Report from Jerusalem

I have spent the last week in Israel on a variety of projects.  As most of you know, this morning Hezbollah forces abducted two Israeli soldiers and killed a number of others.  At the same time in the south of the country at the Gaza Strip, there has been continuous rocket fire from Hamas agents aimed at Israeli villages.  Despite these reports of military action, I will tell you that the atmosphere in Israel is still upbeat.  The people of Israel have been accustomed to constant threats and hostile action.  The Israeli government led by Prime Minister Ehud Olmert this morning said that the actions of Hezbollah constituted an act of war.  We concur completely with his assessment.  We actually traveled within 30 miles of the border of Lebanon, and it was apparent that the military here in Israel has mobilized. 

As these actions are taking place, we must continue to show our solidarity with the Israeli government and the people of Israel.  The fact of the matter is that this area is a beacon of light in a very difficult region of the world.  The Israeli people remain resolute in their determination for the survival of their nation, and we must do everything we can to assist.

While in Israel, I had the opportunity to meet various religious and government officials.  Members of the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) with whom I met understand the importance of maintaining the defense of the land and the protection of the Israeli people.  From Israel, I will be in our offices in Strasbourg, France, where over 40 law students from Regent University will be studying international human rights issues.  In addition, lawyers from our offices in Moscow will be attending, as will some of our senior lawyers from the United States.  Former Attorney General John Ashcroft, who serves as a Distinguished Professor of Law and Government at Regent University, will also be instructing our students.  It is important that Christian law students undertake a study of global international issues to be effective agents for good.  We are encouraged by our law students participation and look forward to an important time.  I will be giving updates as our meetings progress.