In a powerful display of Christian solidarity with Israel, Samaritan’s Purse has donated 20 ambulances to the nation’s emergency services while Hamas hostages remain in captivity, with plans to deliver a total of 42 life-saving vehicles.
Key Takeaways
- Samaritan’s Purse has donated 20 ambulances to Israel’s Magen David Adom, with plans to provide a total of 42 vehicles including 28 with armor plating.
- Franklin Graham led a dedication ceremony in Jerusalem with terror survivors, including a widow whose husband was killed in the October 2023 Hamas attacks.
- The ambulances function as mobile intensive care units designed to operate under fire in combat zones.
- Pastor Greg Laurie and Harvest Christian Fellowship funded one of the ambulances, demonstrating strong Christian support for Israel.
- The remaining 22 armored ambulances are under construction and expected to arrive by year’s end.
Christian Aid Arrives When Israel Needs It Most
As Israel continues to face threats on multiple fronts following Hamas’ brutal October 2023 attacks, Samaritan’s Purse has stepped forward with crucial emergency aid. The Christian relief organization recently delivered 20 ambulances to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical service, with plans to provide a total of 42 vehicles. This donation includes 28 armored ambulances specifically designed to operate in high-risk areas where terrorist attacks remain an ongoing threat. The ceremony dedicating these vehicles took place outside the historic Tower of David in Jerusalem, symbolically reaffirming the Christian commitment to Israel’s security in a time of crisis.
“We want to say as Christians that we stand with Israel. You’re not alone,” said Pastor Greg Laurie.
Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse and son of the late evangelist Billy Graham, led the ceremony with several distinguished guests in attendance. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee joined MDA leaders and Israeli survivors of terrorist attacks to witness the dedication. During the ceremony, Graham read from the Bible, drawing a powerful parallel between Abraham and modern first responders. The ambulance dedicated during the ceremony was funded by Pastor Greg Laurie and his congregation at Harvest Christian Fellowship, demonstrating the broad support within the American Christian community for Israel’s defense and recovery efforts.
Life-Saving Technology Meets Human Tragedy
The ambulances donated by Samaritan’s Purse aren’t ordinary medical vehicles – they’re mobile intensive care units equipped to function effectively in combat conditions. The 28 armored vehicles being provided are specifically designed to withstand attacks while transporting the injured to safety, a critical capability in regions where medical personnel themselves have become targets. Each ambulance features advanced medical equipment enabling emergency responders to deliver critical care under the most challenging circumstances. This technology represents a vital lifeline for Israeli civilians and soldiers alike, ensuring that life-saving treatment remains accessible even amid ongoing threats.
“Abraham was the MDA of his generation,” said Franklin Graham.
The human dimension of this donation was powerfully illustrated at the ceremony by Karina Engel, whose husband was killed during the October 7th Hamas attacks. Engel shared her heartbreaking story and placed a yellow ribbon on Graham’s jacket in honor of those still held hostage by Hamas. In a touching tribute, one ambulance has been dedicated to the memory of Engel’s husband and stationed near her home, providing both practical emergency services and a living memorial to those lost in the terrorist attacks. The ceremony coincided with Shavuot, a significant Jewish holiday, adding symbolic importance to this gesture of solidarity.
American Christian Leaders Stand Firm with Israel
The ceremony highlighted the unwavering support for Israel among prominent American Christian leaders. Mike Huckabee emphasized the serious nature of the threats facing Israel and praised the efforts of Samaritan’s Purse and Harvest Christian Fellowship in providing tangible assistance. Magen David Adom’s leadership expressed profound gratitude for the donation, with Director General Eli Bin describing the ambulances as symbols of “kindness and protection.” Each ambulance features a Bible verse from Jeremiah 29:11, offering a message of hope amid dark circumstances. This integration of scripture underscores the faith-based motivation behind the donation.
“This is an occasion brought about because of suffering,” said Mike Huckabee
Edward Graham, Franklin Graham’s son and a former Army Ranger with eight combat deployments, highlighted the critical importance of rapid medical response in combat zones. Drawing from his military experience, the younger Graham noted that quick access to medical care often makes the difference between life and death in warfare. He emphasized that Samaritan’s Purse’s work in Israel is motivated by God’s love for the nation and its people. With the remaining 22 armored ambulances currently under construction and scheduled for delivery by year’s end, Samaritan’s Purse has demonstrated its long-term commitment to supporting Israel through this ongoing crisis.
