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With this year’s Lag BaOmer gatherings at the kever of Rebbi Shimon bar Yochai in Meron significantly restricted, Yerushalayim is preparing to serve as the main hub of celebrations, with numerous hadlakos planned throughout the city.

The central hadlaka led by Rav Meilech Biderman is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. on Rechov Shefa Chaim. A designated area for women will be available at Ginat Ezrat Torah.

A major hadlaka will also take place at Yeshivas Oryasa on Rechov Strauss at 8:30 p.m., featuring Bentzi Stein, Arele Samet, and others. The Hachnasas Orchim Rashbi organization has made large-scale preparations, including providing significant amounts of food and meat for participants.

At Kikar Zaks on Rechov Shmuel Hanavi, the hadlaka of Rav Yaakov Meir Shechter will take place at 8:00 p.m.

Additional celebrations are expected at the kever of Shimon Hatzadsik, at Rav Shalom Arush’s shul, and at Toldos Aharon in Meah Shearim.

In Beitar Illit, the Toldos Avraham Yitzchak rebbe will light at the Kavim parking lot at 10:30 p.m.

Meanwhile, in Meron, only three hadlakos will take place in a limited format: the Boyaner Rebbe, Rav Shlomo Amar, and a hadlaka organized by the Dati Leumi community, each limited to approximately 200 participants.

A wide-ranging recycling proposal in New York would require many companies to significantly reduce their use of plastic packaging, a move supporters say is necessary to address mounting waste, but critics warn could lead to damaged goods and higher costs for consumers.

The measure, known as the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, would apply to companies earning more than $5 million annually that sell or distribute certain products. It mandates a gradual elimination of packaging considered harmful or non-reusable, replacing it with materials that are reusable or more environmentally sustainable.

Similar initiatives have already been adopted in several states, including Maryland, Maine, Oregon, Colorado, California, and Minnesota, as well as in a number of countries. The push comes as New Yorkers generate nearly five pounds of waste per person each day.

Under the proposal, businesses would need to cut their use of non-environmentally friendly packaging by 10% within three years and by 30% over a 12-year period.

The legislation also sets benchmarks for reusable packaging, requiring at least 5% of materials to be reusable or refillable by 2032, increasing to 10% by 2040 and 20% by 2055.

In addition, a growing share of packaging would need to be recyclable, with a minimum of 25% by 2032, rising to 50% by 2040 and 75% by 2055.

“New York State must follow suit to meet the moment for environmental accountability,” said a memo supporting the bill, which is sponsored by Assemblywoman Deborah Glick and state Sen. Peter Harckham.

“This legislation shifts the onus of recycling and waste hauling for packaging from municipalities and residents and ensures that producers of products are serving our interests by establishing solutions to sustainable packaging,” the memo said.

Companies that fail to meet the new requirements would face financial penalties, with funds directed toward improving recycling systems and infrastructure.

Industry representatives and supermarket groups, however, argue the changes would force a shift away from protective plastic materials toward less effective alternatives, potentially leading to product damage.

“Even with its recent amendments it will eliminate the plastic film packaging that keeps essential products like toilet paper, paper towels, and diapers dry and sanitary,” said Dan Felton, president and CEO of the Flexible Packaging Association.

“Without it, retailers and consumers face increased product damage, higher replacement costs, and less reliable shelf availability.

“We agree that we must improve recycling systems and reduce waste, but good public policy will also avoid higher costs and keep critical packaging in place to protect public health,” he said.

Nelson Eusebio, director of government affairs for the National Supermarkets Association, said the impact would be especially felt in lower-income communities.

“For independent supermarkets serving New York City’s working-class and minority communities, even modest shifts in packaging policy can quickly translate into higher costs for families.

“When changes move forward without scalable, commercially viable alternatives, those costs ripple through the supply chain and affect prices at the register.”

A similar version of the bill cleared the state Senate last year but failed to pass in the Assembly amid strong opposition from plastics manufacturers.

The renewed effort comes as Gov. Kathy Hochul continues discussions with lawmakers over adjusting deadlines tied to a 2019 climate law aimed at transitioning the state away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro.

Glick and Harckham said the current proposal has undergone extensive revisions, including roughly 150 changes that extend deadlines and adjust restrictions on certain materials.

“The underlying challenge has not changed. New York is facing a growing solid waste and pollution crisis, and the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act is a real solution that must be passed this year,” Glick said.

Harckham added that industry concerns were taken into account during the revision process.

“We have forged a middle ground with these amendments to our bill, and now we are working to finally gain the necessary legislative and executive approvals that will save New Yorkers millions of dollars each year while helping to protect our environment,” he said.

The bill has received support from multiple environmental organizations, as well as the state Association of Counties, which argue that excessive plastic use is overwhelming landfill capacity.

“New Yorkers are drowning in plastic waste, and for too long, taxpayers have been stuck with the bill while multi-billion-dollar companies pump toxic chemicals into our communities,” said Judith Enck, founder of Beyond Plastics and a former regional administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“These amendments are a major concession to the plastic industry, but the foundation of the bill remains important, necessary and impactful. We cannot afford another year of inaction.”

Business groups, including the Business Council of New York State and the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment, maintain that the legislation would impose heavy burdens on companies and consumers alike.

“This proposal includes requirements – such as stringent source reduction targets, material restrictions, and limited flexibility – that go well beyond those in EPR laws adopted by other states, most recently Minnesota, Washington, and Maryland,” the groups said in a joint statement.

“If adopted, this bill would impose significant operational challenges on business and result in significant impacts on consumer costs and product availability.”

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu placed a phone call to the Belzer Rebbe in recent days to inquire about his condition, following reports that the Rebbe had been experiencing weakness.

According to those familiar with the conversation, the Rebbe’s condition has been improving after a recent period of illness, as chassidim continue to follow updates and daven for his continued recovery. Amid that concern, Netanyahu reached out personally to check on his well-being.

The prime minister contacted the Rebbe’s residence and spoke with him for several minutes. Netanyahu asked about the Rebbe’s health, and the Rebbe responded briefly, expressing thanks and answering amen to the prime minister’s wishes.

During the conversation, Netanyahu also expressed strong appreciation for the efforts of the Belzer community’s leadership, particularly praising the work of the Rebbe’s son, Rav Aharon Mordechai Rokeach.

Toward the end of the exchange, after it was recently reported that Netanyahu himself had undergone a medical procedure, the Belzer Rebbe extended a brocha to the prime minister, wishing him continued good health.

A senior Iranian lawmaker warned Sunday that any attempt by the United States to intervene in maritime operations in the Strait of Hormuz would be viewed as a breach of the current ceasefire, as tensions rise following a new U.S. initiative in the region.

Ebrahim Azizi, who heads Iran’s Parliament National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, issued a series of statements cautioning Washington against involvement in what he described as Iran’s maritime framework for the strategic waterway.

“Any American interference in the new maritime regime of the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a violation of the ceasefire,” he said in a translated message posted on X.

Azizi also dismissed remarks by President Donald Trump regarding the situation, writing, “The Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf would not be managed by Trump’s delusional posts!”

He further rejected accusations directed at Tehran, stating, “No one would believe Blame Game scenarios!”

In a separate post, Azizi reiterated that the region should not be used for political messaging. “The Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf are not a place for rhetoric,” he said.

The comments followed President Trump’s announcement of “Project Freedom,” a plan under which U.S. forces would begin escorting vessels through the strait starting Monday to ensure safe passage.

Trump’s move came after he voiced skepticism about a 14-point peace proposal put forward by Iran over the weekend.

{Matzav.com}

Tensions are mounting over transportation arrangements for a major Lag BaOmer gathering in Yerushalayim, where tens of thousands are expected to attend the lighting ceremony led by Rav Elimelech Biderman, but may face severe shortages in public transit.

Critics warn that without adequate service, participants could be left stranded or forced to pay high private travel costs, even as other large events receive extensive transportation support.

In an interview on Kol Chai Radio, Yisrael Gefner, head of the Emes L’Yaakov organization, described a growing crisis in planning for the event. He noted that while the situation in Meron is being handled separately, the large-scale gathering in Yerushalayim has not been matched with sufficient transportation infrastructure.

“We are essentially operating under two separate processes,” Gefner said, explaining that the Yerushalayim event requires its own dedicated logistical response.

Gefner pointed to a past case involving Israel Railways, which initially halted service during a mass protest near the entrance to Yerushalayim over the draft law, prompting a petition to the High Court of Justice. “The trains only resumed operation after the petition,” he said, arguing that the current dispute reflects the same broader issue — equal access to public services.

According to Gefner, while left-wing demonstrations and major entertainment events receive significant transit reinforcements, the chareidi tzibbur is often left without comparable support. “When a well-known secular singer performed, they added 14 trains,” he said, adding that protests and sporting events routinely receive expanded service. By contrast, for Lag BaOmer events, “not only is there no reinforcement — we are at risk of a shutdown.”

He also challenged the claim that the restrictions are based on genuine security concerns. “They conducted a review and found that the police actually requested increased security personnel, not a halt to train service,” he said, suggesting that the policy reflects systemic discrimination rather than operational necessity.

Gefner warned that without organized public transportation, many attendees will be forced to seek costly alternatives. “People are paying over 100 shekels for private rides — they don’t deserve that,” he said, emphasizing that public transit offers a safer, more affordable, and better-regulated option that also helps reduce congestion and risk.

In response, an urgent petition was filed with the High Court, seeking to establish a permanent policy requiring expanded transportation services for large chareidi events. “We want to ensure there is no situation where some receive and others do not,” Gafner said.

A decision from the court is expected by Tuesday morning, a delay that drew criticism from radio host Avi Mimran. “The same High Court that saw fit to convene in the middle of Shabbos to urgently discuss a protest in Kaplan suddenly shows surprising patience when it comes to the rights of the chareidi tzibbur. Even though the hilula begins tomorrow night, the court has until tomorrow morning to calmly deliberate the petition for increased transportation,” he said. Gefner added that even if the ruling does not impact the upcoming event, establishing a clear principle for the future remains the primary goal.

Shortly after the interview, Justice Yitzchak Amit ordered the relevant authorities — including the transportation minister, the Ministry of Transportation, the national transport authority, Israel Railways, the police, and the Yerushalayim municipality — to submit responses by 10:00 a.m. Tuesday regarding the petition, which argues that insufficient transportation poses a risk to public safety.

{Matzav.com}

Member of Knesset Meir Porush announced that he will not travel to Meron for Lag BaOmer this year following the cancellation of the annual hilula and called for serious reflection and lessons to be drawn from the situation.

In a personal column published late Sunday, Porush opened with a clear declaration: “I will start from the end. This year as well, unfortunately, I will not take part in the hilula of Rashbi at the holy site of Meron.”

Porush wrote that since childhood, attending the annual gathering had been a constant in his life. “Since I was a small child, there was almost no year in which I missed participating in the holy hilula. Meron, throughout the year, and especially on Lag BaOmer, is truly part of my very being — a feeling I am certain many people from Yerushalayim share.”

He added that in recent years he had played a central role in organizing the event, describing it as a significant merit. “My merit grew even more over the past three years, during which I had the privilege of leading the preparations for the holy hilula, and in the years 5783 and 5785, with the help of Heaven, we succeeded in holding these elevated gatherings with great crowds and dignity, attended by tens of thousands of the Jewish people.”

Even after stepping down from his government role, Porush said he continued to be involved in planning efforts under the guidance of senior rabbinic leadership. “In the past year, after my departure from the government, under the directive of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, I continued, with the blessing of our revered admorim, to assist in my role as a member of Knesset in the preparations for the hilula, alongside those engaged in this sacred work.”

Porush described being taken aback by the government’s decision earlier this month to cancel the event. “However, last Friday, the 7th of Iyar, we were astonished to hear about the cabinet’s decision to cancel the hilula. Those involved in the work at the Ministry of Yerushalayim and Heritage did not give up in the face of this decree, and with great creativity formulated an interim plan that was approved by the Home Front Command.”

He claimed that certain elements within government authorities worked to block that compromise plan. “On the other hand, certain parties within the government authorities acted with all their strength against this plan, placing obstacle after obstacle in order to prevent the arrival of the thousands to the hilula. The matter ended with the new decision of the Home Front Command last Friday, the 14th of Iyar, to further tighten the restrictions, which in practice do not allow the hilula events to take place.”

Porush said he would refrain from publicly detailing his full position on the decisions. “At this time, I will refrain from expressing my opinion regarding the decisions that were made. What I heard in the discussions of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, I heard, and what I said in the discussion with the prime minister, I said. I was not a partner to the decision that was later made, and I am not at peace with it, and I will not elaborate further.”

He acknowledged the deep disappointment caused by the cancellation, noting the personal significance the event holds for him. “The current situation is that the hilula of Rashbi in Meron will no longer take place in a format that meets the outline I established — ‘with prayer, with safety, and with joy.’ This pains me very much, the memories of the hilula in the years 5780, 5781, 5782, and 5784 are deeply etched in me, and the knowledge that once again we will not hold the hilula in its proper form is very distressing.”

Despite the situation, Porush stressed the importance of learning from past experiences. “I expect that nevertheless, the lessons that can be learned will indeed be learned. As I said in the Knesset plenum during a discussion on the Meron law, even before the security situation in the north became clear: ‘I want to emphasize that what happened in 5784 cannot repeat itself. The professionals, together with the police, must formulate a more balanced framework, one that does not end with unbearable scenes of violence and chaos.’ I very much hope that the message has been heard and will continue to be heard.”

He emphasized that he would stand in solidarity with the broader public who will be unable to attend. “The majority of the Jewish people will not merit this year to fulfill their desire to participate in the holy hilula, and I will share in their pain. Even though I have the ability, as someone who ‘benefits’ from parliamentary immunity, to go up to Meron — I do not feel it is appropriate for me to do so when you, my dear brothers, the people of Meron, cannot do so.”

Porush concluded with a message encouraging unity and introspection, even from afar. “Together with you, each person in his own city or by his rov, we will try to rejoice in the joy of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, even from a distance, with closeness of heart, and we will examine our deeds and make an accounting of the soul as to why the ascent to Meron on Lag BaOmer — something that was once so natural — has over the years become such a great challenge, and sometimes even impossible.”

{Matzav.com}

A chareidi couple from Modiin Illit welcomed a second set of quadruplets on Sunday at Sheba Medical Center, marking an extraordinary event that comes four years after the birth of their first set of quadruplets.

Both births included three girls and one boy.

In the earlier delivery, which took place four years ago, one of the baby girls died shortly after birth, and another passed away about a year later.

The unusual case was first reported by Kol Chai Radio.

The family, members of the Breslover community, lives in the Brachfeld neighborhood of Modiin Illit.

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu told senior Israel Defense Forces officers that Iran is increasingly worried Israel could bring about the collapse of its regime through economic pressure, and warned that Israel may ultimately move on its own to demilitarize the Gaza Strip if no outside party steps in.

Recordings aired Sunday evening revealed Netanyahu’s remarks during a briefing with top military leadership, in which he described growing concern inside Iran following recent developments.

“There is no doubt that by the end of this war, Iran is weaker than ever and Israel is stronger than ever,” he said. “But we know that we still face a challenge.”

He continued, “We saw that after the regime was struck and weakened, protests followed. And we see that the regime is very troubled by the possibility that we will collapse its economy, because it believes that could also bring down its rule.”

Referring to U.S. policy, Netanyahu said, “President Trump believes that through economic pressure he can also extract the nuclear material. That is all I can say in this forum.”

The prime minister also addressed the situation in Gaza, pointing to Israel’s current military positioning and the possibility of future action to dismantle hostile forces.

“We are holding a security zone inside enemy territory, in Gaza, more than 50% in terms of the ability to enter and begin dismantling it. If someone else dismantles it — all the better.”

He added that Israel has urged U.S. leadership to present an alternative, but is preparing for the likelihood that it will need to act independently.

“I don’t see that happening. I tell Trump and his people, ‘Please, bring it. Bring it.’ But if they do not, the task of dismantling the weapons and demilitarizing the Strip will fall on us. We need to choose the right time to do it,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

[Video below.] Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said Sunday that the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey is based on more than a controversial Instagram post, emphasizing that prosecutors relied on a broader body of evidence gathered over nearly a year-long investigation.

Speaking on Meet the Press, host Kristen Welker pressed Blanche about the basis for the charges, referencing the social media post at the center of the case.

Welker said, “A grand jury has indicted the former FBI director for this Instagram post. I want to put it up. I think a lot of folks have seen it at this point. 86 47 and sea seashells, which the indictment says, quote, a reasonable recipient who is familiar with the circumstances would interpret as a serious expression of an intent to do harm to the president of the United States. How does that image of seashells amount to a serious threat against the president’s life?”

Blanche responded that the investigation extended well beyond the post itself.

“Well, every case requires an investigation. And what you just showed is, is one part of that investigation. What you just showed is the Instagram post. Rest assured that the career assistant United States attorneys in North Carolina, the career FBI agents, the career Secret Service agents that investigated this case, didn’t just look at the Instagram post to walk away. That’s why you saw an indictment last week, not withstanding the fact that it was last May that the post was made. So I am not permitted to get into the details of what the grand jury heard or found, as you know. But rest assured that it’s not just the Instagram post that leads somebody to get indicted.”

Welker followed up by asking how prosecutors could establish intent given Comey’s own explanation.

“How do you prove intent, Mr. Blanche, when Mr. Comey himself said he didn’t understand that some people would look at that and think about violence?”

Blanche said that intent is demonstrated through multiple forms of evidence.

“You prove intent like you always prove intent. You prove intent with witnesses, you prove intent with documents, with materials. So again, this is not just about a single Instagram post. This is about a body of evidence that the grand jury collected over the series of about 11 months. That evidence was presented to the grand jury. And it’s not the government. It’s not the Department of Justice. It’s not Todd Blanche that returns an indictment against James Comey. It’s the grand jury.”

Welker then pressed whether additional facts exist beyond the social media post that establish a threat.

“Are there, are you in fact saying that there are facts beyond this Instagram post that clearly establish an intent to threaten the president’s life?”

Blanche reiterated that the length of the investigation itself indicates there is more to the case.

“I’ve said repeatedly this was an investigation that lasted 11 months.If the only facts that existed was the posting of the Instagram, obviously that wouldn’t have taken 11 months. And so when Mr. Turley talks about whether it’s facially unconstitutional absent unknown facts or circumstances, we will necessarily have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt, at trial, every element of this crime — which we’re prepared to do.”

Welker asked whether those additional details would be made public.

“Can you and will you let the public know what any of those other facts are?”

Blanche said that information would come out during court proceedings.

“Absolutely. It’s called a trial. That’s what happens at every single case. We indict thousands of cases every year. Every one of those cases, there’s an indictment and then eventually there is a trial or some sort of disposition. At the trial, a public trial, that will be open to the public, everybody in this country will know exactly what evidence the government has against Mr. Comey.”

Welker also raised the issue of similar phrases being widely available online.

“It is worth noting that on Amazon.com — we looked this up — there are dozens of products with the same terminology, we’re showing it right here, 86 47 being sold and purchased right now. Should individuals selling or buying ’86 47′ merchandise be concerned that they’re going to be prosecuted by the DOJ?”

Blanche said the case is not about a single phrase in isolation, but about context and supporting evidence.

“This isn’t about a single incident, OK. I mean, of course not. That’s posted constantly. That phrase is used constantly. There are constantly men and women who choose to make threatening statements against President Trump. Every one of those statements do not result in indictments, of course. There are facts, there are circumstances, there are investigations that have to take place. And we have charged dozens and dozens of men and women this year with threatening President Trump and others. So this isn’t a new charge we’re bringing.”

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump issued a forceful public statement following news that Rudy Giuliani has been hospitalized in critical condition, praising his longtime ally and sharply criticizing political opponents.

In a post shared Sunday evening, Trump described Giuliani as “a True Warrior” and “the Best Mayor in the History of New York City, BY FAR,” while expressing concern over his condition after being hospitalized.

“Our fabulous Rudy Giuliani, a True Warrior, and the Best Mayor in the History of New York City, BY FAR, has been hospitalized, and is in critical condition,” Trump wrote. “What a tragedy that he was treated so badly by the Radical Left Lunatics, Democrats ALL — AND HE WAS RIGHT ABOUT EVERYTHING!”

Trump went on to accuse political opponents of misconduct, tying those claims to Giuliani’s situation.

“They cheated on the Elections, fabricated hundreds of stories, did anything possible to destroy our Nation, and now, look at Rudy. So sad!” he added.

Giuliani, 81, is currently hospitalized in critical but stable condition, according to a statement released earlier by his spokesman. No details have been provided regarding the cause of his hospitalization.

{Matzav.com}

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, a noted oheiv Yisroel and staunch supporter of Israel, has been admitted to the hospital and is in critical condition, according to a statement released Sunday by his spokesman.

Ted Goodman said the 81-year-old is currently listed as critical but stable. No details were provided regarding the cause of his hospitalization.

“Mayor Rudy Giuliani is currently in the hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition,” the statement said. “Mayor Giuliani is a fighter who has faced every challenge in his life with unwavering strength, and he’s fighting with that same level of strength as we speak. We do ask that you join us in prayer for America’s Mayor – Rudy Giuliani.”

Giuliani served as mayor of New York City from 1994 through 2001.

Spirit Airlines said Sunday that it has nearly finished issuing refunds to passengers and returning flight crews to their home bases after its abrupt decision to halt operations over the weekend.

The airline canceled flights without warning on Shabbos, leaving travelers and staff stranded across the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America. The shutdown followed mounting financial strain, including a sharp spike in fuel expenses tied to the war involving Iran.

According to figures from Cirium, the carrier had scheduled more than 4,000 domestic flights through May 15 before ceasing service.

The company reported that most passengers who purchased tickets using credit or debit cards had received refunds by Motzoei Shabbos, with only a small portion still awaiting processing.

Spirit also said that roughly 1,500 remaining crew members were reassigned back to their home bases over the course of the weekend.

In response to the disruption, several other airlines stepped in to offer reduced “rescue fares” to assist stranded travelers.

Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara and State Prosecutor Amit Eisman indicated early Monday that they are prepared to explore the possibility of a plea agreement in the legal cases involving Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, responding favorably to a request from President Isaac Herzog.

In her response, the Attorney General noted that the State values the President’s efforts to help bring the cases toward resolution through a negotiated agreement, and said she is willing to enter into meaningful discussions with Netanyahu’s defense team to assess whether such an arrangement is viable.

The letter stated that any talks aimed at reaching a plea deal would proceed without preconditions on either side. It also stressed that these discussions would take place “in parallel” with the ongoing trial and would not interfere with or delay court proceedings.

At this point, officials are avoiding discussion of the logistical and substantive aspects of the potential negotiations, including how the meetings will be structured, who will participate, where they will be held, and which legal issues will be addressed.

The development follows outreach last week by the President’s legal adviser, Michal Tsuk-Shafir, who contacted both the prosecution and defense in Netanyahu’s cases and invited them to engage in “contacts aimed at reaching agreements.”

A statement from the President’s Residence explained that “this process is intended to examine the possibility of advancing understandings and agreements, and constitutes only a preliminary stage before the President holds a discussion on the pardon request itself. The sides were asked to come promptly, in good faith and with proper intentions. It was made clear to the parties that agreeing to the invitation does not imply any consent or approval on their part regarding any disputed matter in court.”

In her communication to the parties, Tsuk-Shafir wrote: “The President of the State, after consulting with me, believes that before considering the exercise of his authority regarding the request submitted in the matter of the Prime Minister, the possibility of holding contacts between the sides in order to reach agreements should be exhausted.”

She added, “It seems there is no dispute over the value of holding a conciliatory dialogue that ends in an agreement. This procedure is considered proper and efficient in the eyes of the courts as well, all the more so in matters at the heart of public debate in Israel. The President has repeatedly expressed his support for dialogue directed at reaching agreements between the parties.”

Tsuk-Shafir invited representatives of both sides to meet at the President’s Residence “in good faith and with proper intentions,” emphasizing that each side “enters the room free of any commitments or preconditions.”

{Matzav.com}

WATCH:

President Donald Trump said Sunday that the United States will begin assisting neutral vessels trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, pledging to “guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways” as tensions continue to rise in the region.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said governments “from all over the World” have turned to Washington for help in freeing ships “which are locked up in the Strait of Hormuz” even though they have “absolutely nothing to do” with the conflict.

He described the ships as “merely neutral and innocent bystanders.”

“For the good of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States,” Trump wrote, “we have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out … so that they can freely and ably get on with their business.”

Trump said the initiative, which he called “Project Freedom,” is set to begin Monday morning Middle East time, adding that the United States will “use best efforts to get their Ships and Crews safely out of the Strait.”

The Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments accounting for roughly one-fifth of the world’s supply, has become increasingly unstable in recent weeks. Escalating tensions involving Iran have led to heightened security concerns, rising insurance premiums, and delays in shipping, with some vessels waiting near the strait or avoiding passage entirely.

Industry sources say a number of ships have been left stranded or slowed, holding out for safer conditions or escort arrangements. Trump said conditions on board are worsening, warning that “many of these Ships are running low on food, and everything else necessary for largescale crews to stay on board in a healthy and sanitary manner.”

He framed the operation as primarily humanitarian, calling it “a Humanitarian gesture” intended to assist “people, companies, and Countries that have done absolutely nothing wrong — They are victims of circumstance.”

Trump also noted that U.S. officials are engaged in “very positive discussions with the Country of Iran,” hinting at the possibility of broader diplomatic progress.

At the same time, he cautioned that any disruption of the effort would be met with a firm response. “If, in any way, this Humanitarian process is interfered with, that interference will … have to be dealt with forcefully.”

He added that countries participating in the effort have indicated their vessels “will not be returning until the area becomes safe for navigation.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu convened a high-level security meeting Sunday evening that lasted more than four hours, as Israel closely monitors escalating tensions surrounding Iran and ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.

Members of the restricted security cabinet and senior defense officials have been in continuous consultations since around 6 p.m., conducting a multi-front assessment of the situation. A full meeting of the diplomatic-security cabinet is scheduled for Monday at 6:00 p.m.

Earlier in the day, during the weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu instructed ministers to refrain from making public comments about Iran, warning that “this is a sensitive period and words must be chosen carefully,” according to a report by Ynet.

The developments come as Iran’s Foreign Ministry announced that Tehran had received a response from the United States, via Pakistan, to its latest proposal aimed at ending the conflict, and that the proposal is currently under review. However, President Donald Trump said in an interview with Kan News that he rejected the offer. “I studied the new Iranian proposal, and it is not acceptable to me,” he said.

Israeli officials are tracking the negotiations but believe the chances of reaching an agreement remain slim, citing Iran’s refusal to meet Trump’s demand to relinquish enriched nuclear material at the outset of any deal.

In a separate statement posted overnight on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I will be reviewing the plan that Iran sent us soon, but I can’t imagine it will be acceptable considering they have not paid a heavy enough price for what they have done to humanity and the world over the last 47 years.” Asked earlier about the possibility of renewed military action against the Islamic Republic, he responded: “There is a chance that could happen.”

According to Israeli officials familiar with the matter and quoted by Ynet, the United States is not only pursuing diplomatic channels but is also preparing for the possibility that fighting could resume, including a significant military campaign that may involve extended ground operations.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli security officials believe Hezbollah may attempt to launch rockets toward the Meron area during the Lag BaOmer hilula this week, raising concerns that even the already scaled-down bonfire events could be called off.

According to a report aired Sunday evening on Kan News, the assessment comes amid heightened tensions surrounding whether any events will take place at the site this year.

Despite the broader cancellation of the hilula, police are preparing for the possibility that extremist elements will still try to reach the area and clash with security forces. Authorities are concerned that confrontations could escalate and potentially involve the use of force, including tear gas.

As part of these preparations, police have contacted several bus companies and instructed them not to operate transportation to Meron, warning that vehicles will be stopped and access to the mountain and surrounding areas will be blocked.

At the same time, officials are considering canceling even the three limited bonfires that had been scheduled for Monday, due to severe weather conditions. Forecasts indicate winds could reach speeds of approximately 80 kilometers per hour in the evening, creating a significant safety risk.

Under the current plan, only three bonfires were set to take place, compared to the 19 typically held in a regular year, with participation restricted to about 200 people.

{Matzav.com}

Egyptian authorities have uncovered a massive ancient stone statue believed to represent Ramses II, a powerful ruler of ancient Egypt whom some researchers associate with the Pharaoh described in the Torah’s account of Yetzias Mitzrayim.

The discovery was announced by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, which said the statue was found at the Tel el-Fara site in central Husseiniya, in the Sharqia Governorate of the Nile Delta, northeast of Cairo. Experts believe the statue portrays Ramses II, one of the most prominent and influential kings of ancient Egypt.

Officials described the artifact as having “impressive” dimensions, weighing between five and six tons and measuring over 2.1 meters in length. Despite its size, the statue is in relatively poor condition, with its legs and base missing. Following the discovery, it was transferred from the temple complex where it was unearthed to museum storage facilities in San el-Hagar for urgent conservation and restoration work under strict scientific standards.

Egyptian antiquities officials noted that the statue was likely relocated already in ancient times from the city of Pi-Ramesses to the Tel el-Fara site, formerly known as Imat, where it was repurposed as part of a religious complex. This reuse, they said, highlights the enduring religious and historical importance of the region across different periods.

Ramses II, who lived from 1303 BCE to 1213 BCE, is widely regarded as one of the dominant figures of Egypt’s New Kingdom. Many scholars identify him as a leading candidate for the Pharaoh described in Sefer Shemos, even though his name does not explicitly appear in the Torah’s text. The Torah tells us that that Pharaoh refused Moshe’s demands to release the Jewish people, leading to the ten makkos.

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said the find is among the most significant archaeological discoveries contributing to the understanding of royal and religious activity in the eastern Nile Delta. It joins a series of recent finds in Egypt, including eight rare papyrus scrolls dating back approximately 3,000 years whose contents have yet to be deciphered, as well as remains of an ancient religious complex in northern Sinai believed to be connected to a biblical city.

Seven long-serving reserve judges in the military court system in Judea and Samaria were elevated last week to the rank of lieutenant colonel during a formal ceremony led by the President of the Military Court of Appeals, Maj. Gen. Orly Markman.

One of those promoted was Lt. Col. (res.) Uriel Dreyfus, who traces his lineage to Alfred Dreyfus, the Jewish French army officer whose wrongful conviction for treason became one of the most infamous antisemitic episodes in European history.

The Dreyfus Affair began in 1894, when Alfred Dreyfus, an artillery officer in the French army, was accused of leaking military secrets to Germany. Although the case lacked credible evidence, he was convicted in a widely publicized trial fueled by antisemitism. In a degrading ceremony in Paris, his rank was stripped and his sword shattered. He was then sent to Devil’s Island, a remote penal colony off the coast of French Guiana. Years later, evidence surfaced proving his innocence, and after prolonged legal and public battles, he was cleared of all charges and reinstated.

Speaking at the ceremony, Lt. Col. (res.) Uriel Dreyfus reflected on the personal and national significance of the moment. “I stand here today with the weight of two histories meeting in a single moment. One is my family history-the name ‘Dreyfus,’ which for generations symbolized injustice, antisemitism, and the attempt to break the spirit of a Jewish officer. The second is the history we have written and continue to write since October 7.”

He continued, “More than 130 years ago, in a square in Paris, the ranks were torn from the uniform of Captain Alfred Dreyfus. In a humiliating ceremony before crowds, his sword was broken. He was accused of treason he did not commit, solely because he was Jewish. He was sent to Devil’s Island, a place where hope was meant to die. But he did not break. He continued to cry out his innocence.”

“When I entered the IDF induction center as a young soldier, I carried this memory with me,” he said. “I understood that every rank I would receive, every step I would take in the army, would represent a form of historical correction. Today, as I receive the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, I feel that the ranks torn away in disgrace are now being sewn back with pride onto the olive uniforms of the Israel Defense Forces, within a system entrusted with administering justice in the sovereign Jewish state.”

Dreyfus drew a connection between the past and present, stating: “Alfred Dreyfus stood alone against a well-oiled system of lies. Today, the State of Israel stands on multiple fronts, facing threats of missiles, terrorism, and falsehoods in the international arena. The ranks we, the judges, receive today are the answer and the proof that we no longer stand alone. We are not defenseless.”

He also reflected on the toll of recent years. “The past years have been among the most difficult of our lives. We have lost friends, subordinates, and commanders. Within this pain, we must remember the determination of those who came before us. We will endure and prevail because we have no other country and no other army.”

Highlighting the importance of the military judiciary, he said: “Our role in the court system is often invisible to the public eye, yet it forms the backbone of Israeli democracy. My colleagues and I protect a place where words are stronger than bullets, and where truth is the highest authority. This is our professional duty and our moral mission.”

{Matzav.com}

An emergency gathering of leading rabbonim and roshei yeshiva took place Sunday evening in southern Israel, where gedolei Yisroel spoke out forcefully against Israeli military recruitment programs aimed at chareidi young men, warning that they are deceptive and spiritually dangerous.

The event, organized by the Ezram U’Maginam organization, came in response to increased efforts by military officials and program operators to promote tracks such as “Kodkod” and “Ma’alot Tzur” within the chareidi community. Organizers said these programs attempt to attract bnei Torah through financial incentives and other inducements, while concealing their true nature as full military enlistment.

Participating in the gathering were senior rabbinic leaders, including members of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and Moetzes Chachmei HaTorah, along with rabbonim and roshei yeshiva from Be’er Sheva, Ofakim, Netivot, Yerucham, Tifrach, Ashkelon, Kiryat Gat, Arad, and Dimona. Among those present were Rav Aviezer Piltz, rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Tushiya in Tifrach; Rav Aryeh Levi, rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Sechar Sochir; Rav Shmuel Betzalel, rosh yeshiva of Porat Yosef; and Rav Yehoshua Eichenstein, rosh yeshiva of Yad Aharon.

Ahead of the event, sharply worded letters from gedolei Yisroel were circulated, strongly opposing these recruitment tracks.

Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch wrote: “All of these tracks are an integral part of the army, and one who goes there places himself under the authority and control of the military government and becomes a full-fledged soldier, and there is absolutely no basis for leniency.”

av Dov Landau added in his own handwriting: “Beyond the disaster he brings upon himself and his household, others may be drawn after him, and his sin is too great to bear.”

In a separate letter, Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman wrote: “The protective wall has been breached by those whose inclination has overtaken them, who come in disguise and through deception to establish special tracks such as Kodkod and the like, luring people with respectable livelihoods and similar promises, blinding their eyes, for through this they become subjugated to the authority of the army.”

Rav Chaim Feinstein also warned: “One who goes there places himself under the authority and control of the military government, whose purpose is the uprooting of religion, and he accepts upon himself a yoke that is the opposite of the yoke of Heaven. In doing so, he removes from himself the yoke of Heaven and places himself in clear danger of casting off the yoke of Torah and mitzvos in the gravest ways.”

Speakers at the gathering warned that these programs pose a serious threat to the integrity of the chareidi community and urged bnei Torah and their families to avoid them, describing the initiatives as misleading attempts to draw them into military frameworks under the guise of opportunity.