Jared Hudson, a former Navy SEAL and current CEO of Covenant Rescue Group, spoke with Yellowhammer News about the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran and how people from Alabama are directly involved in humanitarian relief efforts on the ground.
Hudson confirmed he has previously worked in Israel, primarily in humanitarian aid but also in coordination with Israeli defense forces to combat terrorism.
“I have friends who live in Israel. We have friends from Alabama who live in Israel right now and friends from Alabama who are working over there on the humanitarian aid side and then also working in conjunction with Israeli forces to defend Israeli initiatives or support or uphold Israeli initiatives against terrorists,” he said.
According to Hudson, the current conflict marks a shift from what has long been viewed as a “shadow war” between Israel and Iran.
He pointed to Israel’s June 12 missile strikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites, which reportedly killed more than 220 Iranians, including members of the Royal Guard and nuclear scientists. In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Israeli cities such as Tel Aviv, killing at least two dozen civilians.
“This really marks a shift,” Hudson said. “Now we know it’s a full-blown conflict between Iran and Israel.”
As the conflict intensifies, Hudson emphasized that the human toll is being felt on both sides—and that Alabamians are among those stepping in to help. He said he remains in close contact with friends currently working in humanitarian roles in the region, including several from Alabama.
Among them is the head of the Baptist Village, a Christian missions organization based in Israel, who Hudson noted is originally from Alabama. These groups are working directly with displaced civilians, including families and children impacted by the war in Gaza.
“They’re actively working on the front line to provide all of this care for people who have been displaced by the war,” he said. This includes delivering food, medical equipment, and other essential supplies, often in areas where the risk of further attacks remains high.
Hudson described how Israeli and U.S.-funded aid is being delivered not just to Israeli citizens, but also to Arab and Palestinian civilians who have suffered as a result of the conflict. He emphasized the complexity of providing relief in a war zone, explaining that some aid workers are also accompanied by security to protect supplies from being intercepted by armed groups.
“There are terrorist regimes… that want to take advantage of that,” Hudson said. “They’ll take that from these people when they receive it.”
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Despite the risks, Hudson said his contacts are continuing their work without interruption. “When they get missile attacks, it’s kind of like tornadoes for us in Alabama. Just something they’re used to.”
While following the situation closely from the U.S., Hudson is also preparing for a new chapter of service at home. He was the first to announce his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Tommy Tuberville, who has announced he is running for Governor of Alabama in 2026.
He concluded the interview by encouraging Alabamians to learn more about his platform as a candidate for U.S. Senate. “I want people to look at my platform. I don’t ask you to give me anything. I’m not asking for your money or your vote. I want to earn your support,” he said. “Spend prayerful consideration… I believe that I’m that person. And be sure to get out and vote in the primary in May of ’26.”
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
