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The United States moved Thursday to temporarily loosen sanctions on Russian oil shipments already at sea, allowing them to reach international buyers as the Trump administration seeks to bring down global energy prices that have surged during the war in Iran.

The Treasury Department issued the temporary waivers, which will remain in effect until April 11. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that releasing Russian oil currently stranded on tankers could inject hundreds of millions of barrels of crude into global supply, helping ease prices that have climbed close to $100 per barrel amid the conflict involving Iran.

The policy shift marked a notable change in Washington’s approach to punishing Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, the United States and other members of the Group of 7 have imposed sweeping sanctions aimed at restricting the Kremlin’s energy revenues. Those measures included placing a price ceiling on Russian crude and targeting a so-called “shadow fleet” of ships that exporters have used to transport oil while avoiding sanctions.

As the war with Iran has intensified, the Trump administration has been exploring ways to reduce economic strain tied to rising fuel costs. Last week, officials already allowed Russian oil that had been sitting offshore to proceed to India. At the same time, the administration has been working on a $20 billion maritime insurance guarantee through the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, which typically provides financing and investment support for international businesses and projects.

Bessent said Thursday that the limited sanctions relief would not meaningfully strengthen Russia financially, though he acknowledged that Moscow could see some benefit.

“To increase the global reach of existing supply, Treasury is providing a temporary authorization to permit countries to purchase Russian oil currently stranded at sea,” he wrote in a social media post. “This narrowly tailored, short-term measure applies only to oil already in transit and will not provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government, which derives the majority of its energy revenue from taxes assessed at the point of extraction.”

Speaking on a podcast Thursday, Bessent said it was “unfortunate” that Russia might receive any financial upside from the situation created by the Iran conflict, but he expressed hope that the benefit would last only a “micro period.”

Senior Democrats in the Senate sharply criticized the administration’s decision to loosen the sanctions, arguing that the move was meant to blunt the economic fallout from a war they blame on President Trump.

“This war has resulted in huge spikes in gas prices for Americans, who are now paying more at the pump than at any point in either of President Trump’s two terms,” they wrote in a joint statement.

The decision also represents a reversal from policies adopted last summer, when the administration imposed steep tariffs on India in response to its purchases of Russian oil.

“In one fell swoop we’ve undone a huge amount of pressure on Russia,” said Edward Fishman, a senior fellow and director of the Maurice R. Greenberg Center for Geoeconomic Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations.

According to the commodities analytics firm Kpler, roughly 130 million barrels of Russian crude are currently being transported at sea.

The administration’s move may also widen differences between Washington and European governments. Several European leaders have voiced concern over Trump’s military action against Iran and remain committed to maintaining strict economic pressure on Russia.

Fishman said he doubts the policy will succeed in lowering oil prices, pointing out that a similar decision last week allowing shipments to India did not produce a noticeable impact on the market. He also observed that Russian oil prices have been climbing since the conflict with Iran began and suggested that the temporary relief could eventually become permanent.

“I do worry that this is effectively the destruction of the oil sanctions on Russia,” said Mr. Fishman, the author of “Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare.”

{Matzav.com}

Authorities have identified the man responsible for the attack Thursday at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, as a 41-year-old Lebanese-born U.S. citizen, according to information provided to CBS News by the Department of Homeland Security.

DHS officials said the suspect, Ayman Mohamad Ghazali of Dearborn Heights, legally entered the United States in 2011 after being sponsored by his then-wife, who is a U.S. citizen. He later obtained American citizenship in 2016. According to DHS, Ghazali arrived on an IR1 immigrant visa and submitted his application for naturalization on Oct. 20, 2015.

West Bloomfield Police Chief Dale Young said police were dispatched to the synagogue shortly after noon following reports of gunfire. Officers responded to what he described as an “active shooter situation” at approximately 12:19 p.m. on March 12, with first responders arriving within about five minutes. Investigators said the suspect drove a vehicle directly into the building.

Officials reported that the vehicle burst into flames after crashing into the structure.

“Temple security officers engaged the individual and neutralized the threat,” Young said. “Our officers, combined with area agencies, cleared the building multiple times and successfully evacuated all children and staff.”

The FBI has opened an investigation into the incident and is treating it as a “targeted act of violence against the Jewish community.”

“This is a deeply disturbing and tragic incident, and our deepest sympathies are with the victims, their family and the entire Jewish community,” said Jennifer Runyan, FBI Detroit’s special agent in charge.

Individuals in the local Lebanese American community, including one person who said he has known Ghazali for more than ten years, told CBS News that members of Ghazali’s family were killed in Lebanon during the ongoing conflict with Iran. According to those sources, several relatives — including his brothers and two of their children — died in an airstrike there. They also said Ghazali contacted his ex-wife roughly an hour before the attack in West Bloomfield, prompting her to immediately alert authorities.

Those familiar with Ghazali described him as someone who had lived in the area for roughly 16 or 17 years. They said he was not involved in political or ideological activity and insisted he was someone who “couldn’t hurt a bug.”

Dearborn Heights Mayor Mo Baydoun issued a statement on social media condemning the attack and calling for unity in response to violence against religious institutions.

“Everyone deserves to worship in peace, and we must unequivocally condemn any attack on a house of worship or the people within it.”

“This tragedy comes at a time when communities everywhere are confronting rising hate and senseless violence,” Baydoun said. “No matter where violence occurs, whether in West Bloomfield or anywhere around in the world, harm against innocent people is something we must all stand firmly against. The tensions we see across the world too often find their way into our own neighborhoods, reminding us how deeply connected our shared safety is.”

Baydoun added that city officials are coordinating with local law enforcement to ensure additional protection for houses of worship and said he has been in communication with the West Bloomfield township supervisor to offer assistance.

Police departments across Southeast Michigan have also announced that they are stepping up patrols in their jurisdictions following the attack.

Temple Israel later confirmed that all 140 students and staff members inside the building at the time were safely accounted for.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said one of the synagogue’s senior security officers was struck by the vehicle and “knocked unconscious.” The guard was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment after fellow team members pulled him to safety.

Bouchard also reported that 30 responding law enforcement officers required medical treatment for smoke inhalation following the fire that erupted after the crash.

{Matzav.com}

Dr. Mike Evans, founder of the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Yerushalayim and a longtime evangelical supporter of President Donald Trump, has launched a new billboard campaign across Israel displaying the message: “Thank You God & Donald Trump!”

Evans said the nationwide initiative was created to express appreciation for what he views as a pivotal moment in the region during the ongoing war involving Israel, the United States, and Iran.

Large billboards featuring an image of President Trump have been installed along major roadways and busy intersections in Yerushalayim and Tel Aviv.

“This is nothing less than a Purim miracle,” Evans said. “The courage and leadership shown by President Trump, combined with the faith of millions who believe in God’s protection over Israel, are changing the course of history in the Middle East. Many believe the events unfolding in Iran could ultimately bring freedom to the Persian people and greater security for the Jewish people in Israel.”

Evans traveled to Israel on Thursday, February 26, arriving just two days before hostilities began. He said he was the only prominent evangelical leader to enter the country before the conflict erupted, explaining that he wanted to demonstrate solidarity with Israelis and report developments to the large evangelical community worldwide that strongly supports Israel.

While in Israel, Evans toured several parts of the country with a professional film crew. The group visited sites where missiles had struck, as well as communities affected by the fighting. Evans also met with Israeli soldiers, visited wounded civilians in hospitals, attended funerals, and spent time speaking with Holocaust survivors. His team documented how Israelis were continuing daily life during wartime and looked for ways to provide practical assistance.

After completing his visit in Israel, Evans left the country through Egypt and then traveled directly to Washington, D.C., where he is continuing advocacy and diplomatic outreach on behalf of Israel.

The new billboard effort follows a number of similar campaigns Evans and the Friends of Zion movement have organized across Israel in recent years. One previous initiative featured the slogan “Cyrus the Great is Alive,” referencing the biblical Persian ruler who allowed the Jewish people to return to Yerushalayim, along with other campaigns emphasizing the relationship between the United States and Israel.

Evans has also been involved in several pro-Israel initiatives connected to the Trump administration. On December 11, 2017, he presented President Trump with the prestigious Friends of Zion Award in the Oval Office for his support of Israel. The award, commissioned by Israel’s ninth president, Shimon Peres, has been presented to 28 world leaders recognized for their friendship with the Jewish people and the State of Israel.

{Matzav.com}

Local government leaders from across Israel said Thursday evening that schools are likely to remain closed for another week due to the ongoing security situation.

Approximately 150 heads of municipal and regional authorities participated in a special situation assessment meeting with Home Front Command chief Maj. Gen. Shay Kalper to discuss the security developments and their impact on the possible reopening of the education system.

During the meeting, officials discussed coordination between the Home Front Command and local authorities, public guidance for residents, and the possibility of a gradual return to normal operations in educational institutions.

Chaim Bibas, chairman of the Federation of Local Authorities, said the current assessment indicates that schools in most parts of the country will probably not reopen next week. He explained that if the Home Front Command’s situation assessment scheduled for Saturday night leads to a decision to exempt certain areas, an official announcement will be issued.

Bibas stressed that the primary responsibility of local leaders is to ensure the safety of residents and children. He said municipalities are prepared to reopen schools as soon as the Home Front Command determines that it is safe to do so, but they will not take any steps that could endanger students.

Home Front Command chief Maj. Gen. Shay Kalper praised the efforts of local authorities, saying their cooperation with the military plays a key role in maintaining national resilience.

Kalper added that the security situation is being reviewed continuously and that only when it is deemed safe will officials consider a gradual and region-specific reopening of the education system.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the local officials said that based on the current assessment, classes are not expected to resume next week, though it is possible that several communities could be exempted depending on the updated evaluation expected on Motzoei Shabbos.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu said Thursday night that Israel’s controversial draft law remains on the government’s agenda and will be brought forward once the current war ends, explaining that the legislation has only been postponed due to the ongoing conflict.

Netanyahu made the remarks during a press conference — his first since the war with Iran began 13 days ago — where he addressed questions about the regional military campaign, the security situation along Israel’s northern border, and political issues at home.

The prime minister said that Israel and the United States have achieved significant successes in the conflict, strengthening Israel’s position both regionally and internationally. He noted that following Operation “Am KeLavi,” he and President Donald Trump warned the Iranian regime not to attempt to rebuild its missile and nuclear programs.

According to Netanyahu, despite those warnings, Tehran moved quickly to restore its capabilities and worked to conceal development facilities deep underground and beneath mountainous terrain. He said that had Israel not acted when it did, those capabilities could soon have become immune to military strikes.

Netanyahu also addressed the succession of Iran’s supreme leader, referring to Mojtaba Khamenei, who assumed the position after his father’s death. The prime minister described him as “a puppet of the Revolutionary Guards who cannot show his face in public,” adding that he would not “take out a life insurance policy on any of the leaders of the region.”

Discussing the internal situation in Iran, Netanyahu said Israel is working to create conditions that could allow the Iranian people to overthrow the regime. At the same time, he acknowledged that it is impossible to predict whether such a development will occur in the near future. “Ultimately it depends on the Iranian people,” he said.

The prime minister added that Israeli forces continue to strike the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Basij militia while simultaneously working to strengthen regional alliances. According to Netanyahu, the conflict is already reshaping the strategic reality in the Middle East, noting that “this is not the same Iran and this is not the same Middle East.”

Turning to Hezbollah’s continued rocket fire from Lebanon, Netanyahu said Israel had previously removed a major threat along its northern border but emphasized that the group still retains what he called “residual firepower.” He said Israel has warned the Lebanese government that if it does not act against Hezbollah, Israel will do so itself.

Netanyahu was also asked about remarks made by President Trump regarding President Isaac Herzog in connection with the issue of a potential pardon in Netanyahu’s ongoing trial. The prime minister said he respects every president and does not intend to comment on statements made by an American president on the matter. Nevertheless, he reiterated his belief that the proceedings against him constitute a “politically motivated trial” and said the case should be brought to an end.

Concluding his remarks, Netanyahu addressed the ongoing political dispute over Israel’s draft law and emphasized that the government has not abandoned the legislation.

“We have not given up on the draft law,” Netanyahu said. “We have set aside all of our legislative initiatives. I hope we will be able to complete the term of this government and pass a draft law that is a very responsible law.”

{Matzav.com}

The name of habochur Yehuda Chayon drew widespread attention this past week after it became known that prison authorities prevented him from hearing the laining of Parshas Zachor.

Tonight, following his release, dozens of bnei yeshiva gathered in Bnei Brak to welcome him home with a spirited reception combined with a delayed Purim celebration.

Two weeks after he had been imprisoned — and a week after Purim had already passed — the bnei yeshiva refused to allow their friend to miss the joy of the day. They organized an evening of dancing, singing, wine, and costumes in honor of the bochur who had just been released from the military prison.

As previously reported, Yehuda’s case became a major topic of discussion when it was revealed that prison authorities barred him from hearing Parshas Zachor. The incident sparked strong reactions among representatives of the tzibbur hachareidi, who voiced sharp criticism over the decision.

Following his release Thursday evening, his friends in the yeshiva resolved that he should still experience the simcha of Purim properly.

The celebration took place in the bais medrash Hameir La’aretz on Jabotinsky Street in Bnei Brak. The gathering began with words of bracha delivered by the mashpia, Rav Nota Paneth. After his heartfelt remarks stirred the assembled crowd, the participants broke out into lively dancing.

Costumes appeared, bottles of wine were opened, and the hall filled with spirited singing of Purim songs.

During the height of the celebration, the bochur publicly burned his draft order. Prior to the event, he had visited the homes of several Gedolei Yisroel to receive their brachos following his release.

{Matzav.com}

A joyous engagement was celebrated this evening in Tzefas for the youngest son of the renowned mashpia, Rav Elimelech Biderman. The chosson, Shlomo Biderman, a distinguished talmid in Yeshivas Tchernobyl in Elad, became engaged to a granddaughter of the Lelov and Dzhikov Vizhnitz dynasties.

The kallah is a granddaughter of the Lelover Rebbe and the daughter of his son, Rav Michael Eliezer Biderman, who is a son-in-law of the Dzhikov Vizhnitz Rebbe.

This engagement marks the third time that Reb Meilech has become related through marriage with the Dzhikov Vizhnitz Rebbe. The first time occurred when the Rebbe’s son, Rav Levi Yitzchok Adler — who serves as rav of the Dzhikov Vizhnitz community in Bnei Brak and leads the Imrei Naftali bais medrash — married a daughter of Reb Meilech. The second time was when the Rebbe’s grandson, the son of his son-in-law Rav Yisroel Lemberger of Makava, married another daughter of Reb Meilech.

In addition, this engagement represents a second marriage connection between the grandchildren of the Lelover brothers, the Rebbes Rav Shimon of Lelov and Rav Alter of Lelov. The mechutan, Rav Michael Biderman, is also related by marriage to Rav Sholom Sofer, who is a brother-in-law of Reb Meilech.

The l’chaim celebration was held this evening in Tzefas at the home of the mechutan, Rav Michael Eliezer Biderman.

{Matzav.com}

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani responded sharply after facing a wave of criticism and hostile comments following his decision to host an “iftar dinner” at City Hall, pushing back against remarks from a U.S. senator who referred to him as “the enemy inside.”

Mamdani, who earlier this year became the first Muslim mayor of New York City, organized the iftar gathering as part of the Muslim month of Ramadan. The evening meal, which marks the daily breaking of the fast at sunset, brought together community members and local leaders at City Hall for what the mayor described as a celebration of the city’s diversity.

The event quickly became the subject of controversy online and in political circles after critics attacked the mayor for hosting the Ramadan gathering in a government building. The backlash intensified when Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville posted on social media, “The enemy is inside the gates,” a remark widely understood as referring to Mamdani.

The mayor responded publicly to the criticism, arguing that political leaders should direct their outrage toward more pressing problems rather than a communal meal during Ramadan.

“Let there be as much outrage from politicians in Washington when kids go hungry as there is when I break bread with New Yorkers,” Mamdani wrote.

Some critics objected to the symbolism of the event or mocked images of the mayor sitting on the floor while eating with guests, while supporters defended the gathering as a normal expression of religious and cultural tradition in a city known for its diversity.

The controversy surrounding the iftar comes amid a series of political disputes involving Mamdani since he assumed office. His tenure has already drawn national attention due to his progressive agenda and his outspoken positions on international and domestic issues.

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

A senior diplomatic source in the Middle East said Thursday that the United States wants the current military campaign against Iran brought to a close quickly and has given Israel roughly one week to wrap up the operation.

Speaking in an interview with Yisroel Hayom, the official said Washington is eager to end the conflict and has set a short timetable for its conclusion. According to the source, the Iranian regime itself is unlikely to fall, since that would require either a ground invasion or a renewed wave of mass protests within Iran — developments that currently appear unlikely.

The official described what he said is a significant difference in outlook between Jerusalem and Washington. While Israeli leaders view the war as a major strategic success and are celebrating the achievements, officials in the United States are primarily concerned about the rising cost of oil and the broader economic implications of a prolonged conflict.

The source also addressed the situation in Lebanon and the status of Hezbollah, saying that despite Israel’s elimination of the group’s previous secretary-general, Hassan Nasrallah, the organization itself remains intact. The same, he said, is true for Hamas.

According to the official, Israel is making a mistake by not capitalizing on its military successes through diplomatic channels. He suggested that regional Arab countries could help facilitate such a process, though he noted that the matter is highly sensitive.

Turning to the issue of Qatar, the source said that Arab countries now increasingly view the Gulf state as a partner rather than a problematic actor. He said this represents a significant shift from the past, when Qatar was often accused of playing a “double game.”

The change, he explained, stems largely from Qatar’s mediation role in negotiations related to the hostages and from the role President Donald Trump has allowed the country to play in developments connected to the Gaza Strip.

The source also criticized Israel’s government, arguing that certain hardline elements within the coalition are using the war with Iran to advance policies on the ground in Judea and Samaria that involve pushing Palestinians out of certain areas.

According to the official, these steps risk undermining an opportunity to calm tensions throughout the region — including in Gaza — and to pursue diplomatic initiatives following Israel’s military gains.

{Matzav.com}

A dramatic incident unfolded over western Iraq after the United States lost a KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft during an operational mission. Rescue teams are currently operating in the area where the aircraft went down during Operation Epic Fury. U.S. Central Command clarified that the incident was not the result of enemy fire and confirmed that another aircraft involved in the event landed safely.

According to a report released by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the American KC-135 refueling plane was lost while operating in friendly airspace over western Iraq.

The incident occurred as part of Operation Epic Fury. Officials reported that two aircraft were involved in the event. While the first aircraft crashed inside Iraqi territory, the second aircraft connected to the incident managed to land safely.

The U.S. military stressed in an official statement that the crash was not caused by hostile fire, nor was it the result of accidental fire from friendly forces. Rescue and recovery efforts are currently underway at the scene, and additional information about the circumstances surrounding the incident has not yet been cleared for release.

CENTCOM stated that it is aware of the loss of the American KC-135 refueling aircraft. Representatives added that they are asking for continued patience as authorities gather more details and work to provide clarity for the families of the service members involved. Additional information is expected to be released as developments emerge on the ground.

In addition to the likely loss of life in the incident, the aircraft itself is valued at approximately $62.2 million per unit.

{Matzav.com}

A new analysis by researchers at the Jewish People Policy Institute (JPPI) concludes that media outlets connected to Qatar have overwhelmingly portrayed the war with Iran in a negative light, frequently criticizing U.S. policy and the Trump administration despite Qatar’s close military cooperation with Washington.

The study focused on Qatar, a major strategic player in the Middle East that hosts the largest American military installation in the region, Al-Udeid Air Base. The United States relies on the base as a central hub for its operations against Iran.

Although the Qatari government publicly positions itself as a partner of the United States, the English-language broadcaster Al Jazeera — widely seen as aligned with the Qatari regime — has aired repeated anti-war messaging. Its digital platform AJ+, which attracts a global audience of millions, has similarly promoted content critical of the conflict while directly and indirectly targeting President Donald Trump and members of his administration.

Researchers reviewed dozens of English-language opinion pieces, news analyses, and videos published between January 28 and March 8, 2026, both before and after the war began. According to the findings, the content consistently delivered harsh criticism of the military campaign while largely ignoring the role played by Gulf states, including Qatar itself, in hosting and protecting American military installations.

Some of the material went further, suggesting that the conflict was being used to divert attention from domestic controversies in the United States, including the Jeffrey Epstein case. Other commentary characterized the war as illegitimate or unlawful, while several pieces connected the campaign to broader ideological themes such as “white supremacy and capitalism.”

To conduct the study, analysts examined Al Jazeera’s English-language articles and opinion columns using artificial intelligence tools designed to measure sentiment in media coverage. The researchers compared two separate periods — the weeks leading up to the war, when discussions centered on the possibility of conflict, and the weeks following the outbreak of hostilities.

During the period before the war began, roughly one month of publications were analyzed. The study found that 77.8 percent of the content was categorized as strongly negative toward the war, while another 5.6 percent was considered moderately negative. In total, 89 percent of the coverage reflected an unfavorable stance toward the conflict.

After the fighting started, the tone of the coverage became even more critical. The analysis found that 85.3 percent of the articles and commentaries were rated as very negative, with an additional 5.9 percent classified as negative. Altogether, 91.2 percent of the material published during the war expressed a negative view of the campaign, with most of it sharply critical.

The results were even more striking on AJ+, Al Jazeera’s digital platform aimed at younger audiences and social media users. According to the study, 95.2 percent of the content examined there was labeled “very negative” toward the war and included direct personal criticism of President Trump. Researchers also noted that none of the sampled videos portrayed the war positively or attempted to justify it, while only limited mention was made of Iranian attacks targeting Gulf countries.

Lt. Col. (res.) Or Hurwitz, a Senior Fellow at JPPI and a former senior officer in Israeli Military Intelligence, commented on the findings and the broader regional implications.

“Qatar has experienced firsthand the Iranian threat during the current war. Its longstanding strategy of attempting to ‘live alongside tigers’-pursuing reconciliation while maintaining strategic relationships with terrorist organizations and extremist actors-has not protected it. At the moment of truth, this approach failed to prevent Iran from harming Qatar itself and directly threatening its sovereignty. This development joins the Israeli strike in Doha several months ago, which also demonstrated the limits of Qatar’s attempt to ‘dance at two weddings.’”

Hurwitz suggested that the conflict may nevertheless open the door to potential changes in Qatar’s regional policies.

“Qatar is an actor driven primarily by survival in a complex regional environment rather than by ideology. The current war may therefore create a unique window of opportunity for a strategic shift in Qatari policy after the conflict. Such a shift could include a harder stance toward Iran and Sunni terrorist organizations, a reassessment of Al Jazeera’s editorial guidelines, and perhaps even gradual changes in Qatar’s posture toward Israel. The path forward is uncertain and complex, but the possibility for change now exists-particularly if it is supported by American engagement and strategic assistance.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu held his first press conference since the war began on Thursday evening, addressing the public through a video conference appearance in which he discussed the fighting with Hezbollah, Israel’s broader campaign against Iran and its proxies, and questions surrounding his ongoing trial.

During the briefing, Netanyahu focused heavily on Hezbollah’s ongoing attacks against Israel and issued a stern warning to the Iranian-backed terror group, declaring that it would face serious consequences for its actions. He said Hezbollah’s aggression would come at a steep cost.

“This is no longer the same Iran, this is no longer the same Middle East, and this is also not the same Israel. We initiate and attack with force. Trump and I talk almost every day, exchange ideas and advice, and decide together,” Netanyahu said.

The prime minister asserted that Israel’s military campaign has dealt significant blows to both Iran and Hezbollah, portraying the current conflict as a turning point that is reshaping regional dynamics and strengthening Israel’s strategic position.

“We are crushing Iran and Hezbollah,” Netanyahu declared, adding, “We are becoming a regional power. Our roar is growing louder. We have achieved enormous achievements that are changing the balance of power beyond the Middle East.”

Turning specifically to the northern front, Netanyahu said Hezbollah has already felt the impact of Israel’s military actions and warned that further retaliation is inevitable.

“Hezbollah feels the comfort of our arm and will pay a very heavy price for its aggression.”

Asked about the continuing threat posed by Hezbollah and earlier claims that the group had been weakened in prior fighting, Netanyahu explained that although Israel had dealt the organization severe damage, it still retains some remaining capabilities.

“We talked then about 150,000 rockets and missiles, about the destruction of the towers in Tel Aviv, about the eyes of ruins in the rest of the country, and about 15,000 to 20,000 dead. All of this did not materialize because we dealt them a tremendous blow, but that does not mean that they did not have any residual fire left.”

The prime minister said Israel’s strength is steadily increasing while its adversaries grow weaker as the conflict continues.

“Threats come and go, but we are strengthening our power compared to what was here,” the prime minister added. “Tomorrow they will be even weaker – both Iran and Hezbollah. We are changing the Middle East. Both against enemies and against friends. Israel is stronger than ever, the whole world understands that.”

Netanyahu also addressed the recent development in Iran following the assassination of the country’s longtime supreme leader, referring to the appointment of Ali Khamenei’s son as the new leader. He criticized the transition and suggested the Iranian public may soon have an opportunity to challenge the regime.

“We have eliminated the old dictator, and the new dictator, the puppet of the Revolutionary Guards, cannot show his face in public. I say to the people of Iran: The moment is approaching when you can embark on the path of freedom. It is in your hands.”

At the same time, Netanyahu acknowledged that the future of Iran’s leadership is uncertain and said Israel cannot guarantee that the regime will ultimately collapse.

However, he added that he cannot guarantee “that the Iranian regime will collapse, if we join forces, we will repel the enemies time and time again.”

Looking ahead to the continuation of the conflict, Netanyahu hinted that additional military developments may still lie ahead and expressed confidence in Israel’s strategic position.

The Prime Minister promised that “many more surprises are expected in the campaign. We have the upper hand, much more than we expected.”

Netanyahu was also questioned about reports that he had requested a pardon in his criminal trial. Responding to the issue, he sharply criticized the legal proceedings against him.

Netanyahu was asked about the request for a pardon in his trial and replied, “This is a trial that should never have come to pass and was overturned after the terrible things that happened in it were discovered – blackmail with threats, bedbugs and the use of spies, where has such a thing been heard of?”

When asked whether he had asked President Donald Trump to intervene on his behalf regarding a possible pardon, Netanyahu denied making such a request.

“I did not ask Trump for any request regarding the pardon. Trump has the right to speak his mind and he speaks from his heart.”

{Matzav.com}

The United States is responding forcefully to anyone assisting Iran in targeting American troops, the top U.S. military commander in Europe said Thursday. Gen. Alex Grynkewich, commander of U.S. European Command and NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, made the remarks during a Senate hearing while responding to questions about Russia’s alleged assistance to Iran during […]

KOA Kosher Supervision has issued a kashrus alert informing the public that several Krispy Kreme locations in New York and New Jersey are no longer under its kosher certification.

The locations listed in the alert include four stores in New York and three in New Jersey.

The New York locations are:

994 6th Ave., New York, NY
Fulton Center – 200 Broadway, New York, NY
371 E. Fordham Rd., Bronx, NY
22-02 31st St., Queens, NY

The New Jersey locations are:

96 Christopher Columbus Dr., Jersey City, NJ
1900 Shorrock St., Lakewood, NJ 08701
Liberty Commons – 51 NJ-17, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

KOA emphasized in the notice that the change in certification status was not the result of any kashrus-related concerns.

“NOTE: This decision was NOT based on any Kashrus issues,” the alert stated.

Rabbi Isamar Isaacson of KOA Kosher Supervision can be contacted for further information at 732-556-7576.

{Matzav.com}

A U.S. military aerial refueling aircraft crashed Thursday in western Iraq while supporting operations tied to the ongoing war with Iran, according to multiple U.S. officials who spoke to CBS News. The aircraft involved was a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, a key refueling platform used by the U.S. Air Force to extend the range of fighter […]

: Sen. John Fetterman Says Israel Should Target Iran’s New Supreme Leader

Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania said Wednesday that Israel should move to eliminate Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, following the recent escalation between Israel, the United States, and Iran.

Speaking during remarks about the conflict, the Democratic senator said Israel should also take action against Iran’s current leader after the death of his predecessor.

“Well, they should kill him, too – hopefully he is significantly wounded,” Fetterman said Wednesday.

The comments come after Israel and the United States carried out a joint military strike on Iran last month amid growing concerns over Tehran’s missile capabilities.

During that operation, Iran’s longtime supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed. Following his death, leadership of the country passed to his son, Mojtaba Khamenei.

Fetterman also expressed support for targeting the leadership of other Iran-aligned militant groups in the region, including Hezbollah and Hamas.

“I mean, I’m always going to support that,” he said, according to The Hill newspaper.

While voicing support for aggressive action against Iran and its allies, the senator said he would draw the line at deploying American ground forces as part of the conflict.

At the same time, Fetterman questioned why some members of his own party have been less supportive of the United States taking action against Iran.

“I would just like to remind everybody watching that every single Democratic presidential candidate always identified that Iran is a top, top security issue,” Fetterman said.

“And every single Democrat in the Senate and in the House, you know, says we can never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear bomb. And Kamala Harris, when she was running just back in ’24, she identified Iran as her top, top international concern.”

{Matzav.com}

A tragic accident occurred Thursday evening in the city of Rechovot when a 17-year-old girl was struck and killed by a private vehicle while running toward a protected shelter during a missile alert.

According to witnesses at the scene, the teenager began running toward a nearby protected area after a siren sounded when she was hit by a passing car. Emergency personnel who arrived shortly afterward attempted to assist her but were forced to pronounce her dead at the scene.

The incident took place on Menachem Begin Street near the city’s Science Park. At 9:42 p.m., the Magen David Adom dispatch center in the Ayalon region received a report that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle.

Paramedics who rushed to the location found the girl suffering from severe multi-system injuries.

Despite conducting medical examinations at the scene, the paramedics were unable to save her life and had no choice but to declare her death.

MDA paramedic Shila Alfasi described what rescuers encountered when they arrived.

“We saw the girl lying on the road unconscious and suffering from severe multi-system injuries. We were told she had been struck by a vehicle. We carried out medical examinations, but she had no signs of life and we had no choice but to pronounce her dead.”

Volunteers from United Hatzalah who responded to the emergency also confirmed that the incident was a fatal accident involving a young pedestrian.

Yosef Chaim Maluka, a United Hatzalah medic who was among the first to reach the scene, said: “We were told at the scene that a pedestrian had been struck by a private vehicle. Passersby said that while she was on her way to a protected shelter following the sirens, she was hit by the car. Sadly, her death was pronounced at the scene due to the severe nature of her injuries.”

Israel Police later announced that traffic investigators from the Central District have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident. According to police, the crash occurred in the Science Park area of Rechovot and involved a private vehicle and a pedestrian. Medical personnel pronounced the teenager dead at the scene, and authorities are continuing to examine the details of the incident.

{Matzav.com}

Even as the world remains tense and the war continues, thousands of chassidim traveled to the town of Lizhensk in Poland for the annual hilula of the Rebbe Reb Elimelech of Lizhensk on the 21st of Adar.

As in centuries past, the day drew large crowds who came to daven, cry, and pour out their hearts at the tziyun of the tzaddik.

The event was organized by the dedicated volunteers of Hachnasas Orchim Lizhensk, who once again ensured that the thousands of visitors were warmly welcomed and cared for in a dignified and generous manner.

Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing war, the organizers traveled from Eretz Yisroel, reaching Poland through Sharm el-Sheikh in order to prepare for the massive influx of visitors.

Large tents were erected throughout the area to accommodate the many participants who arrived from around the world. Inside the tents, guests were served meals and refreshments, while additional stations provided cakes and hot beverages.

Throughout the day and night, makeshift shtieblach remained filled with people engaged in constant tefillah.

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Federal authorities are warning about the possibility that Iran could attempt a drone attack against targets in California, according to a newly surfaced alert sent to law enforcement across the state. Security experts say the threat highlights growing concerns that the United States may not be adequately prepared for such an attack.

An FBI bulletin circulated to police agencies in California cautioned that Iran may have explored plans to launch drones from a vessel positioned off the American coastline. The alert, which became public on Wednesday, outlined intelligence suggesting the possibility of a surprise strike under certain circumstances.

The FBI notice stated: “We recently acquired information that as of early February 2026, Iran allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified vessel off the coast of the United State Homeland, specifically against unspecified targets in California, in the event that the US conducted strikes against Iran.”

Brett Velicovich, a former U.S. Army intelligence and special operations soldier who previously used drones in missions targeting ISIS and other terrorist organizations, said Iran possesses the technical capability, operational knowledge, and incentive to attempt such an attack.

Velicovich said the warning distributed by the FBI demonstrates how seriously federal officials are treating the threat, adding that adversaries may already be exploring ways to deploy drones toward the California coast.

“We’re extremely vulnerable to drone attacks,” Velicovich said. “We’re not prepared for this.”

According to Velicovich, Iran is believed to possess large numbers of attack drones that can be remotely operated from long distances and can travel hundreds of miles before reaching their intended targets.

“These are long-range, one-way attack drones that are extremely capable and can be sent in swarms,” explained Velicovich, who in July was praised by President Trump as one of the nation’s foremost experts in drone warfare.

Velicovich noted that drones could potentially be launched from ships at sea, a scenario referenced in the FBI alert. He added that such operations might even be carried out using unmanned vessels designed to deploy drones remotely.

“You don’t even need a human anywhere near this,” he said. “You can launch these things over Starlink from a boat 1,000 miles away.”

The expert also warned that Iran’s ties to criminal networks and partners in Mexico and parts of South America could provide additional launch points closer to the U.S. border.

Velicovich said Iran’s “strategy is to sow fear” with drone attacks, striking crowds of people or important infrastructure for maximum horror.

“It’s population centers, infrastructure, ports, locations that can disrupt the economy,” he said. “This is an issue that deserves national attention.”

He noted that possible targets could include major public venues and critical facilities such as stadiums, hotels, office towers, government buildings, and military installations.

Velicovich, who later established a drone manufacturing company called Powerus, said drones used in such attacks could carry explosive payloads and navigate precisely to their targets using GPS coordinates.

He emphasized that protecting against these threats would require multiple layers of defensive measures.

Among the methods used to counter drones are missiles designed to shoot them down, electronic jamming systems that interfere with their navigation and communications, and laser systems capable of disabling their electronics.

“There’s no one single solution” against drone attacks, said Velicovich. “You have, like, literally, guys with machine guns trying to shoot them down.”

Velicovich said the FBI was correct to notify both law enforcement and the public about the potential risk.

“Somebody has credible intelligence that this is a real threat,” Velicovich said. “So they have a duty to warn the American people, and they have a duty to warn local law enforcement to be on the lookout.”

Authorities in California say they are monitoring the situation closely. The Los Angeles Police Department issued a statement saying it continues to coordinate with federal and state partners as tensions in the Middle East remain high.

“We want to reassure every Angeleno that we continue to coordinate with all of our Federal, State, and local partners for intelligence and information sharing during the ongoing Middle East conflict. We share this information in real time, assess every credible lead, and adjust our posture as needed to ensure the safety of our City.

“At this time, there are no known or specific threats to Los Angeles. The LAPD remains prepared and committed to maintaining public safety from all potential threats.”

{Matzav.com}

If you’ve struggled with sleep, you’ve probably already tried the basics. No screens. Cool room. No caffeine after 2. A consistent bedtime. Sometimes those things help. They are not wrong. But many of the people I sit with are doing all of that and still staring at the ceiling close to 2am, exhausted and wide […]