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Fresh questions surrounding the condition and whereabouts of Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei intensified after his own father-in-law acknowledged that he has had no contact with him, offering only a hopeful assurance that “God willing” he is well.

Gholam Ali Haddad-Adel, a former speaker of Iran’s parliament and a current member of the Expediency Discernment Council, was asked by Iran’s ILNA news agency whether he had any information regarding Khamenei’s health.

“God willing, Mojtaba is healthy,” Haddad-Adel replied, referring to Mojtaba Khamenei. “At the moment, due to certain circumstances, he is not in contact with any organization or person, but God willing he is healthy.”

The unusual remarks came after Mojtaba Khamenei was notably absent from his father’s funeral, further fueling speculation about his condition and his role within Iran’s leadership. Observers noted Haddad-Adel’s repeated use of the phrase “God willing,” coupled with his admission that no one is in contact with him, as adding to the uncertainty surrounding his status.

The mystery has only deepened in recent days. About a week ago, Israeli officials indicated they have growing doubts about the extent of Khamenei’s control over events inside Iran, reportedly describing him as a “present absentee.” According to Israeli assessments, Khamenei formally remains Iran’s Supreme Leader, but it is increasingly unclear how involved he is in the regime’s decision-making process.

Speculation escalated further after Saudi-owned Al Hadath reported, citing what it described as an “Israeli security source,” that Khamenei was no longer in Iran. The report also claimed that Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Ahmad Vahidi and other senior officials have been drafting directives on his behalf.

Israel’s defense establishment rejected that report last week, stressing that no official Israeli authority has confirmed the claim. According to Israeli intelligence assessments, Khamenei is alive and remains inside Iran.

However, while Israeli officials dismissed reports that Khamenei had left the country, they did not address the broader questions surrounding his health, his ability to function, or who is effectively directing the affairs of the Iranian regime.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker suffered a significant legal defeat Friday after a federal judge struck down key state programs that granted in-state tuition, financial aid, and scholarships to illegal immigrants, handing the Trump administration another major courtroom victory in its effort to eliminate state policies that provide benefits to those in the country illegally.

U.S. District Judge Stephen McGlynn, who serves in the Southern District of Illinois, ruled in favor of the Justice Department, finding that Illinois’ in-state tuition policies, along with the RISE Act and the Illinois DREAM Act, are “unconstitutional and invalid” as they apply to illegal immigrants.

Although the judge permanently barred Illinois from enforcing the laws, he stayed the ruling for 14 days, giving state officials an opportunity to seek emergency relief from a federal appeals court.

U.S. Attorney Steven Weinhoeft praised the decision, arguing that Illinois had unlawfully favored illegal immigrants over American citizens.

“Illinois sought to incentivize illegal immigration on the taxpayer’s dime by treating illegal aliens better than US citizens living in other states, in clear violation of federal law,” Weinhoeft said in a statement. “This ruling enforces the statute Congress wrote and stops the State from putting illegal aliens ahead of American citizens.”

The ruling marks the latest success for the Trump administration’s nationwide effort to challenge state laws extending higher education benefits to illegal immigrants. It came just one day after the Justice Department filed a similar lawsuit against Colorado over its tuition policies.

The Justice Department originally sued Illinois and several colleges in September 2025, contending that the state violated federal law by offering discounted in-state tuition and financial assistance to illegal immigrants while denying those same benefits to U.S. citizens from other states.

In his ruling, McGlynn granted the federal government’s request for summary judgment and rejected Illinois’ attempt to have the case dismissed.

As a result of the decision, Illinois can no longer enforce its in-state tuition program for illegal immigrants, the RISE Act—which provides state financial aid to certain students who do not qualify for federal assistance—or the Illinois DREAM Act, which created scholarship opportunities for eligible students.

Rep. Mary Miller (R-Ill.) applauded the ruling in a post on X.

“This is a win for Illinois taxpayers and American students who were shut out while Pritzker prioritized foreigners in our country illegally,” Miller wrote.

The Illinois case is one of several similar legal battles brought by the Justice Department. The federal government has already secured victories or settlements in Texas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Nebraska. As part of its settlement, Nebraska agreed to eliminate in-state tuition benefits for illegal immigrants.

Additional lawsuits remain pending against Minnesota, Virginia, California, New Jersey, Kansas, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maryland, and Colorado.

In its lawsuit against Colorado, filed Thursday, the Justice Department argues that the state’s ASSET Act and related policies unlawfully provide illegal immigrants with reduced tuition rates and state-funded financial aid while denying those same benefits to American citizens who reside outside Colorado.

Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward said the federal government intends to continue challenging such laws across the country.

“For three decades, Congress has made clear that Colorado cannot give education benefits to illegal aliens that it does not give to all American citizens,” Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward said. “By granting illegal aliens in-state tuition, Colorado is not only violating federal law but subsidizing education for illegal aliens at taxpayers’ expense.

“Our litigation efforts will not cease until we have fulfilled President Trump’s promise that illegal aliens will not obtain preferential treatment over our nation’s own citizens.”

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis’ administration defended its policies, arguing that states—not Washington—should determine eligibility for in-state tuition.

“The federal government seizing control of determining in-state tuition across the country is absurd,” a Polis spokesperson previously told Fox News Digital. “In Colorado, we are expanding access to education to provide students with the skills to get good-paying jobs and doubling down on strategies to save students money.”

{Matzav.com}

A little-known Port Authority toll policy may be costing thousands of E-ZPass users extra money every time they cross into New York—and many drivers have no idea it’s happening.

Motorists who mount their E-ZPass transponder in the upper-right corner of their windshield instead of directly behind the rearview mirror or in the center, as instructed, risk having their tag fail to register. When that happens, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey automatically charges what’s known as the “Mid-Tier” toll rate—a price that falls between the discounted E-ZPass rate and the much higher Toll-by-Mail rate.

The policy affects drivers using the George Washington Bridge, Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnel, Bayonne Bridge, Goethals Bridge, and Outerbridge Crossing. While many motorists assume their license plate will simply be matched to their E-ZPass account if the transponder isn’t read, the Port Authority instead applies the higher Mid-Tier rate whenever it determines a properly mounted E-ZPass tag was not detected.

According to the Port Authority, the problem often stems from incorrectly mounted transponders. Drivers who place the tag in the upper-right corner of the windshield—a common location on many vehicles—or anywhere other than the recommended mounting position may inadvertently prevent toll readers from detecting the device. The agency instructs motorists to mount standard interior E-ZPass tags near the top center of the windshield, just behind the rearview mirror, where they can be read most reliably.

The financial impact can add up quickly. For a standard passenger vehicle, the Mid-Tier rate is several dollars higher than the regular E-ZPass toll but still lower than Toll-by-Mail. For example, the current Mid-Tier toll for a two-axle passenger vehicle at Port Authority crossings is $19.55, compared with the lower standard E-ZPass rate available to drivers whose transponders are read correctly.

Port Authority officials say the Mid-Tier category was created to recover the added administrative costs associated with processing plate images and matching accounts when an E-ZPass tag is not successfully scanned. Agency officials have estimated that improperly mounted or unreadable E-ZPass tags account for roughly 9% of all crossings, making the issue far more common than many motorists realize.

The policy first took effect in July 2025 as part of a broader package of toll changes approved by the Port Authority. Since then, consumer advocates have argued that many drivers remain unaware that simply relocating their transponder could save them money on every trip.

Drivers can avoid the higher charge by making sure their E-ZPass transponder is mounted exactly where the agency recommends. Vehicles with specialized windshields that interfere with radio signals may require an exterior license-plate-mounted transponder instead of the standard interior tag. The Port Authority advises motorists who are experiencing repeated misreads to contact E-ZPass customer service to verify that they have the proper transponder for their vehicle.

What began as a deeply personal spiritual journey for American UFC fighter Lando Vannata has sparked widespread attention after he publicly embraced his Jewish heritage during a visit to Eretz Yisroel. After revealing that he is Jewish through his mother, Vannata visited the Kosel, where he donned tefillin for the very first time.

Vannata arrived in Israel ahead of the international GFN1 event and began his visit with a tour of Ancient Shiloh in the Binyamin region, accompanied by fighters from Israel and several other countries. During the visit, he learned about Shiloh’s central role in Jewish history, where the Mishkan stood for 369 years.

As he toured the historic site, Vannata spoke openly and emotionally about discovering his maternal Jewish heritage and his growing connection to the Jewish people.

He later traveled to the Kosel in Yerushalayim, where he stood before the remnants of the Beis Hamikdash and wrapped tefillin for the first time in his life. The moving experience was recorded and shared with his hundreds of thousands of followers on social media.

Not long after posting the video, Vannata reportedly saw his Instagram following decline by approximately 1,900 people. Organizers of the visit believe the drop was no coincidence, suggesting it may have resulted from anti-Israel activists reacting to his visit and his public embrace of his Jewish identity.

Binyamin Regional Council head and Yesha Council chairman Israel Ganz praised Vannata for proudly acknowledging his heritage and urged Israelis to rally behind him online.

“We are proud of Lando for not being afraid to proudly reveal his Jewish identity and his connection to the Land of Israel. The fact that this journey began here, in Ancient Shiloh, is especially moving,” Ganz said.

Ganz encouraged Israelis to respond to what he described as an organized effort to silence Vannata through social media pressure.

“Anyone who thinks people can be intimidated through boycott campaigns on social media is mistaken. I call on all Israeli citizens to show Lando that he is not standing alone-to visit his social media pages, follow him, and encourage him. Every show of support is a response to these attempts to silence him.”

Ganz concluded by saying that supporters of Israel must continue sharing the Jewish people’s historical connection to the land with influential visitors from around the world.

“Those who stand by the truth ultimately prevail. We will continue bringing influential people from around the world to Ancient Shiloh and the Binyamin region so they can learn the true story of the Jewish people in the Land of Israel and become its ambassadors.”

Israel’s Cabinet held an extensive discussion Sunday on the recent wave of terrorist attacks in Judea and Samaria, with several ministers calling for a far more aggressive military response, including changes to the IDF’s rules of engagement and a renewed policy of targeted killings.

Defense Minister Yisrael Katz opened the discussion by briefing ministers on the military’s ongoing counterterrorism campaign throughout the region.

“We have carried out operations in the refugee camps, and we will probably have to conduct more. The IDF is operating on the ground, sweeping through the area, making arrests, and acting decisively,” Katz said.

Education Minister Yoav Kisch argued that current combat directives are no longer adequate. “We must change the rules of engagement,” he said.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir urged an even more forceful approach, calling for the resumption of targeted eliminations and broader authority for Israeli troops confronting terrorists.

“We must return to targeted killings, change the rules of engagement, and allow IDF soldiers to open fire in incidents like these.”

Deputy Defense Establishment Comptroller Brig. Gen. Yogev Bar Sheshet cautioned that soldiers often face difficult split-second decisions because terrorists frequently operate among civilians.

“There is difficulty in incidents where terrorists and civilians are mixed together. During such confrontations, soldiers do not always know who is a terrorist and who is a civilian.”

Economy Minister Nir Barkat suggested a graduated use of force, saying security personnel should first attempt to separate terrorists from civilians before escalating.

“It is possible to distinguish between them. First fire warning shots into the air, and then at their legs.”

Minister Ze’ev Elkin also called for stronger military action, declaring, “There must be a harsher response,” while Deputy Minister Almog Cohen argued that Israel’s retaliation should be overwhelming. “A disproportionate response is required,” he said.

Minister Amichai Chikli likewise called for revisions to the military’s operational directives.

“The commander of the Central Command must change the rules of engagement.”

Ben Gvir concluded by repeating a position that has previously drawn legal challenges against him, saying his comments should reflect official military policy.

“Just two days ago they again asked the court to remove me from office because I said it is better for a thousand terrorists to die than for a single hair on the head of a Border Police officer to be harmed. That should also be the IDF’s policy.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu announced Sunday that Israel is prepared to significantly expand its operations against terrorist strongholds in Judea and Samaria, while also confirming that he will travel to Washington this week for talks with President Donald Trump.

Opening the weekly Cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said he is scheduled to depart for the United States on Monday, where he will meet with Trump at the White House. During the trip, he will also attend the memorial service honoring the late Sen. Lindsey Graham.

“I will also discuss all pending issues with President Trump, including the situation in Iran,” Netanyahu said.

Turning to the security situation in Judea and Samaria, the prime minister said Israeli security forces have been instructed to carry out aggressive counterterrorism operations, including entering hostile villages, searching for weapons, and arresting terror suspects.

According to Netanyahu, those operations are already underway. He noted that Israeli forces recently conducted a raid at a hospital in Shechem, where, he said, two accomplices involved in a recent terrorist attack had been hiding before being taken into custody.

Netanyahu added that authorities have sealed the home of the terrorist responsible for the attack in preparation for its demolition. He said the homes of additional accomplices have also been identified and documented as part of planned enforcement measures.

“We are also prepared to operate on a broader scale against the terrorist nests,” he added.

The prime minister also addressed the recent dismissal of the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor, arguing that the development revealed serious flaws within the institution.

According to Netanyahu, the decision exposed “his true motives, the injustice, and the deep corruption that exists not only in the Office of the Prosecutor but throughout the International Criminal Court.”

Netanyahu said he spoke Saturday night with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who reaffirmed Washington’s determination to confront the ICC.

According to the prime minister, Rubio reiterated the United States’ intention “to act forcefully against this organization, which endangers justice around the world.”

Netanyahu welcomed the American position, calling it “a very positive development” and adding, “It is important that we amplify this message throughout the world.”

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa says his government is pursuing a security agreement with Israel that could eventually open the door to a broader peace arrangement, while insisting that Syria will not relinquish its claim to the Golan Heights.

In remarks to Al Jazeera from an interview that has not yet aired in full, al-Sharaa also made clear that Syria has no intention of becoming militarily involved in neighboring Lebanon.

He said Damascus is holding discussions with the Lebanese government aimed at finding solutions that will help stabilize the country and restore security.

According to al-Sharaa, instability in Lebanon would inevitably spill over into Syria, making the situation there a matter of direct concern for Damascus. He also expressed support for the Lebanese government and the Lebanese Armed Forces maintaining exclusive control over weapons and retaining sole authority over decisions regarding war and peace.

During the interview, al-Sharaa revealed that Syria is engaged in efforts to negotiate a security agreement with Israel, with several additional countries participating in the process.

He said such an agreement, if successfully concluded, could serve as the foundation for a comprehensive peace between the two countries while preserving Syria’s claim to what it describes as the “occupied Golan.”

Al-Sharaa also stressed that his government has no desire for military confrontation with Israel. “We have no interest in that,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

Dutch opposition leader and prime ministerial candidate Geert Wilders traveled to Israel this week in a show of support for the Jewish communities of Judea and Samaria, declaring that their presence strengthens not only Israel’s security but also that of Europe and the Netherlands. The visit comes shortly after the Dutch government imposed a ban on imports from Judea and Samaria.

Wilders arrived in Israel as the guest of Samaria Regional Council chairman Yossi Dagan, beginning his visit against the backdrop of growing diplomatic tensions between Jerusalem and The Hague following the Dutch government’s decision to prohibit imports from communities in Judea and Samaria.

His first stop was the renewed community of Sa-Nur in northern Shomron. After Shabbos, Wilders joined Dagan at his home for dinner and a lengthy private meeting before touring the community and speaking with local residents.

During the visit, Dagan presented Wilders with the “Reconnect Plan,” an initiative calling for the establishment of 19 new Jewish communities across northern Shomron.

Praising his host, Wilders said: “Yossi, I am very proud to be here with the ‘Lion of Samaria.’ Twenty-one years ago, you were expelled from here, and now you are returning with a major plan to resettle all of Samaria. I am very proud of you. This is the only way-this is your land, your country, your history, and your religion. You are a very courageous man.”

Dagan thanked Wilders for his longstanding support of Israel and his outspoken advocacy on behalf of the Jewish state.

“I am honored to host you here in Sa-Nur, in my home, in the heart of the Land of Israel. You are a courageous leader, and I know what you are doing for the future of Europe, the Netherlands, and Israel. You were the first leader to understand and teach that we must stand together and fight together.”

Dagan also stressed what he views as the strategic importance of Jewish communities in northern Shomron, particularly in the wake of Hamas’ October 7 attack.

“What we are doing together is, first and foremost, rebuilding our homeland-the land of the Bible. Together we are building the future of Israel, Europe, and the world. After October 7, it is clearer than ever that our communities in northern Samaria are the security belt of the entire State of Israel.”

Wilders echoed that message, arguing that Israel’s security and Europe’s security are inseparable.

“That’s true, and it affects the security of Europe and the security of the Netherlands. Everything is connected, so we are working together, and we will win together.”

The trip marks Wilders’ second visit to Israel in less than two years, with Dagan hosting him on both occasions. His previous visit to Judea and Samaria drew sharp criticism in the Netherlands and sparked debate in the Dutch parliament.

His latest visit is likewise expected to generate political controversy, particularly because it comes so soon after the Dutch government’s decision to ban imports from Judea and Samaria. Wilders is scheduled to continue touring Shomron and the Jordan Valley in the coming days and is expected to meet with senior Israeli government officials.

{Matzav.com}

Arad Mayor Yair Maayan launched a sharp attack on the city’s chareidi community following the circulation of video footage showing children throwing stones on Shabbos, declaring that Arad “was and will remain a secular city” while calling for increased police enforcement.

In a statement released Saturday night, Maayan said he was “shocked” by the video, adding that city officials had also received reports this week that girls walking in the street had been spat on.

“We will not tolerate the actions of extremist criminals under any circumstances. The city of Arad was and will remain secular, and we will not allow chareidim to act violently in any way,” he said.

The mayor said he had contacted the commander of the Arad Police Station and demanded stronger enforcement measures and immediate action in response to such incidents. He also urged residents to report any unusual or criminal activity directly to police.

“In every such case, immediately call the 100 emergency hotline, request that a police patrol respond, file a formal complaint, and photograph and document the incident as clearly as possible,” Maayan wrote. “Only by arresting offenders will we succeed in eliminating crime and violence in the city.”

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump stirred fresh controversy after posting an AI-generated image depicting an enormous air-filter barrier stretching across the U.S.-Canada border, a tongue-in-cheek image that came as tensions between the two countries continue to rise over wildfire smoke and trade.

The digitally created image appeared days after Trump sharply criticized Canada over smoke from its widespread wildfires, which blanketed large portions of the United States and prompted air quality warnings across much of the country.

Last week, Trump vowed to hold Canada accountable for what he described as unhealthy air drifting south from the fires.

More than 100 million Americans across 18 states and Washington, D.C., spent several days under air quality alerts as smoke spread through the Midwest, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic regions.

At the time, Trump wrote on Truth Social, “We are holding Canada responsible for the fact that they are not properly maintaining their Forests, and Brush therein, and the United States is being unnecessarily invaded by filthy, polluted, and unhealthy air, the quality of which is dangerous, and totally unacceptable!”

He continued by accusing Canada of failing to take basic wildfire prevention measures and warning that the issue could have financial consequences.

“I will call the Prime Minister during the day to find out what they are going to do about it. The cost is incalculable! Canada has refused to engage in basic Forest Management and Debris Removal, knowing that such refusal will lead to exactly this result. This is Willful Negligence, and becoming a yearly occurrence, costing the United States Billions of Dollars, which cost of this pollution must of necessity be added to the TARIFFS Canada is currently paying.”

The latest social media post also follows another diplomatic dispute that unfolded Friday surrounding the opening of the new Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario.

The United States had originally been expected to participate in a joint ribbon-cutting ceremony for the $4.4 billion crossing, named after hockey legend Gordie Howe. However, Canadian officials withdrew the invitation after Trump announced an additional 50% tariff on Canadian goods this week, citing what he called Canada’s discriminatory treatment of American products.

Trump responded on Truth Social by dismissing Canada’s decision and claiming the United States had secured improved financial terms regarding the bridge project.

“Canada disinvited the United States of America to the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge, which is fine, considering they are paying substantial TARIFFS to the United States, but the original Deal on the Bridge, which was terribly negotiated by a previous Administration, no longer stands,” Trump wrote.

He added, “We changed the terms of the Deal so that the United States of America now gets 50% of the Profit. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

{Matzav.com}

Investigative journalist and author Gerald Posner has launched a blistering attack on Tucker Carlson, accusing the former Fox News host of embracing anti-Jewish rhetoric and warning that he has become “far more dangerous than Candace Owens” because of his influence and ability to persuade millions of followers.

In a lengthy post on X published yesterday, Posner reflected on his years appearing as a recurring guest on Carlson’s Fox News program, saying he never imagined the broadcaster he once admired would evolve into someone consumed by attacks on Israel and conspiracy theories.

“I never saw a glimpse of the person who has emerged since he left FOX— someone who finds a byzantine conspiracy behind every major story, who has turned ‘America First’ into cover for old antisemitic tropes and an anti-Israel fervor that at times makes him a modern-day Father Coughlin — the radio priest whose 1930s broadcasts to tens of millions of Americans made him the most notorious antisemitic demagogue in U.S. media history,” Posner posted.

Posner accompanied his remarks with photographs from several of his appearances on Carlson’s former Fox News program. He rejected the notion that Carlson’s recent messaging is motivated by financial incentives or a desire for greater attention, arguing instead that the shift reflects deeply held beliefs.

“I believe we are finally seeing the real Tucker Carlson,” he said. “I’d once have said “‘or better or worse’ — there is no ‘better’ in this version of him. He is one of the most prominent voices stoking anti-Jewish fervor at a moment when antisemitic violence is at record levels.”

Posner argued that Carlson poses an even greater challenge than conservative commentator Candace Owens because of his communication skills and credibility with audiences.

“In some ways he’s far more dangerous than Candace Owens, because he’s a sharper, a more practiced debater, someone who can twist facts into a narrative that millions of his followers find compelling.”

The comments come after Carlson has increasingly devoted his podcast to criticism of Israel and its relationship with the United States. He has repeatedly argued that Israel pressured President Donald Trump into launching the war with Iran, and last week claimed Trump had been too “weak” to resist pressure from Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu.

Trump has publicly dismissed those accusations. In March, he said, “If anything, I might’ve forced Israel’s hand.” He also stated in June that Israel has “no choice” but to accept whatever agreement he negotiates with Iran.

Posner’s post was prompted by a clip in which Carlson argued that Republican lawmakers who support expanding military cooperation between the United States and Israel should face “treason trials.”

Although Carlson recently announced that he no longer considers himself aligned with the Republican Party, Posner warned that GOP leaders should distance themselves from him before the next presidential election cycle.

“What’s left is something the GOP will have to reckon with. By 2028, serious candidates will need to put visible distance between themselves and Carlson,” Posner said. “The one most exposed is JD Vance, who has long counted him as a close friend. The rest of the party would be wise to start distancing itself now, before Carlson decides who they have to answer for.”

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump delivered a blistering personal attack on Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) during Friday night’s rescheduled White House Correspondents’ Dinner, accusing the congresswoman of dishonesty and declaring that she “oughta get …. out of our country.”

While criticizing what he described as California’s failed policies—including its handling of wildfires, homelessness, illegal immigration, and taxation—Trump argued that people are leaving the state in large numbers.

“We can’t have that in this country,” the president said. “It’s becoming such a horrible and dangerous location that Ilhan Omar, one of my favorites, and her brother are thinking about moving together….”

Trump’s remark referenced long-circulating allegations that Omar married her brother to help him immigrate to the United States. Omar was born in Somalia and fled the country’s civil war with her family as a child. After spending several years in a refugee camp in Kenya, they immigrated to the United States in 1995, when she was 12 years old.

The president then turned his attention to what he described as a recent public appearance by Omar.

“A video has surfaced recently of Ilhan giving a speech, referring to World War II as World War 11,” Trump continued. “And they asked her about that, and she still thought she got it right. But I’m not surprised, because she’s a low I.Q. person, and she’s also a very dishonest person, and she oughta get … out of our country!”

Trump continued by questioning Omar’s presence in the United States and raising allegations regarding her financial disclosures.

“She shouldn’t be here. She shouldn’t be in our country. She also calls her brother ‘husband number one.’ Omar is reportedly being investigated for fraud. She revised her net worth. I was shocked to see that she was worth much more than $30 million. And then when the press got on her, she revised it slightly downward to less than $18,000.”

[COMMUNICATED]

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A slew of appointments were scheduled for the next few days. We had our hands full with the practical aspects of what we were dealing with, while we simultaneously had to find a way to get into the right emotional state for the battle we were facing. 

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Israel prepared overnight Friday for the possibility of a major American military strike against Iran, amid growing signs that the United States is positioning forces for a potential large-scale operation even as President Donald Trump continues to leave the door open for diplomacy.

According to an Israeli official who spoke to Kan News, Israeli defense planners had anticipated that a U.S. attack on Iran could trigger retaliatory Iranian missile strikes against Israel, potentially drawing Jerusalem directly into a broader military campaign against Iranian targets.

The official said Israeli assessments indicate that Trump has postponed the deadline he previously set for a decision on military action in order to give Tehran one final opportunity to return to negotiations. Despite that delay, the United States is continuing to build up forces in the region capable of launching a major offensive on short notice if the President decides to proceed.

Kan News reported that in recent weeks the United States has deployed dozens of aerial refueling aircraft, fighter jets, interceptor systems for air defense batteries, and additional munitions throughout the region.

According to the report, approximately 90 American KC-135 refueling aircraft have arrived in Israel over the past two weeks and have been stationed at Ben Gurion Airport, Ramon Airport, and Ovda Air Base. The scale of the deployment has been compared to the military buildup seen during Operation Roaring Lion.

The heightened military preparations come as Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu’s office announced that he is expected to travel to Washington next week for talks with President Trump at the White House.

Senior Israeli officials reportedly believe that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has adopted a hard-line negotiating position that is making it increasingly difficult to reach an agreement. According to those officials, the prospect of coordinated military action by the United States and Israel could strengthen Washington’s leverage in any future negotiations with Tehran.

Meanwhile, The New York Times reported that Iran rejected a ceasefire proposal delivered by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi.

According to Iranian sources cited by the newspaper, Tehran refused to consider a temporary ceasefire that did not fully resolve the dispute over freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

The office of the Iraqi prime minister denied the report, calling it “baseless.”

{Matzav.com}

[Video below.] Fox & Friends Weekend co-host Griff Jenkins publicly addressed comments made by a guest during yesterday’s broadcast after conservative radio host Sid Rosenberg repeatedly referred to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani as a “terrorist,” prompting an on-air clarification from the network.

The controversy arose during a discussion about an apparently disturbed man who allegedly stabbed two people on Manhattan’s Upper West Side earlier this week while shouting “Allahu Akbar.” The panel was discussing concerns about rising antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment when Rosenberg launched into a blistering attack on Mamdani.

Later in the program, Jenkins returned to the issue and emphasized that the term used by the guest should not be treated casually.

“We know there are heated feelings around this war last hour, while discussing the role anti-Israel is playing in the rise of antisemitism, one of our guests labeled New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a quote, terrorist. Now that word carries an extremely serious meaning, it should not be used freely and its important we distinguish between strong political criticism and factual allegations.”

Earlier in the segment, Rosenberg argued that attempting to reason with Mamdani was futile before escalating his criticism.

“Look, these people are very nice people, but trying to talk to Mayor Mamdani is is like trying to talk to the IRGC.

“This guy is a terrorist. That’s the bottom line, I’ll say it. You don’t want to say it, I’ll say it. He’s a terrorist, he’s a jihadist. He hates the Jewish people. He hates America. He hates the Italian people, he hates the Irish people, he hates the German people, unless you’re Muslim, Mayor Mamdani has no use for you. He is a horrible person.

“He maybe has perpetrated the worst American and Jewish hate in the history of this country. Those two people stabbed the ore day on the Upper West Side of New York City, that blood is on his hands. That blood is on your hands, Mayor Mamdani.

“We’ve got to find a way to get this guy out of here.”

As Rosenberg continued, Jenkins attempted to moderate the exchange, cautioning that the description of the mayor had gone too far.

“I think you may be a bit over your skis in calling him, in labeling him a terrorist and you’re probably going to be flagged for that.”

Rosenberg, who also referred to Mamdani as a “low life” during the discussion, immediately challenged Jenkins’ objection, responding simply, “Why?”

Following the broadcast, Rosenberg defended his comments on X, posting video of the exchange and making clear that he was not backing away from his remarks.

“The comments that had FOX apologize for me TWICE after my appearance early this morning. I 100% stand by my assertions! 100%!” he wrote.

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

The 4-year-old Israeli boy who disappeared near Ashkelon was found safe and in good health nearly 24 hours later after surviving alone overnight, with police saying the child’s quick thinking and calm decisions likely saved his life.

Yuval Kogan vanished Thursday afternoon in the Hof Ashkelon region, triggering an extensive search involving police, volunteers, and rescue teams. He was located Friday after an around-the-clock search that ended in an emotional reunion with his family.

Southern District Police Commander Chaim Bublil said investigators’ initial conversation with Yuval revealed that the young boy had been walking in the direction where he believed his home was located.

According to Bublil, Yuval eventually stopped traveling after nightfall.

“During the night he fell asleep, and in the morning he woke up,” Bublil said. “He is a smart child who stayed in a shaded area, and that apparently is what saved him. When he heard the horses approaching, he came toward them, called out to them, and that is how he was found.”

Police later released footage capturing the emotional moments after Yuval’s rescue, including a video call with his mother while officers stood beside him.

“Yuvali, we have a popsicle for you here. Mommy is waiting for you,” she told him.

Yuval’s father, Dmitry Kogan, who had been with his son before he disappeared, said the boy later described hearing what he believed were illumination flares during the night.

“Yuval told me he apparently heard illumination flares during the night. He said he got tired and slept under a tree, and that’s it. He’s okay. I knew he was strong—I just didn’t know how strong.”

His mother, Dina, tearfully thanked everyone who participated in the massive search effort.

“You gave me my life back. Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart. I truly appreciate every one of you.”

Video from the rescue showed Noam Simhi, the man who discovered Yuval standing beneath a tree near the beach after accidentally taking the wrong route while riding horseback toward Nitzanim Beach.

“I took the wrong route on my horse while heading to Nitzanim Beach. Suddenly I saw a child standing under a tree, looking at us. There are miracles in this world. This is the child who brought the entire country to its feet. Our strength is in our unity.”

Yashar! party chairman Gadi Eisenkot is reportedly preparing an aggressive post-election strategy centered on a universal military draft law that would effectively bar the chareidi parties from joining his government unless they accept mandatory military or national service without exception. The plan also envisions refusing any political deals with Arab parties while ultimately seeking to split the Likud after Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu leaves office.

According to a report by Channel 12 political analyst Amit Segal, Eisenkot has already formulated a detailed roadmap for coalition negotiations once the election results are finalized. At the heart of the strategy is what the report describes as an uncompromising “iron condition” that he has no intention of negotiating.

Rather than settling for the narrowest possible majority of 61 Knesset seats, Eisenkot reportedly wants to assemble a broader coalition of 63 to 64 lawmakers. The objective is to create what he considers a purely Zionist majority among the lawmakers recommending a prime minister to Israel’s president, without relying on either the Arab parties or United Torah Judaism.

Universal Draft Law Is Non-Negotiable

The centerpiece of Eisenkot’s reported strategy is legislation requiring mandatory military or national service for all Israelis, including the chareidi community, with no exemptions or compromises.

According to the report, any response short of unconditional acceptance would be treated as a rejection. It cites Ra’am chairman Mansour Abbas, who reportedly conditioned his support for such legislation during a conference in southern Israel. Under Eisenkot’s approach, even a qualified “yes, but” would be considered a definitive “no.”

The report says Eisenkot believes any party attempting to negotiate changes to the draft requirement would automatically disqualify itself from joining the coalition. Likewise, he reportedly has no intention of accepting outside parliamentary support or quiet abstentions from parties unwilling to endorse the legislation outright.

The message, according to the report, is straightforward: any party that refuses to back a universal draft law will not become part of an Eisenkot-led government.

Political observers say the strategy represents one of the clearest red lines laid down by any major party ahead of the next election. While other political leaders have sought to preserve flexibility during coalition negotiations, Eisenkot is reportedly adopting an all-or-nothing position on the issue of military service.

Long-Term Goal: Splitting the Likud

The report says another major component of Eisenkot’s strategy is based on the belief that Netanyahu’s departure from the Prime Minister’s Office would fundamentally reshape Israeli politics.

According to that assessment, once Netanyahu is no longer leading the national camp, Eisenkot believes Likud lawmakers may become willing to defect and join a new governing coalition.

The reported plan calls for inviting Likud MKs to enter what Eisenkot envisions as a broad, stable government, significantly expanding its parliamentary majority and ensuring its long-term survival.

Supporters of the strategy believe that without Netanyahu at the helm, at least some members of Likud would seriously consider crossing party lines.

The report concludes that Eisenkot is thinking well beyond Election Day itself, preparing not only for coalition negotiations but also for the possibility of weakening the opposing camp from within after a new government is formed.

Yashar! Continues to Gain Strength

The reported strategy comes as Eisenkot’s Yashar! party continues to perform strongly in public opinion polls.

According to the latest Channel 13 survey conducted by the Madad Institute, Yashar! is tied with Likud, with each party projected to win 21 Knesset seats if elections were held today.

Eisenkot also continued expanding his party this week by announcing the addition of retired Maj. Gen. Kamil Abu Rokon, the former Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories. The move is widely viewed as an effort to strengthen ties between Israel’s Druze community and the state.

Announcing Abu Rokon’s decision to join the party, Eisenkot praised the retired general, saying, “Kamil is Israel at its best – an experienced security professional with an iron moral backbone. Abu Rokon is an example and role model of our shared destiny, the Israeli-Zionist covenant of service, and our shared commitment to the existence of a Jewish and democratic state.”

{Matzav.com}

Senior Israeli military officials are warning that the security situation in Judea and Samaria has reached a dangerously volatile point, describing the region as a “pressure cooker” that could erupt at any moment despite an aggressive counterterrorism campaign by Israeli security forces.

The warning comes in the wake of the deadly terror attack in the village of Tel and amid growing intelligence indicating an unprecedented escalation in terrorist activity. According to a senior officer in the IDF’s Central Command, the combination of Iranian and Turkish involvement, the expansion of local terrorist networks, increased weapons smuggling, and the growing security burden posed by new Jewish communities has created an increasingly unstable environment.

Speaking to Walla News, the senior officer said that beneath the surface of daily headlines, the security reality in Judea and Samaria has become increasingly dangerous.

“Under the radar of the routine headlines, Judea and Samaria are burning with both visible and hidden fire,” the officer said.

He explained that the IDF, the Shin Bet, and the Border Police are conducting continuous operations to dismantle terrorist infrastructure throughout the region. Nevertheless, the threat posed by lone-wolf terrorists and locally organized cells remains constant, with operatives seeking every opportunity to attack Israeli civilians and security personnel.

Iran and Turkey Accused of Directing Terror Activity

According to the assessment, Israeli security officials have identified a significant increase in foreign involvement in terrorism since the launch of Operation Roaring Lion, the large-scale military campaign conducted in Samaria.

Officials say hostile elements in Tehran, Ankara, and Gaza are not only directing terrorist operations but are also funneling large sums of money and smuggling advanced weaponry into the area. Much of the terrorist financing is reportedly transferred through digital channels in an effort to evade Israeli financial monitoring and border security systems.

The security establishment believes Iran and Turkey have increasingly exploited digital platforms and technological loopholes to move funds and strengthen local terrorist infrastructure while making detection more difficult.

IDF Rushes Reinforcements to Judea and Samaria

Following the deadly attack in Tel, in which Maj. Yuval Ezra and Master Sgt. Benayahu Melet were killed, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir ordered a significant reinforcement of forces assigned to the Judea and Samaria Division.

The move includes shifting troops away from other sectors and deploying them under the command of Brig. Gen. Kobi Heller after military leaders concluded that the deteriorating security situation required an immediate increase in troop strength.

Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz have also directed a series of expanded security measures. Those orders include the immediate demolition of the terrorist’s home, intensified military operations in villages identified as terrorist strongholds, and a broad campaign to arrest wanted suspects.

Israeli forces launched extensive overnight raids at multiple locations throughout Judea and Samaria, resulting in the arrest of more than 80 suspects accused of involvement in terrorist incitement or planning attacks.

Growing Communities Present Additional Security Challenge

Military officials also acknowledged that the continued expansion of Jewish communities throughout Judea and Samaria has added another layer of complexity to the IDF’s security mission.

With new communities, outposts, and agricultural farms spread across large areas, security forces are required to devote increasing manpower and resources to protecting isolated population centers while simultaneously carrying out counterterrorism operations and maintaining public order throughout the Shomron and Binyamin regions.

The senior Central Command officer said the current campaign requires balancing several competing priorities at once: defending civilians, dismantling terrorist organizations, and preserving the IDF’s operational flexibility across the entire region.

“We are fighting a two-front defensive battle,” the officer said, “against organized terrorist infrastructure and against foreign smuggling networks directed by Iran and Turkey.”

Israeli security officials emphasized that the campaign against terrorism in Judea and Samaria remains a long-term effort and said security forces will continue intensive operations to locate and dismantle terrorist networks while maintaining heightened vigilance across the region.

{Matzav.com}

Elon Musk engaged in a heated exchange with The Economist’s editor-in-chief during an interview at Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas, arguing that public distrust of the media far exceeds negative views of him after being challenged over his influence on European politics.

The confrontation took place Thursday when Economist editor-in-chief Zanny Minton Beddoes questioned Musk about his support for conservative political movements across Europe and suggested that his enormous wealth, ownership of X, and massive online following give him outsized influence over political affairs outside the United States.

“I think a lot more people hate you and the media more than you realize,” Musk responded.

Beddoes pressed Musk over why he believed he should have a role in shaping political debates in Europe despite not living there.

“Why should you be able to shape European politics? You don’t even live there,” Beddoes said.

She went on to argue that many people are troubled by the level of influence Musk wields because of his global prominence.

“But do you see why this makes people think that this man who has all this power, he’s the world’s richest man, he thinks he has a right to influence our politics?” Beddoes said. “It’s why people loathe you. I mean, some people do loathe you.”

Musk brushed aside the criticism, pointing instead to his enormous audience on X, where he has roughly 250 million followers, as evidence that his supporters significantly outnumber his critics.

“Maybe some people do loathe me, and that’s probably true. I don’t care,” Musk said. “But the fact that, as you pointed out, a quarter billion people follow me is that I think a lot more people actually like me than don’t.”

The Tesla and SpaceX chief then shifted the discussion to the declining reputation of the news media, arguing that journalists are viewed far less favorably by the public than he is.

“Do you realize the media is despised?” Musk said. “Do you realize that journalists, the view of journalists is like, it’s like a favorable view of journalists is like 15%?”

Beddoes acknowledged that confidence in American journalism has eroded but argued that social media polarization, including content promoted on X, has played a major role in fueling that distrust.

“I think in part there have been mistakes by journalists and journalism. I totally acknowledge that,” Beddoes said. “But I also think that the kind of polarized environment, particularly on social media, fostered by the kinds of things you are pushing on X, actually helps make this worse.”

Musk rejected that argument and insisted that journalists—not him—have become the primary target of public anger.

“The shoe is on the other foot. They hate you. They hate you far more than they hate me,” Musk said. “I think you’re the problem. The media.”

The sharp back-and-forth came during a broader discussion in which Beddoes questioned Musk about his warnings that Britain could face civil war and his support for several European political parties that she characterized as far right.

Musk rejected that description of his political views, saying his positions center on basic issues such as border enforcement, public safety, and fiscal responsibility.

“I literally said, look, I believe in safe cities, secure borders and sensible spending with respect to government,” Musk said. “That doesn’t make me right wing at all in the least.”

The interview follows Musk’s increasingly active involvement in European politics. Ahead of Germany’s 2025 federal election, he publicly urged voters to support the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and hosted its leader, Alice Weidel, for an interview on X. Reuters has reported that Musk promoted the party in more than two dozen posts over a two-month period.

The debate also comes as public confidence in the American news media continues to decline. According to a 2025 Gallup poll, just 28% of Americans said they have a great deal or a fair amount of trust in newspapers, television, and radio to report the news fully, accurately, and fairly—the lowest level Gallup has recorded.

{Matzav.com}

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