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A highly publicized clash between MK Tali Gottlieb and Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara over parliamentary immunity has exposed deep divisions within Israeli society, with a new survey showing the public almost perfectly split on the controversy.

The poll, conducted by I24NEWS amid ongoing Knesset deliberations regarding Gottlieb’s immunity, found that Israelis are sharply divided over the dispute, with support for both sides virtually identical.

When respondents were asked whom they support in the battle between Gottlieb and the attorney general over parliamentary immunity, the results revealed a dead heat. According to the survey, 49% of respondents sided with Gottlieb and her efforts to preserve her immunity, while an equal 49% backed the attorney general’s position. The remaining 2% said they were undecided.

Perhaps the most striking finding involved public perceptions of Israel’s legal system and law enforcement institutions.

Survey participants were asked about Gottlieb’s controversial accusation that the State Attorney’s Office and the attorney general conduct themselves like a criminal organization.

The responses suggested that nearly half of the public sympathizes with her criticism despite the harsh language.

While 49% of respondents said they disagreed with the statement, 47% said they agreed with Gottlieb’s characterization. Another 4% said they were unsure.

The poll also examined public opinion on Israel’s military posture toward Hezbollah and Iran.

Respondents were asked whether they support an Israeli strike on Beirut’s Dahiyeh district even if such an operation could trigger an Iranian response.

On that question, a broad consensus emerged. Fully 81% said they would support a strike, while only 11% opposed such action. Another 8% said they did not know.

{Matzav.com}

The Iranian commander who reportedly pushed for the recent ballistic missile attack on Israel is now playing a central role in shaping Tehran’s negotiating position, with diplomats and regional officials identifying him as one of the most influential figures standing in the way of a final agreement with the United States.

Ahmad Vahidi, the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has emerged as a powerful voice within the regime, advocating a tougher military and diplomatic posture even as negotiations continue over a potential framework agreement aimed at ending the conflict.

Iran’s decision to launch ballistic missiles at Israel following the recent strike in Beirut’s Dahiyeh district—the first such attack in months—highlighted Vahidi’s growing influence within the Iranian leadership.

According to Iranian and Arab officials cited by The Wall Street Journal, Vahidi pushed aggressively for a forceful response against Israel in an effort to halt Israeli attacks on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. More moderate voices within the Iranian government reportedly favored delaying military action, fearing that escalation could jeopardize a potential agreement with Washington that might provide desperately needed relief to Iran’s struggling economy.

Vahidi ultimately prevailed. Sources told the newspaper that he successfully persuaded Iran’s Supreme National Security Council to support the missile strikes, triggering the first direct exchange of fire between Iran and Israel since the April 8 ceasefire.

His growing influence has also made him one of the most significant figures shaping Iran’s approach at the negotiating table.

While President Donald Trump and international mediators indicated on Saturday that an initial agreement with Tehran could be close—and potentially signed within days—Iranian officials pushed back on those timelines. Within Tehran, the Revolutionary Guards and their allies have reportedly become the primary source of resistance to a rapid deal.

Mediators told The Wall Street Journal that negotiators have made progress toward an arrangement that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the American blockade, while postponing more contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear program and access to frozen overseas assets, for later negotiations.

Trump said Thursday that the two sides had moved close enough to avoid further military strikes.

Iran, however, cautioned that it has not yet approved a final draft agreement. According to officials familiar with the discussions, Vahidi remains the most influential voice among hardliners who believe Tehran should hold out until additional demands are met.

For months, Vahidi has reportedly clashed with more publicly visible figures within the Iranian government. According to those familiar with internal debates, he has repeatedly emerged victorious in those disputes.

The 67-year-old commander is currently under U.S. sanctions for his alleged role in overseeing the suppression of women’s rights protests in 2022. He is also wanted by Interpol in connection with the deadly 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish community center in Buenos Aires, Argentina, which killed 85 people and wounded hundreds more.

Iran has consistently denied that Vahidi or any other Iranian official played a role in the attack.

According to diplomats and mediators involved in the current negotiations, Vahidi’s position at the head of the regime’s most powerful military organization means that his views now heavily influence Tehran’s negotiating strategy.

His forces also oversee Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz, widely regarded as one of the regime’s strongest bargaining chips in negotiations with the West.

Arab, Iranian, and European sources told The Wall Street Journal that throughout the conflict, Vahidi frequently overruled the preferences of Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and President Masoud Pezeshkian. Both men reportedly advocated a faster agreement with the United States in order to ease the economic pressure created by American sanctions and restrictions on Iran’s oil exports.

Vahidi, by contrast, has prioritized restoring Iran’s military deterrence capabilities and protecting Hezbollah’s position in Lebanon.

Officials say he was instrumental in linking developments in Lebanon to the broader conflict with Iran, insisting that any agreement with Washington must also address the fighting between Hezbollah and Israel.

He has also reportedly pressed negotiators to safeguard Iran’s missile arsenal and secure access to frozen Iranian funds abroad. According to sources familiar with his position, he has argued that any released funds should remain available for military purposes.

Argentina issued an arrest warrant for Vahidi through Interpol in 2007, accusing him of helping plan the 1994 AMIA bombing. The attack on the Jewish community center remains one of the deadliest acts of antisemitic terrorism in modern history.

Over the years, Vahidi has held a series of senior security positions within the Iranian regime, including defense minister, interior minister, and deputy commander of the Revolutionary Guards.

As defense minister in 2009, he played a significant role in procurement efforts tied to Iran’s missile, drone, and nuclear programs, according to the U.S. Treasury Department, which imposed sanctions on him the following year.

With negotiations between Washington and Tehran approaching a critical stage, diplomats say Vahidi’s influence may prove decisive in determining whether a deal is ultimately reached—or whether the conflict enters a new and more dangerous phase.

{Matzav.com}

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Iran has dramatically increased efforts to secure its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, collapsing underground passageways and planting live landmines around access routes in recent weeks, according to individuals familiar with U.S. intelligence assessments cited by CNN.

The measures have significantly complicated any effort to recover the estimated 1,000 pounds of near-weapons-grade uranium. Just weeks ago, President Donald Trump publicly floated the possibility of using American military force to seize the material. Today, intelligence officials believe the stockpile is far more difficult—and dangerous—to access.

The developments present a major challenge for the Trump administration’s proposed agreement with Tehran, which reportedly calls for the removal and destruction of Iran’s enriched uranium. The new obstacles also raise difficult questions about who would ultimately be responsible for carrying out such a risky operation.

Neither the White House nor Iran’s mission to the United Nations immediately commented on the report.

Trump has repeatedly emphasized that recovering the uranium remains a central objective of ongoing negotiations aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. During a briefing on Friday, a senior administration official said negotiators were making progress toward an agreement that would require Iran to hand over its enriched uranium stockpile to the United States. Under the proposed arrangement, the material would reportedly be destroyed and then removed from the country.

According to intelligence officials cited by CNN, even Iranian nuclear specialists would face substantial risks attempting to retrieve the uranium under current conditions. Any recovery effort would require extensive excavation equipment and complex explosives-removal procedures.

The fortified underground environment may also provide Tehran with an explanation for any future delays or failures in complying with the terms of a potential agreement.

Western intelligence agencies reportedly believe that most of the uranium is now trapped inside intentionally collapsed underground facilities at the Isfahan nuclear complex in central Iran. Smaller quantities are believed to be stored at other locations around the country.

CNN reported that the Pentagon completed a military plan in mid-May designed to seize the uranium stockpile by force. The operation was ultimately abandoned because officials concluded that the risks were too great. Since then, Iran has reportedly intensified efforts to strengthen and conceal the underground sites where the material is believed to be stored.

Trump has previously acknowledged the challenges associated with recovering the uranium. During a May interview on Fox News, he expressed skepticism that Iran could successfully move the material without attracting American attention.

“We know exactly what’s happening,” Trump told Fox host Sean Hannity of the site. “Nobody’s even gotten close to it.”

At the same time, intelligence officials told CNN that Trump’s repeated public references to the uranium stockpile as a possible military target may have encouraged Tehran to further harden and protect the facilities.

As a result, experts believe that even if the United States and Iran finalize an agreement in the coming days, months of additional technical negotiations may be required to resolve questions involving the uranium stockpile and the broader nuclear program.

Removing the material from Iran would likely require specialized equipment operated by the National Nuclear Security Administration, including a mobile processing system based at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. Earlier this month, U.S. negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff reportedly visited the facility as part of ongoing preparations.

Even with full cooperation and unrestricted access, specialists believe the operation would be lengthy and highly complex. Trump recently told reporters that the physical process of removing the uranium would take at least two weeks to complete.

{Matzav.com}

Workers removed President Donald Trump’s name from the exterior of the Kennedy Center early today following a federal court order, concluding a legal and political fight over the naming of the historic performing arts venue.

The removal came after government attorneys sought additional time to comply with a court-imposed deadline. Lawyers representing the Kennedy Center asked a federal judge late Friday for a 12-hour extension beyond the original 11:59 p.m. deadline, citing weather-related safety concerns and noting that the work would likely be completed during the overnight hours.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper approved the request Saturday morning and directed the administration to submit evidence of compliance by noon.

Court filings submitted shortly before 11 a.m. confirmed that the administration had complied with the judge’s order.

According to live video feeds, work crews began assembling scaffolding around the sign shortly after 2 a.m. A large covering was then placed over the work area, preventing the public from viewing the removal process. The covering remained in place through much of Saturday morning.

The removal proceeded after an appellate court rejected an eleventh-hour attempt by Kennedy Center officials to block the order.

Since returning to office, Trump has taken a highly active role in the institution, replacing its leadership team and overseeing the appointment of a new board of trustees that later selected him as chairman. His name was added to the center’s website and exterior signage last year. Trump has also advocated shutting down the center for two years to undergo major renovations, a proposal that has faced legal challenges.

The lawsuit was brought by Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), who serves as an ex-officio member of the Kennedy Center board and sought to prevent both the renaming of the institution and its proposed closure.

Judge Cooper, who was appointed to the bench by President Barack Obama, ruled in Beatty’s favor and ordered that Trump’s name be removed from the building by Friday night.

In a final appeal filed this week, Kennedy Center officials argued that removing Trump’s name could have serious financial consequences.

The board warned that taking off the Trump name “threatens to substantially undermine fundraising and financial viability at the most sensitive point in its history.”

Cooper rejected that argument, finding that the center had failed to demonstrate that it would suffer irreparable harm if the court denied its request.

Beatty welcomed the outcome in a statement released shortly after the removal was completed.

“Today’s victory is the beginning of returning the Kennedy Center to the American people,” the lawmaker said.

She added, “The rule of law prevailed, and that is worth celebrating,” she continued. “Let this send a message across the country: when we stand up, fight back, and defend our democracy, we can win. This is just the beginning.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog marked President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday on Saturday with a warm public message, commending his leadership, his support for Israel, and his role in confronting Iran and securing the release of hostages.

Trump, who turns 80 on Sunday, received congratulations from Herzog, who highlighted both the president’s personal achievements and his impact on U.S.-Israel relations.

“Happy 80th birthday, President Trump! Your remarkable journey to the White House represents the breadth of the American dream and the power of your own resolve,” wrote Herzog.

The Israeli president went on to express gratitude on behalf of the people of Israel for Trump’s actions on key security issues, particularly his stance toward Iran and his support during times of crisis.

“The people of Israel are grateful for your leadership in confronting Iran’s empire of evil and for your steadfast commitment to the security of Israel. We will never forget your tireless efforts in securing the release of our beloved hostages. May you lead the Middle East and the world toward peace and security and continue to strengthen the unique US-Israel partnership,” he added.

Herzog also referenced a traditional Jewish teaching associated with reaching the age of 80, offering blessings for continued health, happiness, and family joy.

“In Jewish tradition, it is stated that at the age of eighty you gain unique prowess. May you enjoy your beautiful family and many happy birthdays with blessings and joy. Mazal tov!” concluded Herzog.

{Matzav.com}

The ongoing political battle between Shas and United Torah Judaism intensified over Shabbos, as senior Shas officials sharply criticized Degel HaTorah over its opposition to measures affecting religious councils, deepening a dispute that has been simmering for months within the chareidi bloc.

At the heart of the conflict is the long-running standoff between Finance Committee Chairman MK Moshe Gafni and Shas chairman Aryeh Deri regarding the composition and control of the Yerushalayim Religious Council. The dispute has been compounded by disagreements over the transfer of governmental authorities from the Interior Ministry to the Prime Minister’s Office, a process that began after Shas left the government nearly a year ago.

In recent months, the Knesset has repeatedly approved transfers of authority previously held by the Interior Ministry, historically controlled by Shas, to the Prime Minister’s Office. Supporters of the move have argued that it was necessary to bypass obstacles created by Justice Minister Yariv Levin.

As tensions escalated, United Torah Judaism began boycotting votes related to the transfer of powers. Despite the boycott, however, Shas succeeded last week in advancing legislation involving funding for religious councils.

The measure passed after Arab Knesset members were absent from the vote, allowing the coalition to secure the necessary majority despite opposition from UTJ lawmakers.

Following Degel HaTorah’s resistance, Religious Affairs Minister Michael Malkieli launched a blistering attack on the faction, saying he had been inundated with complaints from religious council officials across the country.

“I am flooded with phone calls from dozens of heads of religious councils around the country who are furious,” Malkieli said.

Questioning the position taken by Degel HaTorah, Malkieli added, “How is it possible that chareidi representatives vote against religious services? How do chareidi representatives join forces with Liberman’s and Lapid’s representatives?”

He went on to argue that the dispute carries serious public and spiritual ramifications.

“How much chilul Hashem is there when a law intended to strengthen taharah among the Jewish people, eruvin, and kashrus passes only because of the absence of the Arab parties? What happened to our commitment to religious services?”

Despite UTJ’s opposition, efforts to advance funding for religious councils continue moving forward.

Under the current timetable, the Knesset Finance Committee is expected to approve on Monday a formula allocating funding between the Ministry of Religious Services and municipalities throughout the country.

The initiative is intended to facilitate the continued expansion and development of religious services at the local level.

The total amount slated for distribution under the plan is approximately 230 million shekels.

Shas leaders view the funding package as a major achievement that will help sustain and expand religious councils and strengthen services related to kashrus, eruvin, taharah, and other religious needs. Meanwhile, officials within United Torah Judaism continue to express reservations, citing the broader political disputes that remain unresolved.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid launched a scathing attack tonight against Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, arguing that the emerging agreement between the United States and Iran represents a major strategic setback for Israel and fails to achieve the objectives that justified the recent conflict.

In a statement posted on social media, Lapid claimed the developing agreement leaves Iran’s core military capabilities intact and poses a long-term threat to Israel’s security.

“The emerging agreement achieves none of Israel’s war objectives,” Lapid wrote. “The regime survives, the missile program remains, and Iran can rebuild its nuclear program.”

Lapid went on to accuse Netanyahu of undermining Israel’s independence and failing to translate military gains into lasting diplomatic achievements.

“This is Netanyahu’s total failure, and along the way he is turning us into a protectorate that receives instructions regarding its national security,” Lapid said.

The opposition leader also dismissed what he described as anticipated efforts by the government to portray the agreement as a success.

“No press conference, no media spin, and no AI video will hide the failure.”

Lapid’s comments came amid growing debate in Israel over reports that the United States and Iran are nearing a framework agreement that could pave the way for broader negotiations.

Senior Israeli officials reportedly expressed similar concerns Saturday evening, with some security figures warning that the proposed arrangement heavily favors Tehran.

According to those officials, “the Iranians got everything they wanted,” and they argued that the deal could jeopardize key Israeli security interests.

The criticism followed President Donald Trump’s announcement that a framework agreement with Iran is expected to be signed Sunday.

International reports indicated that Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said the ceremony would take place in Islamabad and be conducted electronically, though Iranian officials later disputed aspects of those reports.

Lapid concluded by arguing that a future Israeli government may be forced to address what he views as the shortcomings of the current administration’s approach to Iran.

“The next government will have a historic task: to repair the damage caused by Netanyahu’s inability to turn military achievements into strategic successes.”

{Matzav.com}

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on Friday when an eight-day-old infant lost consciousness at a simcha hall in the Binyamin region shortly after his bris and later passed away despite extensive efforts by emergency responders and hospital staff to save his life.

The infant was evacuated from a hall in one of the communities of the Binyamin Regional Council area after being found without a pulse. Magen David Adom personnel who arrived at the scene immediately began advanced resuscitation efforts and continued lifesaving measures while transporting the baby to the hospital.

Upon arrival at Hadassah Mount Scopus Medical Center in Yerushalayim, emergency department teams continued intensive resuscitation attempts. Despite their efforts, doctors were ultimately forced to pronounce the infant dead.

The incident has shocked the local community, as the baby was only eight days old and had reportedly been in critical condition by the time he arrived at the hospital.

Following the tragedy, a report was forwarded to Israel Police, which has opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Authorities said they are conducting a comprehensive review to determine what led to the infant’s sudden medical collapse. No additional details were immediately released.

What began as a relaxing family vacation at the Kinneret turned into a frightening ordeal after a series of jackal attacks left 11 people injured, including a 12-year-old girl who was attacked while sleeping in her tent.

The incident occurred at Duga Beach, where Alice, 12, was camping with her family. According to reports, a jackal entered the tent during the night and attacked her while she slept.

Speaking to Ynet, Alice recounted that her family had spent the day enjoying the lake and vacationing together. During the night, she was awakened when an animal entered the tent. Because it was dark, she initially believed it was the family’s dog and began petting it, only to discover moments later that it was a jackal.

Alice’s grandmother, Mira Ganin of Rishon LeZion, who was sleeping in the tent with her, said she awoke to the girl’s screams. After turning on a light, family members realized that Alice had suffered injuries to her face and immediately sought medical assistance. She was later transported to a hospital for treatment.

Family members said that while they were waiting for help to arrive, other campers emerged from nearby tents reporting that they too had been attacked or injured by jackals roaming through the campsite.

The injured victims were taken to the Galilee Medical Center in Tiveriah for evaluation and treatment.

According to her grandmother, Alice received medical care and will now be required to undergo a course of anti-rabies treatment through the Health Ministry. The family said the young girl is also coping with concerns about facial injuries and possible scarring just weeks before her upcoming bas mitzvah celebration.

Alice’s aunt described hearing a loud scream coming from the tent before family members noticed jackals running between the campsites.

She said what had begun as a joyful family getaway quickly turned into a terrifying scene, ending with multiple injuries and emergency trips to the hospital.

Authorities have not yet indicated what caused the unusual series of attacks, though the incident has raised concerns among visitors and officials regarding the presence of wild animals near popular camping areas around the Kinneret.

{Matzav.com}

The Torah world is davening for the recovery of Rav Rachamim Attia, one of the senior figures of the renowned Yeshivas HaMekubalim Nahar Shalom in Yerushalayim, who was rushed to Shaare Zedek Medical Center on Friday following a medical emergency that required resuscitation efforts.

Rav Attia, who is 94 years old, was hospitalized in serious condition and remains sedated and on a ventilator. Family members and close associates say he is in need of abundant rachamei Shamayim.

On Friday, his son-in-law, the former Rishon LeTzion, Rav Yitzchak Yosef, nosi of the Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah of Shas, arrived at the hospital to visit him. Rav Yosef recited chapters of Tehillim at his bedside and joined family members in davening for his recovery.

During Shabbos, there was a slight stabilization in Rav Attia’s condition, providing a measure of encouragement to those following developments. Nevertheless, his condition continues to be classified as serious.

Rav Attia is widely respected as a prominent mekubal and talmid chochom, and news of his hospitalization prompted an outpouring of tefillos from talmidim, admirers, and members of the broader Torah community.

All are asked to daven for Rav Rachamim ben Jemila.

{Matzav.com}

Residents and business owners in Bnei Brak are expressing growing concern after another brazen burglary struck the city over Shabbos, this time targeting a branch of the upscale silverware retailer Hatzorfim in the heart of the city.

The break-in occurred in the pre-dawn hours of Shabbos near Warsaw Garden, where the well-known store is located. According to initial reports, the incident took place at approximately 4:30 a.m.

Authorities believe the burglary was carried out by an organized gang that arrived by vehicle and came equipped with specialized tools. Unlike previous incidents that reportedly involved a lone burglar operating on a scooter, this break-in appeared to be a coordinated operation involving multiple suspects.

Investigators suspect the perpetrators were members of a Bedouin criminal gang. The suspects allegedly forced their way through the front entrance and began emptying the store’s display window, stealing valuable silver items that were on exhibit.

The burglars were unable to complete the theft, however, after a police patrol vehicle happened to pass through the area during a routine patrol. The suspects fled the scene before officers could apprehend them.

Police have opened an investigation into the incident and are reviewing evidence, including security camera footage that captured the break-in.

The latest burglary has intensified concerns among local residents and merchants, who say the city has experienced a troubling increase in break-ins in recent months, including several incidents occurring during Shabbos.

The security footage, which has circulated widely, has fueled criticism of what many residents describe as inadequate security measures and ineffective enforcement.

Many residents questioned the effectiveness of the municipal security tax collected by the city, arguing that repeated burglaries continue to occur despite those expenditures.

“Security tax in Bnei Brak? The Bedouins are laughing at it,” residents complained. “The burglars arrive in the heart of the city on Friday night, smash into stores, and escape without interference. It’s time to put an end to this and restore safety to our streets.”

Police have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the burglary. The investigation remains ongoing.

{Matzav.com}

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert voiced concern today over reports surrounding a developing U.S.-Iran agreement, arguing that the emerging framework appears to leave out the very issue that sparked recent military operations: Iran’s nuclear program.

During an appearance on Newsmax’s “Saturday Report,” Olmert said many Israelis are troubled by indications that the initial understanding between Washington and Tehran does not include concrete provisions addressing Iran’s nuclear activities.

“Yesterday, there are quite a few people here which are disappointed,” Olmert said. “The fact that this understanding, which you call it a peace agreement — I’m not certain that this is a peace agreement, but whatever it is — does not include any control over the nuclear program of Iran.”

According to Olmert, the information currently available suggests that the nuclear issue has been postponed rather than resolved, though he acknowledged that the full details of the arrangement have not yet been made public.

“The fact that it is not part of the present agreement, it’s just a general understanding as far as I understand,” he said. “Maybe we don’t know all of the details. We have to see when it’s signed.”

His remarks come as policymakers and analysts continue examining whether ongoing diplomatic efforts with Tehran will ultimately place meaningful restrictions on Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.

Olmert said the framework being discussed appears to envision a separate negotiating track focused on Iran’s nuclear activities after the broader agreement takes effect.

“To the degree that we know, it seems that the nuclear issue will be negotiated afterward within the time framework of 60 days,” he said.

He argued that such an arrangement fails to address the central justification for the military campaign that preceded the negotiations.

“I think that the main reason for the military action in the first place is not part of this agreement,” he said.

Olmert also noted that Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities appear to have been omitted from the current framework.

“Of course, the missile program is also not part of it,” Olmert said.

The former prime minister suggested that many within Israel’s leadership likely share these concerns and are dissatisfied with the reported terms of the agreement.

“I think that at least here in the government, I don’t think for myself, I think the government is unhappy,” Olmert said.

At the same time, Olmert speculated that Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu may avoid publicly criticizing the deal because of his close working relationship with President Donald Trump.

“I’m not certain that the government will say it out loud, because the prime minister has very sensitive relations with the president,” Olmert said.

{Matzav.com}

Iran indicated today that negotiations with the United States are advancing toward a potential agreement, but cautioned that several major issues remain unresolved, despite Pakistani officials expressing confidence that a deal could be completed within a day.

Earlier in the day, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that American and Iranian negotiators had reached agreement on the final wording of a peace accord and suggested that a digital signing ceremony could take place within the next 24 hours.

Pakistan has served as a key intermediary throughout the negotiations, helping facilitate communication between Washington and Tehran.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, however, offered a more measured assessment, warning that uncertainty remains and that predictions about the timing of a final agreement may be premature.

“We must be cautious about making any comment about the signing date due to the hesitation of the other side,” Baghaei said, according to Iranian state media.

While he acknowledged that an “Islamabad memorandum” could potentially be signed in the near future, Baghaei stressed that no such signing would occur on Sunday.

“The exact time of signing the memorandum will not be tomorrow,” he said.

Baghaei also stated that Iran’s negotiating delegation has no plans to travel to Geneva or any other foreign location in the coming days, according to reports carried by state media.

The spokesman outlined several issues that Tehran views as essential components of any final arrangement.

Among them, he said, is the release of Iranian assets frozen abroad, which he described as a fundamental element of the negotiations. He also indicated that future policies regarding the Strait of Hormuz remain under discussion as part of the broader agreement.

According to comments reported by Fars News Agency, Baghaei said Iran intends to continue overseeing navigation through the strategically important waterway “in line with protecting national security and the common good of the world community.”

He further stated that Iran plans to impose fees for services provided in the strait, although he did not elaborate on how such charges would be structured or implemented.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime passages, serving as a major route for global energy exports and oil shipments.

Baghaei also reiterated Tehran’s opposition to the continued presence of foreign military forces in the region, saying such deployments “must end,” according to Fars.

His remarks came as both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia publicly expressed optimism about the progress of the talks.

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry announced that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held discussions regarding the negotiations and welcomed what they described as movement toward a final agreement between Washington and Tehran.

The latest comments from all sides suggest that negotiators may be nearing a framework agreement, but significant disagreements involving implementation, the release of frozen Iranian funds, regional security issues, and the future management of the Strait of Hormuz continue to stand in the way of a final breakthrough.

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) argued Friday that America’s allies should play a more active role in confronting Iran, contending that countries benefiting from Middle Eastern stability have a direct stake in preventing Tehran from maintaining nuclear capabilities.

Appearing on NBC’s “Meet the Press NOW,” Fetterman questioned why more U.S. partners have not publicly demanded that Iran surrender what he referred to as its remaining nuclear material.

“Where [are] the rest of our allies saying, collectively, we can demand Iran to turn over that nuclear dust right now? And now these kinds of countries that say, well, that’s not our war, it’s like, well, does your nation consume oil? Well, then that makes it your war now, too. And if you care about peace in the Middle East, yeah, well, then that makes it your war now, too.”

The Pennsylvania Democrat suggested that the implications of Iran’s nuclear program extend far beyond the immediate region, affecting global energy markets and broader international security interests.

Fetterman also emphasized that his support for efforts targeting Iran’s nuclear program should not be viewed as an endorsement of war itself, but rather as a commitment to preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

He added that he is “not a pro vote on war. It is a pro-no nuclear Iran, that’s what my vote for this [is].”

The remarks come amid ongoing international debate over how to address Iran’s nuclear ambitions and what role the United States and its allies should play in enforcing any future agreement designed to limit Tehran’s nuclear capabilities.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand announced Friday that Ottawa will provide an additional $100 million in humanitarian assistance to organizations operating in Judea, Samaria, and Gaza, citing what she described as worsening conditions in the region.

The new funding will be distributed through the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Red Crescent, and various non-governmental organizations involved in providing aid to Palestinian civilians.

In a statement accompanying the announcement, Anand said the decision was driven by the escalating humanitarian situation in Gaza as well as what she characterized as a decline in conditions in Judea and Samaria. She also pointed to what she described as expanding Israeli settlement activity and increased violence by extremist settlers.

With the latest commitment, Canada’s total assistance to the Palestinians now exceeds $500 million. The funds are intended to support emergency medical services, food distribution, clean water access, sanitation programs, shelter, and other humanitarian needs.

Anand urged Israel to permit humanitarian aid to move freely into affected areas and called on the Israeli government to ensure full compliance with international humanitarian law in both Judea and Samaria and the Gaza Strip.

The foreign minister also reaffirmed Canada’s backing of a two-state solution as the preferred framework for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In addition, Anand referenced Canada’s recent decision to impose sanctions on individuals and groups accused of involvement in what Ottawa described as violence carried out by extremist settlers. At the same time, she reiterated Canada’s call for Hamas to be disarmed and urged all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international law.

President Donald Trump announced today that the United States and Iran are set to sign a memorandum of understanding on Sunday through a digital ceremony, marking what he described as a dramatically different approach from the Obama-era nuclear agreement.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump sharply criticized the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), arguing that it paved the way for Tehran to obtain nuclear weapons rather than prevent them.

“Barack Hussein Obama’s Deal with Iran, the JCPOA, was an easy, beautiful, smooth road to a Nuclear Weapon, which Iran would have had six years ago, and would have used long before now. My Agreement with Iran is the exact opposite, A WALL TO NO NUCLEAR WEAPON! In fact, they no longer want a Nuclear Weapon, nor will they have one, either through purchase, development, or any other form of procurement.”

Trump also revealed that the agreement is expected to be formally executed on Sunday and said one of its immediate consequences will be the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

“The Deal is scheduled to get signed tomorrow, and immediately after it is signed, the Hormuz Strait is OPEN TO ALL.”

The president further contrasted the developing agreement with previous U.S. policy toward Iran, emphasizing that the arrangement does not involve direct cash payments or financial transfers.

“Our relationship with Iran is a much different and better one than previous Administrations have had. Unlike Obama’s Hundreds of Billions of Dollars in payments to them, including 1.7 Billion Dollars in green, cold cash, no money will exchange hands,” he added.

Trump also addressed the future of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, asserting that any remaining enriched material would ultimately be removed and destroyed.

“At the appropriate time, when all is calm, we will go in and get the Nuclear Dust, buried deep under the powerful sunken granite mountains, thanks to our beautiful B-2 Bombers and their brilliant pilots, and downblend and destroy it, whether in Iran, or the United States. We look forward to working with Iran, and the entire Middle East, long into the future. Hopefully, this process will all work out quickly, easily, and smoothly. If it doesn’t, we have the ultimate alternative, hopefully never to be used again! Thank you for your attention to this matter!!!”

Senior administration officials indicated that sanctions relief under the agreement will be tied directly to Iranian compliance. According to officials, the extent to which Tehran freezes its nuclear activities, shuts down reactors, and dilutes enriched uranium stockpiles will determine how much economic pressure is lifted and how many frozen assets are released.

At the same time, significant differences appear to remain between the American and Iranian descriptions of the proposed arrangement.

Iranian officials have maintained that the country’s nuclear program will not be addressed in the memorandum of understanding itself and will instead be discussed during subsequent rounds of negotiations. Tehran has also continued to insist, at least publicly, on its position that vessels traveling through the Strait of Hormuz should be subject to transit tariffs, a demand that has not been publicly withdrawn.

{Matzav.com}

A 22-year-old driver from Kafr Qasim was released without being questioned after allegedly striking a chareidi protester during demonstrations Thursday night at the Geha Junction area, prompting outrage among participants and organizers.

According to a report by Channel 14, the driver was released after requesting medical treatment and is expected to be summoned for questioning at a later date. Authorities said the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

The incident occurred during a protest against the arrest of yeshiva bochurim and the ongoing enforcement of military conscription policies affecting the chareidi community.

Witnesses said the driver passed through the area of the demonstration and struck a chareidi protester. Emergency personnel responded to the scene and transported the injured man to a hospital for treatment. His condition was later classified as moderate.

According to Magen David Adom, medical teams evacuated a 21-year-old man who was injured in what protesters described as an intentional vehicular attack near the Ganot Interchange area. The victim reportedly sustained moderate injuries near Mesubim.

Footage of the incident quickly spread online, drawing widespread attention and criticism over the handling of the case.

Police have not yet released findings regarding the circumstances of the incident, and the investigation remains active. As of Friday, the driver had not been formally questioned.

Following the demonstrations, Peleg Yerushalmi issued a statement indicating that the protests would continue and likely intensify.

“The demonstrations are not about to stop—on the contrary, they are expected only to intensify and expand,” the group said.

“The message of the thousands of protesters is clear: Leave the Torah learners alone, and there will be peace here. Continue to persecute them, and you will discover that life here will not return to what it was.”

{Matzav.com}

It is with great sadness that Matzav.com reports the petirah of Rav Yechiel Moskowitz zt”l, a noted marbitz Torah, beloved rebbi, and accomplished talmid chochom, who was niftar at the age of 70.

For decades, Rav Moskowitz dedicated his life to the dissemination of Torah, inspiring generations of talmidim through his warmth, chochmah, and unwavering devotion to their aliyah. As a respected maggid shiur and rebbi at Yeshiva of Bayonne, he left an indelible mark on countless talmidim who benefited from his clear instruction, genuine care, and deep love of Torah. His shiurim reflected not only his vast knowledge but also his ability to connect with each talmid, encouraging them to strive for excellence in learning and avodas Hashem.

His entire life revolved around Torah and chessed. He was known for his humility, refined character, and readiness to assist anyone who sought his guidance. Whether in the beis medrash, at home, or in the community, Rav Moskowitz embodied the ideals he taught, serving as a living example of dedication to Torah and yiras Shamayim.

Rav Moskowitz married Mrs. Shoshana Moskowitz, daughter of Hagaon Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva of Philadelphia. Together, they established a remarkable bayis ne’eman b’Yisroel, building a distinguished family of bnei Torah and bnos Torah.

The levayah will take place on Sunday, tentatively at 2 p.m. at Bais Medrash Govoah. Final details will be announced once finalized.

Yehi zichro baruch.