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In a landmark decision, Israel’s cabinet unanimously approved a resolution formally recognizing the Armenian Genocide, marking a significant shift in Israeli policy and setting the stage for a final vote in the Knesset.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who introduced the proposal, announced the cabinet’s decision immediately after the vote, saying, “Just a short while ago, the Government of Israel approved the resolution I brought before it to officially recognize the Armenian Genocide.”

The measure will now be brought before the Knesset plenum, where lawmakers will cast the final parliamentary vote.

Sa’ar said the decision reflects Israel’s moral responsibility as the Jewish state to acknowledge one of history’s greatest atrocities. “This horrific genocide, which took place more than a century ago and whose historical facts are no longer seriously disputed, claimed the lives of 1.5 million people and destroyed an ancient cultural and historical heritage,” he said. “As Jews, and especially as the nation-state of the Jewish people, I believe it is our moral duty to make this decision.”

The cabinet resolution also denounces any effort to deny, minimize, or distort the historical record of the genocide. With the vote, Israel joins 32 United Nations member states—including the United States, Canada, Russia, and Germany—that have officially recognized the Armenian Genocide. The European Parliament and the Holy See have likewise extended formal recognition.

For decades, Turkey has rejected characterizing the mass killings, deportations, and imprisonment of Armenians during the final years of the Ottoman Empire as genocide, despite extensive historical evidence. Critics have accused Ankara of maintaining an “institutionalized campaign of denial and minimization” that includes the “manipulative rewriting of history books.”

The move, however, is expected to carry diplomatic consequences. Israel’s recognition of the genocide could complicate its close relationship with Azerbaijan, an important strategic ally that has received Israeli military support during its conflicts with Armenia. The decision is also widely expected to provoke a sharp response from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

George Soros and his son, Alex Soros, have already funneled more than $102 million into the 2026 midterm elections, making the billionaire family one of the Democratic Party’s most powerful financial forces as it continues its move toward the progressive left.

With more than four months remaining before Election Day, George Soros is on pace to surpass the personal record he set during the previous midterm elections, when he contributed $128 million and ranked as the largest individual political donor in the country.

“Money talks, and Soros money says the most insidious, unconstitutional, costly tax hikes in American history are on the table,” said Douglas Kellogg, state projects director for Americans for Tax Reform.

Kellogg also described Soros as a “wannabe Bond villain,” blaming him for what he called the Democratic Party’s radical transformation.

Federal Election Commission filings show that only $793,800 of the family’s political giving this cycle was donated directly under George Soros’ own name.

Instead, the overwhelming majority of the money—roughly $102 million—flowed through Democracy PAC, the super PAC George Soros established in 2020 that now serves as the family’s principal political fundraising vehicle, making it more difficult to determine exactly which candidates benefit from the spending.

Campaign records indicate that approximately $52 million was transferred from George Soros through his private company, Geosor, while another $50 million came from the Fund for Policy Reform, a nonprofit whose tax documents identify Alex Soros as its director.

Those figures also exclude the activities of the family’s Open Society Foundation and its lobbying affiliate, the Open Society Action Fund. Critics have accused those organizations of financing efforts to loosen drug laws, expand immigration policies, and reduce policing. Because the Action Fund operates as a nonprofit advocacy organization, it is not required to publicly disclose its political expenditures.

During previous election cycles, the Open Society Action Fund supported organizations aligned with progressive lawmakers including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rep. Ilhan Omar. Financial disclosures for its 2025 activities, however, have not yet been released.

The family’s political operation underwent a significant leadership change before the 2024 presidential race, when George Soros formally handed control of Democracy PAC and much of his political network to his son Alex, whom he has described as being even more politically engaged.

“He wants to be more political than his dad, this is the first midterm cycle where he is in control,” Parker Thayer, investigative researcher at Capital Research Center, told The Post.

“George is not in control, he hasn’t been in control in some time.”

Although Alex Soros now oversees the family’s political operation, both father and son have largely supported the same slate of Democratic candidates. Alex also contributed an additional $140,525 from his personal funds during this election cycle.

Both George and Alex Soros each donated the maximum allowable amount of $7,000 to Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, bringing their combined support to $14,000. Platner has faced allegations of misconduct involving women while also criticizing wealthy Americans despite his own privileged background and financial backing from billionaire donors.

Alex Soros also gave the maximum legal contribution of $7,000 to Rep. Ilhan Omar, who has faced criticism over allegations that she knew about widespread fraud involving members of the Somali community in her Minneapolis district. Omar has denied wrongdoing. He also donated the maximum $7,000 to Rep. Ro Khanna of California, the Silicon Valley congressman who is reportedly considering a presidential campaign in 2028.

The Soros family also directed maximum contributions to two additional Democrats viewed as possible White House contenders. Sens. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff of Georgia each received a combined total of $14,000 from George and Alex Soros.

Campaign finance records show that the Soros family has already deposited 52% more into Democracy PAC than it did during the 2024 election cycle, when it contributed approximately $67 million.

George Soros, whom President Trump highlighted in September when directing the FBI to intensify efforts against what he called “left-wing terrorism,” has long been a central financial backer of progressive causes both in the United States and internationally.

Critics say Soros contributed more than $15 million to organizations that supported pro-Hamas campus demonstrations, financed groups that equipped anti-ICE protesters outside Delaney Hall with military-style equipment, and spent more than $7 million advocating for criminal justice legislation that opponents argue could allow dangerous offenders—including the notorious “Son of Sam”—to seek release.

“The Soros family is angrier than ever at American politics,” said Thayer. “They would prefer to remake America into something entirely different.”

The Open Society network has rejected accusations linking it to terrorism, maintaining that its purpose is to strengthen democratic institutions around the world.

George Soros matched his son’s maximum contribution to Graham Platner, and the pair also each donated $7,000 to Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state, who last month acknowledged traveling to Cuba with oil despite the longstanding U.S. embargo.

“There are two guarantees in life — death and George Soros writing a blank check for Democrats,” lambasted Republican National Committee Spokeswoman Delanie Bomar.

“They don’t have the cash or resources that Republicans have, which is why they are turning to antisemitic dark money from a billionaire.”

An analysis by The Washington Post found that George Soros currently ranks as the largest individual donor of the 2026 midterm election cycle, outpacing dozens of other major political contributors.

Born to a Jewish family in Budapest, Soros survived the Nazi occupation of Hungary before relocating to the United Kingdom. He later founded a hedge fund and earned worldwide recognition after making approximately $1 billion betting against the British pound during the 1992 financial crisis known as “Black Wednesday.”

Hungary enacted its controversial “Stop Soros” legislation in 2018, prompting the Open Society Foundation to relocate its European headquarters to another country.

Alex Soros, a graduate of New York University, married longtime Hillary Clinton aide Huma Abedin in a high-profile Hamptons ceremony last summer. The guest list included Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, as well as Bill and Hillary Clinton.

{Matzav.com}

An IDF officer was killed early Sunday during combat operations in southern Lebanon after a Hezbollah terrorist lying in wait inside a building opened fire at close range. The attacker escaped, prompting an ongoing manhunt and Israeli airstrikes against terrorist targets in the area.

The fallen soldier was identified as Capt. David Hazutt, 21, of Ashkelon, who served as a platoon commander in Battalion 12 of the Golani Brigade.

Another soldier was lightly wounded in the same attack. He was evacuated to a hospital for treatment, and his family was informed of his condition.

According to the IDF’s preliminary findings, the incident occurred at approximately 2:00 a.m. when troops from the Golani Reconnaissance Unit entered a structure in the village of Deir Siriane, located within Israel’s security zone in southern Lebanon, roughly five kilometers from the border opposite the Ramim Ridge. The force had entered the building to conduct operational searches.

Investigators believe a terrorist concealed in the building’s stairwell waited for the soldiers to approach before opening fire from close range. Capt. Hazutt was killed in the attack, while another soldier sustained light injuries.

The gunman managed to flee immediately after the shooting. In response, the Israeli Air Force struck Hezbollah infrastructure in Deir Siriane, while ground forces launched an extensive search for the fleeing terrorist.

Security officials said the pursuit remains ongoing, with IDF troops continuing operations throughout the area.

Capt. Hazutt’s death follows another painful week for the IDF. Seven soldiers killed in separate incidents in Lebanon were laid to rest in recent days. Among them were Lt. Col. Dor Ben Shimon, commander of Battalion 52, who was killed when his tank exploded along with three members of his unit: Staff Sgt. Naveh Havshush, Staff Sgt. Liav Kabavia, and Staff Sgt. Yoav Klein. Sgt. Maj. (res.) Alexander Filin, 29, was killed by an explosive device in the village of a-Taybeh. Sgt. Maj. Nir Ben Ari, 21, was killed in a Hezbollah rocket and explosive drone attack, while Sgt. Maj. (res.) Basel Sweid, 32, lost his life when a military fuel truck overturned.

The latest casualty brings the number of IDF soldiers killed since fighting resumed in northern Israel approximately three months ago during Operation Rising Lion to 38, including 24 who have fallen since a ceasefire was declared. Since the war began, 963 Israeli soldiers have been killed, including 473 in combat in the Gaza Strip and 85 during operations in southern Lebanon.

{Matzav.com}

By Rabbi Zalman Mendelsohn

MONSEY, N.Y. — Throughout the days of shiva for Rabbi Shmuly Altein, the doors of the family home seemed never to close.

From morning until late at night, a steady stream of visitors arrived to offer condolences, share memories, and pay tribute to a man whose impact reached far beyond the boundaries of any single community. Friends, colleagues, students, supporters, and admirers traveled from near and far, filling the home with stories, tears, laughter, and heartfelt reflections on a life that inspired so many.

The atmosphere was, naturally, one of profound sadness. The loss was palpable. Yet amid the mourning, there were also moments of joy as visitors recounted Rabbi Altein’s warmth, humor, determination, and unwavering dedication to others. Again and again, conversations turned from grief to gratitude as people reflected on the privilege of having known him.

A man named Mark reflected on when Reb Shmuly was very sick he offered him his sports car for a drive around town and Rabbi Altein gladly accepted the offer. Shorly after they started driving, Reb Shmuly out the petal to the metal and took off with the biggest smile on his face.

What became clear over the course of the week was that the gathering itself told the story of Rabbi Altein’s life.

Friends from the Chabad community sat alongside Modern Orthodox colleagues who had driven in from the Five Towns. Frum friends from Monsey shared memories with secular friends who had flown in from Winnipeg. Jews of every background and affiliation came to pay their respects. Non-Jewish friends, neighbors, and acquaintances joined them as well. The remarkable diversity of those who passed through the home was a testament to Rabbi Altein’s unique ability to connect with every person he encountered.

In many ways, the crowds reflected the very qualities that defined him. Rabbi Altein possessed a rare gift for meeting people where they were. Whether speaking with a scholar, a business leader, a young student, or someone taking their first steps into Yiddishkeit, he approached each person with the same humility, compassion, sincerity, and respect. People felt seen in his presence. They felt valued. They felt inspired to become better versions of themselves.

Throughout the week, visitors spoke about the countless projects Rabbi Altein championed and the extraordinary energy he devoted to helping others. Stories emerged of quiet acts of kindness performed without recognition, of lives transformed through his encouragement, and of the communities he lived in – Winnipeg and Monsey – strengthened through his leadership. Many recalled his unwavering commitment to Jewish education, outreach, and communal growth. Others spoke about the personal guidance and friendship he offered during pivotal moments in their lives.

The conversations often evolved into spirited Torah discussions, reflections on faith, and recollections of lessons Rabbi Altein had shared over the years. Groups would gather, exchange memories and revisit teachings that had shaped their relationships with him. In this way, even amid mourning, Rabbi Altein’s voice and influence continued to animate the room.

Family members and visitors alike remarked on the constant flow of people. Hour after hour, the home remained filled. One group would leave and another would arrive. The stories never seemed to end because the lives Rabbi Altein touched were so numerous. Each visitor carried a unique memory, yet together those memories formed a consistent portrait of a man whose life was dedicated to serving others.

Many noted that Rabbi Altein exemplified the teachings and example of the Rebbe on who’s Yahrtzeit, Gimmel Tammuz, Reb Shmuly passed away. He led not through status or authority, but through personal example. He listened before speaking. He encouraged rather than judged. He inspired action through genuine care for every individual he encountered.

As the days of shiva came to a close, one impression remained unmistakable.

The remarkable gathering of people from every background, community, and walk of life was more than a response to a tragic loss. It was a living reflection of Rabbi Shmuly Altein himself.

The thousands of conversations, shared memories, tears, embraces, and words of Torah revealed the legacy of a man who spent his life building bridges between people, strengthening communities, and bringing light wherever he went. The crowds that filled his home during shiva were, in many ways, his final lesson: that kindness transcends differences, that genuine leadership unites rather than divides, and that a life devoted to others leaves an imprint that endures long after one is gone.

Iranian officials are reportedly considering an unusual airborne funeral procession for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as preparations continue for what is expected to be one of the largest public mourning events in the country’s history.

Khamenei, 86, was killed at his residence on Feb. 28 during “Operation Epic Fury,” the joint U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran. The conflict continued for four months before Washington and Tehran agreed to an uneasy ceasefire two weeks ago.

According to The New York Times, Iranian authorities expect approximately 20 million mourners to participate in the six-day series of funeral ceremonies honoring the longtime supreme leader.

The newspaper reported that the official ceremonies are scheduled to begin on July 4 with a 24-hour memorial service in Tehran.

The funeral procession is expected to conclude on July 9 in Khamenei’s hometown of Mashhad, where he will be laid to rest, according to Iran International.

While few details have been released about the proposed airborne procession, the idea reportedly emerged after security officials raised concerns about crowd control and safety. The funeral had originally been planned for March but was repeatedly postponed because of the ongoing war between Iran and the United States.

Iran International reported: “Authorities are considering holding slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s funeral procession airborne to reduce crowding and improve security, the governor of Razavi Khorasan province said on Saturday. Gholamhossein Mozaffari said the proposal, put forward by the provincial security council, was likely to be implemented because it would ease crowd management and provide safer conditions. Officials have announced that Khamenei is due to be buried in the northeastern city of Mashhad on July 9.”

In addition to ceremonies in Tehran and Mashhad, the funeral procession is also expected to pass through the holy city of Qom, according to Al Jazeera.

Khamenei is slated to be buried at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, who reportedly succeeded him as supreme leader but has remained largely out of public view since assuming power, is expected to oversee the final ceremonies.

{Matzav.com}

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President Donald Trump responded last night to former President Barack Obama’s recent claim that he occupies “a suite” in Trump’s mind by posting side-by-side photos comparing the two men during their younger years.

The social media exchange came after Trump shared several posts on Truth Social, including an AI-generated image depicting himself holding the Earth while carrying an American flag over his shoulder. He also posted a photo from the recent UFC event held outside the White House before turning his attention to Obama.

Among the posts was a pair of vintage photographs—one showing Trump during his years at the New York Military Academy and another showing Obama in his college days holding a cigarette.

Trump captioned the images simply: “D. Trump, 20” and “B.H. Obama, 18.”

Critics quickly questioned the accuracy of the age listed for Trump’s photograph. His niece, Mary Trump, who has frequently criticized him publicly, noted that Trump attended the New York Military Academy as a teenager and graduated in 1964 at age 17.

Trump’s post followed comments Obama made earlier in the week during an appearance on the All the Smoke podcast, where he joked that Trump’s repeated criticism of him reflects an ongoing fixation.

“The obsession,” Obama told the podcast this week. “I obviously have a room in his head. A suite in his head.”

Obama added that he approached the presidency differently.

“First of all, when I was president, the last thing I had time to do was worry about what somebody said or my predecessor did. They’re gone. I’ve got work to do,” he added.

Trump has frequently criticized Obama during campaign rallies and public appearances. More recently, he has also used AI-generated images to mock the former president, including posts depicting Obama’s presidential center as a giant dumpster.

{Matzav.com}

Senior officials in the chareidi parties are dismissing Isreli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s latest assurances regarding legislation aimed at preventing the arrest of bnei yeshivah, insisting that only concrete action—not public statements—will restore their confidence.

A senior source within the chareidi factions responded to Netanyahu’s recent remarks and to a letter issued by Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs outlining proposed arrest legislation. “We’ve had enough words and promises,” the official said. “Netanyahu will be judged only by his actions.”

The sharp criticism reflects growing frustration among chareidi lawmakers over what they view as repeated delays in advancing legislation important to the Torah community. On Friday, Fuchs sent a formal letter to Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chairman Boaz Bismuth detailing a proposal intended to prevent the arrest of lomdei Torah who are studying under what he described as “effective supervision.”

The senior official argued that Netanyahu has made similar commitments before, only to abandon them when it mattered most.

“We’ve seen him stand at the Knesset podium several times explaining why the draft law had to pass, but when the decisive moment came, he was the one who buried the draft law,” the source said. “He did the same thing with the daycare law—plenty of talk, but in practice nothing happened.”

The source then delivered a blunt warning to the coalition, saying the patience of the chareidi parties has run out.

“Now we’ve had enough words and promises. We want to see action. Until we see action, no legislation will move forward in the current Knesset until it is dissolved, including the bill to split the attorney general’s position and the communications law.”

Additional senior chareidi officials reportedly said this past week that although they generally support changes to the office of the attorney general, they will not back legislation dividing that position unless the coalition first delivers on two key priorities: passage of the Basic Law: Torah Study and the proposed law preventing the arrests of bnei yeshivah.

The latest dispute follows a high-level meeting reported last week between Shas chairman Aryeh Deri, Degel HaTorah chairman MK Moshe Gafni, and Prime Minister Netanyahu.

During that meeting, Deri and Gafni reportedly demanded immediate progress on the two flagship pieces of legislation sought by the chareidi community—the Basic Law: Torah Study and the arrest bill.

According to the report, the two party leaders also insisted that Netanyahu personally guarantee a parliamentary majority to pass both measures. They reportedly warned that if the coalition failed to move forward with the legislation promptly, the chareidi parties would seek the immediate dissolution of the Knesset.

At a press conference Friday, Netanyahu addressed the arrests of lomdei Torah, expressing strong opposition to the current policy.

“If they told you that Torah learners were being arrested in Europe, you would be horrified,” Netanyahu said. “We are arresting young men inside the yeshivah. That cannot happen. I strongly oppose it.”

In his letter, Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs explained that the proposed legislation would apply only to bnei yeshivah studying under “effective supervision” by their yeshivos.

Fuchs wrote that, following the High Court’s ruling, government funding was cut off to yeshivos enrolling students subject to military service, while those students and their families were also subjected to various financial sanctions. He added that the Attorney General subsequently instructed the IDF to carry out repeated arrest operations “without distinguishing between yeshivah students who are actively learning and those who are not.”

According to Fuchs, the current situation has created significant unrest even among chareidi families whose sons serve in chareidi combat units or attend hesder yeshivos. The report noted that if the coalition intends to advance the arrest bill, the legislation must be formally circulated immediately—a step that, as of now, has yet to take place.

A plain white envelope arrives in your mailbox with your name on it. It may even include a tracking number, making it appear completely legitimate. But when you open it, it’s empty—no letter, no product, and no explanation. Consumer protection experts say that what looks like a harmless mystery could actually be the first step in a scam designed to exploit your personal information.

Investigators have linked these unexplained deliveries to a scheme known as “brushing,” in which scammers use fake shipments to create fraudulent online purchase records. In some cases, the envelope may also contain a QR code that directs recipients to malicious websites designed to steal personal or financial information.

The real danger begins if the recipient becomes curious enough to scan a QR code, click a link, call a phone number, or provide personal information. What starts as an odd delivery can quickly become an identity theft or financial fraud case.

The empty-envelope tactic is frequently associated with brushing scams. In these schemes, dishonest online sellers mail inexpensive items—or even completely empty envelopes—to real addresses to create shipping records showing that an order was successfully delivered.

Once the shipment is marked as delivered, scammers can use the tracking confirmation to post fake “verified buyer” reviews on online marketplaces, making low-quality products appear more popular and trustworthy than they actually are.

Recent reports indicate that recipients have received small padded envelopes bearing unfamiliar or fictitious sender names. Some have received multiple deliveries, while others found only worthless trinkets, packing material, or nothing at all inside.

Although these deliveries may seem more annoying than dangerous, cybersecurity experts warn that the larger concern is that someone already possesses your name and home address.

Scammers don’t need to send anything valuable. All they require is proof that a package was delivered to a legitimate address. They typically obtain names and addresses through data brokers, public records, data breaches, or information leaked online. Using that information, they create fake purchases and mail inexpensive items or empty envelopes to unsuspecting recipients.

After delivery is confirmed, dishonest sellers can falsely claim that you purchased their product and may even publish fabricated positive reviews using your identity or account information. The scheme not only inflates product ratings but also demonstrates that your personal information is already circulating among scammers.

A newer and more dangerous version of the scam involves including a QR code inside the package. The message may urge recipients to “scan to see who sent this gift” or “scan to verify delivery,” but experts strongly advise against doing so.

Unlike a printed web address, a QR code conceals its destination until it is scanned. Cybercriminals take advantage of natural curiosity, especially when an unexpected package arrives bearing the recipient’s name.

The hidden link may lead to a counterfeit website requesting personal details such as your name, address, phone number, credit card information, bank credentials, shopping account passwords, or one-time verification codes.

Once scammers obtain that information, they may gain access to financial accounts, make unauthorized purchases, or compromise payment applications.

Experts recommend several precautions if you receive an unexpected envelope or package.

First, never scan any QR code included with a mystery delivery. If verification is necessary, visit the retailer’s or shipping company’s official website directly rather than using the code.

Second, avoid calling any phone numbers printed inside the package. Instead, contact companies such as Amazon, Walmart, eBay, USPS, UPS, or FedEx only through their official websites or mobile apps.

Third, review your online shopping accounts for unfamiliar purchases, suspicious reviews, unauthorized address changes, or unknown payment methods.

Fourth, update passwords for your email, shopping, and financial accounts using strong, unique passwords for each service. Security experts also recommend using a password manager.

Fifth, enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. Authentication apps generally provide stronger protection than text-message verification.

Sixth, carefully monitor bank and credit card statements for unfamiliar charges, subscription renewals, or withdrawals, and report suspicious activity immediately.

Seventh, review your credit reports and consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus if you believe your identity may be at risk.

Finally, report suspicious mailings to the US Postal Inspection Service and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. If the shipment appears to be associated with a legitimate retailer, notify that company directly through its official website.

If you have already scanned a suspicious QR code, experts say not to panic—but act quickly. Close the webpage immediately, avoid entering additional personal information, change any passwords that may have been exposed, enable two-factor authentication, monitor financial accounts for unauthorized activity, contact your bank if payment information was submitted, scan your device with reputable security software, remove any applications installed through the QR code, and report the incident to both the FBI and the Federal Trade Commission. If particularly sensitive information, such as your Social Security number or banking credentials, was disclosed, freezing your credit may also be appropriate.

Cybersecurity professionals also recommend installing reliable antivirus and anti-phishing software capable of blocking malicious websites, fraudulent links, and dangerous downloads before they compromise your devices.

Another important protective measure is limiting the amount of personal information available online. Because brushing scams often begin with data purchased from brokers or obtained through leaks, reducing your digital footprint through data removal services can make it more difficult for scammers to target you.

Experts say the biggest takeaway is simple: An empty envelope may seem harmless, but it can be an early warning that your personal information is already in the hands of scammers. Resist the temptation to investigate through QR codes, unfamiliar phone numbers, or suspicious websites. Instead, slow down, verify information only through official sources, and secure your accounts before curiosity turns into a much larger problem.

{Matzav.com}

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) said Friday that if Democrats regain control of Congress in the midterm elections, they will pursue an extensive investigation into President Donald Trump and his administration while simultaneously advancing their legislative priorities.

Speaking on MSNBC’s The Briefing, host Jen Psaki asked Ocasio-Cortez how Democrats should balance investigations into the Trump administration with policy initiatives such as health care and affordable housing if they return to power.

Psaki said, “I played a clip of little Mike Johnson, as I like to call him, laying out how a Democratic majority in Congress would investigate the president, the cabinet, donors and friends. It all sounds, I think, probably to a lot of people watching and a lot of people out there who were infuriated by the level of corruption. Pretty good. But you’ve also talked about a lot of things you deeply care about: health care and affordable housing. I know there are many other things. What do you see as the right priorities? Balance of things, especially as it relates to investigations and accountability? Where does that fall on how much time should be spent on that?”

Ocasio-Cortez responded by pointing to her previous service on the House Oversight Committee during President Trump’s first administration and argued that congressional investigations and legislative work can proceed simultaneously.

“I mean, I of course, some I spent many years on the oversight, and on the oversight committee in Congress, which is in charge of investigations during the first Trump administration. I helped on the investigation of Michael Cohen at the time, which led to a record setting settlement from, Attorney General Letitia James. But, I think that it really is — it genuinely is a situation of we can walk and chew gum at the same time.”

She continued by pledging that congressional committees would aggressively examine the administration if Democrats take control of the House.

“There are certain committees that I think will be spearheading real investigations into this administration. There has to be accountability, and it has to be because we cannot allow this level of corruption to consume our public service and our government ever again. And the only way that you allow that are the only way that you set that precedent is by aggressive investigation and consequence.”

Ocasio-Cortez added that congressional investigations can often lead to additional legal action outside of Congress.

“And often times, some of the things that do come out in congressional investigations sometimes yield to, either state pursuits, etc.. And, you know, Mike Johnson paints this as though it’s some partizan witch hunt but if you don’t want to be prosecuted for crimes, don’t do crimes.”

{Matzav.com}

Vice President JD Vance said Friday that Iran’s nuclear program has effectively been crippled, arguing that even if negotiations fail to produce a final agreement, the regime no longer has the capability to produce a nuclear weapon.

Speaking on HBO’s Real Time, Vance maintained that the United States has already achieved its primary military objective by destroying Iran’s uranium enrichment capabilities, minimizing the importance of whether a final diplomatic agreement is ultimately reached.

“If we don’t make the final deal, their nuclear program is still destroyed, they’re still much weaker as a country.”

Host Bill Maher challenged that assessment, responding, “But their program isn’t destroyed, the nuclear program isn’t destroyed.”

Vance immediately pushed back, asking Maher, “What part is not destroyed?”

Maher replied, “Well, we didn’t get in there. The whole thing was we have to get in there and see, otherwise we wouldn’t be doing this.”

Vance argued that the key objective was eliminating Iran’s enrichment infrastructure rather than inspecting every facility.

“Well, let me say, first of all, so a nuclear program — and I’m hardly a nuclear scientist, I’m a lowly politician — but the thing that you have to destroy is their ability to enrich uranium, which has been destroyed.”

After Maher interrupted to ask how the administration could be certain, Vance responded, “Well, because you need functioning centrifuges that can actually spin.”

Maher then pressed the issue further, asking, “But what was all the talk about, we’ve got to get in there and we’ve got to get the dust, and we didn’t get in there, so how do we get the dust?”

Vance acknowledged that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains a separate issue but insisted that it poses little immediate danger because the regime no longer possesses the infrastructure needed to weaponize it.

“So, that’s actually a separate question. So, there’s the highly enriched stockpile, which, by the way, was allowed to accumulate over 20 years of previous administrations. That enriched stockpile is something that we want to get. But, Bill, if we never get it, and the president wants it, and we are going to get it, but if we never got it, it’s buried deep underground and they don’t have the ability to turn it into a nuclear weapon. So, the program is functionally destroyed. We’re just talking about, can we set them back even further through these negotiations.”

{Matzav.com}

Federal authorities have captured one of the alleged architects of the massive $250 million Feeding Our Future fraud scheme after he spent four years evading arrest overseas. The Department of Justice announced Friday that the suspect was taken into custody in Somalia and now faces dozens of federal charges tied to one of the largest COVID-era fraud cases in US history.

Abdikerm Eidleh, 42, was among the original defendants charged in 2022 for his alleged role in orchestrating the Feeding Our Future scandal. Prosecutors accuse him of helping divert hundreds of millions of dollars from the Federal Child Nutrition Program, which was intended to provide meals to needy children during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to investigators, the operation functioned as a pay-to-play enterprise in which operators of roughly 200 fraudulent meal distribution sites funneled a portion of their illegal profits back to insiders, including Eidleh. Prosecutors maintain that the meals billed to the government were never actually provided to children.

The 31-count indictment against Eidleh includes charges of “conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering,” according to the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota.

Authorities said Eidleh was arrested Thursday in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald, who oversees the Trump administration’s anti-fraud efforts, described Eidleh as “a central figure in one of the largest fraud schemes in Minnesota history.”

McDonald added: “He not only stole taxpayer dollars, but he also robbed vulnerable children of critical resources they desperately needed. Rather than answer for his crimes in the United States, he fled to Somalia in a futile attempt to evade justice. That attempt ended thanks to the exceptional work of our FBI partners. The Department of Justice will continue to track down and prosecute fraudsters wherever they run and wherever they hide.”

Minnesota US Attorney Daniel Rosen also praised the arrest, saying: “Eidleh’s capture shows that, if you commit fraud against the American taxpayer, and try hiding across the globe, the long arm of justice will find you. We salute the FBI’s work in finding Eidleh, and are grateful to all our federal and international partners that help us hold accountable those who defraud our government.”

Federal prosecutors allege that Eidleh recruited and assisted individuals in establishing fictitious meal distribution sites and sham food vendors, which then submitted fraudulent reimbursement claims to the government for millions of meals that were never served.

The DOJ further alleges that Eidleh and other participants accepted bribes and kickbacks from individuals and companies seeking to operate fraudulent meal sites.

Investigators also contend that Eidleh established fraudulent meal sites of his own, falsely claiming they were feeding thousands of children each day.

Prosecutors said, “Eidleh deposited more than $5 million in kickbacks, bribes, and other fraud proceeds into accounts associated with his shell companies, using them to conceal the true nature and source of the illegally obtained funds.”

The Feeding Our Future case is one of several alleged public assistance fraud schemes linked to members of Minnesota’s large Somali community that remain under federal investigation.

In May, Aimee Bock, widely described as the mastermind behind the Feeding Our Future operation, was sentenced to 41 years in federal prison after being convicted on every count against her.

To date, authorities have charged at least 79 individuals in connection with the sprawling fraud scheme, and more than 60 have already been convicted.

{Matzav.com}

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A massive three-day search for a missing Bnei Brak resident ended on Sunday morning, when 25-year-old Yisroel Mordechai Stern was found alive near Modi’in Illit, exhausted but conscious.

Israel Police confirmed that Stern had been located safely and thanked the public for its assistance in sharing information throughout the search effort.

Stern disappeared Thursday from the Bnei Brak area, prompting an extensive search involving hundreds of volunteers, specialized search-and-rescue units, police officers, and emergency responders.

The breakthrough came early Sunday morning when an individual contacted emergency services after spotting a man matching Stern’s description in a forested area near Modi’in Illit. Teams from the Missing Persons Unit and ZAKA Tel Aviv’s Jeep Unit were immediately dispatched and located Stern conscious but suffering from exhaustion.

Yechiel Goldman, operations officer for ZAKA Tel Aviv, described the moment the search came to a successful conclusion.

“Early this morning, ZAKA’s emergency hotline received a report from a civilian who spotted a person matching the published description in a forest near Modi’in Illit. Our teams were dispatched immediately and located the missing man conscious but exhausted,” Goldman said.

The Israel Canine Unit (Yachal) also announced the successful outcome, noting that its volunteers remained in the field throughout Shabbos, without returning home, until Stern was found. The organization expressed gratitude to the hundreds of volunteers who participated in the search and praised the close cooperation among the various emergency agencies.

Golan Chavni, commander of the Jeep Unit, said volunteers had been mobilized since the beginning of the search operation, combing large areas with off-road vehicles and drones.

“Baruch Hashem, this morning he was found fully conscious,” Chavni said.

After days of intensive searching, the operation concluded successfully with Stern’s recovery near Modi’in Illit. Emergency and rescue organizations thanked the public for its vigilance, cooperation, and assistance in publicizing the search, all of which contributed to the positive outcome.

{Matzav.com}

Mir Yeshiva has canceled the large atzeres tefillah that had been scheduled for Sunday in Yerushalayim after one of its talmidim was released from Military Prison 10 following efforts by Degel HaTorah lawmakers.

The gathering had been planned in response to the talmid‘s continued detention. However, with his release secured, the yeshivah hanhalah determined that there was no longer a need to proceed with the event.

As previously reported here on Matzav.com, the world’s largest yeshivah had planned to suspend its regular learning schedule on Sunday at 12:15 p.m., with tens of thousands of talmidim expected to leave the batei medrash and gather for a public atzeres tefillah and outcry in Kikar Zvhil and along Rechov Shmuel Hanavi. The event was to be led by the roshei yeshivah and conclude at 1:00 p.m., at the end of the morning seder.

The decision to organize the gathering followed consultations between Mir rosh yeshivah Rav Eliezer Yehuda Finkel and senior gedolei Yisroel, Rav Dov Landau and Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, after the talmid remained in military custody.

Following the talmid‘s release from Military Prison 10, which was secured with the assistance of Degel HaTorah members of Knesset, the planned atzeres tefillah was deemed unnecessary. The yeshivah subsequently announced that the event had been canceled and that the regular learning schedule would continue uninterrupted.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu devoted part of his Motzoei Shabbos press conference to Israel’s ongoing military draft crisis, arguing that the government’s enforcement campaign against bnei Torah is producing the opposite of its intended effect and discouraging enlistment among the chareidi public.

Alongside his remarks on the new security agreement with Lebanon, Netanyahu said he had received a clear message from the heads of chareidi hesder yeshivos: arresting full-time bnei Torah does not increase military service but instead drives the chareidi community further away from cooperation.

Quoting what the roshei yeshivah told him, Netanyahu said, “When you send people into the yeshivos, take Torah students out, and put them in prison—no one enlists.” He added that they continued, “We received tremendous responsiveness from the chareidi public. Young chareidim want to enlist, but when you send arrests into places of Torah study, it produces the exact opposite result.”

The prime minister also compared the situation to what would happen in Europe, saying, “If I told you that in some country in Europe the police were entering yeshivos, taking young men who were learning Torah and putting them in prison—you would be horrified.” He said the comparison underscored both his opposition to the current enforcement policy and the damage it has caused in relations with the chareidi community.

In recent months, the chareidi public has been deeply shaken by the growing wave of arrests targeting bnei Torah, with many of the detentions resulting from planned enforcement operations rather than incidental encounters. However, unlike Netanyahu’s description, the arrests have taken place in homes and public areas—not inside yeshivah buildings—though critics argue that this distinction does little to lessen the gravity of the situation.

{Matzav.com}

The death toll from the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela has continued to climb, with some reports estimating that as many as 1,400 people have been killed. Officials fear the number will rise significantly as rescue teams continue searching for tens of thousands of missing people amid severe shortages of manpower and emergency aid. The disaster is being described as the country’s most powerful earthquake in more than 125 years.

While the official government death toll has surpassed 920, health authorities believe the actual number of fatalities has already exceeded 1,400—a figure also cited by The New York Times.

Authorities reported that more than 50,000 people remain missing or out of contact, while hospitals across the country have treated over 3,200 injured survivors.

Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez declared the coastal state of La Guaira a national disaster zone after widespread collapses of homes, public buildings, and critical infrastructure.

The capital, Caracas, has suffered extensive disruption. The city’s subway system has been completely shut down, the country’s main international airport remains closed because of significant runway damage, and large sections of the capital are without electricity, cellular service, or natural gas.

Thousands of displaced residents have been forced to spend their nights in parks and open areas, fearing that continued aftershocks could bring down additional buildings. Maria Andreina Pernalet, whose home sustained major damage, described the terrifying experience: “We are deeply shocked and frightened. We hugged each other and prayed. It was truly horrifying.”

The powerful quake struck during a national holiday, catching many residents inside their homes.

Luis Colmenares said he was inside a movie theater when the earthquake struck. “Everything went dark and everything started shaking. People started running, children were screaming in fear. The earthquake lasted between two and three minutes—it felt endless.”

Countries around the world have begun dispatching humanitarian aid and specialized rescue teams, including experts and search-and-rescue dogs from the United States, Britain, Switzerland, and Chile.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the disaster consisted of two massive earthquakes measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 that struck just 39 seconds apart along the San Sebastián fault system, making it the strongest seismic event to hit Venezuela in well over a century.

{Matzav.com}

Amid mounting economic sanctions and the ongoing wave of arrests targeting bnei Torah, Rav Eliezer Yehuda Finkel, rosh yeshivah of the Mir, asked Ateres Shlomo rosh yeshivah Rav Chaim Feinstein to deliver a special address of hashkafah and daas Torah to provide guidance and encouragement during this difficult period.

The special gathering drew thousands of avreichim from the Mir. With the main botei medrash filled to capacity, additional participants assembled in neighboring rooms, where the address was broadcast live.

During a lengthy shmuess that lasted approximately an hour, Rav Chaim spoke extensively about the Torah perspective on the current campaign of economic measures and arrests directed against the Torah world and those who devote themselves to full-time Torah study. His remarks focused on offering chizuk and clarifying the proper outlook in confronting the challenges facing lomdei Torah in the present climate.

{Matzav.com}

A violent confrontation broke out at Ben Gurion Airport on Friday after passengers from two delayed flights became frustrated by the late arrival of their checked baggage. The incident escalated into a physical altercation that left a ground crew employee and a security guard injured, while airport security personnel responded with their weapons drawn.

The disturbance began in the baggage claim area, where passengers waited for luggage from two flights that had landed behind schedule. Some travelers feared their bags would not arrive before the onset of Shabbos, raising the prospect of being stranded at the airport throughout the day.

As the delay continued, several passengers confronted ground staff, demanding answers about the whereabouts of their luggage. The exchange eventually turned physical, resulting in injuries to a ground attendant and a security guard stationed near the baggage carousel. During the confrontation, airport security officers drew their firearms as they worked to regain control of the situation.

The incident came to an end after security forces intervened. Police complaints were subsequently filed against those involved in the altercation.

According to an N12 report, both the Ben Gurion Airport administration and the airport police have launched separate investigations to determine exactly what transpired and what led the confrontation to spiral into violence.

{Matzav.com}