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High-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran unraveled dramatically in Switzerland on Sunday after Iranian delegates abruptly left the talks and declined to participate in a planned photo opportunity with Vice President JD Vance. The breakdown came after President Donald Trump issued a series of blistering warnings aimed at Tehran, including threats to seize the Strait of Hormuz and “blow the …. out of them.”

According to Iran’s state-run news agency, the discussions ended after only 80 minutes when the talks entered what officials described as a “difficult phase” following “an insulting message by the US president.”

Earlier in the day, Vance, who was leading the American negotiating team, had expressed optimism about improving relations, saying Washington hoped to “turn over a new leaf” with the Islamic Republic.

The meetings were held at the Qatari-owned Buergenstock mountain resort in Switzerland and marked the first round of negotiations conducted under the memorandum of understanding reached between the two countries a week earlier.

Any expectation of diplomatic progress quickly evaporated after Trump, facing criticism from some quarters for being overly accommodating toward Iran in the memorandum, issued a stern warning that Tehran would face severe consequences unless it reopened the Strait of Hormuz and restrained its network of terrorist proxies.

Trump’s harshest remarks were reportedly directed at the Iranian delegation participating in the Swiss talks.

“You won’t even make it back to your ……. country,” an irate Trump told Iran’s leaders, according to Fox News correspondent Trey Yingst.

“You close it, and you won’t have a country,” he said of the Strait of Hormuz.

“We may take over the Strait, if we have to. I’ll blow the …. out of them.”

The threats followed an announcement by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps on Shabbos claiming it was closing the strategically vital shipping lane because of the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.

Iran also entered Sunday’s negotiations seeking to focus heavily on the situation in Lebanon, where Israel continues military operations against the Iranian-backed Hezbollah terror organization.

While the talks were originally intended to center on Iran’s nuclear activities and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran insisted that no further negotiations could proceed until hostilities ended and economic incentives were guaranteed.

Trump also vented his frustration on Truth Social, blaming Iran for fueling the conflict and demanding that Hezbollah be brought under control.

“Iran must immediately stop their highly paid PROXIES in Lebanon from causing trouble,” the president wrote. “If they don’t we’ll hit Iran very hard again, just like we did last week, only harder!!!”

Iranian Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammed Ghalibaf dismissed Trump’s rhetoric, characterizing it as evidence of “desperation.”

“We don’t take the Americans’ threats seriously,” he wrote on X.

Ghalibaf also warned that any military action would trigger a response from Tehran.

“They had better watch their statements,” he hit back.

“Our armed forces are ready to respond in another way. Whatever they say, we are the ones who will act.”

Following the collapse of the talks, Ghalibaf and fellow senior negotiator Abbas Araghchi reportedly declined to participate in a scheduled handshake and joint photograph with American officials, according to Iran’s Tasnim news agency.

Iranian officials dismissed the event as an American “media show,” fueling concerns that Washington mishandled the opening phase of the negotiations.

U.S. officials rejected suggestions of a diplomatic snub, arguing that Tehran was exploiting the incident for propaganda purposes.

The American delegation was headed by Vance and included special envoy Steve Witkoff as well as Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

Morgan Ortagus, the deputy U.S. special envoy for the Middle East, said Trump’s latest comments signaled a major shift in Washington’s posture following the concessions many believed the administration was prepared to make during the previous week.

“This is a game-changing announcement by the President as it relates to his policies towards Iran — if Hezbollah strikes, the President is now vowing he will hold Iran responsible and will hit them in return,” Ortagus wrote on X.

Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, who has consistently advocated a harder line against Iran, agreed that Tehran would bear responsibility if efforts to stabilize Lebanon failed.

Graham also expressed skepticism that the diplomatic initiative would succeed.

“I’d rather try diplomacy than take it off the table,” the lawmaker told CBS News’ “Face the Nation” on Sunday.

“If you don’t have a diplomatic path through the MOU, then you have to go to war or some other form of coercion. Let’s try this. Let’s try a diplomatic solution. I think it’s going to fail.” he added.

The senator predicted that Trump would eventually resort to military force if negotiations collapsed, including seizing control of the Strait of Hormuz and dealing a devastating blow to Iran.

“I spent four-and-a-half hours with President Trump Friday. Here’s what I think will happen next. If this deal fails, President Trump is going to take the Strait of Hormuz over by force,” the hawkish senator explained.

Trump himself also floated the possibility of direct American control over the strategic waterway and suggested Washington could establish its own “Guardian Angel” toll program after repeatedly objecting to Iranian plans to charge transit fees.

“We may take over the Strait, if we have to. If they don’t make a deal, we’ll collect tolls,” he said, not specifying who the US will charge.

The remarks marked a significant escalation after the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding was thrown into doubt last week amid renewed fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

That conflict prompted Iran to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, where the regime has proposed implementing a toll system once the current 60-day negotiation period expires.

Previous reports indicated that Tehran was considering fees of as much as $2 million per tanker for vessels passing through the narrow channel.

A brief easing of tensions over the weekend allowed maritime traffic to resume temporarily. According to Energy Secretary Chris Wright, 67 ships transited the Strait on Saturday after 55 vessels made the crossing on Friday.

Before the conflict erupted, roughly 20 million barrels of oil moved through the Strait of Hormuz each day, with more than 130 ships traversing the critical route daily.

Yechiel Koteiner, the Gerer chossid whose arrest sparked an unprecedented wave of protests and drew thousands of participants to a massive gathering outside Military Prison 10, was released Sunday evening after completing several days in military custody.

Koteiner walked free from the military prison in Kfar Yonah after serving six days behind bars. Family members and community activists accompanied him upon his release as he returned home amid an atmosphere of relief and celebration.

His release was reportedly secured with the assistance of prisoner advocate Rabbi Shimon Shisha and attorney Menachem Stauber, both of whom became involved in the case shortly after news of the arrest emerged.

Koteiner’s detention ignited widespread outrage throughout the chareidi community, particularly within Ger. He had reportedly arrived at a military recruitment office last week in an effort to arrange a medical exemption when he was taken into custody.

The arrest generated additional public sympathy because it occurred only weeks after the family suffered a devastating tragedy with the passing of his brother, Rafael Ari Koteiner z”l, who was killed in a serious automobile accident. Despite those circumstances, authorities ordered that he serve a ten-day sentence in military prison.

The case quickly became a rallying point for Gerer chassidim across the country. Last Wednesday, thousands traveled to Military Prison 10 in Beis Lid for what participants described as a historic gathering of tefillah and protest.

In an unusual move, the Gerer Rebbe personally traveled from Yerushalayim to participate in the event and demonstrate support for the imprisoned bochur. During the gathering, Tehillim was recited by MK Yitzchok Goldknopf.

Powerful words of protest were also delivered by HaGaon HaChossid Rav Moshe Chaim Denderovitz, who spoke passionately against what he described as the persecution of lomdei Torah. He urged authorities to focus their efforts on criminals and thieves rather than targeting members of the olam haTorah.

With Koteiner’s release now complete, a sense of relief has spread throughout the Gerer community. Preparations were underway Sunday night for a warm and emotional welcome as supporters gathered to greet the young man whose imprisonment transformed him into a symbol of steadfastness and mesirus nefesh in the eyes of many within the community.

{Matzav.com}

Rav Daniel Zer delivered a sharp rebuke this week over the treatment of chareidi protesters by police, condemning incidents in which officers were seen using force and warning of the severe spiritual consequences of harming those who devote themselves to Torah study.

During his weekly shiur, Rav Zer addressed footage from last week’s Peleg Yerushalmi demonstrations, where police were seen striking protesters and, in some cases, tearing their clothing. The veteran mashgiach expressed deep pain over the scenes and emphasized the gravity of showing disrespect to bnei Torah.

“These police officers think the world is ownerless,” Rav Zer said as he referred to the videos. “To raise clubs and strike bnei Torah? Someone who harms a ben Torah, someone who disgraces a ben Torah—Hashem should have mercy. It is terrifying. They will suffer here as well; there is no atonement for disgracing talmidei chachamim.”

To illustrate the seriousness of the matter, Rav Zer recounted a striking story that he said had been related by a noted mekubal.

According to the story, a man known throughout his life as a righteous and G-d-fearing individual passed away and was buried outside Eretz Yisroel. Fifteen years later, his children sought to transfer his remains to Eretz Yisroel for reburial.

When the grave was opened, those present were astonished to discover that his entire body had remained intact—with one exception. His right leg had been consumed by worms.

The unusual sight caused tremendous confusion and anguish, since tradition teaches that the bodies of true tzaddikim do not decay in the ordinary manner.

Rav Zer related that the deceased later appeared to his son in a dream, radiant and illuminated. The son, however, was overcome with emotion and asked why his father’s right leg had suffered such a fate despite his righteous life.

According to the story, the father responded tearfully and explained that Heavenly judgment is exact.

“Know that the judgment of Heaven is true. Only once in my life did I kick, with my right foot, a person who was a ben Torah and yerei Shamayim. For that one kick alone—this was the punishment I received.”

{Matzav.com}

The IDF and Shin Bet announced Sunday that they have eliminated a senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorist who participated in the kidnapping of Yagil Yaakov from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 massacre.

The terrorist, identified as Zaki Yosef Mahmoud Abu Mustafa, served as a Nukhba commander in the Khan Younis Brigade of the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization. He was killed during a targeted strike in southern Gaza carried out late last week.

According to Israeli security officials, Abu Mustafa infiltrated Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 attacks and personally took part in the abduction of Yagil Yaakov.

The IDF also released a photograph recovered during military operations showing Abu Mustafa inside Israeli territory during the kidnapping of Yaakov on October 7.

Israeli officials said that in recent months Abu Mustafa had been heavily involved in efforts to rebuild the operational capabilities of terrorist organizations in Gaza, activities that allegedly violated the terms of the ceasefire agreement.

Security officials further stated that he was involved in planning numerous terrorist attacks against Israeli forces operating in the Gaza Strip. He was also accused of attempting to conduct training exercises for terrorists inside Nasser Hospital in an effort to shield operatives from Israeli strikes.

The military said Abu Mustafa posed an immediate threat to Israeli troops in the area and was therefore targeted in a precision operation.

In a separate strike, Israeli forces also eliminated Muhammad Osama Abd al-Aziz Saba al-Eish, a Hamas Nukhba terrorist who was allegedly involved in organizing training programs for Hamas operatives and recruiting additional members into the organization.

The IDF said operations against terrorists involved in the October 7 massacre and subsequent efforts to rebuild terrorist infrastructure in Gaza will continue as part of its broader campaign against Hamas and other terror groups operating in the Strip.

An emotional simchah took place at the bar mitzvah celebration of the great-grandson of Rav Yitzchak Cohen, rosh yeshivah of Yeshivas Torah Vodaas and rav of the Shmuel Hanavi neighborhood. The bar mitzvah bochur is also the grandson of Rav Raphael HaKohen, rosh yeshivah of Torah Vodaas, and the son of Rav Yitzchak Cohen, chairman of the Aliyah Institute and a prominent supporter of Torah and chessed initiatives.

The event drew an impressive gathering of gedolei Torah, roshei yeshivah, rabbonim, and distinguished public figures, who came to offer their brachos and share words of Torah in honor of the occasion.

One of the most moving moments of the evening occurred just before the bar mitzvah bochur delivered his Doron Derashah. In a surprise gesture, Rav Moshe Eliyahu Busu, grandson of the Baba Sali zt”l and head of Mosdos Meor Yisroel, removed from his pocket the sacred yarmulka that had belonged to the Baba Sali zt”l.

In an atmosphere filled with awe and reverence, Rav Buso placed the yarmulka on the young bar mitzvah bochur’s head and offered a heartfelt berachah, expressing the hope that the merit of the great tzaddik would protect him and that he would grow into a life of Torah, pure yiras Shamayim, and spiritual greatness.

The highlight of the celebration came when the bar mitzvah bochur delivered his Doron Derashah, presenting impressive divrei Torah and original insights on the mitzvah of hanachas tefillin.

During the meal, the Rishon LeTzion, Rav Dovid Yosef, Chief Rabbi of Israel and president of the Great Rabbinical Court, addressed the gathering and blessed the young celebrant that he should grow into a distinguished talmid chacham and source of pride for Klal Yisroel. He also offered warm blessings to the boy’s father, Rav Yitzchak Cohen, chairman of the Aliyah Institute for the study of limudei kodesh.

Also addressing the gathering was family friend Rav Zamir Cohen, rosh yeshivah of Yeshivas Avnei Nezer.

{Matzav.com}

A major step in the seminary admissions process was completed on Sunday as officials finalized decisions regarding the placement of sisters in Yerushalayim’s leading Ashkenazi and Sephardic seminaries, providing much-needed clarity for hundreds of families ahead of the upcoming school year.

The decisions were reached under the leadership of Deputy Mayor and Acting Mayor Rabbi Tzvika Cohen, who oversees chinuch chareidi in the city, working in close coordination with leading rabbonim and the Rabbinical Committee responsible for seminary admissions. The relatively early resolution of the issue is expected to contribute to a smoother and more orderly opening of the school year.

After many hours of deliberations, reviews, and difficult decisions, the committee completed its work on one of the most sensitive aspects of the seminary registration process. For many families, the question of whether a daughter will attend the same institution as her sisters carries significant educational, family, and communal implications. Rabbi Cohen led the effort throughout the process, working closely with rabbinic leadership and members of the Rabbinical Committee as they examined complex cases and weighed all relevant considerations before reaching their conclusions.

Sources familiar with the committee’s work noted that sibling placement is among the most challenging issues facing the seminary system. They explained that the matter involves far more than simply assigning a school. It affects a family’s educational continuity, communal identity, and the sense of confidence and stability felt by both students and parents. According to those involved, resolving these questions at this stage is intended to spare families the uncertainty that often lingered until the final weeks before the start of previous school years.

Following the committee’s decisions, Rabbi Cohen stressed the importance and sensitivity of the process.

“The issue of sibling placement in the seminaries is among the most sensitive and complex matters in the chareidi educational system in Yerushalayim. Behind every name stands a daughter, a family, sisters who already attend the institution, and a tremendous public responsibility. We approached this matter with great care, under the guidance of our rabbonim, after many hours of discussion and detailed review of each case. These are not easy decisions, and it is not always possible to satisfy every request, but our obligation is to do everything possible to ensure that the process is conducted with dignity, sound judgment, and responsibility. Our goal has been to enable the daughters of Klal Yisroel to begin the school year with certainty, peace of mind, and proper educational continuity.”

The decisions announced Sunday mark a significant milestone in preparations for the coming academic year. For the first time in several years, notifications regarding the highly sensitive issue of sibling placements are being delivered relatively early, allowing families additional time to prepare and substantially reducing the uncertainty that has often surrounded the beginning of the school year.

{Matzav.com}

Thousands in Yerushalayim mourned on Sunday as Rav Shmuel Mintzer zt”l, a longtime R”M at Yeshivas Maayan HaTalmud and a respected figure in the olam haTorah, was laid to rest after his passing at the age of 75.

The levayah took place Sunday afternoon, departing from Beis Yisrael Shul on Even HaEzel Street in the Ezras Torah neighborhood and proceeding to Har HaMenuchos, where he was buried.

Rav Mintzer was born in Yerushalayim on the 12th of Teves, 5711, to his father, Rav Yitzchak Zev Mintzer zt”l, a distinguished talmid of Rav Elazar Menachem Man Shach zt”l in Yeshivas Lomza. Rav Yitzchak Zev was also close to the Brisker Rav zt”l and was widely known for the seforim business he operated from his home in Yerushalayim. His mother, Mrs. Chana Devorah a”h, served for many decades as the legendary principal of the New Seminary in Yerushalayim.

As a child, he studied at Talmud Torah Shiloh in Yerushalayim. In his youth, he learned at Yeshivas Ponevezh L’Tzeirim and later at Yeshivas Ponevezh, where he became one of the distinguished talmidim of Rav Shach.

Upon reaching marriageable age, he married the daughter of Rav Rosengarten zt”l, and together they built a home founded upon Torah and yiras Shamayim. Rav Shmuel became one of the earliest and most prominent residents of the Ezras Torah neighborhood, where he devoted decades to teaching Torah and inspiring generations of talmidim at Yeshivas Maayan HaTalmud.

Those who knew him described him as a man of unwavering integrity and refinement. He lived a life defined by emes, humility, and total dedication to Torah. He devoted himself tirelessly to both learning and teaching, faithfully transmitting the traditions he received from his own rabbeim. Over the course of many years, he instilled in countless talmidim a deep love and enthusiasm for Torah.

Despite serious illness during the past year, Rav Mintzer rarely left his home except to deliver his regular shiurim. Family members recounted that just last week, when medical personnel arrived to transport him to the hospital, he asked first to be taken to the yeshivah so that he could deliver his scheduled shiur.

The family had also endured personal tragedy in recent years. Slightly more than a year ago, his granddaughter, Mrs. Hadassah Adler a”h, the daughter of his son-in-law, Rav Yehonasan Abramovitz, one of the prominent avreichim of Kollel Ponevezh, passed away.

Several years earlier, one of his sons was seriously injured after drowning in a spring. Following a lengthy recovery, he ultimately regained his health and recovered fully, b’chasdei Shamayim.

Rav Mintzer leaves behind a distinguished family of sons, daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, and descendants who continue in his path of Torah and yiras Shamayim.

Among his brothers are Rav Chaim Dovid Mintzer, one of the roshei yeshivah of Yeshivas Knesses Yitzchak in Chadeira and author of Chayei Dovid, who is scheduled to celebrate the wedding of his eldest grandson this coming Thursday; Rav Mattisyahu Mintzer; Rav Yaakov Meir Mintzer; and Rav Zelig Mintzer.

His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of his family, talmidim, and the broader olam haTorah.

Yehi zichro boruch.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Yariv Levin intensified his criticism of Israel’s judicial system on Sunday, accusing Supreme Court justices of blocking qualified candidates for political reasons and calling for immediate action to curb the court’s authority over constitutional matters.

The remarks come amid ongoing disputes over the Judicial Selection Committee and the broader struggle between the Knesset and the Supreme Court regarding the balance of power in Israel’s governing institutions.

Levin argued that comments made recently by Justice Amit during a judicial discussion misrepresented the reality of how appointments are handled within the legal system.

According to Levin, the judge’s statement that worthy candidates were not being advanced because of political considerations actually reflects the conduct of members of the judiciary themselves.

“He was surely referring to the improper veto that he and his colleagues have imposed on the appointments of Dr. Bakshi and Dr. Biton to the Supreme Court,” Levin asserted.

The justice minister went on to claim that, for years, highly qualified candidates for senior judicial positions have been prevented from advancing because of what he described as political, personal, and irrelevant considerations.

Levin argued that the judicial reform legislation promoted by the government was designed specifically to address those problems.

“That is precisely the essence of the amendment we passed,” he said.

The minister also renewed his push for legislation that would sharply limit the Supreme Court’s ability to intervene in constitutional matters.

Referring to a proposal that he said was agreed upon by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, MK Avichai Boaron, and himself, Levin argued that the Supreme Court should have no authority to strike down or interfere with Basic Laws enacted by the Knesset.

He further maintained that any judicial intervention concerning legislation affecting the Judicial Selection Committee should be considered invalid.

Concluding his remarks, Levin called for immediate public pressure on lawmakers to advance the proposal without delay.

“This is the time for an unequivocal public demand to bring this proposal to an immediate vote and to stop the theft of the Knesset’s powers,” he declared.

Levin’s comments are the latest salvo in the long-running battle over judicial reform, a debate that has continued to divide Israeli politics and public opinion over the proper limits of judicial authority and the role of elected officials in shaping the country’s legal system.

{Matzav.com}

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee delivered a strong endorsement of the U.S.-Israel alliance on Sunday, assuring supporters of the Jewish state that America’s commitment remains unwavering and declaring that Iran will never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.

Speaking at the JNS International Policy Summit in Yerushalayim, Huckabee sought to calm concerns about relations between Washington and Israel while emphasizing President Donald Trump’s continued support for Israel and its security needs.

Before turning to serious policy matters, Huckabee opened with humor, joking that he had checked Trump’s social-media accounts before taking the stage.

At the start of his address, Huckabee joked that he checked President Donald Trump’s social media “to make sure this was not my last speech in Israel,” noting his boss’s history of firing people “in the middle of the night by way of social media. So I wanted to make sure that there was a reason for me to come.”

He then reassured the audience that, at least for the moment, his diplomatic post remained secure.

“So far, so good!” he said.

Addressing an audience of policymakers, journalists, and pro-Israel advocates, Huckabee stressed that Trump’s commitment to Israel has remained consistent over the years and argued that the relationship between the two countries remains stronger than ever.

“The one thing that I’ve always heard him say, always, and I’ve always seen him do, is that America has an unbreakable bond with the State of Israel, and I trust that he means what he says,” Huckabee said of Trump, adding that the president has been consistent in pledging to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities and to curb its support for regional proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis.

Huckabee pointed to several landmark actions taken during Trump’s presidency as evidence of that commitment, including the recognition of Yerushalayim as Israel’s capital, the relocation of the U.S. Embassy to Yerushalayim, and American recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

Turning to the threat posed by Iran, Huckabee argued that the most effective way to weaken Tehran’s influence throughout the Middle East is to strike at the regime itself rather than focus solely on the terrorist organizations it supports.

Addressing the threat from the Islamic Republic of Iran, Huckabee said that the best way to counter Tehran’s regional terror proxies is to “turn off the spigot at the source.”

His remarks come amid heightened tensions across the region and ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran’s nuclear program and its support for terrorist groups throughout the Middle East.

The ambassador’s message left little doubt about where the administration stands, portraying the U.S.-Israel alliance as enduring and warning that Washington remains committed to preventing Tehran from achieving nuclear-weapons capability while confronting the network of Iranian-backed groups operating across the region.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu used a ceremony honoring his late brother, Lt. Col. Yoni Netanyahu, to deliver a forceful message on Israel’s security policy, declaring that Iran will never be permitted to acquire nuclear weapons and insisting that Israel will maintain its military gains across multiple fronts.

The remarks were delivered during the official state memorial marking 50 years since Yoni Netanyahu was killed while commanding the daring Entebbe hostage-rescue operation, one of the most celebrated missions in Israel’s history.

Addressing attendees at the ceremony, Netanyahu reflected on Israel’s recent military campaigns and explained the strategic thinking behind the operations carried out over the past year.

“Over the past year, we launched two tremendous operations: ‘Rising Lion’ and ‘Roaring Lion.’ We launched these operations in order to remove the immediate threat of annihilation posed to us by the evil regime in Iran. Had we not acted, they would already have had atomic bombs – and they would have used them. I pledge here at your grave, Yoni, and I pledge before you, citizens of Israel: The State of Israel will not be a passing episode in the history of our people.”

The prime minister emphasized that Israel intends to safeguard the achievements secured through those operations and will not retreat from positions it considers essential to national security.

“We are standing firm on our vital interests. We have achieved tremendous accomplishments, and we will not give them up. We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary in order to protect our dear residents of the north and all citizens of the country. As Prime Minister of Israel, I insist on this firmly, and nothing will change that.”

Netanyahu also addressed ongoing diplomatic efforts and negotiations involving Iran, making clear that regardless of future developments, Israel’s position on Tehran’s nuclear program remains unchanged.

“Whatever diplomatic developments may occur, I will not allow Iran to arm itself with nuclear weapons. As long as I am Prime Minister of Israel – it will not happen. I have dedicated my life to this sacred goal since your fall, Yoni.”

{Matzav.com}

A unique and educational Torah event will take place this evening, Sunday, June 21, when the Agudath Israel of America Torah Projects Commission, in conjunction with Chazaq, presents a special shiur featuring Rav Amitai Ben-David, acclaimed author of Sichas Chulin and a renowned expert in the practical and halachic aspects of shechitah.

The program will begin at 7:30 p.m. at Yeshiva Ohel Simcha, located at 141-41 72nd Avenue in Kew Gardens Hills, New York, and is expected to attract Daf Yomi participants, bnei Torah, rabbanim, and members of the broader community seeking a deeper understanding of one of the most fascinating and practical areas of halachah.

What makes this event especially noteworthy is that the shiur will feature a live shechitah and treifos demonstration, offering attendees a rare opportunity to witness firsthand many of the concepts discussed in Maseches Chulin and related areas of Torah study. Through practical examples and real-life illustrations, participants will gain a clearer appreciation of the intricate halachos governing kosher slaughter and the examination of animals.

Organizers explain that the program is designed not only for Daf Yomi learners studying or reviewing the sugyos of Chulin, but also for anyone interested in understanding the halachic foundations behind the kosher food that appears on Jewish tables every day.

Rav Amitai Ben-David has earned widespread recognition for his ability to present complex halachic subjects in a clear, engaging, and accessible manner. His sefer, Sichas Chulin, has become a highly regarded resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of shechitah and treifos.

The shiur, as mentioned, will take place this evening, Sunday, June 21, at Yeshiva Ohel Simcha, 141-41 72nd Avenue, Kew Gardens Hills, NY 11367, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

{Matzav.com}

[Video below.] Vice President JD Vance opened a new round of negotiations with Iran on Sunday by declaring that the Trump administration seeks nothing less than a fundamental reset in relations with Tehran, provided the Islamic Republic permanently abandons any pursuit of nuclear weapons.

Addressing negotiators in Switzerland at the start of talks between American and Iranian representatives, Vance outlined what he described as a historic opportunity to reshape relations between the two countries after years of hostility and conflict.

“What the president has asked us to do is turn over a new leaf to transform our relationship with the people of Iran, and to extend an outstretched hand that says to the people of Iran that if your leadership is willing to give up being a driver of regional instability,” Vance said.

The vice president emphasized that any normalization of ties would depend on long-term guarantees regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

“If they are willing to give up nuclear weapons ambitions for the long term, then the United States is willing to fundamentally transform our relationship with that country,” he went on. “That is certainly our goal.”

The negotiations mark the first formal round of discussions under the recently signed U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding. The talks had been postponed amid renewed fighting involving Israel and Hezbollah before finally getting underway in Switzerland.

The agreement established a 14-point framework designed to end hostilities between Washington and Tehran while granting both sides 60 days to negotiate a more comprehensive and permanent accord.

Vance argued that several major objectives had already been achieved through the agreement and suggested the focus must now shift toward broader regional stability.

“The opening of the Strait of Hormuz, the ending of the Iranian nuclear program, all of these things have already been accomplished,” Vance went on. “The question before us now is, how much more can we accomplish together?”

He framed the negotiations as a pivotal moment that could determine the future of the Middle East.

“Can we turn over a new leaf? Can we change relations in the Middle East permanently? Or do we go back to doing things the old way, which is not our preference.”

Vance’s conciliatory tone stood in sharp contrast to the tougher language used by President Donald Trump, who issued a series of warnings to Tehran on Sunday even as the negotiations were beginning.

Trump threatened severe consequences if Iran follows through on threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors and a route through which a significant portion of global oil shipments traditionally pass.

The president revealed that he had communicated directly with Iranian officials before Vance’s meeting in Switzerland.

“You close it, and you won’t have a country,” Trump told Fox News’ chief foreign correspondent Trey Yingst about his message to Iran. “You won’t even make it back to your … country.”

Trump also responded forcefully to recent comments by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who publicly insisted that Iran would continue uranium enrichment and that the United States would ultimately have to accept that position.

“He better watch his mouth. He better shape up, or we’ll take over the rest of the country,” Trump told Fox News.

The president described the memorandum of understanding as a temporary arrangement that gives diplomacy one final opportunity to succeed.

Trump characterized the agreement as a “60-day option” and stressed that he “can do whatever I want” once that period expires. He also floated the possibility that the United States could serve as the “guardian angel” of the Strait of Hormuz and collect tolls from vessels using the strategic waterway.

In a separate message posted Sunday, Trump warned Tehran to immediately rein in Hezbollah and other Iranian-backed groups operating in Lebanon.

“Iran must immediately stop their highly paid PROXIES in Lebanon from causing trouble. If they don’t, we’ll hit Iran very hard again, just like we did last week, only harder!!!” Trump posted on Truth Social.

The contrasting messages from Washington—Vance offering a path toward reconciliation while Trump delivers blunt warnings—highlight both the opportunities and the risks facing negotiators as the next phase of U.S.-Iran diplomacy begins.

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

As American and Iranian negotiators opened a new round of talks in Switzerland on Sunday under the framework of the recently signed memorandum of understanding, President Donald Trump delivered a series of blunt warnings to Tehran, including a threat to seize control of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking with Fox News, Trump suggested the United States could assume a dominant role over the critical shipping route and potentially benefit directly from the flow of oil passing through it.

“We may take control of the strait if we need to. I’ll blow them to pieces. If they don’t make a deal, we’ll charge transit fees,” Trump added, issuing a threat toward Iran.

Trump’s comments came as negotiators from both countries met to begin discussions aimed at transforming the memorandum into a broader and more detailed agreement.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signaled that Tehran remains unwilling to compromise on uranium enrichment, while arguing that Washington’s position has shifted significantly in recent months.

“Trump’s positions have changed 180 degrees compared to the past,” adding: “We will not give up the right to enrichment; they too will be forced to accept it.”

The Iranian leader’s remarks prompted an immediate and forceful response from Trump.

“He’d better watch his mouth, he’d better shape up, or we’ll take over the rest of his country.”

The exchange underscored the deep divisions that remain between the two sides even as negotiations continue.

Shortly after his Fox News interview, Trump expanded his warnings in a post on Truth Social, this time directing his attention toward Hezbollah and Iran’s broader regional influence.

The president demanded that Tehran immediately restrain the Lebanese terrorist organization and warned of severe consequences if attacks continue.

“Iran must immediately stop their highly paid PROXIES in Lebanon from causing trouble. If they don’t, we’ll hit Iran very hard again, just like we did last week, only harder!!” he warned.

The sharp rhetoric came on the same day diplomats gathered in Switzerland in hopes of advancing negotiations and reducing tensions following months of conflict. While both sides remain engaged in talks, Sunday’s exchange highlighted the significant obstacles still standing in the way of a lasting agreement between Washington and Tehran.

Rep. Ilhan Omar and her husband are once again facing scrutiny after newly released financial disclosure forms showed a dramatic reversal from the multimillion-dollar asset figures reported just a year earlier.

According to Omar’s 2025 disclosure filing, her husband, Tim Mynett, reported little to no income from the business ventures that previously formed the foundation of the couple’s reported wealth.

The filing indicates that Mynett earned no income during the past year from Rose Lake Capital, the venture capital firm that had previously been portrayed as a major source of the family’s assets.

The only income attributed to Mynett reportedly came from his now-defunct California wine business, eStCru. According to the disclosure, that venture generated between $200 and $1,000 before shutting down operations in April. The company had marketed wines with labels including “The Devil’s Lie” before ceasing business activities.

The filing also paints a bleak picture of the couple’s finances. Omar reported total assets ranging from approximately $20,000 to $125,000, while debts—including credit-card balances and student loans—were listed between $30,000 and $100,000.

Based on those figures, the disclosure suggests the couple’s net worth may now be negative, despite vastly different numbers appearing in earlier filings.

The new report comes after Omar’s 2024 financial disclosure sparked widespread attention when it appeared to show a sudden surge in wealth. That filing valued the couple’s holdings at between $5 million and $30 million, a dramatic increase from prior reports.

The surprising jump triggered public scrutiny and eventually led to a congressional review of Omar’s financial disclosures.

The controversy unfolded as federal investigators and prosecutors were examining a massive social-services fraud case involving members of the Somali community in Omar’s Minnesota district.

In response to questions surrounding the earlier filing, Omar submitted an amended 2024 disclosure in March. The revised report listed the value of Mynett’s ownership interests in both Rose Lake Capital and eStCru at zero.

Omar attributed the discrepancy to what she described as an accounting mistake.

Despite assigning no value to the businesses, the amended filing still reported substantial income from them. According to the revised disclosure, Rose Lake Capital generated between $100,000 and $1 million during that year, while the wine company reportedly produced between $2,500 and $5,000.

Republicans quickly seized on the latest filing.

“Voters see right through the corrupt lies of Ilhan Omar,” Republican National Committee spokeswoman Delanie Bomar told The NY Post. “Omar has spent her entire career covering up Democrat-enabled fraud that cost taxpayers billions, so it’s no surprise that she would do the same for her husband.”

Mynett launched Rose Lake Capital in 2022 alongside longtime associate Will Hailer, a fellow Democratic political operative.

The two first crossed paths while working for Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison during his 2012 congressional reelection campaign.

Ellison later left his congressional seat in 2018 to run for attorney general, opening the door for Omar’s successful bid for Congress. Hailer has publicly stated that he played a significant role in helping orchestrate that political transition.

The latest disclosure is likely to renew questions about Omar’s financial reporting and whether previous filings accurately reflected the value of her family’s business interests. As scrutiny intensifies, the stark contrast between last year’s multimillion-dollar valuations and this year’s reported negative net worth is certain to remain a focal point of political debate.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is confronting the greatest political crisis of his career as mounting pressure from within the Labour Party fuels speculation that he could soon step aside rather than face a potentially bruising leadership battle against rising rival Andy Burnham.

Although Starmer has publicly insisted that he intends to remain in office, growing numbers of Labour lawmakers reportedly believe his tenure is nearing its end. Expectations are mounting that he could announce a timetable for his departure as early as Monday, the same day Burnham is scheduled to take his seat in the House of Commons following last week’s special-election victory.

Business Secretary Peter Kyle acknowledged Sunday that the prime minister is taking stock of his political situation amid the escalating turmoil.

“making time to reflect on the political realities, challenges and opportunities that he finds himself in.”

Kyle defended Starmer’s leadership while cautioning against drawing conclusions from reports of an imminent resignation.

“I know he is a prime minister who always puts his country first,” Kyle told the BBC, though he said that reports that Starmer will resign are “speculation.”

The prime minister spent the weekend at Chequers, the official country residence used by British prime ministers, alongside his family. While avoiding any public discussion of his political future, Starmer did post a Father’s Day message on social media.

“Being a dad is my greatest joy. Today, I’m thinking about my dad, and the father I am to my children because of him,” he wrote on X.

President Donald Trump weighed in on the uncertainty before any official announcement had been made, arguing that Starmer’s troubles stemmed from policy failures on immigration and energy.

“Keir Starmer will resign as Prime Minister of The United Kingdom. He failed badly on two very important subjects- IMMIGRATION AND ENERGY (OPEN NORTH SEA OIL!). I wish him well! President DJT,” Trump posted on his Truth Social network.

Should Starmer leave office, he would become the sixth British prime minister to exit Downing Street in just a decade, underscoring a period of extraordinary political instability in the United Kingdom.

Frustration with Starmer has reportedly been building for months as Labour lawmakers seek ways to halt the government’s declining popularity following the party’s sweeping election victory in July 2024.

Critics point to slow economic growth, continued pressure on household finances, struggles within public services, and a series of political controversies that have damaged the government’s standing.

Among the most contentious decisions was Starmer’s appointment of Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the United States, a move that sparked criticism because of Mandelson’s past association with Jeffrey Epstein.

Labour has also found itself squeezed politically from both sides, losing support among progressive voters to the Green Party while simultaneously facing the growing strength of Reform UK, Nigel Farage’s anti-immigration movement, which has been performing strongly in national polls.

Burnham’s decisive victory in the Makerfield by-election has only intensified speculation about a potential leadership challenge. The former mayor of Greater Manchester captured nearly 55 percent of the vote, finishing more than 9,000 votes ahead of Reform UK’s candidate.

With his return to Parliament, Burnham is now positioned to launch a formal bid for Labour’s leadership should an opportunity arise.

His victory speech did little to dampen speculation about his ambitions.

“Everyone knows that politics isn’t working,” he said. “Everyone can feel that the country isn’t where it should be. Tonight could, just could, be the turning point.”

Questions remain about whether Burnham would face opposition in a leadership race. Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who resigned last month in protest over Starmer’s leadership, has already indicated that he would enter the contest if one takes place.

For his part, Starmer has continued to insist that he has no intention of surrendering his position without a fight.

“I will run, I will stand,” if there is a Labour leadership contest, Starmer said. “I’ve said repeatedly I’m not going to walk away from that.”

Yet some senior Labour figures believe the prime minister’s position has become untenable.

Charlie Falconer, a prominent Labour member of the House of Lords, argued Saturday that Starmer’s authority has effectively evaporated and suggested an orderly transition should begin.

“There should be an agreed transition process in which Andy and Keir cooperate as to when the handover should take place,” he told the BBC.

As pressure mounts and Labour’s internal divisions deepen, all eyes are now on Starmer and whether he chooses to fight for survival—or begin planning his exit from Downing Street.

A total of 46 bnei yeshivah were detained over Shabbos after being classified by the military as failing to comply with enlistment directives, according to IDF figures. The number marks a significant increase in arrests over a short period and comes amid intensified enforcement efforts targeting bnei Torah who have not reported to military recruitment offices.

The arrests have sparked sharp criticism throughout the chareidi world. Rabbanim and public figures described the developments as a serious deterioration in the relationship between the state and the olam haTorah, arguing that bnei yeshivah and avreichei kollel are being placed in detention facilities instead of being allowed to continue their limud haTorah.

Last Thursday, a 26-year-old ben yeshivah was arrested. Following hours of intervention by askanim and chareidi representatives, he was released to his home on Friday, just hours before the onset of Shabbos.

In a separate incident, a ben yeshivah was detained upon arriving at Ben Gurion Airport after returning from an extended period of learning in a yeshivah in the United States. He was subsequently transferred to military authorities for further processing.

Another detainee, 22-year-old ben yeshivah Aviel Cohen of Netivot, a graduate of Yeshivas Be’er HaTalmud, was released before Shabbos. His arrest generated widespread outrage throughout the chareidi community.

Cohen was taken into custody at a gas station near the Gilat Junction while sitting in a vehicle with his wife. His detention prompted demonstrations and a broad public effort by askanim and community activists seeking to secure his release.

Chareidi sources said the growing number of arrests is expected to lead to expanded protest activity in the coming days, including demonstrations and additional measures demanding an end to the detention of bnei yeshivah.

Community representatives warned that “a situation in which dozens of bnei yeshivah are being held in military prison is a warning sign for the entire public,” and expressed concern that the recent wave of arrests could further inflame tensions between the authorities and the olam haTorah.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir launched a sharp attack Sunday against Israel’s decision to accept the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding and ceasefire arrangements in Lebanon, arguing that Israeli leaders should have resisted American pressure and continued military operations.

The comments mark one of the strongest public criticisms yet from within the coalition regarding the government’s handling of the post-war diplomatic process and its cooperation with the Trump administration’s regional strategy.

Speaking in a heated interview with Army Radio, Ben Gvir argued that Israel must be willing to reject American demands when vital national interests are at stake.

“One must know how to tell the President of the United States ‘no’ when it comes to the existential interests of the State of Israel,” Ben Gvir said. “It was a serious strategic mistake to stop the fighting at this point. With all due respect to friendship, President Trump will not go and comfort the families of soldiers during shivah.”

The minister contended that decisions regarding Israel’s security should be based solely on the country’s long-term strategic needs, regardless of pressure from allies abroad.

Ben Gvir also directed criticism toward ongoing diplomatic contacts between Israel and Lebanon, which have reportedly continued alongside the deployment of IDF forces in the security zone in southern Lebanon.

The minister said he strongly opposes any negotiations with Beirut while Hezbollah remains active and influential inside the country.

“There should be no negotiations whatsoever with the Lebanese government as long as the Hezbollah terrorist organization remains there and continues to wield influence,” he declared.

Warning against what he views as a repeat of past mistakes, Ben Gvir argued that failing to decisively defeat Hezbollah now could create even greater dangers in the future.

“If we compromise now and do not decisively defeat them, they will try to carry out another October 7 against us across the border in a few years,” he said. “We must not return to the conception.”

His remarks come as debate intensifies within Israel over the U.S.-Iran agreement, the ceasefire framework in Lebanon, and the broader question of how aggressively Israel should confront Hezbollah and other Iranian-backed forces in the region.

While supporters of the agreement argue that it provides an opportunity for stability and prevents a wider regional war, Ben Gvir and other critics contend that the current diplomatic track risks allowing Israel’s enemies to regroup and prepare for future attacks.

{Matzav.com}

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A sweeping U.S. Justice Department investigation is reportedly examining allegations that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, secretly built a vast international investment portfolio with exposure to some of the most powerful financial institutions on Wall Street, raising new questions about the Islamic Republic’s financial operations and potential sanctions violations.

According to reports, the investigation is part of a much broader inquiry into suspected corruption and money-laundering activities linked to entities allegedly controlled or overseen by Khamenei. American investigators are reportedly reviewing a complex web of transactions conducted through shell companies believed to have operated under his influence.

The probe is said to extend far beyond Tehran. U.S. authorities are reportedly scrutinizing the role played by major American financial institutions through which funds allegedly moved, including banking giants JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup.

Sources familiar with the matter emphasized that the investigation is currently focused on Khamenei’s financial activities and that the existence of the inquiry does not necessarily mean criminal charges will ultimately be filed.

The reported investigation has sent shockwaves through both financial and political circles, given Khamenei’s central role in the Iranian regime and the potential implications of any findings involving major Western banks.

Mojtaba Khamenei assumed Iran’s highest leadership position following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli strike during Operation Rising Lion.

As Supreme Leader, Khamenei now wields ultimate authority over the Islamic Republic’s most sensitive and consequential decisions, including foreign policy, national security matters, and oversight of Iran’s nuclear program.

The reported discovery of a financial network allegedly tied to Khamenei and operating within the Western financial system could provide Washington with a powerful new source of leverage at a time of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran.

If the allegations are substantiated, the investigation could expose significant vulnerabilities within Iran’s leadership and potentially reshape the financial and diplomatic pressure campaign being waged against Tehran. For now, however, U.S. authorities continue to examine the evidence as part of what appears to be one of the most consequential financial investigations involving Iran in recent years.

{Matzav.com}

Political turmoil erupted in Iran after a hardline member of parliament publicly read excerpts from what he claimed were highly classified communications from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei during a live state television broadcast, alleging that the Iranian leader opposed negotiations with the United States. The program was abruptly cut off moments later.

Mahmoud Nabavian, a member of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, claimed during the broadcast that Khamenei repeatedly objected to the ongoing negotiations with Washington and had established conditions that were ultimately omitted from the memorandum of understanding recently signed between Iran and the United States.

The comments came as Iran’s negotiating team traveled to Switzerland for another round of technical talks with American officials, days after Tehran and Washington signed an agreement intended to end the conflict between the two countries and pave the way for broader negotiations.

According to Nabavian, Khamenei privately expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of the talks and questioned why his demands had not been met.

“The Supreme Leader explicitly expresses his dissatisfaction,” Nabavian said during the program. “He asks, ‘Why were the conditions not met?’”

Nabavian further claimed that Khamenei wrote that Iran “is neither in a hurry nor under any pressure to negotiate or reach an agreement,” and insisted that any discussions should focus on ending the war and securing compensation rather than addressing Iran’s nuclear program.

He also alleged that Khamenei instructed negotiators not to discuss what he described as “the central issue,” an apparent reference to Tehran’s nuclear activities.

At one point, Nabavian told viewers he intended to reveal a portion of the alleged correspondence.

“I will read one sentence. There is no other choice,” he said before quoting what he claimed was a message from Khamenei: “What took shape in the negotiations with Pakistan is fundamentally different from what was supposed to happen and from what constituted the condition for the legitimacy of the negotiations.”

According to Nabavian, Khamenei subsequently called for negotiations to be halted.

The lawmaker further asserted that Khamenei repeated his position on multiple occasions throughout April, insisting that Iran must emerge victorious by forcing the United States to fully recognize Tehran’s right to enrich uranium or remove the nuclear issue from future negotiations permanently.

Nabavian also claimed that Khamenei views the Strait of Hormuz as one of Iran’s most powerful tools of leverage against Washington.

“Strait of Hormuz is a very important key,” Nabavian quoted him as saying. “If the Americans want to remove pressure from their throat, they must first implement prerequisites, foremost among them the payment of compensation and debts.”

He argued that none of those conditions were incorporated into the memorandum signed with the United States.

According to Nabavian, Khamenei insisted that control over the Strait of Hormuz must remain exclusively in Iranian hands and not be shared with Oman or any other country.

He further alleged that Khamenei outlined a system under which some ships would be completely barred from transit, others would be required to pay fees, and vessels belonging to Iran’s allies would be allowed to pass freely.

As Nabavian continued discussing the alleged documents, the state television broadcast was suddenly interrupted and brought to an abrupt end, according to reports from Iran International.

Iran’s state broadcaster later condemned the lawmaker’s actions, describing them as a legal violation that could warrant prosecution.

The network said Nabavian’s references to classified documents and confidential communications between senior officials violated Iranian law. Officials also announced that one senior executive had resigned following the incident and that disciplinary measures would be taken.

The episode quickly triggered criticism even among conservative circles in Iran, with some accusing Nabavian of selectively presenting portions of a much larger body of correspondence in order to support his political arguments.

“Why don’t you say that these selective excerpts of yours were taken from about 20 communications and, in fact, from the earliest ones?” wrote prominent Iranian media figure Hossein Soleimani in a public rebuke directed at Nabavian. “Since you exposed and published the secret and top-secret documents of the system, you should at least have revealed them correctly and accurately.”

Nabavian and other hardline figures have sharply criticized the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding in recent days, accusing President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi of making dangerous concessions to Washington during the negotiations.

{Matzav.com}