Feed aggregator

LISTEN:

Former prime minister Naftali Bennett launched a broad series of interviews across Israel’s leading media outlets on Wednesday, presenting a tough platform against the current government, declaring his intention to lead the center-right bloc in upcoming elections, and outlining plans for major changes in the security and law enforcement systems.

Bennett, who has returned to politics with renewed energy, used the interviews to position himself as an experienced governing alternative. He addressed a wide range of issues, including internal security, senior appointments, counterterrorism, and possible legal arrangements for Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. Showing strong confidence, Bennett compared himself to past leaders such as Ben-Gurion and Rabin, who served additional terms, and promised “a pace of action not seen here in 50 years” if elected.

In an interview with Yonit Levi on Channel 12 News, Bennett said he would reassess the roles of senior officials in the security establishment and police if he identified political bias. “Wherever I see cases of political misuse of a position instead of professional, state-focused work, I will certainly cut it off,” Bennett said, adding a firm warning about policing: “There are also elements in the police that are becoming political. Anyone who behaves politically – I will throw them out.”

At the same time, Bennett declined to give a clear answer about leadership of the bloc, refusing to say whether he would step aside for Gadi Eisenkot if Eisenkot were to surpass him in polling.

On security issues, Bennett took a hard line. In an interview with Channel 13 News, he addressed the issue of Jewish extremism in Judea and Samaria, comparing it to other threats facing the country. “There are rioters there – and I will dismantle them just as I will dismantle terrorism in the Negev,” he said, adding in reference to recent incidents: “Just as I will not allow terrorists in Bnei Brak to break into the home of an officer.”

His remarks come amid rising tensions and appear aimed at appealing to voters seeking firm enforcement against all forms of lawlessness. In another interview, with Tali Moreno on Kan News, Bennett described the current government as a “left-wing government,” while pledging that any government he forms would be a “true right-wing government.”

Speaking to Avi Salomon on the Walla website, Bennett described the reaction he has received since returning to politics. “There is no place I go where people don’t tell me, ‘You gave us hope,’” he said. He also described a process of growth since his previous term in 2021, saying he now comes with greater maturity and understanding of governing.

Bennett also sharply criticized senior ministers in the current government. “The current coalition is terrible in every parameter. A national security minister who is a clown and a finance minister who is bad and is transferring billions to draft-dodgers,” he said. He added that the coalition’s only advantage is its total alignment behind one leader, while in his own bloc, “overthinking and maneuvering are very harmful.”

Perhaps the most notable remarks came when Bennett addressed Netanyahu’s future directly. In his interview with Walla, he proposed a framework to resolve the ongoing political and legal situation: “In October we are going to establish a broad Zionist government, and I will invite Likud to join. Netanyahu needs to go home.”

Bennett added that he supports an arrangement of clemency and retirement for Netanyahu, citing respect for his past and his age. “He is not a young man, approaching 80, not in the best of health. I don’t want to see him going to prison in an orange uniform. There is a large public that admires him, and we don’t need that. He should step aside, I will take the country and open a new golden era.”

{Matzav.com}

Minister Ze’ev Elkin said the chances of passing the draft law in the current Knesset are “very low,” placing primary responsibility on lawmakers from Agudas Yisrael, during a wide-ranging interview addressing security developments in the north, the cancellation of the Meron Lag BaOmer gathering, and tensions within the chareidi sector.

Speaking in a studio interview with journalist Yishai Cohen, Elkin, a member of the security cabinet and the minister overseeing rehabilitation of Israel’s north, outlined the current situation along the Lebanon border and defended recent decisions made by the government.

At the start of the interview, Elkin addressed the ongoing security situation in the north, rejecting claims that a ceasefire is in effect. “First of all, it is clear that this is not a ceasefire because there is fire; it is ridiculous to deny the truth,” he said. “But why is Hezbollah firing? Because the IDF is operating. Despite the ceasefire, the IDF maintains a security zone and is dismantling terror infrastructure there. This is important activity, and Hezbollah is under pressure.”

Elkin acknowledged the difficulty facing residents in the region but said there are no easy alternatives. “I am there, I see the reality, it is not simple. The alternative is to withdraw forces and the firing will stop—but that means Hezbollah will return to southern Lebanon.”

He also addressed the controversy surrounding restrictions on access to Meron for Lag BaOmer, pushing back against criticism from Agudas Yisrael representatives. “I do not understand the anger. There is currently a war in the north. If Teddy Stadium were located next to the facilities we have in Meron, there would be no Teddy. The question is location and level of threat.”

“You can be angry at a government that wants to protect the citizens of Israel who want to go up to Meron, most of them supporters of MK Porush and others. Their lives are precious to us, and we do not want to endanger them. Hezbollah is not stupid; it knows there is a gathering and aims at the military facilities on the mountain. With all the pain, saving lives takes precedence over the Meron celebration.”

On the draft law, Elkin struck a pessimistic tone and directly blamed Agudas Yisrael lawmakers. “It is hard for me to see the law passing, certainly close to the end of the Knesset term. The main responsibility lies with the members of Knesset from AgudatsYisrael. For the thousandth time, they are making the mistake. Every time there was an opportunity for a reasonable compromise, they stood at the extreme and pushed to say no, and after two years they said, ‘what a mistake that we did not take it.’”

Elkin also warned the chareidi public against expectations of a better political outcome after elections. “Anyone who convinces himself that after the elections there will be a better coalition—what is the common ground between Bennett and Lapid besides hatred of Netanyahu? That is the whole issue for the chareidi public.”

Addressing recent incidents involving extremist protesters breaking into the home of a senior military police officer, Elkin strongly condemned the actions. “I strongly condemn this. Taking the law into your own hands and breaking into a private home? Where are we heading? Are there not enough crazy people in Kaplan? Will they start breaking into the homes of rabbis? Of right-wing politicians?”

When asked why chareidi lawmakers have remained largely silent, Elkin suggested they are also under pressure. “They also suffer from the force of the extremists; it may be that they are afraid to anger them. They too are under terror. The extremists are a minority, but they riot even against the leaders of the chareidi public themselves.”

In closing, Elkin addressed the emerging alliance between Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid. “It is a waste of Bennett’s time to say he is right-wing after joining with Lapid. This is an ‘alliance of the fearful.’ Bennett is deathly afraid that Eisenkot will gain strength. He understands he will either have 20 seats or zero; he does not have his own voter base. Therefore, he is willing to pay any price and gave Lapid nearly 50% of the list.”

As Lag BaOmer approaches, officials in Yerushalayim are finalizing plans for the central hadlakah of Rav Meilech Biderman, which has been relocated from Meron due to security restrictions. In an interview on Kol Chai’s News Anash program, Deputy Mayor Tzachi Brim outlined the logistics, including location, transportation, and safety measures.

Brim, who recently returned from visits to Meron, described the significant shift of the event from the mountain to Yerushalayim. The change comes after limitations imposed this year by security authorities in light of threats from Lebanon.

“Rav Biderman cannot light in Compound 89 as he does every year, and thousands want to feel part of the hilula. So we found an alternative location in Yerushalayim, in the main public thoroughfare,” he said.

He detailed where the event will take place, noting that the hadlakah will stretch from Golda Meir Boulevard through Shefa Chaim, including Rechov HaTorah and Yaakovzon Street. A designated area is also being prepared specifically for women.

Because of the tight timeline for organizing the event, Brim said a decision was made to forgo building traditional parentches (bleachers). “There is no time for negotiations. We want a safe event, without being drawn into uncertain situations,” he explained.

He added that the plan to hold the hadlakah in Yerushalayim had been under discussion for weeks, and that the opportunity has now materialized. “Several cities wanted to host the event, but he chose to do it here. It is a great privilege for Yerushalayim,” Brim said.

Regarding transportation, Brim said talks are ongoing with the Transportation Ministry to increase bus service from Bnei Brak, Beitar Illit, Beit Shemesh, Elad, and other major chareidi population centers.

Addressing the Boyaner hadlakah in Meron, Brim clarified that it is still expected to take place. “The Rebbe will light. We are waiting for the final outline and will act accordingly,” he said, though he cautioned that without organized transportation, attendance in Meron will likely be very limited.

Brim concluded by stating that Yerushalayim is prepared to accommodate the large crowds expected for the event.

{Matzav.com}

The appointment of Rav Zevadia Cohen as chief rabbi of Tel Aviv–Yaffo is being seen as a shift in tone in one of Israel’s most complex cities. In his first interview following his selection, Rav Cohen laid out a philosophy centered on connection rather than confrontation, sharing powerful stories from his work in the rabbinical courts and expressing confidence that even in Tel Aviv, hearts can be opened and people can be drawn closer to Judaism.

Speaking on Kol Chai’s main news program, Rav Cohen described his long-standing involvement in the city and emphasized that he is not an outsider. “I was elected in 2007 as head of the rabbinical court in Tel Aviv and came to the city. I deal with the most sensitive cases in the rabbinical courts,” he said.

He explained that his approach was shaped by years of handling complex issues such as lineage questions, divorce cases, and marriage permissions. Rather than taking a confrontational stance, he said his goal is to help. “I always say — I am not against you, I am with you, I am here to help you solve the problem,” he said, adding that “the moment the other side feels you are with them — hearts open.”

Rav Cohen rejected the notion that Tel Aviv residents are opposed to religion. On the contrary, he said most people retain an emotional connection to tradition. “I don’t think most people don’t want to see a rabbi… every Jew has something emotional toward tradition,” he said. He added that even those who seem distant often reconnect during difficult moments. “In times of mourning, in times of distress — that is when the heart opens, and you just need to light the candle.”

To illustrate his approach, Rav Cohen shared a story from the rabbinical court involving a man who had refused for years to grant a divorce, until he was eventually arrested in Israel. “He said to me — everywhere they called me wicked, they didn’t listen to me, I felt like I was nothing,” Rav Cohen recalled. When he gave the man a chance to speak, the situation changed. “He said to me — kevod harav, you listened to me, whatever you say I will do. We arranged the divorce on the spot.”

Rav Cohen said the moment left a deep impression on him. “He held my hand and cried, told me ‘you revived me today, I felt like a human being,’” he said. For him, the lesson is clear: “You have to give every person their place, even if you don’t agree with them — to listen to them, and then hearts open.”

At the same time, he stressed that a welcoming approach does not mean compromising on halachic standards. “Our role is to preserve the religion of Moshe and Yisroel,” he said, noting that when something cannot be permitted, that must be stated clearly. He recounted a case involving a young couple who wished to marry despite a halachic prohibition — the man being a Kohen and the woman a “chalalah.” Ultimately, they accepted the psak. “They told me: if according to the law of Moshe and Yisroel it is forbidden, we will not do it — and they cried in tears.”

Concluding the interview, Rav Cohen expressed optimism about the future of the city. “There is a lot to do in Tel Aviv, but you have to know the way — not with a threatening approach, but with pleasantness,” he said. He believes that this path will allow for bringing people closer and sanctifying Hashem’s name, even in what is often viewed as Israel’s most secular city.

{Matzav.com}

An extraordinary story of hashgacha pratis unfolded last Friday in Kiryas Yoel, Monroe, when a young man who was called in off the street to complete a minyan at a last-minute bris milah was revealed to be the prospective chosson in a shidduch that had been on the verge of falling apart.

The shidduch had already reached its final stages, with both sides planning to meet on Motzaei Shabbos to finalize the remaining details. However, on Friday afternoon, the kallah’s mother heard a troubling report claiming that the bochur was “short.” This raised doubts in her mind, and the question of whether to proceed with the shidduch suddenly became very real.

Seeking clarity, the kallah’s father went to consult with the Satmar Rebbe. Those at the Rebbe’s home understood the urgency of the situation and arranged for the concerned father to meet with the Rebbe half an hour before candle-lighting time.

At the same time, at the Eishes Chayil recovery center, veteran mohel Reb Aharon Weiss noticed that one of the infants there had reached his eighth day and was due for a bris milah. The originally scheduled mohel had postponed the procedure, claiming the baby was suffering from jaundice. Reb Aharon, however, determined that the child was fit for a bris without concern.

Reb Aharon contacted the baby’s father, and with Shabbos fast approaching and the original mohel unavailable, he suggested an unconventional solution: “Go to the Rebbe’s home. The Rebbe is an expert mohel, and it will also be easier to quickly arrange a minyan there.”

Just minutes before the onset of Shabbos, the Rebbe’s home became the setting for a remarkable scene. Preparations for the bris moved quickly: the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin served as kvatter, while the Rebbe himself acted as both sandek and mohel. Yet one essential element was missing — a minyan. At that moment, only eight men were present.

At that very moment, the kallah’s father arrived for his scheduled meeting, bringing the count to nine. One of the household bochurim rushed outside to find a tenth person to complete the minyan.

The person who happened to be passing by at that exact moment was none other than the very bochur in question. Unaware that his future father-in-law was inside, he agreed to come in and complete the minyan for the mitzvah.

The kallah’s father immediately recognized the bochur and quietly signaled to his wife, who was nearby, to take a look. The mother, who had only hours earlier been concerned about his height, observed him and responded with surprise: “This is what they call short? Not at all. The rumor was far from the truth.”

With that, all doubts disappeared. In the uplifting atmosphere of the bris milah at the Rebbe’s home, the matter came full circle in a striking way. The shidduch was soon finalized, as hashgacha pratis connected a bris milah with the building of a new Jewish home.

The story highlights the remarkable ways in which Hakadosh Baruch Hu orchestrates events. A postponed bris, a mohel’s creative solution, a father seeking guidance at the last moment, and a bochur passing by at precisely the right time all came together to form a powerful account of hashgacha pratis.

{Matzav.com}

[Videos below.] New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani drew criticism Wednesday after offering what observers described as a notably restrained welcome to King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their visit to the city, a departure from the warm receptions traditionally extended by past mayors.

Although Mamdani appeared cordial while greeting Charles at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, the interaction followed remarks he made earlier in the day suggesting he would urge the monarch to return a controversial diamond tied to Britain’s colonial past.

The 77-year-old king, making his first visit to New York in nearly two decades, smiled as he shook Mamdani’s hand and said, “Thank you,” after participating in a wreath-laying ceremony honoring victims of the September 11 attacks.

The brief exchange between the mayor and the king appeared friendly on the surface, as they spoke for a short time while Michael Bloomberg, who chairs the memorial, stood nearby. Members of the press were kept at a distance, according to video footage.

Details of their conversation were not disclosed. A spokesperson for City Hall said only that the two leaders “exchanged pleasantries.” Mamdani departed the event roughly an hour after arriving.

Earlier, during a separate press appearance, the 34-year-old democratic socialist was asked what message he might deliver if given the opportunity to speak with the king.

“If I was to speak to the king… I would probably encourage him to return the Kohinoor diamond,” Mamdani quipped — referring to one of the worlds’ largest cut diamonds, which was taken from India and is now part of the British Crown Jewels.

The Kohinoor diamond, weighing 105 carats and housed in the Tower of London, has a long and turbulent history, having passed between rulers over centuries. It is widely viewed by critics as a relic of imperial conquest, with some even describing it as “cursed.”

Mamdani’s tone toward the royal visit drew backlash from some political observers, who argued that the mayor’s approach was inappropriate for such a diplomatic occasion.

“The sitting mayor of New York City shouldn’t give us a history lesson while politicizing the visit of the sitting King of England. He should’ve enthusiastically welcomed him, not reluctantly,” said Ken Frydman, a Democratic operative and former spokesman for former mayor Rudy Giuliani.

“We know the history,” he added. “No one has forgotten colonialism.”

Another longtime political figure said Mamdani missed an opportunity to showcase hospitality, especially if he hopes to follow in the footsteps of admired predecessors.

“Mamdani should have invited the royals to Gracie Mansion. The royals are very popular in this country,” said George Arzt, who served as press secretary to former Mayor Ed Koch.

“LaGuardia met the royals and wined and dined them. If he wants to emulate LaGuardia, he should do what LaGuardia did with the royals.”

Historical precedent underscores the contrast. Fiorello LaGuardia personally welcomed King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1939, escorting them through the city and encouraging public participation in their visit.

In 1957, Robert Wagner organized a ticker-tape parade for Queen Elizabeth II, while Abe Beame’s family welcomed her with flowers during a later visit.

When Queen Elizabeth II returned in 2010, Bloomberg delivered a glowing speech highlighting the historic ties between New York and the British monarchy.

‘[We’re] ’grateful for your friendship, leadership and support,” Bloomberg gushed to her at the British Garden at Hanover Square, the last stop on her one-day tour that also included a speech at the United Nations and a similar ceremony at Ground Zero.

Bloomberg and Giuliani were later honored by the late queen with knighthoods.

Mamdani’s handling of the current visit stood in contrast even before the event began. He initially declined to confirm whether he would attend the memorial ceremony, only announcing days later that he would be present, while making minimal mention of the royal guests.

“I will be attending the wreath-laying … to pay tribute to the more than 3,000 who were killed in the horrific terror attacks of Sept. 11,” Mamdani said Monday. “And that will be the extent of my meeting with the king and with others who are present.”

The mayor’s ideological views, including his criticism of British imperial history — which he has described as a “story of oppression, subjugation and discrimination” — have further shaped perceptions of his stance toward the monarchy.

Meanwhile, political alliances surrounding Mamdani have also drawn attention. Jeremy Corbyn and Bell Ribeiro-Addy, both left-leaning members of the British Parliament, met with local allies in New York during the visit. Corbyn, who previously faced allegations of antisemitism, had volunteered for Mamdani’s campaign.

At Wednesday’s press conference, Mamdani reiterated his focus on the solemn purpose of the day when asked again about his message to the king.

“If you have a moment to chat with King Charles today down at the World Trade Center Memorial, how do you deepen your role as mayor? Do you see it as being sort of a polite, diplomatic moment? You just say hello and welcome, or is there anything else you can say to him? Do you have a specific message you might want to deliver?” the reporter asked.

The mayor replied, “I’ll be attending a wreath laying alongside a number of other elected officials, including Governor [Kathy] Hochul and Governor [Mikie] Sherrill. And the focus of that wreath laying is to honor the more than 3,000 New Yorkers who were killed in the horrific terror attacks of September 11, and that’s what I’m really looking to do at that event.”

Pressed further, he returned to his earlier remark.

“You haven’t thought about anything you might say?”

“If I was to speak to the king, separately from that, I would probably encourage him to return the Kohinoor Diamond,” Mamdani responded.

Later, King Charles and Queen Camilla were escorted into the memorial by Bloomberg, where they placed white flowers near the reflecting pools and observed a moment of silence.

The couple, dressed in coordinated navy attire, also spent time with families of victims from the September 11 attacks. Uniformed firefighters and police officers stood nearby during the visit.

They greeted Hochul and Sherrill before meeting Mamdani, appearing to spend a somewhat longer moment in conversation with the mayor than with other officials.

Beth Hillman, president and CEO of the memorial, described the visit as deeply meaningful.

“9/11 was an attack on people around the world. It hit hardest here in New York City, but 67 citizens of the United Kingdom were killed on that day. People from 90 countries were killed along with all the Americans,” she told The NY Post.

“It’s an important way to demonstrate resilience, to demonstrate unity and to remind people of the ways we can come together and that seems something that the Crown has worked to do.”

Charles’ trip marked his first return to New York since visiting with Queen Elizabeth II in 2007, when they toured Harlem’s Promise Academy and interacted with students.

The previous visit by a reigning British monarch came in 2010, when Queen Elizabeth II traveled to Ground Zero during a severe heat wave to lay a wreath.

That visit closely mirrored the current one, as she was joined by Bloomberg and then-Gov. David Paterson, and met with families of first responders who lost their lives in the attacks.

{Matzav.com}

The Trump administration has filed a lawsuit against the state of New Jersey, challenging a recently enacted law that prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing masks during routine operations, arguing that the state does not have the power to regulate federal agents.

The measure, signed into law in March by Gov. Mikie Sherrill, was widely seen as targeting federal immigration officers, particularly those with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, who have come under scrutiny for frequently concealing their identities while carrying out enforcement actions.

Opponents of the practice argue that agents use face coverings to avoid being held accountable for forceful enforcement tactics, and warn that masking also makes it easier for civilians to impersonate officers. Federal officials counter that masks are necessary to protect agents, citing what they describe as a growing number of threats against personnel.

“Officers face a choice of whether to unmask and identify themselves when it may be dangerous to themselves, others, and the operation, or face the threat of enforcement,” states the lawsuit. “Either option presents serious risks and harms and purposefully works to chill the enforcement of federal law.”

Under the statute, law enforcement officers at the local, state, and federal levels are generally barred from wearing face coverings during routine duties, though the law provides exemptions for undercover assignments and situations involving credible threats.

In response, state Attorney General Jennifer Davenport defended the law, calling it both lawful and necessary, and vowed to fight the federal challenge.

“The New Jersey Law Enforcement Officer Protection Act protects both law enforcement and the public by limiting the use of masking while including careful exceptions to protect law enforcement safety and operational needs,” Davenport said. “To this day, the Federal Government still cannot explain when its officials need to mask or forgo identification in violation of this law, or why they actually need to do so, particularly given the serious safety concerns inherent in anonymized policing.”

Federal attorneys contend that New Jersey’s statute closely mirrors a similar law in California that was struck down, arguing that it improperly interferes with federal authority. State lawmakers, however, maintain that their version is broader and more carefully structured, applying uniformly to all law enforcement agencies, and therefore stands on firmer legal ground.

They also referenced a prior ruling by a federal appeals court that found New Jersey could not block private prison companies from partnering with the federal government to operate immigration detention facilities.

“New Jersey has steadfastly refused to learn this lesson,” the lawsuit states. “S3114 is even more obviously unconstitutional, as it directly, purposefully, and dangerously regulates all federal law enforcement officers in the performance of their official federal duties. Such blatant disregard for the Constitution is not merely a political statement, but is instead deliberate action that jeopardizes the public safety of all Americans.”

The case, filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court in New Jersey, names the state, Sherrill, and Davenport as defendants. The complaint asks the court to strike down the law and prevent the state from enforcing it.

The filing also makes clear that federal authorities do not intend to follow the law, even if it remains in place.

“To be clear, the Federal Government will not comply with this blatantly unconstitutional law,” the complaint states. “But the threat of enforcement by Defendants chills individual officers from protecting themselves and performing their duties. The consequences for public safety are severe.”

The lawsuit marks the latest in a growing series of legal clashes between New Jersey and the Trump administration. The state has taken part in dozens of cases challenging federal policies, while the administration has pursued its own legal actions against the state, including disputes over immigration enforcement and access to voter data.

“New Jersey responded thoughtfully and carefully to these profound public safety concerns, and we look forward to responding in court,” Davenport said. “The Federal Government’s contrary approach will only undermine public trust and accountability, and make it easier for criminals to impersonate our officers.”

{Matzav.com}

A bipartisan House resolution introduced on Wednesday condemns antisemitic rhetoric by online personalities, including far-left streamer Hasan Piker and conservative commentator Candace Owens, and calls for stronger action from public officials and social media platforms to counter hate speech.

The measure, introduced by Reps. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) and Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), denounces “antisemitic hate-filled rhetoric and content disseminated by prominent online personalities” and urges elected officials to “unequivocally condemn antisemitism,” including when amplified by high-profile media figures.

Piker is cited in the resolution for past antisemitic comments, including referring to Orthodox Jews as “inbred.” The Anti-Defamation League has said he “has a history of rhetoric that sanitizes violence and denigrates Jewish people” and has “expressed support for designated terrorist organizations and antisemitic ideas on many occasions.”

Owens, also named in the measure, is described as promoting conspiracy theories about Jews and Israel. The ADL has said she “actively amplifies antisemitic figures on her shows,” giving a platform to individuals who have praised Hitler, trivialized the Holocaust or promoted “Jewish mafia” narratives. Owens was named “Antisemite of the Year” in 2024 by the group StopAntisemitism.

“Hatred is hatred, period. It doesn’t matter whether it comes from the far right or the far left,” Gottheimer stated. “We cannot be selective in calling out antisemitism. When influential voices spread conspiracy theories, promote terrorism or dehumanize Jewish people, it fuels real-world violence and intimidation. We must stand up and speak out.”

Owens has an estimated 35 million followers across platforms, while Piker has about 11.5 million, according to the ADL.

“With an audience of millions, they have a responsibility to confront hatred and bigotry in every form, not to amplify it to the masses,” Lawler said. “So if they won’t call it out, I will.” JNS

{Matzav.com}

The city of Netanya is mourning the petirah of Rav Mordechai Yosef Silberberg zt”l, a longtime mechanech and respected figure in the Kiryat Sanz community, who passed away at the age of 84. He was widely known for shaping generations of students and for his deep connection to Torah learning and teaching.

Rav Silberberg was regarded as a unique personality who blended the worlds of Torah scholarship and chassidus rooted in earlier generations. He was born in the Old City of Yerushalayim on June 18, 1942, to his father, Rav Chaim Menachem, a close talmid of the author of Chovos HaTalmidim of Piaseczna, and his mother, Leah Rivka Speizman. From his home, he absorbed a strong foundation in spiritual growth and avodas Hashem.

At just 11 years old, he was sent by his father to study at the Tomchei Temimim yeshiva in Lod, where he advanced significantly in both Torah and chassidus under the guidance of the renowned mashgiach Rav Chaim Shlomo Kesselman, who instilled in him a lifelong sense of dedication and self-sacrifice.

As a young man, Rav Silberberg traveled extensively, reaching out to children and bringing them closer to Torah observance. Together with the rav of Bnei Brak, Rav Moshe Yehuda Leib Landau, he helped establish the first Talmud Torah in Rishon LeZion. He later taught Torah at the Tifrach Yeshiva.

In 1970, he married Esther Hershkovitz, a distinguished mechaneches in her own right. At their wedding, the Sanzer Rebbe, Rav Yekusiel Yehuda Halberstam, the Shefa Chaim, was the mesader kiddushin. The couple later settled in Kiryat Sanz in Netanya, where Rav Silberberg remained closely connected to his rabbeim throughout his life.

He was known for his unwavering commitment to tefillah, especially his daily participation in Shacharis at neitz, which he approached with deep reverence.

A modest individual, he avoided personal recognition, dedicating himself entirely to Torah learning and service of Hashem. He was admired for his refined character, often mediating between people with calmness and warmth, and treating everyone with respect and kindness.

Even after retiring, Rav Silberberg remained active, continuing to learn Torah and deliver shiurim to the public until his final days. For decades, he stood alongside his wife in her leadership roles as head of chinuch institutions in Kiryat Sanz and within the Yachad network. He contributed to shaping the institutions’ educational philosophy and assisted in preparing talks for talmidim. He devoted significant time to studying the teachings of Polish chassidic dynasties, particularly those of Kozhnitz, Grodzisk, and Piaseczna.

He is survived by a large and accomplished family, including children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who continue in his path of Torah and mitzvos.

The levayah was held at the main beis medrash in Kiryat Sanz, Netanya, proceeding to the clocal emetery for burial.

Yehi zichro boruch.

{Matzav.com}

Florida lawmakers have passed a revised congressional map that is expected to give Republicans a significant advantage, potentially adding four seats to their total in the U.S. House ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

The plan now heads to the desk of Ron DeSantis for approval, positioning it as a political win for President Donald Trump, who resides in Florida, as Republicans seek to maintain control of Congress.

The legislative action came shortly after the Supreme Court of the United States issued a 6-3 ruling that reduced the strength of the Voting Rights Act. DeSantis pointed to that decision as grounds for revisiting and altering the state’s congressional districts mid-decade.

DeSantis welcomed the ruling, stating it “invalidates” the provisions of the Florida Constitution “requiring the use of race in redistricting.”

The measure passed strictly along party lines, with Republicans supporting the new map and Democrats opposing it.

At present, Florida’s congressional delegation includes 20 Republican-held seats and seven held by Democrats, along with one vacant seat that leans Democratic. Under the newly approved plan, Republicans could gain a total of 24 favorable districts.

The redrawn map would remove four seats currently held by Democrats, including one each in the Tampa and Orlando regions and two in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Legal challenges are expected, and the case could serve as an early test of how courts apply the Supreme Court’s recent decision.

Florida’s move is part of a broader national struggle over redistricting, as both parties work to shape congressional boundaries to their advantage.

Republicans in states like Florida and Texas are attempting to offset Democratic-led efforts in states such as Virginia and California, where new maps are likely to benefit Democrats.

Democrats would need to gain just three additional seats in November to take control of the House, increasing the stakes for both sides as they pursue favorable district lines.

The Supreme Court’s ruling on Wednesday also gave Republicans momentum by striking down a majority-Black congressional district in Louisiana and limiting the reach of the Voting Rights Act, opening the door for map changes in several Southern states.

However, Florida may be one of the few Southern states able to implement new district maps in time for this election cycle. In states like South Carolina and Mississippi, filing deadlines have already passed, and preparations for primary elections are already underway.

{Matzav.com}

A Minneapolis daycare tied to a sweeping federal fraud investigation was found sitting empty on Wednesday, one day after FBI agents raided the site along with roughly 20 other locations as part of a massive probe into alleged abuse of social services programs in Minnesota, the NY Post reports.

The facility, known as the “Quality Learing Center,” appeared deserted, with its original misspelled signage removed and replaced by a notice alerting passersby that the premises are under video surveillance.

The structure itself has also undergone visible changes. Once painted a light green shade, the exterior has since been redone in a muted blue tone. Newly posted “no trespassing” signs now flank the entrance, signaling that the property is no longer in operation.

Items scattered around the site added to the sense of abandonment. Striped hula hoops were seen discarded in a dumpster, while a lone stroller sat unused in the parking lot.

A security guard stationed nearby said he had never observed children entering or exiting the building and noted that, according to information he received, the center had shut down earlier this year.

“It’s been deserted for three years from what I found out from management. It’s interesting,” he told The NY Post.

“I wasn’t even sure what was there.”

Questions about the legitimacy of the center first surfaced in December after a video posted by YouTuber Nick Shirley suggested the location was inactive at the time.

A nearby resident echoed those concerns, saying they had not seen any children at the site until reporters began asking questions, at which point activity at the facility suddenly increased.

“That parking lot is empty all the time, and I was under the impression that place is permanently closed,” they said.

Looking through the glass entrance revealed little indication of regular operations, with only a grimy tile floor visible and boxes piled randomly in a hallway and near what appeared to be a front desk.

Federal authorities executed the raid on Tuesday as part of a broader investigation into suspected fraud involving social services funds, with the Trump administration estimating potential losses in Minnesota alone could reach $19 billion.

Prosecutors have already brought charges in related schemes. Since September, seven individuals have been indicted for allegedly enlisting members of the Somali community to sign up children for nonexistent autism services, generating approximately $14 million in fraudulent payments.

In a separate but related case, at least 65 defendants have been charged in the so-called Feeding Our Future scandal, which allegedly siphoned off roughly $250 million in taxpayer funds. Numerous defendants have entered guilty pleas in that case, which federal prosecutors began pursuing during the Biden administration.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump is again pressing for Israeli President Isaac Herzog to grant a pardon to Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu, arguing that such a decision would significantly boost Herzog’s stature.

Speaking in an interview with Axios, Trump said that if Herzog were to pardon Netanyahu, it would elevate him in the eyes of the public. “I like the guy, Herzog,” Trump said. “He will be a national hero if he gives Bibi a pardon. I will very much appreciate it.”

Trump also revealed that he had a conversation with Netanyahu on Tuesday night, during which the prime minister mentioned his ongoing corruption trial and that he was scheduled to return to court the next day. Trump voiced frustration over the situation, saying: “In the middle of a war? Give me a break.”

According to Trump, the legal case against Netanyahu is harming Israel’s reputation. He brushed aside the accusations, describing them as involving “wine and cigars,” and added: “Bibi is a wartime prime minister. He can’t have this hanging over his head.”

The president has repeatedly called for Netanyahu to receive a pardon in recent months, characterizing the trial as a “witch hunt” and drawing comparisons to his own legal battles.

Earlier in the week, Herzog convened Netanyahu’s legal representatives along with the attorney general and state prosecutor to explore possible ways to resolve the case. Herzog has made clear that he does not intend to consider issuing a pardon until those discussions are completed.

Trump, however, expressed doubt that a compromise solution would work, saying Netanyahu “can’t take” such a deal and instead needs a full pardon.

Netanyahu continues to deny all allegations and has given no indication that he is prepared to admit any wrongdoing, which is a legal prerequisite for receiving a presidential pardon in Israel. Any plea deal could also impose limits on his ability to remain in public office.

In earlier comments reported by Axios, Trump had taken a harsher tone toward Herzog over the matter, although in his most recent remarks his approach appeared more restrained.

{Matzav.com}

Concern is growing at Yeshivas Banecha Shavim in Gilo after one of its talmidim was arrested earlier this week by the Military Police and sentenced to 20 days in a military prison. Speaking with Nati Kalish on Kol Chai’s News Anash program, Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yehuda Menachem recounted the details of the arrest, the family’s distress, and his concerns about the pressure the bochur may face in custody.

According to Rav Menachem, the day began routinely, but when the bochur failed to show up for learning, it became clear that he had been taken during the night.

“At 3:30 in the morning they came to the house, loud banging on the door. They are simple people, they were frightened, they opened — and they simply took him,” he said. He added that the bochur was cut off from any communication for an entire day: “He was only given the right to call today. The parents didn’t know where he was”.

Rav Menachem described the bochur as a gentle, quiet, and well-liked young man. “An intelligent student, loves Torah, doesn’t harm anyone,” he said. He explained that the family is unfamiliar with legal and military systems, and that the yeshiva has taken on the responsibility of helping them navigate the situation. “We are their only help. Even the connection to the lawyer is being handled by us.”

In response to the situation, the yeshiva has begun organized tefillos for his release. “We distributed tefillah sheets, asking for a close salvation,” Rav Menachem said. At the same time, he expressed serious concern about the emotional strain on the bochur. “We are afraid he will break. He is delicate, sensitive, not equipped to deal with this pressure machine”.

Concluding the interview, Rav Menachem stressed that the yeshiva will continue supporting both the bochur and his family until he is released. “It pains us very much. We hope to hear good news.”

{Matzav.com}

Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir was granted a unique heter halachah by his rav, Rabbi Dov Lior, permitting him to enter the entirety of Har Habayis, including areas that are ordinarily off-limits to the broader public due to their heightened kedushah.

The matter came to light following a visit by Ben-Gvir to the home of Rav Lior, who serves as the manhig ruchani of the Otzma Yehudit party.

It should be pointed out that all the leading poskim of this and previous generations have forbidden entry to the Har Habayis.

During their meeting, Rav Lior presented a detailed map outlining the halachically permitted route for those ascending Har Habayis, highlighting the importance of remaining strictly within those designated areas to avoid entering places that are assur due to their sanctity. In general, Rav Lior allows visits to Har Habayis only under specific conditions—limited to the permitted pathways and following proper tevilah in a mikvah.

However, the rav explained—according to a report in Matzav Haruach—that Minister Ben-Gvir’s situation is distinct from that of the general public. Due to his position within the Israeli government, a separate psak applies to him, rooted in the concept of “sovereign control” of the State of Israel and the Jewish people over the Har Habayis. Based on this reasoning, he is allowed to enter even those areas where there exists a halachic prohibition for others.

Rav Lior elaborated on the reasoning behind this ruling, stating: “This is done through the importance of the concept of sovereignty of the State of Israel and the Jewish people on the Har Habayis, expressed by a minister of the State of Israel ascending and demonstrating presence in these places. Of course, it is desirable to do so with as much solemnity as possible, befitting these holy sites.”

{Matzav.com}

Two Jewish men injured in a terror stabbing in London on Wednesday have been identified, as communal leaders urge the public to daven for their recovery following the attack targeting visibly Jewish individuals.

The victims, Moshe Rand (34) and Moshe Shine (76), were attacked in broad daylight by a terrorist while on their way back from Shacharis.

The incident took place in the Golders Green area of north London, a neighborhood with a large Jewish population, where a knife-wielding assailant attacked passersby in what authorities have classified as a terror incident. The victims sustained serious injuries and were taken to the hospital for treatment.

Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, the Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom, released the names of the injured and called for tefillos on their behalf.

“Please join me in praying for a swift and complete recovery for the victims of today’s attack: Nachman Moshe ben Chaya Sarah and Moshe ben Baila,” the Chief Rabbi wrote.

Police apprehended the suspect at the scene shortly after the attack. Authorities indicated that the assailant deliberately targeted Jewish victims, and the case is being investigated as an act of terrorism.

The stabbing comes amid heightened concern within the Jewish community in London following a rise in antisemitic incidents in recent months. Community leaders and security organizations have increased vigilance, while calling for continued tefillah and support for the victims as they recover.

Officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.

The criminal case filed Tuesday against David Morens, a longtime adviser to Dr. Anthony Fauci, has intensified demands that federal prosecutors bring charges against Fauci over his past testimony to Congress regarding U.S.-funded research in China before the COVID-19 outbreak.

With the statute of limitations set to expire on May 11, authorities have roughly two weeks remaining to pursue potential charges tied to Fauci’s sworn denial that he supported “gain of function” research involving bat coronaviruses in Wuhan, the same city where the pandemic first emerged.

Morens, 78, is now facing multiple federal counts, including conspiracy, as well as allegations of destroying, altering, or falsifying records tied to government investigations, and concealing or removing materials connected to inquiries into COVID-19’s origins. If convicted on all charges, he could receive a sentence of up to 51 years.

Critics argue that Fauci, 85, should face greater scrutiny, contending that ultimate responsibility lies with him. They say the case against Morens only underscores broader concerns about Fauci’s conduct and should lead to direct legal action.

President Trump said in a March 31 phone interview with The Post that he planned to “look into” Fauci’s situation. Republican officials have also indicated that acting attorney general Todd Blanche, who is seeking to keep the role permanently, may consider challenging the validity of preemptive pardons issued by President Joe Biden, including one granted to Fauci using an autopen.

“99% of this country has no idea who Morens is,” said Oversight Project President Mike Howell. “It’s Fauci that they will blame for one of the worst government catastrophes in history in America. And so the test is Fauci. The Morens indictment is great, and we applaud it. But there are a lot of people out there that want to see Fauci held to account for the damage he wrought.”

Howell, whose organization previously submitted a proposed indictment against Morens to the Justice Department, argued that the adviser’s actions were closely tied to Fauci’s leadership.

“[Fauci] lied about one of the most damaging events in American history routinely and was behind a massive coverup of the key factors,” Howell said.

Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, who has publicly accused Fauci of misleading Congress, said investigators have been reviewing evidence for an extended period and claimed the current administration has been more transparent.

“we’ve been looking through a lot of information on this for the last year or so. The Trump administration has been much more forthcoming than the Biden administration ever was.”

Paul said there may be grounds for multiple charges.

“On Anthony Fauci’s case, we think lying to Congress is one felony,” Paul said in an interview on Tuesday. “We also think that destroying federal records and advising others to destroy federal records is also a felony. So I think there’s opportunity there… There was a vast both organized and unorganized conspiracy to cover up the fact that the US government was funding the research that led to the pandemic.”

Questions surrounding Biden’s use of an autopen to issue pardons have also become part of the debate. Trump has argued that Biden’s condition at the time may have prevented him from knowingly authorizing those pardons, raising the possibility of legal challenges.

Biden, however, told the New York Times last year that he was aware of the pardons.

Paul said testing the legitimacy of those pardons would likely require prosecuting someone who had already been granted clemency.

“To determine the validity of those pardons, ‘you would have to indict somebody who’s been pardoned. And I think it’s worth a challenge,’” Paul said. “There’s some questions that have never been asked before. Is the pardon power so broad that you can pardon people for a period of time and not for a conviction? [Fauci’s pardon is] for a decade period of time for unspecified crimes.”

He added that Biden’s awareness at the time could become a key issue.

“You’d have to determine whether [Biden] was aware these pardons happened… My guess is that somebody around him will make him aware of which pardons he did by the time they get to trial, [but what matters is] whether he was aware at the time.”

“I’m for pushing it to find out, and I think the only way to find out is to take it before a court.”

Paul also suggested that any actions taken after the pardon could still expose Fauci to legal jeopardy.

“it might involve the question of conspiracy charges.”

If convicted of lying to Congress, Fauci could face up to five years in prison, with additional penalties possible if conspiracy charges are pursued.

Neil McCabe, who previously worked in the Trump Justice Department, said earlier DOJ leadership had accepted the validity of Biden’s clemency actions.

“from the beginning, Trump’s DOJ recognized and enforced Biden’s autopen clemencies — even the tranches [of prison commutations] that extended into the current administration.”

“Trump said anything done by autopen was invalid, so let’s see how [Blanche] handles it now that it is his decision,” McCabe added.

Fauci served as Biden’s top medical adviser in 2021 and 2022 and was widely seen early in the pandemic as a leading public health voice. However, critics have pointed to changing guidance over time, including evolving recommendations on mask usage.

On his final full day in office, Biden issued Fauci a broad pardon covering “any offenses” dating back to 2014.

Attempts to reach Fauci for comment were unsuccessful, though a voicemail was left at a number believed to be associated with him. The Justice Department did not respond to requests for comment.

During the pandemic, Fauci was frequently praised and became a prominent public figure, even as debates over his guidance and statements intensified. His high-profile exchanges with Paul drew widespread attention, particularly as public opinion at the time largely favored Fauci.

At a Senate hearing on May 11, 2021, Fauci firmly denied that his agency funded gain-of-function work in Wuhan.

“The [National Institutes of Health] and [National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases] categorically has not funded gain of function research to be conducted in the Wuhan Institute of Virology,” Fauci said at a Senate committee hearing on May 11, 2021, during a tense exchange with Paul. “You are entire, entirely and completely incorrect… the NIH has not ever and does not now fund gain of function research in the Wuhan Institute of Virology.”

He stood by that statement at a subsequent hearing.

“I do not retract that statement” and angrily pointing his finger at Paul, shouting, “if anybody’s lying here, senator, it is you!”

Later disclosures added new context to the debate. Documents released in 2021 indicated that EcoHealth Alliance had used federal grant money from Fauci’s agency to support research in Wuhan involving modified bat coronaviruses.

According to those materials, experiments showed that certain altered viruses became more infectious in lab mice engineered to mimic human biology.

 “They twice submitted summaries of their work that showed that, when in the lungs of genetically engineered mice, three altered bat coronaviruses at times reproduced far more quickly than the original virus on which they were based,” The Intercept revealed. “The researchers reported, ‘These results demonstrate varying pathogenicity of SARSr-CoVs with different spike proteins in humanized mice.’”

Testimony delivered to Congress in 2024 has drawn renewed attention to the U.S. government’s involvement in research conducted in Wuhan, adding to the ongoing debate over how the COVID-19 pandemic began.

During a House committee hearing, NIH principal deputy director Lawrence Tabak acknowledged federal funding tied to gain-of-function work in China. “Dr. Tabak, did NIH fund gain-of-function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology through EcoHealth?” asked Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.). “It depends on your definition of gain-of-function research,” Tabak answered. “If you’re speaking about the generic term, yes, we did.”

Questions surrounding the origins of COVID-19 remain unresolved, in part because Chinese authorities have not permitted an independent international probe. Within the U.S. government, some officials continue to view a laboratory leak in China as a plausible explanation for the outbreak.

{Matzav.com}

[Videos below.] King Charles III and Queen Camilla began their time in New York City on Wednesday with a solemn visit to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, where they paid tribute to those killed in the 2001 terror attacks and met with family members of the victims.

The memorial visit came as part of a packed itinerary during the couple’s four-day trip to the United States, marking 250 years since American independence. It also marks the first time a sitting British monarch has traveled to New York City since Queen Elizabeth II made the trip in 2010.

Arriving by motorcade, the king and queen were welcomed by officials at the site and joined by Michael Bloomberg. Together, they walked toward one of the parapets surrounding the twin reflecting pools, where the names of the victims are inscribed. King Charles placed a floral tribute along the edge.

Following the ceremony, the royal couple greeted and spoke with a line of attendees that included relatives of those who died in the September 11 attacks and first responders. Some family members displayed photographs of their loved ones. Also present were Zohran Mamdani, Kathy Hochul, Mikie Sherrill, and other dignitaries. The visit comes ahead of the 25th anniversary of the attacks.

Consistent with longstanding custom, Charles and Camilla did not deliver public remarks during their time at the memorial. The site traditionally does not host speeches by political figures or visiting dignitaries, reserving commemorative events for voices of victims’ families and loved ones.

Later in the day, the queen was scheduled to stop at the New York Public Library, where she planned to present a new Roo doll to join the institution’s well-known collection of Winnie-the-Pooh memorabilia, coinciding with the character’s 100th anniversary.

The existing display includes five original stuffed animals—Winnie-the-Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore, and Kanga—which inspired the characters in the children’s stories written by A. A. Milne. These toys once belonged to his son, Christopher Robin, during the 1920s, and were later donated to the library in 1987, where they remain a centerpiece of its children’s literature collection. In the stories, Roo is portrayed as Kanga’s young kangaroo son.

Meanwhile, the king was expected to visit a youth-focused urban farming initiative that supports communities facing food insecurity, and later meet with business and financial leaders in Manhattan.

The couple is also scheduled to attend an event connected to the The Prince’s Trust, a charity established by Charles in 1976.

This visit marks Charles’ first official trip to the United States since ascending the throne. Over the years, Queen Elizabeth II made four such visits during her reign.

Earlier in the week, the king and queen joined President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for tea at the White House.

On Tuesday, Charles held a private meeting with Trump in the Oval Office, followed by a speech before Congress—the first time a British monarch has addressed the body since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991—and later attended a formal state dinner hosted at the White House.

Before concluding their trip, the royal couple is expected to make additional stops in Virginia and return to Washington, where they will take part in a formal farewell ceremony hosted by Trump on Thursday. Afterward, Charles is set to travel alone to Bermuda, marking his first visit there as king.

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

A new national survey finds Democrats holding a clear advantage over Republicans on the generic congressional ballot, with a 10-point lead as the party benefits from stronger backing among key voter groups.

According to polling released Wednesday by Emerson College Polling, 50% of respondents said they would support a Democratic candidate for Congress, compared to 40% who favored a Republican. Another 10% of those surveyed said they have not yet decided.

Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling, said the Democratic edge is being fueled by growing support among several demographic groups.

“Democrats’ strength is driven by an increase in support among Hispanic voters, women, and independents,” Emerson College Polling executive director Spencer Kimball said. “Hispanics break for Democrats [over Republicans] by a 35-point margin, 61% to 26%, women by 21 points, 55% to 34%, and independents by 19 points, 50% to 31%.”

The survey also examined public views on President Donald Trump, showing his approval rating at 40% among likely voters, while 56% disapprove. Compared to March, that reflects a two-point drop in approval and a five-point increase in disapproval. The poll was conducted prior to the incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

Kimball also highlighted a shift among Hispanic voters in their views of Trump.

“Trump is underwater among Hispanic voters, 70% to 29%, compared to this time last year when they were split: 44% disapproved, and 41% approved,” Kimball said.

Respondents in the survey also expressed negative views of Trump’s performance on several major issues, including the economy, foreign policy, and immigration, where disapproval outweighed approval in each category.

The Emerson College Polling survey was conducted from April 24 through April 26. It carries a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points, and the results were adjusted to reflect demographic factors such as gender, education, race, age, party registration, and geographic region based on U.S. Census data and voter file information.

President Donald Trump said he turned down an offer from Russian President Vladimir Putin to assist on Iran, instead urging the Russian leader to concentrate on efforts to end the war in Ukraine during a lengthy phone call between the two leaders.

According to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, the conversation between Trump and Putin took place Wednesday and covered both the conflict in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East.

Ushakov told reporters the discussion lasted more than 90 minutes and described it as “frank and businesslike.”

Trump, speaking to reporters in the Oval Office as he hosted astronauts from the Artemis II mission, said the call went well and noted his long familiarity with Putin.

“We had a good talk, I’ve known him a long time,” Trump said. The US president, speaking to reporters as he met with astronauts from the Artemis II mission in the Oval Office, said he suggested “a little bit of a ceasefire” in the war in Ukraine in his phone call with the Russian leader.

“And I think he might do that,” Trump said, then asked reporters whether Putin had announced a ceasefire.

Trump also revealed that Putin raised the possibility of helping address Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium, which remains a major sticking point in efforts to resolve tensions over Iran’s nuclear activities.

Trump said Putin offered to help on the issue of Iran’s enriched uranium, a key obstacle to a deal to end the Iran war, but “I said I’d much rather have you be involved with ending the war with Ukraine.”

From the Russian side, Ushakov said the leaders placed significant focus on developments involving Iran and the broader Persian Gulf region.

Russia’s Ushakov, on the other hand, said the presidents “paid particular attention to the situation regarding Iran and in the Persian Gulf.”

{Matzav.com}