Introduction

In 2024, the Middle East region experienced a turbulent year with war and political changes. However, amidst all this turmoil, mission-critical opportunities have also opened up. The following are the top 10 news stories in the Middle East from a missionary perspective this year.

1. Escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

The 2024 war between Israel and Hamas continues to be a period of high tension. Following last year's surprise attack by Hamas, Israel has launched military operations with the primary goal of rescuing hostages, but a resolution to the conflict remains distant. Christian organizations are currently delivering emergency relief and providing psychological support while sharing the gospel message.

2. . Saudi Arabia and the Reform Movement in the Islamic World

Saudi Arabia has attracted global attention by launching the NEOM project, a $1 trillion plan to build a new city, and promoting reforms including women's rights. In addition, the ceasefire agreement in Yemen has opened up the possibility of expanding humanitarian aid, but the conflict still continues sporadically. These changes are expected to provide new opportunities for the mission of God's kingdom.

3. Growth of House Churches in Iran

In 2024, house churches have spread rapidly in Iran. Despite the government's crackdown and suppression, the number of people living their faith in secret has increased, and interest in the gospel has grown.

4. Syria's Transformation

In December, the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad collapsed due to the rapid advance of the rebels. Assad fled to Russia, ending the 53-year-long hereditary dictatorship. However, the civil war and humanitarian crisis remain severe. Amidst this, the newly emerged HTS (Hayat Tahrir al-Sham) is attempting to gain control, and the international community is watching closely to see how China, which has been supporting the Assad regime, will interact with Syria.

5. Competition to Secure Natural Gas Export Routes to Europe

Following Russia's intervention in the Syrian civil war and subsequent withdrawal from northern Syria, conflicts of interest have arisen among major Middle Eastern countries such as Iran, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. In particular, competition to secure natural gas export routes to Europe has intensified. We pray that the Lord will use this situation as an opportunity to spread the gospel.

6. Sudan's Refugee Crisis

The conflict in Sudan has displaced over 4 million refugees. Many churches and missionary organizations are providing shelter to these refugees and sharing the light of faith. Urgent prayer is needed for the refugees from South Sudan.

7. Iran's Diminishing Influence in the Middle East

In 2024, Iran's influence in the Middle East has weakened in its relations with Hamas, Hezbollah, Syria, and the Houthi rebels in Yemen. Hamas and Hezbollah's military capabilities have declined, and Iran's position has weakened with the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria. We hope that this trend will lead to missionary opportunities in the region.

8. Lebanon's Economic Crisis

The war between Hezbollah and Israel has inflicted significant damage on Lebanon, including loss of life and destruction of agricultural production. In addition, the damage to water infrastructure has led to a sharp decline in the value of the Lebanese currency, pushing most of the population below the poverty line. Churches and NGOs are providing food to 200,000 families each month while sharing the gospel message.

9. Earthquake Relief and Gospel Propagation in Turkey and Syria

The devastating earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria in February caused immense suffering. While many countries and international organizations provided aid, the Christian community also actively participated in relief efforts, sharing the love and compassion of Christ with the affected people. This has opened doors for the gospel to reach those who are hurting and in need of hope.

10. Spread of Digital Ministry

Turkey, where over 90% of the population is Muslim, is a country where gospel propagation is difficult due to security concerns and legal restrictions. However, young people in Turkey are gradually questioning their religious beliefs as they are exposed to the world through the internet and various media. Digital ministry is rapidly spreading in the Middle East in 2024. SWM Mission is also actively supporting gospel propagation through online platforms and social media.

In 2024, the Middle East faced a difficult period with war and disasters, but the message of the gospel shone brightly within it. In a year of missionary challenges and opportunities, God is still at work in this land. "For man proposes, but God disposes" (Proverbs 16:9).

With this word, we wish you a blessed 2025. Thank you.