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Iran’s leadership remains firmly committed to advancing its nuclear ambitions and backing terrorist proxy groups, with little expectation of any meaningful policy change despite internal differences, Iranian opposition figure Ali Safavi said in an interview Sunday.

Safavi, a member of the National Council of Resistance of Iran and a parliamentarian in exile, told Newsmax that the regime’s various factions operate with the same overarching goals. “Well, to be honest, various factions within the Iranian regime throughout the 47 years of rule of this dictatorship are all cut from the same cloth,” Safavi said on Newsmax’s “Wake Up America Weekend.”

He explained that while disagreements may exist at the tactical level, they do not reflect any real strategic divide. “They may differ in tactics, but strategically they are all in for the continuation of the nuclear weapons program, support for the proxy terrorist groups, and of course, suppressing the Iranian people,” he added.

According to Safavi, any perceived divisions among Tehran’s leadership are largely superficial. “So there may be some nuances, but at the end of the day, they’re basically the same,” he said. “And interestingly, those who came to the negotiating table, the speaker of the parliament, the foreign minister, and they’re both die-hard and veteran IRGC [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps] commanders.”

He pointed to recent developments as further evidence supporting his assessment of the regime’s intentions. “And clearly, I think what happened yesterday proved what we have been saying all along, that this regime will never abandon its nuclear weapons program. It will never stop funding and training its terrorist proxies. And, of course, it will not abate in suppressing the Iranian people,” Safavi said.

Safavi also highlighted recent executions as an illustration of continued repression. “Case in point, the execution of 13 dissidents, including six members of the main Iranian opposition, the Mujahideen, last week,” he said.

Appearing alongside Safavi, Asaf Romirowsky, executive director of Scholars for Peace in the Middle East, said he largely agrees with that assessment, emphasizing that internal disagreements do not weaken the regime’s hold on power. “The fact of the matter is, I have no disagreement with what my colleague is saying here,” Romirowsky said.

“I mean, the fact is that these axis of oppression forces are still controlled by the regime itself. There’s still enough power that the IRGC has. And so any opposition forces really are being squashed.”

Romirowsky added that while Iran’s leadership may have suffered setbacks, its guiding ideology remains firmly in place. While agreeing the leadership has been “decapitated,” Romirowsky said “the ideology is still alive and well, and they’re the ones who are controlling what’s going on.”

He also pointed to the strategic and economic importance of key waterways, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, as a critical factor moving forward. “Now, obviously, the main concern going forward, economically speaking, is going to be who’s controlling the Straits of Hormuz, and that is the IRGC,” Romirowsky said. “And we’re going to see probably more activity in that area for sure. So that’s part of what you’re going to see play out here.”

Romirowsky concluded that as long as the current leadership remains in power, repression will continue. “So long as they’re in power, this tyrannical regime and the suppressive, you know, repression forces are going to continue to squash any opposition forces,” he said.

Israel’s advisory committee on senior appointments has approved the selection of Maj. Gen. Roman Gofman as the next head of the Mossad, clearing the way for his appointment despite opposition from the committee’s chairman, retired Supreme Court President Asher Grunis.

The panel granted its approval on Sunday evening, with Grunis voting against the nomination but remaining in the minority. Following the decision, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu signed off on the appointment, which he had first announced in early December. Gofman is scheduled to take office on June 2 for a five-year term.

Gofman brings with him a long military career that includes a variety of senior operational and leadership roles within the IDF. He began his service in the Armored Corps as a tank crewman and commander, later serving as commander of the 75th Battalion in the 7th Brigade. He went on to serve as operations officer in the Ga’ash Formation (36th Division), commander of the Etzion Brigade and subsequently the 7th Brigade, head of the Bashan Division (210), commander of the National Ground Training Center, and chief of the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories.

Despite his extensive record, two past incidents have drawn attention. In one case, during his time leading the Etzion Brigade, Gofman reportedly ran a network of Palestinian informants without informing either the ISA or IDF Military Intelligence, and was later called in to provide clarification.

A more serious matter stems from his tenure as commander of the Bashan Division. According to allegations, Gofman directed two subordinate officers to pass along highly classified information—defined by both the ISA and the IDF as top secret—to a 17-year-old from Ashkelon, Uri Elmakayes, who operated a Telegram-based news channel.

The teenager was later detained by the ISA and police and charged with treason and severe espionage offenses. At the time of his arrest, authorities were reportedly unaware of any connection to Gofman. His alleged involvement only surfaced later in the process, when defense attorneys introduced evidence suggesting the senior officer had acted independently.

Israel is considering restarting its military campaign against Iran, with preparations already underway in coordination with the United States, according to a report aired Sunday by Kan News.

A senior security source cited in the report said that Operation “Roaring Lion” was brought to a halt prematurely, before Israel had achieved sufficient leverage over Iran’s nuclear program and ballistic missile capabilities, and while the Strait of Hormuz was still not reopened.

The report states that Israel is now waiting for a decision from President Donald Trump, even as the IDF continues to make operational preparations alongside U.S. forces for a possible renewed offensive against Iran.

As part of these preparations, additional American military assets are continuing to arrive in the region, with close coordination taking place between Israeli and U.S. leadership at the highest levels. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, is expected to arrive in Israel on Monday for consultations.

If authorization is granted by the White House, Israel is expected to broaden its target bank, potentially striking key national infrastructure and energy facilities throughout Iran. The objective would be to apply heavy economic pressure on the Iranian regime in an effort to force it to abandon its nuclear program.

Chap-A-Nosh of Brooklyn, a longtime kosher staple in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn that served the community for over 40 years, has permanently shut its doors, with owner Elie Pollak announcing that April 7th marked the restaurant’s final day of operation.

In a notice shared with staff and associates, Pollak acknowledged the difficulty of the decision and expressed appreciation for those who had been part of the business over the years. “I am writing to share some difficult news. Unfortunately today will be the last day Chap A Nosh will be open,” he wrote. “This is not an easy decision on my part and have worked alongside each and every one of you. Over the last nine years, your dedication and friendship meant a lot to me.” He concluded, “Thank you for all that you have done and wish you much continued success in the future.”

Chap-A-Nosh’s closure brings an end to a decades-long presence in Brooklyn’s kosher dining scene. The restaurant had been operating for more than four decades, with roots going back to the early 1980s or earlier. Over the years, it became a fixture in Midwood, known for its Chinese-American offerings.

The business had expanded beyond its original storefront. Adjacent to Chap-A-Nosh, the family operated Yun Kee, a sit-down Chinese restaurant, as well as Chap-A-Nosh Plus, a takeout establishment that included a butcher shop, bakery, and Shabbos food preparations. It remains unclear whether those neighboring operations will also be affected by the closure.

While the Brooklyn location has ceased operations, the Chap-A-Nosh catering division in the Five Towns continues to operate. That arm of the business runs out of a kosher deli and takeout counter inside the Gourmet Glatt supermarket in Cedarhurst, New York, and has not been impacted by the shutdown.

Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and 2024 presidential candidate Nikki Haley said Sunday that the United States may ultimately have to deploy special operations forces inside Iran to eliminate its reserves of highly enriched uranium.

Speaking during an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union, Haley suggested that such a move may be unavoidable given the current situation. “That’s probably what it’s going to come down to. I mean, this is a special force mission. It would take about a week to ten days to get done. They know how to do it. It’s dangerous,” she said.

Haley emphasized that while the operation would carry serious risks, she believes it is necessary to neutralize a key threat posed by Iran. “It’s not something that we can, you know, just sit and think is casual. I think they have to do it. But once they do that, they’re taking away literally one arm of the Iranian regime to where they no longer can threaten any of our allies,” she added.

She also addressed President Donald Trump’s recent decision to impose a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, indicating that the move is not intended to be a prolonged deployment. Responding to a question about the situation, Haley said, “I think that this is just a matter of continuing to weaken the regime. No, we don‘t want an endless war. This needs to be completed fast. And I think Trump is showing he‘s not going to wait around for talks anymore to do this. Keep in mind, we‘ve got a lot of the naval military already there, so they‘re prepared to do this if they can show that they can de-mine that strait, if they can show that it‘s safe to go through, typically 135 ships would go through the strait a day. Now we‘ve got maybe a handful. You‘ve got a backlog of 400 ships. This is affecting the global economy. If the Trump Administration can manage to get the strait open without Iran having any leverage to hold it hostage, that will be a huge feat, not just for the us, but for the region and the global economy.”

When asked about her political future, Haley ruled out another presidential bid in the next election cycle. She said she “will not” run in 2028 and noted that it is still too early for her to decide whom she might support for the Republican nomination.

Israeli forces operating in the central Gaza Strip thwarted an imminent terror plot, eliminating an armed Hamas cell that had advanced toward the Yellow Line with plans to attack IDF troops, the military announced.

According to the IDF, troops under Southern Command, working in coordination with the ISA, carried out the strike after identifying the threat through intelligence assessments.

The military said that among those killed was Ali Sami Mohammad Shakra, identified as a Hamas Nukhba platoon commander who had infiltrated Israel during the October 7 massacre and participated in the abduction of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alon Ohel, Eliya Cohen, and Or Levy from a bomb shelter in Re’im.

The strike also resulted in the deaths of Mohammad Mabhouh, a company commander in Hamas’ al-Bureij Battalion, and Mohammad Fuad Jaser Sayyid. The IDF said both individuals were involved in holding Avinatan Or while he was in Hamas captivity.

In addition, the military released an image showing Mohammad Fuad Jaser Sayyid, described as a Hamas platoon commander, together with Avinatan Or during his captivity inside a Hamas tunnel.

The IDF added that several other Hamas Nukhba operatives were killed in the strike, including individuals involved in launching rockets toward Israel.

Early election results in Hungary are pointing to a dramatic political shift, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban appearing headed for defeat after 16 years in power as opposition leader Péter Magyar’s party surges to a commanding lead.

With approximately half of the votes counted, projections show Magyar’s party capturing 136 out of 199 parliamentary seats, comfortably surpassing the 133-seat threshold needed for a two-thirds majority.

Such a result would hand the opposition sweeping authority, including the ability to change the constitution and roll back policies put in place during Orban’s long tenure.

By comparison, Orban’s ruling Fidesz party is expected to secure just 63 seats, marking a sharp decline in support.

Magyar stated that Orban had already reached out to acknowledge the outcome. In a public statement, Orban conceded defeat, saying, “The results are clear and they are painful for us. I congratulated the party that won. We will continue to serve the people from the opposition.”

Speaking earlier from Budapest, constitutional law expert Yaniv Roznai of Reichman University emphasized that Magyar represents a unique figure within Hungarian politics. “He comes from within the ruling camp itself,” Roznai said. “He is a right-wing candidate, but one capable of replacing the current government.”

Roznai explained that dissatisfaction among younger voters has been driven in part by economic pressures and Hungary’s tense relationship with the European Union. “They feel the country is missing out on funding because it does not meet European standards on judicial independence, rule of law, separation of powers, and human rights,” he said. He added that everyday concerns—such as the economy, healthcare, and education—have also played a significant role in shaping voter sentiment and fueling the push for change.

Addressing the outlook for Hungary’s Jewish community, Roznai described a nuanced situation. While Orban’s government has been viewed as supportive of Israel and aligned with Prime Minister Netanyahu, some of its political messaging—particularly efforts to link Magyar with figures like George Soros and Volodymyr Zelenskyy—has drawn criticism as antisemitic.

According to Roznai, a Magyar-led government is not expected to bring major changes for the Jewish community. “He is also a right-wing figure, opposed to immigration, so policy in that area is not expected to shift significantly,” he said, adding that Hungary’s Jewish population remains a key constituency. At the same time, he noted that Hungary’s future foreign policy direction toward Israel remains unclear.

Defense Minister Yisroel Katz toured southern Lebanon on Sunday alongside Deputy Chief of Staff Tamir Yadai and Division 91 commander Yuval Gaz, outlining a new military campaign aimed at dismantling Hezbollah infrastructure and reshaping the security reality along Israel’s northern border.

Also joining the visit was Eitan Davidi, head of Moshav Margaliot, who represented residents living near the border and has been calling for a fundamental shift in the region’s security conditions.

While addressing troops in the field, Katz disclosed the name of the ongoing military initiative, “Silver Plow,” describing it as an operation focused on destroying terrorist infrastructure and structures used by Hezbollah for launching attacks against Israel.

“We have decided that we are not leaving the north again. It is impossible to leave civilians under the threat of anti-tank fire and raids. The goal is to disarm Hezbollah and evacuate all Lebanese residents south of the Litani-they will not return as long as the safety of our residents is not guaranteed. All the houses are being removed. We saw in Gaza how this works-until it happens, repeated raids don’t help. They lose territory and they lose homes,” Katz said.

Katz also spoke about the final moments of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah prior to his assassination, offering a pointed reflection. “According to the diagnoses, in the end he was trapped in a room and suffocated. He had a few minutes to think about how wrong he was in understanding the Jews-that we have changed. He was sure he knew us; he didn’t understand that what happened caused us to act differently.”

Davidi voiced strong backing for both the defense minister and the IDF, emphasizing the resolve of residents in the region. “We will give the IDF all the time needed to complete the job. We don’t need to evacuate-staying in our homes is our victory image. We are here to give strength to the soldiers so they know we trust them. The Defense Minister has pulled the pin, and the IDF is doing the job.”

A pall has fallen over the Lakewood community with the devastating news of the petirah of Habochur Eli Schepansky z”l, just 18 years old, who was niftar early Sunday morning following a fatal car accident in Hamilton, New Jersey.

Eli had set out in the early morning hours together with a friend on a mission of chesed, traveling to Philadelphia to assist a mutual acquaintance. Tragically, on their return trip, their vehicle was involved in a collision with a truck. Eli was killed in the crash, while the other bochur sustained serious injuries.

Eli was a son of R’ Moshe and Mrs. Leah Schepansky of Garden of Eden Drive in Lakewood, NJ.

All are asked to be mispallel for Mordechai Zelig ben Blima.

The levayah for Eli will be held at 5:15 p.m. at the Congregation Sons of Israel Holocaust Memorial Chapel, located at 613 Ramsey Avenue in Lakewood, New Jersey, followed by kevurah at the adjacent Mt. Sinai Cemetery.

Umacha Hashem dimah me’al kol ponim.

A heartbreaking tragedy has struck with the passing of 17-year-old bochur Yehoshua Raam z”l, a resident of Bnei Brak, who drowned while on a trip with friends at the Ein Akev spring in the Negev.

Yehoshua, a first-year talmid at Yeshivas Grodna in Be’er Yaakov, was pronounced dead after drowning during a bein hazmanim outing with friends. His name was cleared for publication following the tragic incident.

According to earlier reports, a helicopter team from the Lahava rescue unit, led by the unit’s commander, was dispatched to the Ein Akev spring in the afternoon after receiving a report of a missing youth who had fallen into the water during the outing. After his clothing was found at the site, an extensive search was launched, and his body was located several hours later.

ZAKA volunteers are currently working at the scene, ensuring proper kavod hameis and gathering necessary findings. Aharon Fischer, a ZAKA volunteer who was in the area and rushed to the scene, together with Gili Tugendhaft, a ZAKA volunteer from the Negev region in the Dimona team, said: “We arrived at the site after receiving the report of a missing boy in the spring. After hours of activity, the 17-year-old was located. This is a very difficult scene. Together with other ZAKA volunteers, we are handling the difficult situation with dignity, while supporting the family in these painful moments.”

The body will be transferred for external examination at the Abu Kabir forensic institute. Details regarding the levayah, which is expected to take place tomorrow, will be updated as they become available.

Yehoshuawas born in Bnei Brak to his father, Rav Yisrael Raam, and his mother, Mrs. Sarah (Glick) Raam.

It was learned that at the age of three, he fell seriously ill and was in critical condition, but in a remarkable turn of events, he recovered and returned to good health.

In his younger years, he studied at Yeshivas Tiferes Tzion, and this past Elul he began shiur aleph at Yeshivas Grodna in Be’er Yaakov, where he continued to grow and excel in his learning.

He had gone with friends following early morning neitz davening for a trip in the Negev. In a devastating turn of events, he drowned in the spring, leaving his family and friends shattered.

Tehei nishmaso tzerurah b’tzror hachaim.

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu said on Sunday that he opposes petitions calling for the removal of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, describing the demand as unconstitutional.

In a response to the High Court of Justice, presented via attorney Michael Rabilo, Netanyahu argued that the court lacks the legal authority to intervene in government appointments. “This is an unconstitutional attempt to remove a minister,” he wrote. “You do not have any authority.”

The premier also criticized Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara for seeking Ben-Gvir’s dismissal, saying her request undermines democratic principles.

Earlier this year, Baharav-Miara accused Ben-Gvir of abusing his position to improperly influence police operations. The legal opinion submitted on March 4, in the middle of the war, drew anger from members of the coalition.

The Prime Minister’s Office expressed outrage at Baharav-Miara’s actions, describing it at the time as “inconceivable” that she would pursue the case in the midst of a war.

Her request against a minister “against whom not even a criminal investigation has been opened” undermines democracy and makes a mockery of the principle of separation of powers, the PMO said.

Ending on a defiant note, the PMO said Ben-Gvir will continue to serve as National Security Minister.

Ben-Gvir responded on X on March 4: “At a time when the State of Israel is in one of the most fateful and important wars in its history, a dismissed criminal official is trying to promote a coup d’état in a democratic country and to dismiss an elected official.”

He referred to the fact that the attorney general, who is deeply unpopular with the government, was unanimously voted out on Aug. 4. The High Court canceled that decision on Dec. 14.

“Gali Baharav-Miara thinks we are in Iran and that soon she and her group of criminal officials will establish revolutionary guards here. Democracy will win,” wrote Ben-Gvir. JNS

Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir ordered a heightened state of alert following the collapse of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire talks in Islamabad on Sunday morning, according to Hebrew media reports.

The IDF has shifted into an readiness protocol similar to those implemented in the days leading up to past campaigns against the Islamic Republic, according military sources cited by Ynet, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

As part of Zamir’s directive, the military has been ordered to maintain high operational readiness across all units, shorten response times and address any existing operational gaps. Planning and execution processes are also being accelerated, the sources added.

U.S. and Iranian officials did not reach an agreement after 21 hours of talks in Islamabad, U.S. Vice President JD Vance announced on Sunday morning in Pakistan.

“We’ve had a number of substantive discussions with the Iranians. That’s the good news,” the vice president told reporters. “The bad news is that we have not reached an agreement, and I think that’s bad news for Iran much more than it’s bad news for the United States of America.”

Speaking just hours before Vance’s announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the campaign against Iran and its regional terrorist proxies was “not yet over” despite “historic accomplishments” during 40 days of fighting.

In a televised address on Saturday night, Netanyahu warned that Jerusalem still has “more to do” and remained committed to eliminating the threat posed by Tehran’s remaining “magazine of missiles” and enriched uranium.

“There is still enriched material in Iran,” noted the premier. And as U.S. President Donald Trump has said, he continued, “it needs to be removed. Either it will be removed by agreement, or it will come out in other ways. But we are working in cooperation between myself and President Trump, and between Israel and the U.S., that is unprecedented. These are achievements that change the entire balance of power.”

An anonymous Israeli source told the country’s Kan News broadcaster after the talks ended that a next round of fighting could see “severe and comprehensive” attacks, including on “national infrastructure, energy facilities and oil production.”

Despite the collapse of the talks, Pakistani media cited sources in Islamabad as saying on Sunday that the two-week ceasefire between Washington and Tehran is expected to remain in place until its scheduled expiry on April 21, coinciding with Israel’s Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror).

The southern Israeli city of Ashkelon said on Sunday it was canceling Memorial Day ceremonies and Independence Day celebrations, due to be marked on April 22, citing the the “fragile ceasefire and security instability.”

Israel and the United States launched “Operation Roaring Lion/Epic Fury” against the Islamic Republic on Feb. 28. Trump announced on April 7 that he had agreed to a “double-sided ceasefire” after talking to the Pakistani prime minister and field marshal, who “requested that I hold off the destructive force being sent tonight to Iran.”

If the Iranian regime agrees to the “complete, immediate and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks,” Trump stated last week.

Tensions escalated Sunday as Iran warned that any military vessels entering the Strait of Hormuz would be treated as a breach of the cease-fire and met with a “strong and forceful response,” following President Trump’s announcement of a blockade targeting the strategic waterway.

Earlier in the day, Trump said the United States would prevent “any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave” the Strait until conditions are met that ensure oil can move freely without interference from Iran.

In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy pushed back, asserting that it maintains complete authority over the Strait and that civilian maritime traffic continues uninterrupted.

“Contrary to the false claims of certain enemy officials, the Strait of Hormuz is open for the passage of non-military vessels under smart control and management, in accordance with specific regulations,” the naval forces said in a statement, according to two semi-official Iranian news agencies.

At the same time, the IRGC warned that any movement by military ships into the area would be viewed as a violation of the cease-fire agreement.

Trump has maintained that last week’s cease-fire arrangement included Iran’s agreement to allow the Strait—through which more than 20 percent of global seaborne oil passes each year—to remain open.

However, Iran has faced accusations of attempting to impose fees on ships passing through the Strait and has also claimed it lost track of naval mines it had deployed, raising concerns among shipping operators and discouraging transit through the already volatile route.

Despite Tehran’s warnings, U.S. officials said two American Navy destroyers passed through the Strait yesterday and successfully shot down an Iranian drone during the transit.

Following the resounding success of the Artemis II mission—marked by unprecedented views of the moon’s far side, a total solar eclipse seen from lunar orbit, and a new record distance for human spaceflight—NASA is now turning its focus to what comes next in its renewed push toward the moon.

Speaking at a celebratory homecoming event yesterday, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman highlighted the significance of the achievement while introducing Artemis II commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen. “To people all around the world who look up and dream about what is possible, the long wait is over,” Isaacman said.

With the crew safely returned to Houston and reunited with their families after becoming the first humans in more than 50 years to travel to the moon, NASA is already advancing plans for Artemis III.

“The next mission’s right around the corner,” entry flight director Rick Henfling said after the crew’s Pacific splashdown on Friday.

As part of preparations for next year’s mission, Artemis III astronauts—who have not yet been named—will conduct docking exercises in Earth orbit, practicing the connection between their Orion capsule and a lunar lander. Private companies led by Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos are competing to have their respective landers ready first.

SpaceX’s Starship and Blue Origin’s Blue Moon spacecraft are both in development as candidates for the Artemis IV mission, currently targeted for a 2028 moon landing. That mission is expected to send two astronauts to the moon’s south pole, an area believed to contain significant ice deposits that could support future habitation and fuel production as part of a proposed lunar base estimated to cost between $20 billion and $30 billion.

Hardware for the upcoming Artemis III docking test is already in place at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Meanwhile, SpaceX is preparing for another Starship test launch from South Texas, while a smaller version of Blue Moon is scheduled to attempt a lunar landing later this year.

NASA officials have indicated that the Artemis III crew will be announced “soon,” noting that the mission, much like Apollo 9 in 1969, is designed to reduce risks ahead of future moon landings.

Apollo 9 astronaut Rusty Schweickart recalled the experience of piloting the lunar module in Earth orbit as “a test pilot’s dream,” while acknowledging that “the real astronauts” in the public imagination were those who ultimately walked on the moon.

During their nearly 10-day journey, Wiseman and his crew openly shared emotional moments, reflecting on both loved ones they had lost and those awaiting their return on Earth.

At one point, the crew tearfully requested that a newly formed, bright crater on the moon be named after Wiseman’s late wife, Carroll, who passed away from cancer in 2020. They also expressed deep appreciation for one another and for Earth itself, describing it as a fragile and beautiful home that deserves greater care.

Artemis II marked several historic firsts, including the first woman, the first person of color, and the first non-American to travel to the moon.

“Wonderful communicators, almost poets,” Isaacman said from the recovery ship while awaiting the crew’s return.

The tone of the mission stood in contrast to the more reserved demeanor of Apollo-era astronauts, whose crews in the 1960s and 1970s were known for their all-business approach and did not engage in displays like group embraces.

For longtime observers of space exploration, the return to lunar missions has been deeply meaningful. Author Andy Chaikin compared the experience to waking from a decades-long slumber. “It’s amazing how far we’ve come and how different this experience is from back then,” he said during remarks at Johnson Space Center late last week.

NASA Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya said one of the most challenging aspects of the mission was balancing the emotional connection to the astronauts and their families with the risks involved. He closely followed Friday’s reentry alongside family members.

“You know what’s at stake,” Kshatriya said. “It’s going to take risk to explore, but you have to make sure you find the right line between being paralyzed by it and being able to manage it.”

After reuniting with his daughters, Wiseman addressed fellow astronauts at yesterday’s celebration, urging them to prepare for the next phase of exploration.

“It is time to go and be ready,” he said, pointing toward them. “because it takes courage. It takes determination, and you all are freaking going and we are going to be standing there supporting you every single step of the way in every possible way possible.”

A growing standoff is taking shape in the Strait of Hormuz, as President Donald Trump declared that the United States will take action to restore free passage through the critical global shipping route, launching what he described as a coordinated military effort.

Trump made it clear that Iran will no longer be permitted to dictate access to the waterway or collect fees from passing vessels, signaling a sharp escalation in the dispute.

He further warned that any country or ship that agrees to pay Iran for transit would not be guaranteed safe passage through the Strait.

Trump also indicated that several allied nations are expected to join the initiative, which he characterized as a blockade aimed at reestablishing open navigation and putting an end to what he called “world extortion” by Iran.

In a detailed and forceful statement, Trump said the move comes in response to Iranian claims that naval mines may have been deployed in the area, creating widespread concern among commercial shipping operators.

The resulting uncertainty has effectively brought maritime traffic to a halt. Addressing the situation, Trump said, “So, there you have it, the meeting went well, most points were agreed to, but the only point that really mattered, NUCLEAR, was not,” before announcing that “Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz.”

The plan is expected to focus heavily on clearing potential mines and enforcing maritime security, with Trump arguing that the lack of clarity over mine locations has crippled shipping activity and necessitates immediate intervention.

He expressed confidence that normal operations would soon resume, stating that a system would be restored in which “all being allowed to go in, all being allowed to go out,” removing Iran’s influence over one of the world’s most important trade corridors.

Trump also warned that any military response from Iran would be met decisively, saying that U.S. forces are “locked and loaded.”

He concluded with a direct message to Tehran: “As they promised, they better begin the process of getting this INTERNATIONAL WATERWAY OPEN AND FAST.”

It is with great sadness that Matzav.com reports the petirah of Rav Yeruchem Leshinsky zt”l, longtime maggid shiur at the Mirrer Yeshiva of Flatbush, who was niftar early this morning at the age of 89.

Rav Leshinsky was widely respected as a devoted marbitz Torah who shaped and influenced generations of talmidim through decades of unwavering harbotzas haTorah between the walls of the yeshiva. His shiurim, delivered with clarity, depth, and consistency, left a lasting imprint on countless bochurim who passed through his classroom.

He was born in Mir, Poland, before World War II, a child of a world that would soon be engulfed in churban. He was the son of Rav Dovid Leshinsky, and from a young age was immersed in a life of Torah and yiras Shomayim that would define him for decades to come.

Rav Leshinsky was zocheh to marry into one of the most prominent Torah families of the previous generation, becoming a son-in-law of Rav Avigdor Miller zt”l.

He was a brother-in-law of Rav Aharon Kreiser zt”l and Rav Shmuel Brudny zt”l.

He spent his life immersed in Torah, dedicating himself fully to the Mirrer Yeshiva, where he learned, taught, and lived with singular focus and mesirus nefesh. His presence in the yeshiva spanned many years, during which he became a cornerstone of the institution’s harbotzas haTorah.

Rav Leshinsky is survived by his wife, Rebbetzin Libby Leshinsky, along with his children: Rav Shmuel Leshinsky, Rav Avrohom Nochum Leshinsky, Reb Yitzy Leshinsky, Mrs. Avigayil Klein, Mrs. Batsheva Alpert, and Mrs. Shulamis Fishoff.

He was predceased by his siblings: Rebbetzin Rivka Kreiser, wife of Rav Aharon Kreiser; Rav Yaakov Leshinsky; and Rebbetzin Rochel Brudny, wife of Rav Shmuel Brudny.

The levayah is being held at the Mirrer Yeshiva in Brooklyn, New York. Following the levayah, the aron will be flown to Eretz Yisroel for kevurah.

With his petirah, the yeshiva world has lost a true oved Hashem and marbitz Torah, whose quiet dedication and lifelong commitment to limud haTorah will continue to resonate through the many talmidim he inspired.

Police have launched a full investigation following a shocking act of vandalism at the Skverer shul in Yerushalayim, vowing to pursue those responsible and bring them to justice.

Members of the Skverer community awoke to painful and disturbing scenes of disgrace and destruction. The incident was discovered when the shul’s security guard reported that unknown individuals had broken in during the night and carried out a deliberate act of desecration. According to initial findings, the perpetrators threw tefillin and other sacred items onto the floor and caused intentional damage to the property, deeply hurting the feelings of the mispallelim.

Officers from the Lev Habira police station arrived at the scene and began collecting evidence and forensic materials. Investigators are reviewing nearby security footage in an effort to identify the suspects and bring about their quick arrest. Police emphasized that the desecration of a place of worship and the disgrace of religious items are considered very serious offenses and are being treated with urgency, especially given the current climate.

In a statement, police said: “The Israel Police views harm to religious institutions and symbols with great severity and will act with all necessary means to uncover the truth and bring those involved to justice.” Members of the community expressed deep shock, describing the incident as crossing a red line. “To see tefillin thrown on the floor in the heart of Yerushalayim is something that cannot be ignored,” said one mispallel who arrived at the scene in the morning.

Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Lieberman announced that he intends to run for prime minister, sharply criticizing the government’s conduct during the war and declaring that he will not join any coalition led by Bibi Netanyahu or supported by Arab parties.

In an interview on Channel 12, Lieberman launched a broad attack on the government’s handling of the war over the past two and a half years, describing it as a “strategic failure.” While acknowledging certain tactical successes, he argued that Israel has failed to achieve decisive outcomes on any front. “It simply cannot be that soldiers are sent to search a suspicious house instead of bombing it from above,” Lieberman said, criticizing operations in the north. “I saw in Rambam young guys with amputated arms and legs. Why send them on these searches? Bomb it.”

Addressing the conflict with Hezbollah and Iran, Lieberman claimed that the political leadership “does not live the reality on the ground.” He suggested that Hezbollah could be eliminated by forming a coalition with Christian, Sunni, and Druze elements in Lebanon who oppose the group. “They are waiting for a phone call,” he asserted. Regarding Iran, he argued that recent operations were poorly executed: “We attacked but did not use Jewish ingenuity. Right now, the Iranians control 22 percent of global oil trade and collect transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz; this is a negative shift in status that has never happened before.”

Lieberman also touched on the issue of military conscription and the government’s alliance with chareidi parties, which he described as “idolatry.” He accused Netanyahu of advancing what he called an “evasion law” while the IDF is extending service for combat soldiers and calling up large numbers of reservists. “Netanyahu is simply sacrificing soldiers and reservists for draft evaders for the sake of his political survival,” he charged. Asked whether he would consider joining a Netanyahu-led government, Lieberman responded unequivocally: “There is no chance. Netanyahu must go; he bears responsibility for the greatest massacre since the Holocaust.”

Looking ahead to the next elections, Lieberman positioned himself as an alternative to the current leadership and declared his intention to seek the premiership. He ruled out any cooperation with Arab parties, whether direct or indirect, and expressed confidence that the left-wing bloc could secure 63 seats without their support. “I am running all the way on my own,” Lieberman said, adding: “Based on experience and credentials, I will be the next prime minister of the State of Israel.”

Amid a severe financial crisis facing the Shuvu kiruv organization, Slabodka rosh yeshiva Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch is set to depart for the United States on a special fundraising mission aimed at sustaining the struggling mosad.

The trip, which will span several days, will include a series of special dinners with leading supporters of Olam HaTorah, as efforts intensify to rescue the organization from its current financial distress.

Joining Rav Hirsch on the journey will be Rav Shimon Galai and Rav Yitzchok Silman, the nasi of Shuvu. The delegation is scheduled to remain in New York for a brief but focused stay.

Although the trip had been arranged several months ago, it was recently thrown into doubt due to the war. Now, with the situation having stabilized and air travel reopening, Rav Hirsch instructed that the mission proceed as planned, stressing the urgency of supporting an organization established by gedolei Torah that is mekarev Yiddishe kinder to their Father in Heaven. This decision comes despite the heavy burden already resting on his shoulders.

In this context, Rav Hirsch has on multiple occasions referenced the extraordinary mesirus nefesh of his rebbi, Rav Aharon Kotler zt”l, who traveled tirelessly for years on behalf of kiruv efforts such as Chinuch Atzmai and similar mosdos.

A blast of hot weather will sweep into the eastern US, toppling records, sparking energy demand and bringing sultry conditions to New York City and Washington by the middle of this week.

Washington will likely reach a high of 94F (34C) on the National Mall on Wednesday, while New York’s Central Park is set to reach 87F, the National Weather Service said. The heat will extend across much of the Mid-Atlantic and southeast with at least 165 daily records expected to be threatened or broken next week.

On average, Washington usually has its first 90F-degree day around May 19 so the extremes are arriving earlier and likely drive energy demand. It could also potentially leading to some transportation issues, as heat can swell railroad tracks and overhead wires slowing trains. PJM Interconnection LLC has issued a hot weather alert “for expected increases in electricity demand, or load.”

“Temperatures are expected to approach 90 degrees in these regions, which is atypical for mid-April,” said PJM, which operates a 13-state grid in the eastern US.

The high temperatures will linger in Washington and points south through at least Friday. Dry weather and warm temperatures have also raised the prospect of brushfires across the eastern US, New York, Pennsylvania, southern New England and parts of Georgia.

On average, Washington usually has its first 90-degree day on May 19 and if the forecast holds this year will likely be among the 10 earliest, said Joe Wegman, a forecaster at the US Weather Prediction Center. The earliest 90-degree reading was March 22, 1907.

The heat will be caused by a large ridge of high pressure that blocks cold fronts from sweeping across the continent potentially bringing relief, while at the same time pumping air out of the tropics and the Gulf of Mexico. By Thursday, the worst of the heat will start to retreat from New York and Philadelphia, which is set to reach a record 89F Wednesday, Wegman said.

The looming warmth in the eastern US comes just weeks after an unusual heat wave set records across California and the Southwest, melting the region’s much-needed snow pack and raising the specter of drought and wildfires later this year.