Exclusive: Franklin Graham Leads Samaritan’s Purse in Donating Bulletproof Ambulance to Israel

As Israel continues its recovery following the deadly Hamas attacks of October 2023, a significant act of support has emerged from the Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse. The group has donated 20 ambulances to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical service, as part of a larger commitment to provide a total of 42 vehicles. Notably, 28 of these ambulances are being specially armored to withstand attacks, reflecting the persistent security threats faced by emergency responders in the region.

A formal dedication ceremony for the latest ambulance took place outside Jerusalem’s historic Tower of David. Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, led the event, joined by former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, MDA leaders, and Israeli survivors of terror attacks. The new ambulance is not only armored but also equipped with a state-of-the-art mobile intensive care unit, enabling it to operate effectively even under fire.

The funding for this particular vehicle was provided by Pastor Greg Laurie and his congregation at Harvest Christian Fellowship. Addressing the attendees, Laurie emphasized, "We want to say as Christians that we stand with Israel. You’re not alone." His words highlighted the international solidarity felt by many during Israel’s time of need.

Franklin Graham offered spiritual reflections, drawing parallels between the biblical account of Abraham rescuing his nephew Lot and the lifesaving work of first responders today. "Abraham was the MDA of his generation," Graham remarked. During the ceremony, he also acknowledged three women who had each endured trauma at the hands of Hamas. One of them, Karina Engel, delivered an emotional account of her family’s ordeal—losing her husband Ronen in an attack, being kidnapped along with her two daughters, and held captive in Gaza for 52 days. Tragically, Ronen’s body remains in Hamas custody.

In a heartfelt tribute, Karina revealed that a Samaritan’s Purse ambulance now serves her community in her late husband’s memory. She shared, "Every morning when I leave for work, I say ‘good morning’ to Ronen," before placing a yellow ribbon on Franklin Graham’s jacket as a symbol for those still held hostage.

Former Governor Mike Huckabee addressed the significance of armored ambulances, stating that their necessity underscores the ongoing dangers that medical teams face. "This is an occasion brought about because of suffering," he said, expressing gratitude for those who sacrifice for others’ safety. He thanked Samaritan’s Purse, Harvest Christian Fellowship, and first responders for their bravery and compassion.

Magen David Adom’s Director General Eli Bin praised the donation, describing the ambulance as an addition to Israel’s "modern defense" and a "symbol of kindness and protection." Gilad Erdan, the organization’s global president, recognized Samaritan’s Purse for providing aid during Israel’s most critical moments.

Edward Graham, a military veteran and son of Franklin Graham, stressed the importance of rapid medical assistance in conflict zones. "We do this because God loves Israel," he stated. "We pray this equipment will save lives and bring glory to God."

The donated ambulances bear a message of hope, inscribed with the Bible verse Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." The dedication ceremony coincided with Shavuot, the Jewish holiday commemorating the giving of the Torah, adding further meaning to the gathering.

Samaritan’s Purse plans to deliver an additional 22 armored ambulances by the end of the year, reaffirming its commitment to support Israel’s emergency services for as long as the need persists. In these difficult times, such initiatives provide both tangible aid and a message of enduring solidarity and hope.