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Francesca Albanese, a United Nations investigator who has frequently been accused of anti-Israel bias, is facing widespread condemnation after responding dismissively to the mother of a young woman murdered in Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

The controversy erupted after Sonja Bohl-Dencker, whose daughter was killed during the massacre, described feeling intense hostility toward Israel while attending an event in Berlin honoring Albanese. Her remarks drew attention in Germany and beyond, prompting a response from the UN official that quickly sparked outrage.

Bohl-Dencker’s daughter, Carolin Bohl, a 22-year-old German fashion student and model, was among those murdered by Hamas terrorists during the assault on Kibbutz Nir Oz.

In an interview with the German newspaper Die Welt, Bohl-Dencker recounted attending a film screening in Berlin in March at which Albanese was the central guest. She described the atmosphere at the gathering as deeply unsettling.

“I have never been in a room where I felt so much hatred,” Bohl-Dencker said. “Everywhere keffiyehs, terrible slogans and sheer hatred against everything connected with Israel.”

After a social media post highlighted the grieving mother’s comments, Albanese replied with a brief message that immediately ignited criticism: “Change medication.”

The remark attracted even greater scrutiny because of legal filings connected to Albanese’s own challenge against sanctions imposed by the United States. According to court documents submitted in that case, Albanese and members of her family sought medical treatment for conditions they said were brought on by the stress of the sanctions. The filings state that Albanese was treated for gastric ulcers, while her husband suffered from insomnia and severe anxiety.

Albanese has long been a polarizing figure because of statements critics say demonstrate a pattern of hostility toward Israel. Among the incidents drawing criticism were remarks delivered at an Al Jazeera conference that prompted rebukes from several European Union foreign ministers.

“The fact that instead of stopping Israel, most of the world has armed, given Israel political excuses, political sheltering, economic and financial support … We who do not control large amounts of financial capitals, algorithms and weapons, we now see that we as a humanity have a common enemy.”

Following the backlash, Albanese denied that she had characterized Israel as humanity’s common enemy.

She later stated that she “never, ever, ever said ‘Israel is the common enemy of humanity,'” and described the allegations against her as “completely false accusations.”

Questions surrounding Albanese’s views on Israel have persisted for years. Critics frequently point to social media posts uncovered in 2022 in which she asserted that the “Jewish lobby” exerts control over the United States.

At the time, Albanese rejected claims that her comments about the “Jewish lobby” were antisemitic, arguing that they had been “mischaracterized.” Nevertheless, controversy surrounding her statements about Israel has continued.

Since the Hamas massacre of October 7, Albanese’s comments have drawn even greater attention. She argued that the attack should be understood within a broader “context” and portrayed it as a reaction to Israeli “aggression.”

Earlier this year, Albanese again provoked criticism when she accused Israel of systematically abusing Palestinians.

In late March, Albanese claimed that the world has given Israel “a license to torture Palestinians,” alleging that “torture has effectively become state policy” in Israel.

{Matzav.com}

The Trump administration announced Thursday that federal authorities have located approximately 146,000 unaccompanied migrant children who entered the United States during the Biden administration and were later placed with sponsors, while officials say close to 300,000 children have yet to be found.

The figures were revealed during a press briefing at the Justice Department in Washington by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin. Officials said the number of children successfully located has risen dramatically from roughly 22,000 identified last summer.

“We found 146,000 kids so far — 146,000 kids. We still have nearly 300,000 missing,” Mullin said.

Mullin sharply criticized the previous administration’s management of unaccompanied minors, arguing that failures in oversight and monitoring resulted in hundreds of thousands of children effectively disappearing after being released into the country.

“When we start digging into these cases, and you start hearing the absolute horrific things that took place underneath the Biden administration, either true neglect at best and criminal at worst, to allow 450,000 kids to go missing throughout this country,” Mullin said.

Administration officials said that more than half a million unaccompanied migrant children crossed the southern border and entered the United States during the Biden administration without a parent or legal guardian accompanying them.

After arriving in the country, the minors were placed under the supervision of the Department of Health and Human Services before eventually being released to sponsors residing in the United States.

The Trump administration has made tracking down those children a major priority, directing multiple federal agencies to work together to determine where they are living and whether they are being properly cared for.

Officials declined to offer specifics about the methods used to locate the 146,000 children or provide a timeline for finding those who remain unaccounted for. They also did not disclose additional details regarding the condition or circumstances of the children who have already been identified.

{Matzav.com}

A sophisticated cyber scam targeting supporters of Adirei HaTorah has been revealed after fraudsters created a deceptive look-alike website designed to solicit donations from unsuspecting members of the public.

According to Adirei HaTorah, the organization became aware on Wednesday of a targeted effort to impersonate the organization through a fraudulent website that closely resembled its official online presence. The fake site was reportedly used in conjunction with emails and text messages sent to potential donors in an attempt to redirect contributions.

Organization officials said they immediately launched an emergency response, working closely with cybersecurity experts and law enforcement authorities to contain the threat and protect the public.

“B’Siyata D’Shmaya, the fraudulent website has been successfully disabled and the payment processor has frozen the scammer’s account,” the organization said in a statement.

While the investigation remains ongoing, Adirei HaTorah emphasized that the breach appears to have been limited in scope. According to preliminary findings, the information accessed consisted only of certain names, email addresses, and phone numbers that were subsequently used to distribute fraudulent emails and text messages directing recipients to the fake website.

Officials stressed that there is currently no indication that the perpetrators gained access to the organization’s financial infrastructure, donor records, or sensitive payment information.

“Importantly, there are no indications that the malicious actor gained access to any of Adirei HaTorah’s financial systems or overall donor database, or that any financial information was compromised,” the statement noted.

The organization credited the rapid shutdown of the operation to the coordinated efforts of cybersecurity professionals, community members, and media outlets that quickly spread warnings about the scam.

“We extend our sincere appreciation to the many professionals and community members who immediately stepped forward, worked tirelessly, and helped identify and shut down this scam within hours of its launch,” Adirei HaTorah said. “We are also grateful to the media outlets that helped responsibly publicize the warning and alert the public. Mi K’Amcha Yisrael.”

In light of the incident, Adirei HaTorah issued several reminders to help community members protect themselves from future fraud attempts.

The organization said that all official text messages will originate exclusively from the phone numbers 848-261-8251 or 732-800-1524. In addition, all official email correspondence will clearly identify Adirei HaTorah as the sender and will be distributed only through the organization’s authorized communication channels.

Donors were also urged to verify that they are visiting the organization’s official website, www.adireihatorah.com, before making any contribution.

Adirei HaTorah further advised anyone who receives a suspicious email, text message, donation request, or website link purporting to represent the organization not to engage with it and to report it immediately.

Despite the attempted attack, organization officials emphasized that critical systems remain secure and that additional safeguards are being implemented to strengthen protections going forward.

“We remain committed to safeguarding you and your information and will continue implementing additional security measures to help prevent similar incidents in the future,” the organization said.

{Matzav.com}

All are asked to daven and recite Tehillim on behalf of Rav Avrohom Yehoshua Soloveitchik after he was rushed back to the hospital on Thursday amid his recovery from major heart surgery.

The sudden hospitalization has sparked widespread concern among thousands of talmidim, admirers, and members of the broader Torah community, who have been closely following the Rosh Yeshiva’s condition in recent weeks.

Rav Avrohom Yehoshua underwent a complex heart procedure last week following serious cardiac complications. After the surgery, there were signs of improvement, and just a few days ago he was discharged from the hospital to continue recuperating at his home in Yerushalayim.

However, concerns mounted on Thursday when the Rosh Yeshiva experienced a significant setback in his recovery. Sources close to the family reported that he began experiencing cardiac-related symptoms and was transported urgently to Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center in Yerushalayim for immediate treatment.

The development came in the midst of what had appeared to be a promising rehabilitation process following the successful surgery.

Family members and those close to the Rosh Yeshiva are asking the public to continue storming the heavens on his behalf during this critical time.

His name for tefillah is Rav Avrohom Yehoshua ben Ettil.

{Matzav.com}

A new chapter in the ongoing tefillah campaign for the recovery of mekubal Rav Chizkiyahu Dov HaKohein Kook unfolded this week after one of his talmidim reported a striking dream in which the Rav allegedly asked that additional tefillos be offered on his behalf at Kever Rochel.

The development follows Monday night’s massive tefillah gathering at the Kosel HaMaaravi, where gedolei Yisroel, talmidim, and members of the public gathered to cry out for the recovery of the renowned Tiveria tzaddik.

According to the talmid, who served as the chazzan during the gathering at the Kosel, Rav Kook appeared to him in a dream later that night.

The talmid recounted that the Rav thanked him for the uplifting tefillos that had been recited but requested that a similar tefillah gathering be held at Kever Rochel as well.

According to the account, Rav Kook indicated in the dream that he remains in need of continued rachamei Shamayim and has not yet emerged completely from danger. He therefore asked that additional tefillos be organized at Kever Rochel.

Following the widely discussed dream, Rav Kook’s talmidim announced that a public tefillah gathering would be held at Kever Rochel for his complete recovery. Participants are being urged to add tefillos for Rav Chizkiyahu Dov ben Shoshanah HaKohein and include him among the other ill members of Klal Yisroel.

The renewed tefillah initiative comes as family members continue to report both encouraging developments and ongoing concerns regarding the Rav’s condition.

As previously reported, during a recent interview on the program Hafuch Al Hafuch with Rav Moshe Ben Lulu, Rav Gedaliah Kook shared an extensive update on his father’s medical status. He described significant improvement over recent weeks after a prolonged and difficult medical ordeal that had deeply concerned the Rav’s many followers.

According to Rav Gedaliah, several major bodily systems that had ceased functioning have resumed operation. “The kidneys have resumed functioning, dialysis has been removed, and breathing has returned independently for much of the day.”

At the same time, he emphasized that one critical concern remains.

“We need great miracles regarding the Rav’s consciousness,” he said.

While there have been notable signs of improvement, Rav Kook has not yet regained full consciousness. Family members report that he occasionally appears to respond slightly to beloved niggunim or particularly emotional tefillos, but that the road to full recovery remains uncertain.

His followers continue to call upon the public to intensify tefillos and acts of merit on behalf of Rav Chizkiyahu Dov ben Shoshanah HaKohein for a complete and speedy recovery.

{Matzav.com}

Jerry Seinfeld delivered a brief but pointed response Wednesday night after an anti-Israel social media personality confronted him outside Madison Square Garden following the Knicks’ dramatic NBA Finals victory.

The 72-year-old comedy icon was making his way through the crowd after Game 4 when influencer FinesseFave approached him with a microphone and camera, attempting to draw him into a political exchange.

“What up, Seinfeld? What up? Can we get a ‘Free Palestine’?” said the streamer, FinesseFave, sticking a mic in the face of the Jewish actor and writer.

Seinfeld laughed at the request and responded with a short remark before continuing on his way.

“It doesn’t exist,” he said, before walking away.

Matzav.com cannot post the actual clip because it contains profanities.

The video quickly spread online after FinesseFave posted it to his TikTok account, where he has approximately 180,000 followers.

FinesseFave later shared the video with his 180,000 TikTok followers, along with the caption, “Clown hasn’t been relevant in decades anyway.”

The encounter was the latest in a string of confrontations involving Seinfeld amid ongoing anti-Israel demonstrations and activism directed at public figures who have voiced support for Israel.

One notable incident occurred in May 2024, when Seinfeld delivered the commencement address at Duke University.

In May 2024, he was booed, and dozens of students walked out as the comedian gave the commencement speech at Duke University.

Just weeks afterward, another disruption took place during one of his stand-up performances in Virginia.

Two weeks later, he was interrupted on stage by an anti-Israel protester who jumped up and yelled, “Free Gaza” during a standup show in Norfolk, Virginia, TMZ reported.

Audience members quickly turned against the protester, loudly supporting Seinfeld as security moved to restore order.

The audience responded by booing the heckler and chanting, “Jerry! Jerry!” as another bystander got the protester in a headlock before security ushered the man out.

Seinfeld responded from the stage with characteristic sarcasm.

“This is exciting. I like this. I like a little Jew hate to spice up the show,” Seinfeld joked darkly from the stage as the heckler was evicted.

Although the protester was removed, interruptions reportedly continued throughout the evening.

The show continued, but protesters interrupted Seinfeld a further eight times throughout the 90-minute set.

The comedian has also been confronted several times in New York City during the past year.

Seinfeld has also faced abuse on the streets of his native New York, with two high-profile incidents in 2025.

One episode took place outside Radio City Music Hall, where a content creator appeared to ask for a photograph before turning the interaction into a political stunt.

In February 2025, an influencer asked Seinfeld for a selfie outside Radio City Music Hall, before instead recording himself saying “Free Palestine” while filming the comedian.

Seinfeld declined to engage.

Seinfeld responded by saying, “I don’t care about Palestine,” before walking away.

A few months later, another activist targeted him as he departed Madison Square Garden following a Knicks playoff game.

And while leaving the Garden after a Knicks game in May 2025, a vile protester filmed themselves telling Seinfeld he supports the genocide of babies in Gaza.

The comedian answered with a quick one-liner before getting into his vehicle.

“Only you,” Seinfeld quipped, as he got into his car.

Demonstrators have also appeared outside several of Seinfeld’s live performances this year.

His standup shows have faced continual picketing this year, with protesters branding him a “genocide apologist” ahead of his appearance in Aurora, Illinois, in January, as the Jamia Times reported at the time.

Wednesday’s confrontation came after Seinfeld watched one of the most memorable games in Knicks history from celebrity row at Madison Square Garden.

Seinfeld, star of the eponymous iconic ’90s sitcom, was sitting on celebrity row at Madison Square Garden as the Knicks completed a record 29-point comeback against the San Antonio Spurs to take a 3-1 lead in the series.

With the victory, New York moved within one win of ending a championship drought that stretches back more than five decades.

The Knicks are on the brink of their first NBA Championship since 1973 if they beat the Spurs in Texas on Motzoei Shabbos, with tipoff at 8:30 p.m.

{Matzav.com}

A major US surveillance authority is on the verge of expiring after lawmakers failed Thursday to advance a temporary extension, setting off a high-stakes confrontation between Congress and President Trump over his decision to install Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence.

The breakdown has raised the possibility that Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, one of the government’s most important foreign intelligence tools, could lapse when it expires at midnight Friday. The dispute centers on Trump’s refusal to nominate a permanent replacement to lead the nation’s intelligence community.

Trump has continued to back Pulte, who currently serves as a federal housing finance regulator, despite criticism that he lacks the qualifications traditionally associated with the intelligence post. Democrats have argued that they will not support a renewal of the surveillance authority unless Trump withdraws Pulte and submits a permanent nominee for Senate consideration.

Efforts to pass a short-term extension collapsed in the House, where nearly all Democrats joined a number of Republicans in voting against the proposal. Attention now shifts to the Senate, although prospects for salvaging the measure before the deadline appear increasingly uncertain.

If the authority expires, intelligence agencies could face new restrictions on their ability to monitor foreign targets overseas. The timing is particularly sensitive as the United States prepares to host World Cup events and approaches celebrations marking the country’s 250th anniversary.

“We can’t let them extort us,” Trump said of Democrats.

The president has defended his decision to keep Pulte in the role temporarily and has asked lawmakers for additional time to select and confirm a permanent intelligence chief. Trump has also indicated that he wants Pulte to begin reducing the size and scope of intelligence agencies.

As the deadline approaches, both parties have accused the other of jeopardizing a surveillance program that many national security officials regard as critical to protecting the country.

“We’re going to ask every member here to do the right thing,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La. “We cannot allow that to go dark.”

Democratic leaders formally announced their opposition to the extension, arguing that Pulte’s background does not satisfy statutory requirements calling for substantial national security experience.

“The apparent motivation for his elevation is the demonstrated willingness of Bill Pulte to search government databases for alleged dirt on President Trump’s chosen political enemies,” Democrat leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York and the leadership team said in a joint statement. They said there is a path to reauthorizing FISA, “but it will require enacting meaningful reforms.”

Republican lawmakers have spent much of the week pressing Trump to move quickly on a permanent nominee. Despite those efforts, the president has maintained that he requires additional time to complete the selection process.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said Republican leaders have “made our views known” to the White House.

The vacancy arose following the departure of Tulsi Gabbard. Trump has said he is evaluating five potential candidates for the position.

According to Johnson, the White House views Pulte’s tenure as a temporary assignment focused on restructuring the intelligence bureaucracy.

Johnson said the president has made it very clear that Pulte will serve a “very short term — a sort of renovation role” to help the Office of the Director of National Intelligence be “renovated and downsized.”

That explanation has done little to ease concerns among House Democrats.

In a letter to Trump, Intelligence Committee Democrats led by Connecticut Rep. Jim Himes described Pulte as a “uniquely poor choice” even for an interim appointment.

Critics from both parties have cited not only Pulte’s lack of intelligence experience but also actions taken during his tenure at the Federal Housing Finance Agency. He has been associated with criminal referrals tied to allegations of mortgage fraud involving several public officials whom Trump has publicly criticized, including New York Attorney General Letitia James, Sen. Adam Schiff, and Federal Reserve Board member Lisa Cook.

“He has distinguished himself only as someone who will do or say anything to stay in your good graces,” Himes and the other lawmakers wrote, “qualities that are precisely the opposite of what our nation needs.”

Section 702 gives agencies including the CIA, NSA, and FBI authority to collect communications involving foreign targets located outside the United States without obtaining traditional warrants.

Although privacy concerns have led lawmakers in both parties to push for restrictions over the years, Congress had recently appeared close to agreement after negotiators developed a bipartisan compromise to renew the authority.

One of the architects of that compromise, Virginia Sen. Mark Warner, said the controversy surrounding Pulte has now become a major obstacle to passage.

Warner said Pulte’s appointment to replace Gabbard is “a live hand grenade” disrupting the process.

The Virginia Democrat has proposed allowing the surveillance authority to continue temporarily only if Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence Aaron Lukas serves as acting chief during that period.

Meanwhile, Republican Sens. Tom Cotton and Chuck Grassley warned the administration that the surveillance authority may soon expire and urged officials to prepare accordingly.

The administration should prepare “for a potential significant gap in foreign intelligence collection,” they wrote in a letter.

Following widespread criticism of Pulte’s temporary elevation, Trump indicated last week that he does not intend to nominate him permanently. Nevertheless, opponents continue to insist that Pulte should be removed immediately and replaced by a nominee who can win Senate confirmation.

Despite that pressure, Trump announced Tuesday that Pulte would assume the acting role sooner than originally planned, beginning June 19.

Among the names being discussed as a possible permanent replacement is Pete Hoekstra, the US ambassador to Canada and a former chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. According to a person familiar with the discussions, the White House has contacted Hoekstra about the position and conversations remain ongoing.

{Matzav.com}

Sen. Tim Kaine believes momentum is building behind an effort to require President Trump to end US military involvement in Iran, saying he is nearing the number of Republican votes needed to pass a war powers resolution in the Senate.

The Virginia Democrat said supporters of the measure are encouraged by recent developments and believe they may soon secure enough bipartisan backing to move the legislation forward. The proposal seeks to halt American participation in a conflict that has now entered its 15th week.

“We think we can have a narrow win,” Kaine said. “I don’t have one absolutely pinned down, but I think I’m close.”

The legislation relies on the War Powers Act of 1973, a law designed to limit prolonged military engagements without congressional approval. If enacted, it would direct the president to withdraw US forces from the conflict absent specific authorization from Congress.

Kaine and other Democrats contend that lawmakers, not just the White House, should have a decisive voice in determining whether American troops remain engaged in hostilities involving Iran.

The effort has already attracted support from four Republican senators. Sens. Rand Paul of Kentucky, Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana voted to advance the measure out of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Despite those gains, supporters face an uphill climb.

Even if the resolution passes the Senate, it would still have to clear the Republican-controlled House before reaching President Trump’s desk. Trump would be widely expected to veto the measure, creating another major obstacle.

To override a presidential veto, the Constitution requires two-thirds support in both chambers of Congress—a threshold that currently appears far out of reach.

Many Republicans continue to strongly support Trump’s approach toward Iran and oppose any effort to constrain the administration’s military options.

Sen. John Cornyn argued that now is not the moment to reduce pressure on the Iranian regime.

“I want President Trump to finish the job,” Cornyn told The Hill. “I’m very dubious about any agreement that you’d get with this radical regime because they won’t abide by it.”

Cornyn also expressed skepticism that Tehran would honor future commitments, warning against allowing Iran to retain strategic leverage over the Strait of Hormuz or maintain access to enriched uranium that could eventually support a renewed nuclear weapons effort.

Other Republican senators have characterized the proposal as more symbolic than substantive.

Sen. Todd Young of Indiana questioned what advocates of the resolution envision happening if American forces are ordered to leave the region immediately.

“All I can think of are the dangers associated with immediate withdrawal,” Young said.

The dispute reflects a broader debate in Congress over its constitutional authority regarding military action. As the conflict has continued beyond the 60-day period referenced in the War Powers Act, lawmakers have increasingly questioned the balance of power between Congress and the executive branch.

Opponents of the resolution, however, argue that limiting the president’s authority during an active international confrontation could weaken America’s position and send the wrong signal to adversaries.

The debate unfolds as Trump continues to increase pressure on Tehran through a combination of military operations, economic measures, and diplomatic demands. The president has repeatedly warned Iranian leaders that they will “pay the price” if they continue delaying negotiations.

For now, Democrats appear to be making incremental gains in their effort to build bipartisan support. Nevertheless, Trump’s strategy toward Iran continues to command significant support among Republicans who believe maintaining maximum pressure remains the most effective way to protect US interests and prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

{Matzav.com}

President Trump announced Thursday that he has called off planned military strikes against Iran after receiving what he described as a finalized proposal from Tehran aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and launching formal nuclear negotiations.

In a statement posted to Truth Social, Trump said the Iranian proposal had received approval from the country’s top leadership and that diplomatic efforts had reached a critical breakthrough.

“Based on the fact that discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran have been brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved, I have, as President of the United States of America, cancelled the scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran this evening,” he said.

Trump added that negotiations had progressed to the point where all major participants had agreed to the core framework and final details of the arrangement.

“Discussions and final points have been, in both concept and great detail, approved by all parties involved, including the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt, and others. The Naval Blockade will remain in full force and effect until this Transaction is finalized — Time and place of the signing to be announced shortly.”

The announcement followed a report first published by The New York Post indicating that Iran had delivered a final draft agreement to Qatari mediators on Wednesday evening.

His announcement came after The NY Post first reported Iran had submitted a final draft of an agreement to Qatari mediators on Wednesday night.

Later Thursday, Trump told The Post that the long-anticipated understanding with Tehran was essentially complete and that the remaining details were largely procedural.

President Trump on Thursday told The Post the long-awaited agreement to begin nuclear negotiations with Tehran is “all wrapped up,” following his announcement that he had called off planned strikes on Iran.

“It’s pretty much all wrapped up,” he said in a brief phone call with The NY Post.

The development marks a dramatic shift after weeks of military escalation and growing speculation that the United States could target Iran’s strategic Kharg Island energy hub. Instead, attention has now turned toward a diplomatic process that could reopen negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program while preserving the existing US naval blockade until a final agreement is signed.

It comes after we first reported Iran had finalized and submitted a draft memorandum of understanding to Qatari mediators on Wednesday night.

{Matzav.com}

President Trump dramatically raised the stakes in the conflict with Iran on Thursday, declaring that the United States could take control of Kharg Island — the critical hub through which most Iranian oil exports pass — while also signaling uncertainty about whether such a move would ultimately occur.

In a Truth Social post issued Thursday morning, Trump suggested the US could seize Kharg Island and other key energy assets as military operations against Iran intensified for a third consecutive night following the downing of an American Apache helicopter.

“At some point in the not too distant future, we will be taking Kharg Island, and other oil infrastructure points, and assume total control of their Oil and Gas Markets, much like we have with Venezuela,” Trump wrote on Truth Social after 8 a.m.

“The United States will be hitting Iran… VERY HARD TONIGHT.”

Less than an hour later, however, Trump appeared to leave the door open to other options during an interview on “Fox & Friends,” declining to commit to such a dramatic military step and leaving Tehran uncertain about Washington’s intentions.

“I don’t know that America has the stomach for it, to be honest with you. You’re gonna make a fortune, but I don’t know that America has the stomach,” Trump told the TV program.

“I think they’d like to see us come home, but we did it with Venezuela. Venezuela has worked out great for everybody.”

Since April 13, US naval forces have maintained a blockade around Iran’s ports. American officials argue that Iran’s oil distribution system depends heavily on infrastructure that continuously routes crude oil to Kharg Island, making it difficult for Tehran to halt those flows.

Trump acknowledged that public support for a ground operation may be limited even as he emphasized America’s military advantage while seeking to pressure Iran into finalizing a peace framework.

“I’m not sure the country has the appetite” for a land mission — despite saying there could be one as he tries to strong-arm Iranian officials to finalize a memorandum of understanding to end the war.

“They are finished. We can walk in there tomorrow,” Trump taunted on Fox.

“We could take soldiers. I don’t want to have boots on the ground, but if I wanted to, we could put a small group of soldiers and take over the whole place. They’re finished.”

The president also suggested that his willingness to reach an agreement has diminished as the conflict has dragged on.

“I’d like to get a deal now less than three or four weeks ago.”

The recent shootdown of a US Apache helicopter by an Iranian drone has complicated diplomatic efforts, although officials on both sides continue to indicate that negotiations remain underway. Sources familiar with the discussions say there is broad agreement in principle that Iran would ultimately dismantle its nuclear weapons program.

Even as talks continue behind the scenes, Iranian leaders have maintained a confrontational public stance. Senior officials sharply criticized the latest round of American airstrikes, which resumed despite a cease-fire that had held uneasily for roughly two months.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi tweeted Tuesday: “Leave our region if you want to be safe. History of the Persian Gulf has many chapters on dire fates of intruding outsiders.”

Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, speaker of Iran’s parliament and a top peace negotiator, wrote: “We prefer the language of diplomacy, but we speak other languages far more fluently. Break your commitments, and we’ll switch to what we speak best. You ride the horse you saddled!”

Although Trump has previously considered striking Kharg Island during Operation Epic Fury, he has thus far stopped short of targeting the heart of Iran’s petroleum industry, viewing its long-term economic viability as an important factor in any postwar settlement.

American attacks resumed Tuesday night after the helicopter was shot down over the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran retaliated by launching missiles toward US military installations in Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait.

The two sides had been operating under a fragile cease-fire reached on April 8, but Trump dismissed that arrangement Wednesday evening, calling it “the most violated cease-fire in the history of the world.” He subsequently ordered military operations to resume, accusing Iran of repeatedly testing American restraint.

During the pause in fighting, Iran disrupted commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, causing concern among global energy markets because roughly 20% of the world’s seaborne oil supply passes through the strategic waterway.

In response, Trump directed the US military to impose a naval blockade aimed at increasing economic pressure on the Iranian regime.

According to US Central Command, American forces intercepted another vessel Wednesday night that attempted to breach the blockade, marking the third such confrontation this week.

Officials said the tanker, operating in the Gulf of Oman, repeatedly ignored commands issued by US military personnel before being disabled.

CENTCOM reports that nine vessels have been disabled since the blockade began, while 135 ships have been diverted from restricted areas. At the same time, 42 humanitarian shipments have been allowed to proceed.

Trump also touted what he described as a major success in protecting international oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

“Today, I am pleased to announce that this effort has resulted in more than 100 MILLION Barrels of Oil making its way through the Strait, and into the Open Market,” Trump crowed on Truth Social. “More than 200 Commercial Ships have safely traveled through the Strait. This wildly successful effort is because the UNITED STATES of AMERICA CONTROLS the Strait of Hormuz — NOT Iran.”

“Their military is defeated, and their economy is lost. It’s over for Iran!”

Despite repeated assertions from the White House that an agreement is within reach, significant obstacles remain. Chief among them is Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, much of which is believed to be stored deep underground in fortified facilities.

Experts estimate that Iran possesses roughly 1,000 pounds of uranium enriched to 60% purity, placing it only a short technical distance from weapons-grade material.

The country is also believed to maintain substantial reserves of uranium enriched to lower levels, including large quantities at 20% purity and below.

The Iranians claimed to have enough 60% enriched uranium to manufacture 11 nuclear bombs, special envoy Steve Witkoff claimed shortly after the start of Operation Epic Fury, Feb. 28.

{Matzav.com}

Iran fired a new wave of missiles at three key American partners in the Middle East early Thursday, escalating regional tensions after US forces carried out another round of military strikes against Iranian targets.

The Islamic Republic launched attacks toward Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, marking the second consecutive day that those countries have come under fire following American military action against Tehran.

All three nations host US military personnel and facilities. While Iranian missiles were aimed at areas connected to American operations, no US service members were reported injured.

According to a military source who spoke with The Post, US Central Command successfully intercepted the incoming threats and prevented any strikes from reaching American installations.

Jordanian authorities said their air defenses shot down 20 Iranian missiles headed toward a region where US troops are stationed. No casualties were reported.

Kuwait temporarily shut down its airspace as a precautionary measure for several hours, though officials did not provide details regarding any possible damage.

In Bahrain, officials reported limited civilian impacts from the attack. The Interior Ministry said debris from interception efforts damaged homes and vehicles and injured an 11-year-old girl.

The missile barrage followed a major overnight US military operation. According to US Central Command, American forces conducted roughly four hours of strikes that concluded shortly before sunrise in Iran.

CENTCOM said the operation focused on degrading the regime’s “military surveillance capabilities, communication systems and air defense sites.”

A source familiar with the campaign said the strikes concentrated on radar installations and missile facilities located along Iran’s coastline.

Residents reported hearing blasts in several locations, including Tehran, Bandar Abbas, and other areas near the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard later acknowledged damage to multiple sites, saying a manufacturing facility, a military installation, and a Guard base outside Tehran had been struck.

During the operation, President Trump told Fox News chief foreign correspondent Trey Yingst that the US military launched 49 Tomahawk missiles against targets inside Iran. He also said American aircraft struck radar networks and air-defense positions around the Persian Gulf.

Trump further asserted that Iranian officials had privately appealed for the bombing campaign to stop while he monitored developments from the White House Situation Room. He warned that the attacks would intensify if Tehran failed to accept a US-backed peace framework, pledging to “bomb the s— out of them tomorrow night.”

Although Trump has repeatedly indicated that a diplomatic breakthrough may be within reach, the latest exchange of attacks has underscored how far apart the two sides remain on several key issues.

One of Washington’s primary demands is that Iran surrender its stockpile of nearly 1,000 pounds of highly enriched uranium. US officials believe much of the material remains hidden in underground facilities following last year’s strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites.

Iran has refused to relinquish the uranium reserve and is simultaneously seeking sanctions relief. Tehran is also demanding access to frozen financial assets before any final agreement is completed, a proposal Trump has rejected.

Another major sticking point involves Hezbollah. Iranian officials insist that any settlement ending the conflict must also halt fighting between the Lebanese terror group and Israel, a condition Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu has refused to accept.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continued behind the scenes. A Qatari delegation that had been conducting mediation talks in coordination with the United States departed Tehran on Thursday morning, according to an official familiar with the negotiations who spoke anonymously.

Pakistan also weighed in on the growing crisis, expressing alarm over the escalation and urging both Washington and Tehran to honor the cease-fire that officially took effect on April 8.

That cease-fire has been repeatedly tested in recent weeks. Speaking to Yingst on Wednesday night, Trump described it as “the most violated cease-fire in the history of the world.”

{Matzav.com}

The Pentagon was placed under lockdown Thursday after building safety systems detected a potential air-quality threat, prompting officials to order workers in the affected area to shelter in place while emergency crews investigated the situation.

Emergency responders from Arlington County Fire and EMS were dispatched to the military headquarters after what authorities described as a hazardous materials incident. The agency announced the response in a message posted on X.

“ACFD units, including our Hazardous Materials Team, are currently operating at the Pentagon in support of PFPA’s Hazmat Team during a hazardous materials incident,” it said.

According to Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell, the alert was triggered after internal monitoring systems identified an issue involving the building’s air quality, leading officials to take precautionary action.

“The Pentagon has sophisticated systems to ensure the safety of the building and its occupants,” Parnell said. “Those systems have detected an air quality issue necessitating precautionary measures until we determine its significance.”

He emphasized that established emergency procedures were immediately activated while authorities worked to determine the source and severity of the concern.

“The Department is executing standard protection protocols, including a shelter-in-place order for the affected area. Response teams are in place and ready to support building occupants,” he added.

The Pentagon, regarded as one of the most heavily protected government facilities in the United States, is equipped with extensive safeguards designed to identify airborne threats and prevent contaminants from spreading throughout the structure.

Its distinctive five-sided layout, consisting of multiple concentric rings connected by hallways, enables officials to isolate specific sections of the building while allowing the remainder of the facility to continue operating. This design helps protect the approximately 26,000 people who work there without requiring a full evacuation.

As investigators seek to determine what caused Thursday’s alert, attention has turned to the Pentagon’s advanced detection and containment infrastructure, known as Pentagon Shield, which was developed over many years.

The Pentagon Shield initiative was created in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks as part of a broader effort to defend the nation’s largest government office complex against chemical, biological, and radiological dangers.

According to publicly available technical documents, the system relies on an extensive network of sensors combined with computer-based modeling technology to identify potentially dangerous airborne substances and monitor their movement throughout the building.

“Building ventilation systems can be adjusted in real time to minimize air infiltration,” researchers wrote in a 2007 overview of the program.

Should a hazardous material be detected, officials can rapidly modify airflow patterns, seal off specific areas, and restrict the movement of air between corridors, reducing the likelihood that contaminants spread beyond the affected zone while emergency personnel assess the threat.

{Matzav.com}

[COMMUNICATED]

Three kedoshei elyon had one common concept when it came to learning Torah – they were the Ohr Hachaim Hakadosh (Rabbi Chaim ibn Attar 1696-1743) when he came to Eretz Yisroel; the Ramchal (Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto 1707-1746) when he lived in Padua, Italy;  and Hagaon, Harav Chaim Volozhiner, (1749-1821) the famous talmid of the Gaon of Vilna.

They each had a yeshiva with ‘around-the-clock’ Torah learning, 24-hours a day, so that there would be no minute when the sound of Torah learning would not be heard in this world. The 24-hour period would be divided into shifts, and as one ended the next would begin.

Torah-24

A “Torah-24” Center has been opened in Yerushalayim and the Nasi is Maran Sar Hatorah, Harav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l.

Under ONE ROOF, from 6:00 am – 6:00 am, 10 kollelim fill successive learning shifts. Each kollel focuses on a specific area of in-depth Torah study. The “Torah-24” Kollelim include: Boker (Gemora), Yerushalmi, Bavli, Zeraim-Taharot, Dalet Chelkei Shulchan Aruch, Erev (Gemora), Chatzos- Zohar/Kabbolah, Erev Shabbos (Chumash / Medrash b’iyun). 

Already there are 52 avreichim metzuyonim, and a large number of candidates are vying for the remaining slots in the kollelim. All the avreichim are required to take rigorous monthly tests.

Endorsements & Letters

Endorsements include Maranan Hagaonim shlit”a: Harav Gershon Edelstein, Harav Berel Povarsky, Harav Shimon Badani, Harav Dovid Cohen, Harav Boruch Mordechai Ezrachi, Harav Chaim Feinstein, Harav Shimon Galai, Harav Shraga Shteinman.

Letters of support-encouragement have been received from Maranan Hagaonim, shlit”a: Hamekubal Harav David Bazri, Hamashpia Hagadol Reb Elimelech Biderman, Hamekubal Harav Yaakov Meir Schechter, Harav Moishe Sternbuch, Harav Yitzchak Tuvia Weiss.

For more “Torah-24” information click on: www.torah-24.com or call 718-766-5022

As protests continue over the detention of bnei yeshivah and demonstrators arrested at recent anti-draft rallies, two personal stories have emerged that supporters say highlight the human toll of the ongoing arrests.

One of the detainees, R’ Nosson Start, a Breslover avreich, was informed while in custody that his first child had been born. Start was arrested during a protest held outside the home of Supreme Court Justice Noam Solberg in Alon Shevut and has remained behind bars since his arrest.

According to information obtained by the news outlet Emes, the new father received the news of his son’s birth while still in detention.

Family members and supporters say that despite the joyous occasion, authorities did not approve his release. They claim that either the court or the Israel Prison Service refused to allow him temporary freedom, leaving him to celebrate the birth of his firstborn while incarcerated.

A second case involves another detainee from the same protest who was scheduled to celebrate his vort Tuesday evening at the old Beis Yaakov Hall. Because he remained in custody, he was unable to attend the event, and family members were forced to postpone the celebration.

Meanwhile, legal proceedings related to the protests continue.

Earlier in the day, the Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court extended the detention of three suspects accused of involvement in a break-in at the Beit Shemesh police station, ordering that they remain in custody until Thursday.

Two of the suspects acknowledged participating in the protest but denied taking part in any break-in. A third suspect, Meir Rabinovitz, son of mekubal Rav Gamliel Rabinovitz, denied any involvement whatsoever and reportedly requested that investigators examine his cellphone location data in an effort to prove he was at home when the incident occurred.

Attention is now turning to today’s court hearings, when 51 of the 65 individuals arrested that night are expected to appear once again before a judge after spending a full week in detention.

The court is expected to decide whether to extend their incarceration further or release them under various conditions.

{Matzav.com}

A major legal challenge was filed Thursday morning with Israel’s Supreme Court against new eligibility requirements in the government’s subsidized housing program, Dira B’Hanachah, with petitioners arguing that women and children are being unfairly penalized because of a spouse’s military status.

The petition, submitted against the Israeli government, the Israel Land Council, and the Ministry of Construction and Housing, marks the latest battle over policies affecting families of draft-eligible chareidi men.

Filed by attorney Rivka Dagan on behalf of the organizations Emes L’Yaakov B’Yisrael and Shmurah, the 352-page petition includes an urgent request for a temporary injunction that would block implementation of the new rules before the program’s eleventh lottery round. Registration for that lottery is currently scheduled to close on June 22, 2026.

At the heart of the case is a decision by the Israel Land Council conditioning a married woman’s eligibility for discounted housing on the military status of her husband if he is classified as draft-eligible and has not resolved his military status.

Petitioners: Women Are Being Treated as Extensions of Their Husbands

The organizations behind the petition argue that the policy constitutes a serious violation of equality principles and undermines the independent legal status of married women.

According to the filing, the decision treats a woman “as an appendage of her husband” rather than as an independent legal entity. The petition further argues that the policy effectively creates a “marriage penalty” imposed exclusively upon married women.

The petitioners contend that a single, divorced, or otherwise unmarried woman would remain eligible for the housing benefits without restriction, while marrying a man with a particular military status automatically disqualifies her from receiving the same assistance.

Reliance on Personal Responsibility Principle

The petition cites numerous legal precedents in an effort to demonstrate that Israeli courts traditionally uphold the principle of personal responsibility, even in cases involving far more serious matters.

Among the examples cited are tax-law rulings in which the Supreme Court recognized the right of spouses to establish separate financial arrangements and receive tax benefits independently of one another.

The petitioners argue that if the legal system preserves the separate legal identities of spouses in tax matters, it should certainly do so when dealing with access to affordable housing.

Comparison to Terrorist Home Demolition Cases

In one of the petition’s more unusual arguments, the organizations compare the policy to judicial rulings involving the demolition of terrorists’ homes.

The petition notes that even in national security cases, courts generally require an individualized examination of the impact on family members who played no role in the underlying conduct. The petitioners therefore argue that there is no justification for imposing a broad economic sanction on a wife and her children because of the actions or status of her husband.

Claims of Hasty Decision-Making

The petition also argues that the policy was adopted too quickly and without sufficient professional review.

According to the filing, the decision was approved less than a month after a Supreme Court ruling on the issue and was implemented without a comprehensive evaluation of its potential consequences.

The petition further claims that professional officials within multiple government ministries warned in advance about problems associated with the measure.

According to the organizations, the Finance Ministry acknowledged that the purpose of the policy was to reduce household income as a form of pressure, while the Economy Ministry cautioned against harm to third parties. The Ministry of Construction and Housing itself allegedly warned that denying eligibility under the new rules could face serious legal challenges in court.

Request for Immediate Relief

As part of the legal action, the organizations are asking the Supreme Court to issue an immediate interim order allowing women to register for the eleventh housing lottery without being subject to the new restrictions.

They are also requesting that the registration deadline be frozen until the legal dispute is resolved.

As an alternative, the petition proposes creating an individualized review process that would allow women to establish independent eligibility—including through proof of separate financial arrangements—rather than being automatically disqualified based solely on their spouse’s military status.

{Matzav.com}

A growing controversy involving religion in the public sphere has erupted in Herzliya after allegations surfaced that a city council member took a pair of tefillin and other sacred items belonging to a chareidi resident, leading to a police complaint and a heated public debate.

At the center of the incident is Yesh Atid city council member Daniel Tchertok, who, according to a report by Channel 14, was captured during an altercation in which he allegedly removed tefillin and religious articles from a local resident.

According to the report, the resident is known in the city for distributing Jewish educational pamphlets at various intersections and soliciting donations from passersby. The resident claims that following the incident, a formal complaint was filed with police.

The report further alleges that Tchertok initially denied involvement in the incident but later offered a different explanation, saying that his actions were connected to his opposition to what he views as religious coercion in public spaces.

The owner of the tefillin expressed outrage over the incident and questioned how such conduct could be justified.

“Is this the way to act? Like this?” he asked. “To steal people’s belongings? Because you don’t want people to hear them… This person has been harassing me for more than two years. He constantly tells me, ‘Get out of here,’ ‘Leave here,’ ‘This is a secular city, don’t come near here.'”

The video footage and accompanying allegations quickly spread online, generating widespread discussion on social media and prompting numerous users to sharply criticize the council member’s alleged conduct.

As public attention intensified, questions were also raised about what critics described as inconsistencies in Tchertok’s explanation of the incident.

Daniel Tchertok did not provide a response to Channel 14’s request for comment regarding the allegations.

{Matzav.com}

MK Gadi Eisenkot said he is prepared to sit in a coalition with chareidi parties, but only if they accept what he described as three fundamental principles, while also cautioning against a repeat of a situation in which a prime minister leads the country despite heading a relatively small party.

Speaking on Ynet’s political podcast 120 VeAchat, hosted by Moran Azulay, Eisenkot presented himself as a leading figure within the opposition camp and discussed national security, coalition politics, and the future shape of Israel’s government.

Addressing the Iranian threat, Eisenkot argued that Israel missed an opportunity to respond more forcefully during Iran’s first direct missile attack on the Jewish state.

Asked what he would have done had he been prime minister during an Iranian missile barrage, Eisenkot replied: “I would have carried out what I proposed to Netanyahu in April 2024, during the first Iranian attack. I proposed a parallel strike while the missiles were on their way here. He blocked it and ultimately accepted someone else’s opinion. That was the strike that the National Security Minister described as a ‘dradleh.’ It was the only time in recent years that I could justify his actions.”

Turning to coalition-building and the role of the chareidi parties, Eisenkot said Israeli politicians spend too much time discussing whom they refuse to work with rather than identifying potential areas of agreement.

“It is better to talk about what we are willing to do rather than what we won’t do, because otherwise you end up with candidates saying, ‘We won’t sit with the chareidim,’ ‘We won’t sit with the Arabs,’ ‘We won’t sit with Ben Gvir,’ ‘We won’t sit with Smotrich,’ and ‘We won’t sit with the Likud under Netanyahu.’ Apparently they intend to form a coalition with the Baloch or the Freemasons. In the end, this is Israeli politics.”

Discussing efforts to unite the opposition, Eisenkot revealed that he had attempted to create a broad political alliance that would include multiple parties.

“I worked to build a super-party with two accompanying parties—Liberman on one side and Golan on the other. When that effort failed, I moved to Plan B, under which four parties would run separately.”

He also appeared to direct criticism toward Naftali Bennett, arguing that the next prime minister should come from the largest party in the bloc rather than from a smaller faction.

“As for who should lead the bloc, it is highly desirable that the candidate for prime minister receive the broadest support possible. Certainly not someone who heads a party with six or eight seats. In my view, that is not democratic. It is neither proper nor desirable. We already had that experience, and it should not be repeated.”

Asked directly whether Bennett could again seek the premiership without leading the largest party, Eisenkot suggested that Israelis have largely rejected that model.

“The Israeli public delegitimized the previous situation, even though the change government under Bennett was a reasonable, good government. It would be preferable not to repeat it, especially in light of the realities of recent years. It is preferable to have a large party at the center and a coalition that is as broad as possible.”

When questioned about his political identity, Eisenkot rejected conventional ideological labels.

“I am a man of the State of Israel who deeply believes in the idea of statesmanship. I view myself as a security hawk. I suggest that people go back to my farewell ceremony as chief of staff, when Netanyahu listed my achievements—our achievements, of course—and praised me for the use of force throughout the Middle East. Today he sends his emissaries to attack me for the very things he praised me for then.”

Eisenkot also outlined his vision for a new draft law, arguing that the events of October 7 fundamentally changed the national conversation.

“On October 7, everything changed, and a law must be passed based on four principles: 1. Service for everyone—chareidim and Arabs—whether military or national service. 2. The arrangement between the Likud and Agudas Yisroel is null and void, and authority should return to a professional body that determines who receives exemptions. 3. The State of Israel must dramatically reward regular and reserve soldiers while imposing penalties and sanctions on draft evaders. 4. The State of Israel should permit exemptions for 3% of each annual class. Ben-Gurion did this during the War of Independence, and it can be done now.”

Asked about his relationship with Arab lawmakers Ahmad Tibi and Ayman Odeh, Eisenkot said he does not maintain political ties with them but evaluates all parties according to the same standards.

“I do not have political relations with them. I prefer to discuss issues rather than individuals. Therefore, when I am asked about the Arab parties, I give the same answer that I give regarding the chareidi parties: I will sit with anyone who accepts three principles—Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, the values of the Declaration of Independence, and the obligation of military or national service.”

{Matzav.com}

A fighter in the IDF’s Chashmonaim Brigade has provided a rare glimpse into the unit’s operational activities in Yehudah and Shomron, speaking about nighttime raids, weapons seizures, and the unique challenges of serving as a chareidi soldier. He also addressed the ongoing debate over chareidi enlistment and explained why he believes chareidi soldiers benefit from having chareidi commanders.

Corporal Y., a fighter currently enrolled in the brigade’s squad commanders course, spoke with Kikar HaShabbos about both his military training and the operational missions carried out by participants in the course.

According to the soldier, the training program incorporates active operational duty alongside classroom and field instruction.

“As part of the course, we spend two weeks engaged in operational activity. We carry out offensive and defensive missions, search for weapons, and participate in the arrest of wanted suspects,” he explained.

He noted that much of the brigade’s work takes place after dark in order to maximize the element of surprise.

“Most of the activity in Yehudah and Shomron takes place at night in order to create an element of surprise. Before every mission, we carefully plan the route, the arrival, and all stages of execution, and then we head out at night to carry it out.”

Describing the types of assignments the troops encounter, he said many operations involve intelligence-driven missions focused on locating hidden weapons and apprehending wanted individuals.

“We receive information about weapons hidden along roads or inside villages, as well as suspects wanted for questioning, and we act accordingly,” he said.

The soldier also reflected on his operational service before entering the commanders course. He said that he served with his battalion along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, first at the Zarit outpost and later at the Magen Yoav position.

“We were stationed at outposts in the sector and carried out disruption operations against Hezbollah activity directed toward Israel, as well as searches for weapons in the area,” he said.

Asked whether the public debate surrounding chareidi enlistment reaches soldiers in the field, he acknowledged that the topic does arise but said it is not a dominant issue among his fellow servicemen.

“There is some discussion among the guys, but in the end everyone does what his rav tells him to do. I spoke with my rav and he recommended that I enlist, so I enlisted.”

The fighter said he generally avoids walking around in uniform when off base, but added that his encounters with the public have largely been positive.

“When people meet me personally, the reactions are generally positive,” he said.

One of the subjects he emphasized most strongly was the importance of developing chareidi leadership within the brigade. He explained that during his training he was initially commanded by officers from the Religious Zionist community and later by chareidi commanders.

“In the end, a chareidi soldier needs a chareidi commander. There are many small things and nuances that a chareidi commander understands because he is familiar with the world from which the soldiers come,” he said.

Looking ahead, the soldier expressed interest in continuing along the command track and eventually assuming greater leadership responsibilities.

“Right now I want to become a squad commander, and later perhaps attend officers’ training as well. I would like to command recruits from the moment they arrive in the army until they become fighters.”

Concluding the interview, he offered a brief request to the public.

“Pray for us that we succeed.”

{Matzav.com}

Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi launched a vigorous defense of his controversial communications reform during a wide-ranging interview with Kikar HaShabbos, rejecting allegations that the proposal would increase chilul Shabbos, attacking Israel’s legal establishment, and urging chareidi coalition partners not to be intimidated by the courts or the Attorney General.

The interview focused on several of the most contentious issues currently facing the government, including the communications reform bill, concerns about Shabbos observance, the draft law crisis, and the role of the Supreme Court and Attorney General in shaping public policy.

“The Panic Channels Are Going Crazy”

At the outset of the interview, Karhi addressed the mounting criticism directed at him as the legislation approaches final votes in the Knesset. According to the minister, the opposition stems primarily from economic interests and a desire by established media organizations to preserve their dominance.

“First of all, as we get closer to the finish line, and with Hashem’s help prepare to bless the completed work, everyone is going crazy,” Karhi said. “All the monopolies that currently control public consciousness and dominate public opinion—the panic channels—are unwilling to allow the market to open up. They don’t want other voices to be heard. They don’t want Kikar HaShabbos to receive a channel, or i24 to be able to broadcast on cable and satellite. They want to continue controlling public opinion, and that’s why they’re panicking.”

Karhi further claimed that media interests are actively working within the chareidi community to build opposition to the legislation.

“According to reports, they’re setting up campaign headquarters and even recruiting chareidi public relations people to hang pashkevilim against me. As if they need to teach me what Torah is, or what it means to protect our heritage and values. Anyone who follows my work sees how committed I am to these issues, and we’re already facing votes tomorrow.”

“A Complete Falsehood” Regarding Shabbos Concerns

The minister was asked directly about allegations that the new government streaming application intended to replace the Idan Plus system would facilitate and fund chilul Shabbos and the broadcasting of sporting events on Shabbos.

Karhi forcefully rejected the claims and argued that the reform would actually reduce chilul Shabbos.

“Today, the Idan Plus system costs the state 40 million shekels annually. That system requires technicians to maintain it around the clock, including on Shabbos. We are eliminating that. It will become an internet platform, like any government website or chareidi website whose servers remain operational on Shabbos, but without technicians actively desecrating Shabbos.”

He also pointed to specific language included in the legislation.

“We explicitly included in the law that sporting events of public significance will not be broadcast live on the application during Shabbos or Jewish holidays. Show me another piece of legislation where someone had the courage to include a legal definition of the beginning and end of Shabbos and Yom Tov. In addition, the annual cost to the state will drop from 40 million shekels to only two or three million.”

Addressing concerns about inappropriate content, Karhi insisted the law contains safeguards.

“There will be no obscene broadcasts on the application—period. We included language in the law making such content prohibited for any registered content provider.”

He added that discussions are ongoing with representatives of the chareidi parties and MK Avi Maoz to further strengthen content restrictions.

“We are working together on amendments that will define the content even more clearly. The regulator will be able to prevent channels that offend public sensitivities or promote religious conversion from appearing on the application, and those rules will be subject to oversight by the Knesset Economics Committee.”

Karhi also emphasized what he sees as one of the reform’s major benefits.

“This law will reserve ten free channel slots on all platforms for new news outlets. It will allow additional media organizations to obtain a channel free of charge and not remain dependent on monopolies.”

The minister further claimed that, according to reports he has heard, chareidi public relations professionals have been hired by Channel 12’s Keshet network to oppose the reform because established broadcasters wish to preserve their dominance.

Keshet strongly denied the allegation, stating: “There is absolutely no truth to this.”

Draft Law Crisis: “The Attorney General Is Hurting the Children of Torah Learners”

The second portion of the interview focused on the draft law dispute and economic sanctions affecting the chareidi public, including daycare subsidy issues.

Karhi strongly defended the chareidi parties while launching a sharp attack on Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara and the legal system.

“The Attorney General isn’t sitting on the sidelines rubbing her hands together in satisfaction—she is actively intervening,” Karhi charged. “In her eyes, anyone who learns Torah deserves to be mistreated. She harms the children of Torah learners more than the state harms the families of terrorists or crime families. Their goal is to bring down the government and create division among us.”

The minister also discussed the government’s approval of the proposed Basic Law: Torah Study.

“This is legislation that will neutralize the damage being done regarding daycare subsidies. Once there is a Basic Law establishing that Torah study stands alongside equality as a constitutional value, it becomes impossible to use the courts to undermine it. Of course, no one suggested that grants for someone serving 400 days in combat should be identical to someone who did not serve, but this law will protect basic rights.”

“Don’t Go to Lavan the Aramean for a Blessing”

Concluding the interview, Karhi appealed directly to the chareidi parties, urging them not to allow concerns about legal opposition to dictate their legislative agenda.

“I view the chareidi factions as our natural and genuine partners. Some chareidi lawmakers are waiting to receive approval from the legal advisers and the Supreme Court—and in my view that’s like going to Lavan the Aramean to ask for a blessing.”

He argued that legal officials are fundamentally opposed to the coalition’s goals.

“Their objective is exactly the opposite. They enjoy the turmoil. We need to stand up to them and make it clear: You do not determine policy.”

Karhi concluded by citing a well-known statement by the late Prime Minister Yitzchak Rabin.

“As Yitzchak Rabin once said, ‘I am not afraid of the Supreme Court justices. They will rule according to the laws that we enact.’ That’s exactly what we need to do.”

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump sparked immediate controversy Wednesday after declaring, “I love the inflation,” while responding to questions about a new government report showing a significant increase in consumer prices.

Speaking with reporters, Trump dismissed concerns about the latest inflation figures and argued that the economic data remained encouraging despite the ongoing conflict with Iran.

“No, I love it. The numbers were great,” Trump said when asked if he was concerned about the latest data, which showed the consumer price index rising to 4.2 percent over the past 12 months — with an increase of 0.5 percent in May alone, according to the Labor Department.

The president then elaborated on his remarks, linking rising energy prices to recent U.S. military actions targeting Iranian assets.

“I love the inflation,” the president continued, noting how the U.S. recently took out millions of barrels of oil and 22 ships from Iran. “That’s why oil is $85 dollars a barrel.”

Trump acknowledged that the conflict has created economic headwinds but insisted that national security concerns had to take precedence over short-term economic considerations.

He argued that the American economy had reached unprecedented heights before the war began and maintained that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons was a more pressing priority.

“We had just hit the highest stock market in history, highest 401k’s in history,” Trump said from the Oval Office. “Everything was going well, and I said I hate to do this to you guys but Iran’s going to have a nuclear weapon very soon. We have to go and attack.”

The inflation report released by the Labor Department showed that energy costs continued their upward climb in May. According to the data, energy prices rose 3.9 percent during the month after increasing 3.8 percent in April and 10.9 percent in March.

Despite the latest surge in prices, Trump and senior administration officials have continued to predict that inflation and fuel costs will decline sharply once hostilities in the Middle East subside.

For now, however, the outlook remains uncertain. Although a ceasefire remains technically in place, continued exchanges and military activity have fueled concerns that instability in the region could persist for the foreseeable future.

Trump’s critics have seized on several recent comments he has made regarding the economy during the conflict, including previous remarks indicating that concerns about Americans’ personal finances were not at the forefront of his thinking while negotiating with Iran. His latest comments about inflation are likely to add further fuel to that debate as economic concerns continue to weigh on voters.

{Matzav.com}