The Red Alert Report

Amy Zewe

The Jerusalem Connection's Red Alert Report brings you news, commentary, and interviews with subject experts and eyewitnesses telling the story of Israel and its people, both ancient and modern to inform, educate and activate support for Israel and the Jewish people. Originally commissioned in 2010 as a YouTube video production by the Rev. Dr. Jim Hutchens to counter BDS, anti-Zionism, and Jew-hatred wherever it manifested, The Red Alert program developed into a platform to educate on all matters of truth surrounding Israel's Biblical foundations, historical context, and modern-day battle for security and peace.   Educating Christians and the entire community on the history of persecution the Jewish people have faced, including the Holocaust and the most recent attempted genocide of October 7, 2023, the Red Alert Reports bring you valuable insights and conversations to strengthen the bonds of Christians and Jews.  If you like what you hear and you find these conversations valuable, please subscribe, like, and share our content. Our programming is made possible through the generous donations of those who share the vision of telling the story of Israel and its people, both ancient and modern. Consider a donation to continue our programming offerings. Donate at www.TheJerusalemConnection.us  The Jerusalem Connection is a 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to inform, educate and activate support for Israel and the Jewish people.Visit www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to learn more and donate. Follow us on social media: YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn. Find our podcast programs on YouTube and on your favorite podcast platform. 

  1. 4d ago

    Red Alert: A Call to Prayer and Reflection with Israeli Igal Hecht

    As we mark the third anniversary of October 7, we pause not only to remember the horror of that day but also to lift up the people of Israel in prayer.  In this week’s Red Alert Report, our dear friend, Igal Hecht, joins us. Igal is an Israeli filmmaker whose work has become a powerful witness to the truth of what happened and the resilience of those who survived. Igal recalls the moment the attacks began—while in Toronto, his phone erupted with urgent alerts from Israel. “Red alert, red alert… rockets, rockets, rockets.” Like so many Israelis abroad, his heart turned immediately toward loved ones back home as the scale of the assault became clear. In the aftermath, Igal felt compelled to document the truth. He and fellow filmmakers produced two significant works:  • Where Do We Belong? — following women who survived the massacre and continue to rebuild their lives.  • The Killing Roads — exposing the brutality and chaos that unfolded on the roads that morning, much of which was “very much undertold.”  Igal stresses the importance of remembering the violence of that day and resisting narratives that distort or minimize the reality of the attacks. “What they did on the seventh shall never be forgotten.”  As we reflect on October 7, we also remember the spiritual calling we share: to pray for Israel, to stand with the Jewish people, and to seek truth in a world clouded by misinformation.  May we continue to lift up the families still healing, the communities still rebuilding, and the nation still defending itself against ongoing threats. And may we pray for God’s comfort, protection, and justice to prevail. To hear Igal’s full reflections and learn more about his documentary work, we invite you to watch this week’s episode of the Red Alert Report.  View The Killing Roads for free at www.TheKillingRoads.com. Follow us on social media for updates on the US release date for Where do We Belong?  Standing with Israel in faith and prayer, Amy Zewe The Jerusalem Connection International   If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow/subscribe, like, and share it to reach a larger audience. Consider making a recurring or one-time tax-deductible donation to The Jerusalem Connection so we can keep bringing you content like this and broaden our reach. www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to check out our organization and all our projects. Donate Here Find us, follow, like, and share on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

  2. Oct 1

    Red Alert: Insights from Jerusalem

    This week on the Red Alert Report, we meet with Reverend Tom Burden of CMJ Israel—an organization with nearly 200 years of history serving the people of the Holy Land. After more than a year serving in Jerusalem, Rev. Tom offers a thoughtful and moving look at the Jewish community’s long history in the city, the challenges they face today, and the vital work CMJ continues to do in support of both Jewish and Arab neighbors. Tom shares how an unexpected invitation to serve temporarily in Jerusalem became a clear calling for him and his wife. He reflects on CMJ’s 200-year legacy of providing education, healthcare, and spiritual support to vulnerable Jewish communities, and how that mission continues today through relationship-building, advocacy, and practical care. He also describes life in Jerusalem following the events of October 7—an atmosphere marked by trauma, resilience, and deep community support. Tom’s perspective highlights the complexity of living in a city where joy and sorrow often coexist, and where faith plays a central role in navigating uncertainty. In this conversation, Reverend Tom Burden shares his experiences and insights from living in Israel and the challenges of living in a war zone, and the resilience of the Israeli people. Reverend Tom also reflects on the complexities of being a Christian in Israel, the importance of community, and the joy of celebrating Sukkot amidst ongoing conflict. He emphasizes the need for prayer and alignment with God's will in their mission. If you’d like to hear more about Rev. Tom’s journey, CMJ’s historic ministry, and the realities facing Jerusalem’s communities today, we invite you to watch the full episode. Learn more about CMJ at CMJ-Israel.org. If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow/subscribe, like, and share it to reach a larger audience. Consider making a recurring or one-time tax-deductible donation to The Jerusalem Connection so we can keep bringing you content like this and broaden our reach. www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to check out our organization and all our projects. Donate Here Find us, follow, like, and share on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

  3. Sep 16

    Red Alert: Paul Calvert on What’s Really Happening

    This week’s Red Alert Report features a powerful and timely conversation with returning guest, journalist and author, Paul Calvert. Paul joins us from Bethlehem to share firsthand insights into the challenges facing both the Christian and Jewish communities in Israel and the UK. Paul discusses recent security incidents in Bethlehem, pressures facing local believers, and the shrinking Christian population in the region. He also reflects on rising antisemitism in the UK ahead of his upcoming ministry trip, where he plans to test public sentiment by wearing a UK–Israel flag badge and documenting reactions. Paul explains how misinformation shapes global perceptions of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, the difficulty of verifying casualty figures from Gaza, and the spiritual dimensions behind growing hostility toward Jews and Christians. Paul also shares his plans to speak in UK churches about living through rocket attacks in the Holy Land and the importance of grounding conversations about Israel in factual, biblical truth. This episode offers a sobering yet hopeful look at faith, conflict, and the need for clarity in a world flooded with distorted narratives. To hear Paul’s full perspective—and to stay informed about the realities facing believers in Bethlehem and beyond—watch the latest episode of The Red Alert Report. Find Paul’s publications:  Bethlehem Voice podcast (Find it on YouTube)  Paul Calvert’s articles published on AllIsraelNews.com Paul’s Children’s Books on Amazon. The Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree  (the first of three in a series)  If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow/subscribe, like, and share it to reach a larger audience. Consider making a recurring or one-time tax-deductible donation to The Jerusalem Connection so we can keep bringing you content like this and broaden our reach. www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to check out our organization and all our projects. Donate Here Find us, follow, like, and share on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

  4. Sep 2

    Red Alert: Ruby’s Path to Hebrew University

    In this week’s Red Alert Report, we introduce you to our 2027 Hebrew University Scholarship Recipient, Ruby Zimmerman—a remarkable young woman whose journey reflects faith, courage, and a deepening love for Israel.  Ruby grew up in a traditional conservative family where her father’s many trips to Israel sparked her early interest. But everything changed when she visited Israel at fifteen, shortly after a major attack in October 2023. “Seeing them so soon after an attack… expanded my world in a really huge way.”  Meeting survivors and witnessing the aftermath firsthand reshaped her understanding of Israel’s story and strengthened her faith. A year and a half later, Ruby returned—not to tour, but to serve. She volunteered at a kibbutz near Gaza, helping prepare homes for displaced families returning after the conflict. “It really touched them that these Christians were coming… They thanked us a lot.”  Her work restored not only physical spaces but also hope within the community. Now, Ruby is preparing to begin her studies at Hebrew University, choosing Israel over American higher education because she longs for clarity, truth, and immersion in the culture she has grown to love.  “I was kind of becoming disillusioned with the American higher education…”  Her commitment to learning, serving, and building bridges makes her an extraordinary representative of our mission. Ruby’s story reminds us of the power of empathy, connection, and standing with Israel’s people—both ancient and modern.  To hear her full journey, watch the latest episode of the Red Alert Report. As Ruby prepares for this next chapter, we invite you to partner with her. Your support of our Hebrew University Scholarship Fund directly helps Ruby with tuition and living expenses as she studies in Jerusalem. You can give by writing “Ruby” or “Hebrew University” on your check or remittance slip, or by donating online here!  Thank you for standing with us—and with Ruby—as we invest in the next generation of Christian advocates for Israel.  If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow/subscribe, like, and share it to reach a larger audience. Consider making a recurring or one-time tax-deductible donation to The Jerusalem Connection so we can keep bringing you content like this and broaden our reach. www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to check out our organization and all our projects. Donate Here Find us, follow, like, and share on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

  5. Aug 26

    Red Alert: A Young Woman’s Journey Through Anti-Semitism

    This episode of The Jerusalem Connection Red Alert Report features a powerful conversation with Yael Shavelson, a Pepperdine University master’s student whose story reveals how Jewish identity is being challenged—and strengthened—on today’s college campuses. Yael’s journey reflects a growing struggle for Jewish students nationwide and invites both Jews and Christians to consider how we support those facing hostility, misinformation, and isolation. Growing Up Without Anti-Semitism Yael grew up in a religious community where anti-Semitism was virtually unknown. “I grew up in a very religious community, had never had any real problems with antisemitism, which was, of course, such a blessing.” College, however, brought a stark awakening. A Campus Without a Jewish Home In rural Ohio, Jewish life was nearly invisible. Hillel existed—but barely. Her attempt to start a Jewish or Israel club was rejected under the guise of “inclusivity.” “I asked, can we start a Jewish club, an Israel club? We can make challah, we can teach about Israel. But the chaplain said we can't have something like that because we want to be open to everyone.” October 7th: A Turning Point While studying abroad in England, Yael learned of the horrific attacks in Israel. Returning to campus, she found a painful contrast: The Students for Justice in Palestine club received institutional support, while Hillel remained silent. “They didn’t acknowledge October 7th… until the one-year anniversary when they posted something about a family Shabbat.” Courage in the Face of Hostility Determined to speak for the hostages, Yael printed hundreds of posters and put them up at night for her own safety. “People would take them down within seconds. I would put them up when no one was around.” Her story is one of resilience—choosing identity over fear, truth over silence. A New Chapter of Hope in Washington, DC Amid these challenges, Yael found renewal and encouragement through Pepperdine’s Washington, DC program and her work with the Coalition of Catholics Against Antisemitism. In DC, she finally experienced what had been missing on her Ohio campus: A vibrant, open, and accepting communityProfessors and peers who respected her identitySpace to speak openly about IsraelA supportive environment where her Star of David felt safe to wearThis season reminded her that Jewish identity can flourish—and that strong allies stand ready to support her. Why This Conversation Matters Yael’s experience is not isolated. It highlights the growing challenges Jewish students face and the courage needed to stand firm in hostile environments. Her testimony echoes a biblical truth shared by Jews and Christians: “Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid.” (Joshua 1:9) For a deeper understanding of Yael’s journey—and the broader challenges facing Jewish students today—watch the full episode of the Red Alert Report.  If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow/subscribe, like, and share it to reach a larger audience. Consider making a recurring or one-time tax-deductible donation to The Jerusalem Connection so we can keep bringing you content like this and broaden our reach. www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to check out our organization and all our projects. Donate Here Find us, follow, like, and share on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

  6. Aug 19

    Red Alert: How Identity and Education Influence Historical Interpretation

    This week’s Jerusalem Connection Red Alert Report features a compelling conversation with Israeli historian Doron Sapir, whose work examines one of the most pressing questions of our time: How do identity, nationality, and the stories we were taught growing up shape how we understand history? Doron shares how his own journey—from studying electronics to becoming a historian—was transformed by a teacher who taught history not as dates, but as people, choices, and moral crossroads. That approach led him to examine not only what happened, but how different communities remember the same events in profoundly different ways. With all four grandparents born in Poland, Doron’s connection to Polish-Jewish history is deeply personal. He describes returning to Poland with his father, confronting painful memories, and discovering that Poles and Jews often stand in the same historical places yet see different stories. Rather than rejecting one narrative for another, Doron argues that understanding multiple perspectives enriches our grasp of truth. His insights echo a biblical principle shared by Jews and Christians alike: “The discerning heart seeks knowledge.” (Proverbs 15:14) Doron reminds us that acknowledging another community’s suffering does not diminish our own. Instead, it opens the door to empathy, dialogue, and reconciliation—values at the heart of both Jewish and Christian faith. In this episode, we explore: How identity and upbringing shape historical interpretationWhy nations remember the same events differentlyThe importance of listening to multiple narratives without erasing our ownDoron’s personal journey through Polish-Jewish memoryHow honest dialogue builds bridges between communitiesThis conversation invites us to reflect on the stories we inherited, the assumptions we carry, and the humility required to seek truth beyond our own perspective. To engage Doron Sapir for a visit to your classroom, Bible study, community group, or University, contact him directly:  Email–doron@dsapir.com.il, Phone: 301-537-6059, or on WhatsApp: +972 50-844-0133  Please have a  listen and share it with others who care about history, memory, and the hope of reconciliation.  If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow/subscribe, like, and share it to reach a larger audience. Consider making a recurring or one-time tax-deductible donation to The Jerusalem Connection so we can keep bringing you content like this and broaden our reach. www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to check out our organization and all our projects. Donate Here Find us, follow, like, and share on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

  7. Aug 12

    Red Alert: The Third Temple, Incense, and the Qumran Mystery

    In this episode, Amy Zewe and Shelley Neese speak with Adam Eliyahu Berkowitz, exploring the Third Temple in his latest book, The Ketoret (incense), and discoveries connected to the Qumran Project. Eliyahu explains why the Third Temple is rooted in explicit biblical prophecy and how its purpose as a “house of prayer for all nations” speaks to both Jews and Christians. We also explore the deep meaning of incense in Temple worship and the preservation of the recipe and tradition. Eliyahu shares the remarkable story of Vendyl Jones, whose archaeological passion led him to search for ancient Temple incense, highlighting the powerful intersection of faith, history, and restoration. Key Themes: The Third Temple as biblical prophecy for Jews and Christians The spiritual meaning of incense (Ketoret) in Temple worship Qumran discoveries and their connection to Temple tradition Vendyl Jones’ archaeological quest How Eden, the Temple, and redemption form one continuous story Faith, history, and prophecy come together in one fascinating conversation.  From the Temple incense to the Qumran discoveries, this episode opens up a whole new way of seeing the connections between Eden, the Temple, and redemption. If you’ve ever wondered what’s really behind the Third Temple conversation, this one is for you. Visit ProjectQumran.org to learn more and download The Ketoret for FREE. Find all Berkowitz’s books on Amazon, follow him on Facebook, and on Israel365News. Ask If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow/subscribe, like, and share it to reach a larger audience. Consider making a recurring or one-time tax-deductible donation to The Jerusalem Connection so we can keep bringing you content like this and broaden our reach. www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to check out our organization and all our projects. Donate Here Find us, follow, like, and share on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

  8. Aug 4

    Standing Against Kairos II: A Christian Declaration with Pastor Regan King

    This week on The Red Alert Report, Amy Zewe speaks with Pastor Regan King about a growing concern within the global church: the rise of antisemitism and the spread of misinformation surrounding the controversial Kairos II document (https://www.kairospalestine.ps/images/GKJs_response_Final.pdf). Pastor King, originally from Arkansas and now serving in London, shares his personal journey toward understanding the Jewish community and why he felt compelled to respond publicly and biblically. Pastor King describes how living within a Jewish community — and later meeting his wife Rachel in Jerusalem — awakened a deep personal burden for the Jewish people. This experience, combined with his study of Scripture, led him to confront false narratives that have begun circulating within parts of the church. In our conversation, he explains why the Kairos II document is filled with theological distortions and historical inaccuracies, and why its claims misrepresent both Jewish history and Christian identity. He highlights how certain narratives erase the Jewish roots of the faith and contribute to harmful ideologies that undermine truth and justice. Pastor King’s response is not merely a critique — it is a call for Christians to return to biblical foundations, engage in honest dialogue, and examine whether our voices are fostering peace or unintentionally echoing deception. His challenge is pastoral, thoughtful, and deeply rooted in Scripture. Key Points from the Episode: Pastor King’s personal journey toward understanding Israel and the Jewish communityWhy the Kairos II document spreads misinformation and dishonest theologyHow certain narratives erase Jewish history and distort Christian originsThe rise of antisemitism within parts of the church — and how believers should respondA call for biblically grounded, honest dialogue rooted in truth and compassionPastor King has authored a Christian Declaration against Kairos II https://declaration-against-kairos.com/  to help unify Christian voices committed to truth, biblical integrity, and genuine peace. If you share these concerns and wish to stand with him, we encourage you to read and consider signing the declaration. And please continue to Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem. We invite you to listen to this important conversation and share it with others who seek clarity, discernment, and a faithful Christian response to misinformation in the church. If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow/subscribe, like, and share it to reach a larger audience. Consider making a recurring or one-time tax-deductible donation to The Jerusalem Connection so we can keep bringing you content like this and broaden our reach. www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to check out our organization and all our projects. Donate Here Find us, follow, like, and share on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

About

The Jerusalem Connection's Red Alert Report brings you news, commentary, and interviews with subject experts and eyewitnesses telling the story of Israel and its people, both ancient and modern to inform, educate and activate support for Israel and the Jewish people. Originally commissioned in 2010 as a YouTube video production by the Rev. Dr. Jim Hutchens to counter BDS, anti-Zionism, and Jew-hatred wherever it manifested, The Red Alert program developed into a platform to educate on all matters of truth surrounding Israel's Biblical foundations, historical context, and modern-day battle for security and peace.   Educating Christians and the entire community on the history of persecution the Jewish people have faced, including the Holocaust and the most recent attempted genocide of October 7, 2023, the Red Alert Reports bring you valuable insights and conversations to strengthen the bonds of Christians and Jews.  If you like what you hear and you find these conversations valuable, please subscribe, like, and share our content. Our programming is made possible through the generous donations of those who share the vision of telling the story of Israel and its people, both ancient and modern. Consider a donation to continue our programming offerings. Donate at www.TheJerusalemConnection.us  The Jerusalem Connection is a 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to inform, educate and activate support for Israel and the Jewish people.Visit www.TheJerusalemConnection.us to learn more and donate. Follow us on social media: YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn. Find our podcast programs on YouTube and on your favorite podcast platform. 

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