'A Cup of Trembling': Israel's War with Iran and its Neighbors

THE LAND of Israel—small in size, yet massive in prophetic weight—continues to stand at the heart of global conflict. As tensions rise in the Middle East, with the ever-present threat of war looming between Israel and Iran, many are asking: Are we witnessing the prelude to World War III? The Bible gives us sobering and hopeful insight. Long ago, God prophesied that Jerusalem would become “a cup of trembling unto all the people round about” (Zechariah 12:2). We are now living in the days when these words ring more true than ever.

The current Israel-Iran escalation has shown that the “cup of trembling” metaphor has turned into brutal reality. On June 13, 2025, Israel launched 'Operation Rising Lion'—a massive aerial and covert campaign targeting over 100 Iranian sites, including nuclear facilities at Natanz, Fordow, missile bases, and high-tech infrastructures in Tehran. Over 200 Israeli jets and Mossad-enabled drones struck swiftly, killing top IRGC commanders (Generals Salami, Bagheri, Hajizadeh, Rashid) and at least nine nuclear scientists.

Iran retaliated swiftly with hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Rishon LeZion. Though Israel's Iron Dome—and U.S. support—intercepted many, dozens were killed or injured. Defense Minister Katz warned ominously: “Tehran will burn” if further strikes continue.

The intensity and direct nature of this attack risks pulling in Iran’s network of allies—Hezbollah, Houthis—and possibly global powers like Russia and China. While these nations have yet to enter the fray militarily, global leaders are on high alert, warning of regional escalation, if not World War III to happen.

'The Cup of God’s Fury'

The prophet Isaiah wrote:

“Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the Lord… Thou hast drunken the dregs of the cup of trembling…” (Isaiah 51:9,17).

God foretold that Jerusalem would endure judgment, hardship, and fear. Indeed, Israel has faced repeated wars with its Arab neighbors since its modern rebirth in 1948—surrounded by nations who often vow to “wipe it off the map.” The threat is not just political—it is spiritual. The forces rising against Israel are stirred by ancient hatred, and the Bible reveals that these hostilities will escalate into something far greater.

A War Leading to 'Armageddon'?

The prophet Zechariah warns, “In that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people… though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it” (Zechariah 12:3). The world is heading toward a massive military conflict centered in the Middle East. The book of Revelation speaks of armies gathered in a place called "Armageddon" (Revelation 16:16). Before this final battle, a series of wars will convulse the region—wars that involve Israel, her Islamic neighbors, and the great powers of the world.

Could today’s headlines be laying the groundwork for these prophetic battles? Absolutely!

Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Israel’s pre-emptive strikes, and the growing alliances between Russia, China, and Middle Eastern nations resemble the prophetic picture painted in Ezekiel 38–39, where a vast coalition attacks Israel. Yet, in the midst of danger, God’s Word assures us of His intervention.

The Coming Deliverance

God promises that the cup of trembling will be removed from His people. In Isaiah 51:22, He declares: “Behold, I have taken out of thine hand the cup of trembling... but I will put it into the hand of them that afflict thee.” Though Israel is surrounded and afflicted now, her complete deliverance is coming. The deliverer will not be an army or a politician—it will be the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

At His return, the Lord will “fight against those nations” that come against Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:3). He will stand on the Mount of Olives, and the nations will be judged for how they have treated God’s chosen people. Israel’s survival and ultimate redemption are guaranteed—not by diplomacy or military might, but by divine power.

What Should Christians Do?

1. Stay Spiritually Awake: Just as Isaiah called God’s people to “Awake, awake,” Christians must remain alert to world events and grounded in the Word of God (Matthew 24:42).

2. Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6): God commands us to pray for Israel—not just for political peace, but for their spiritual restoration and acceptance of Jesus as the Messiah.

3. Preach the Gospel of the Kingdom: Jesus warned of wars, rumors of wars, and great tribulation—but said, “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world… and then shall the end come” (Matthew 24:14). Now is the time for bold witness.

4. Look for Christ’s Return: The return of Jesus is the only true solution to the chaos in the Middle East. Christians must live with expectancy, looking to “the blessed hope” of His coming (Titus 2:13).

Yes, Israel today is a “cup of trembling” to the nations. The world watches nervously as wars and threats swirl around Jerusalem. But God is not surprised. He foresaw it all and has promised to save His people and judge the nations. For believers, this is not a time to fear—but to trust, to watch, and to prepare. The King is coming—and He will bring peace, not through treaties, but through righteousness and power.

Thus, the need to be ready spiritually!

"Therefore, you, too, must be ready because the Son of Man will return when you least expect him." (Matthew 24:44)