out of.
A new chapter of Dominique’s podcast
We’re excited to introduce you to The Overlook — a fresh look, a new name, but with the same commitment to offering thoughtful perspectives on the Middle East and the cultural currents shaping our world today. You can now subscribe to Dominique’s newsletter for her clear, compelling commentary delivered straight to your inbox!
How the Muslim Brotherhood Shapes Extremism
Jordan recently banned the Muslim Brotherhood from the country. What is the Brotherhood, and how has its ideology shaped extremist groups across the Middle East? Read here.
Hamas Bankrupt, End of War Near?
Dominique analyzes the impact of Hamas’ deteriorating finances, U.S. foreign policy, and the future of Gaza. Watch here.
