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As the Obama Presidential Center prepares to welcome visitors with its official opening in Chicago on Friday, several contractors who worked on the massive project say they are still waiting to recover substantial financial losses they claim were incurred during construction.

One of those contractors is Mike Owen, owner of Adamson Plumbing, who says his company has absorbed nearly $4 million in losses tied to the project after dedicating years of work to its completion.

“That is a hole that no subcontractor, small business can survive,” Owen said.

According to Owen, the financial strain has severely impacted his company, depleted its reserves, and placed jobs at risk.

“I haven’t had eight hours or six hours sleep in over a year,” Owen said. “I’m cooked emotionally.

“I feel like an aluminum can that’s been thrown in front of a steamroller. We’re crushed. And I have to fight for my company and for my people.”

A report published Wednesday by Fox News Digital cited several subcontractors who say they suffered losses ranging from hundreds of thousands of dollars to tens of millions while working on the project.

The allegations have cast a shadow over one of the center’s stated missions: promoting economic growth and business opportunities for minority-owned companies and local contractors.

Owen said watching preparations for the center’s grand opening has been especially difficult while unresolved payment disputes remain hanging over many of the firms involved.

“It was kind of hard seeing some local and national celebrities high-fiving and back-slapping here about the work that’s been done,” Owen said.

“The backdrop of a coming celebration is kind of hard to swallow for me and for some of my peers at the moment.”

In response, the Obama Foundation said it fulfilled its financial obligations to Lakeside Alliance, the construction manager overseeing the project. Foundation officials emphasized that responsibility for contracting with and paying subcontractors rested with Lakeside Alliance.

The foundation further stated that it has no unresolved billing disputes with the construction manager and noted that it does not maintain direct contractual relationships with subcontractors.

Officials also highlighted what they described as the project’s success in surpassing diversity participation benchmarks and pointed to accelerated payment programs and other financial assistance initiatives intended to support smaller businesses.

Owen said he chose to speak publicly only after spending months trying unsuccessfully to recover what he believes his company is owed.

“As for me and my company, I’m at the end of my rope and I see no other choice than to have to tell my story,” he said.

“This is not to embarrass anybody, but this is just to make sure that the truth gets told out here of what has happened to the companies that poured their heart and soul into getting this job complete and operational.”

Despite his frustration over the financial dispute, Owen said he still takes pride in the work his company contributed to the landmark project.

“The interior of this presidential center is quite beautiful and it’s something to be proud of,” he said. “And we are still proud to have been part of this job.

“We just wish it would have gone a different way financially.”

{Matzav.com}

Speaking at the opening of the Kol Chai radio program Tzav Ma’atzar, which is devoted entirely to the issue of yeshiva bochurim being arrested over military draft matters, Bnei Brak Deputy Mayor Gudi Silman delivered a sharp attack on what he described as decades of incitement against the chareidi community.

Silman began by recalling the atmosphere in Yerushalayim during the late 1970s, when, he said, graffiti bearing the slogan “Run Over Every Religious Jew” appeared on walls throughout the city. According to Silman, many chareidim at the time felt unsafe walking the streets despite living in a Jewish state rather than in exile.

He argued that hostility toward the chareidi public did not begin recently and cited a series of public figures whom he accused of contributing to a culture of anti-chareidi rhetoric over the years.

Among those he mentioned were former politician Shulamit Aloni, whom he said compared chareidim to some of history’s darkest phenomena, broadcaster Gabi Gazit, who referred to chareidim as “leeches and worms,” and artist Yigal Tumarkin. Silman also pointed to a recent statement attributed to journalist and Matzav Haruach editor Chagai Huberman containing the phrase “Run over every religious Jew, destroy every chareidi,” which Silman described as part of a continuing pattern of hostility toward Torah-observant Jews.

The deputy mayor also played excerpts from media interviews in which television personality Eyal Berkovic criticized the chareidi community, describing chareidim as unproductive and claiming they neither work, pay taxes, nor serve in the military.

Silman rejected those characterizations, arguing that such remarks unfairly target thousands of avreichim and bnei Torah who, in his words, “carry the spiritual burden of the nation on their shoulders.”

He also referenced comments made by television host Galit Gutman, who described chareidim as people who “suck blood.” Silman argued that the phrase echoes classic antisemitic tropes historically directed against Jews.

According to Silman, when such language is used by prominent media figures during prime-time broadcasts, it portrays the chareidi community as an enemy and helps legitimize hatred and exclusion.

Toward the end of his remarks, Silman addressed the clashes that erupted during recent demonstrations protesting the arrests of yeshiva students.

He sharply criticized police conduct, claiming that “dozens of Jewish police officers attacked their brothers” while employing stun grenades, batons, and other crowd-control measures against protesters.

Silman maintained that the chareidi public views Torah study as the foundation of Jewish survival and identity and expressed confidence that the community would withstand current challenges just as it had previous waves of criticism.

“We survived Shulamit Aloni, Gabi Gazit, and Yigal Tumarkin. We will survive the current wave of hatred as well,” he said. “The truth is with us, the path is with us, and history will judge who stood guard over eternity.”

{Matzav.com}

Vice President JD Vance is pushing back against growing criticism in Israel over the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding, arguing that opponents of the agreement have failed to offer a realistic alternative and insisting that the deal advances both American and Israeli security interests.

In an interview with The New York Times, Vance defended the agreement championed by President Trump and suggested that Israeli concerns have been overstated.

Vance noted that he had not heard direct objections to the deal from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu himself.

“Maybe I missed it, but I don’t think Bibi himself has actually criticized the deal. Because I think he’s maybe a little more familiar with the details of what’s in it,” he said.

The vice president then turned his attention to criticism voiced by Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, arguing that opponents of the agreement have not presented a workable path forward.

“People in their system, like Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, attacked the deal. My response to them would be: What exactly is your proposal? You can’t just kill your way out of solving every national security problem you have,” he said.

According to Vance, much of the opposition within Israel reflects longstanding skepticism rather than an objective assessment of the agreement’s terms. He argued that the United States has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to Israel and said accusations that the deal is fundamentally flawed are unsupported.

He maintained that claims portraying the agreement as harmful “is not supported by the facts” and said such arguments fail to reflect the close strategic partnership between the United States and Israel.

Vance also offered an optimistic assessment of recent political developments inside Iran, asserting that factions seeking improved ties with Western nations have gained the upper hand in internal debates.

“The moderate side in Iran, which wants a better relationship with the West, has won the internal debate in recent months,” he said.

He further argued that the agreement places meaningful restrictions on Tehran’s military capabilities and prevents the regime from maintaining a missile program capable of threatening the broader international community.

Addressing regional security concerns, Vance said Washington expects Israel to exercise restraint in southern Lebanon while preserving its ability to respond to threats and defend its citizens.

The comments quickly drew a response from Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who rejected Vance’s position and issued a sharply worded reply on social media.

“Here is the proposal, JD Vance: deal with the Nazis of the 21st century the same way the United States dealt with the Nazis of the 20th century,” Ben Gvir wrote in English on X.

The exchange underscores the growing divide between some Israeli leaders and the Trump administration over the Iran agreement, even as both sides continue to emphasize the importance of the U.S.-Israel alliance.

Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi revealed that after reaching out to every member state of the United Nations seeking recognition for his country’s independence, only one nation responded: Israel. He now says ties between the two countries are rapidly expanding and has left open the possibility of future Israeli military cooperation on Somaliland territory.

In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Abdullahi said that on May 17, 2025, he sent letters to the leaders of all 193 UN member states requesting formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent nation.

“Only one of them answered,” Abdullahi said. “It was Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. After that, we reached the conclusion that Israel would recognize Somaliland.”

Somaliland, a self-governing territory of approximately six million people located in the Horn of Africa, declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government. Despite functioning independently for decades, it has remained largely unrecognized by the international community.

That changed on December 26, 2025, when Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that Israel would formally recognize Somaliland, making Israel the first UN member state to do so.

This week, Abdullahi arrived in Israel for an official visit, the first by a Somaliland president since recognition was granted. He disclosed, however, that he had previously traveled to Israel in secret.

“I came discreetly in October 2025. At that time, we were exploring ways and means to secure recognition for Somaliland,” he said.

During his visit, Abdullahi held meetings with Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, both of whom played central roles in advancing contacts between the two governments.

The Somaliland leader said he hopes to broaden cooperation with Israel across a wide range of fields, including economic development, natural resources, agriculture, water management, healthcare, education, energy, and security.

Since Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, foreign media outlets have repeatedly speculated that Israel could eventually establish a military presence there due to the territory’s strategic location along the Gulf of Aden, directly across from Yemen and near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial maritime route for vessels traveling to Eilat.

“We have not discussed that,” Abdullahi told The Jerusalem Post. Nevertheless, he did not dismiss the possibility.

“I cannot rule out the possibility that it could happen in the future. If our cooperation continues to deepen, our relationship may evolve far beyond where it stands today.”

Israeli officials say practical cooperation is already underway, particularly in the field of water management.

“We identified many areas where they need support, but we identified water management as the most important because it is a field where significant change can be achieved relatively quickly,” Einat Shlein, a senior official at Israel’s international development agency within the Foreign Ministry, told The Jerusalem Post.

Even before the war with Iran, 25 water engineers from Somaliland traveled to Israel for advanced training in water-resource management. Shlein noted that Somaliland has also requested Israeli assistance in healthcare.

“We funded the arrival of children suffering from heart disease through the Save a Child’s Heart organization. There will be cooperation in many sectors — whether agriculture, energy or education — to reflect the importance of the connection between our two countries.”

As part of his visit, Abdullahi also met with a large group of Israeli business leaders and investors, describing overwhelming interest in Somaliland’s economic potential.

“There was so much interest that many businesspeople who wanted to attend could not be accommodated, and we had to limit participation to only 200 companies,” he said.

The president highlighted Somaliland’s natural resources and investment opportunities.

“We have many opportunities to offer — mineral resources, natural gas, oil, fishing and livestock. There is much that we can bring to the table.”

While acknowledging criticism from some countries, particularly in the Arab world, following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, Abdullahi expressed confidence that additional nations would eventually follow suit.

“We hope that our relationship with Israel will continue to strengthen, and I believe that more Arab countries will eventually recognize us.”

He said the visit generated tremendous international attention.

“The entire world followed my visit to Israel; millions of people watched,” Abdullahi said. “The very exposure Somaliland received is a major achievement. Israel and Somaliland are close partners, and the relationship between us will continue and grow even stronger.”

Asked whether Netanyahu would one day visit Somaliland, Abdullahi expressed confidence that such a trip would occur.

“Netanyahu will come to Somaliland at the right time. In the meantime, the relationship between us will continue to flourish.”

One of the most notable examples of humanitarian cooperation between Israel and Somaliland dates back to 2004, when Somaliland’s representative in Ethiopia approached the Israeli Embassy seeking help for his son, who suffered from a serious heart condition. The request led the Israeli Foreign Ministry to connect the family with the Save a Child’s Heart organization, which provided life-saving treatment in Israel.

Since then, the Foreign Ministry has continued supporting the initiative, helping bring 58 children from Somaliland to Israel for critical cardiac treatment.

The humanitarian partnership began more than two decades before formal diplomatic ties were established. The political breakthrough that eventually led to recognition was accelerated by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar’s historic visit to Somaliland in January 2026, which paved the way for the opening of Somaliland’s embassy in Jerusalem earlier this week.

The latest group of children, ranging in age from three months to 18 years old, arrived in Israel following a medical mission to Somaliland organized and funded by Israel’s national aid agency in cooperation with Save a Child’s Heart.

During his visit, Abdullahi met with the children, their families, and the medical teams caring for them, hearing firsthand about the organization’s work and the ongoing partnership between Israel and Somaliland in pediatric cardiac care.

Elon Musk has announced plans to take legal action against Germany’s public broadcaster ZDF after one of its programs alleged that the X owner helped incite anti-migrant violence in Belfast following a shocking attack allegedly carried out by a Sudanese asylum seeker.

The dispute centers on remarks aired by Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen, one of Germany’s taxpayer-funded television networks, which now finds itself facing a potential lawsuit from the billionaire entrepreneur.

During an episode of its flagship news program, Today Live, which examined the role of social media in recent unrest in Northern Ireland, presenter Christina v. Ungern-Sternberg made a controversial claim connecting Musk to the violence.

“A brutal attempted murder on a public street in Belfast. Someone films it; the video goes viral. A racist mob subsequently hunts down migrants. Calls for this had come from a British right-wing extremist (Tommy Robinson) and tech billionaire Elon Musk.”

The report, however, did not offer evidence that either Musk or Robinson had encouraged violence. In fact, the segment included a post from Robinson on X in which he explicitly urged demonstrators to remain “peaceful” and “respectful”.

Although violence erupted in parts of Belfast and surrounding areas, and police reported that some agitators circulated what appeared to be a list of migrant residences, authorities have not publicly connected the unrest to statements made by Musk or Robinson.

Musk responded forcefully to the allegations on Monday, using his social media platform to announce legal proceedings against the broadcaster.

“Legal action is being taken against ZDF for their outrageous lies.”

He followed that statement with another sharp criticism of the network.

“During the lawsuit against them, we will find out exactly which cretin wrote this terrible lie,” he added.

In the aftermath of the controversy, ZDF removed the disputed portion of the broadcast from its online platforms and acknowledged the change with a brief explanation.

“The introduction has been shortened for legal reasons.”

The broadcaster has also come under fire from members of Germany’s own media establishment. Sebastian Eberle, an editor with fellow public broadcaster NDR, condemned the handling of the report.

“We cannot and must not work like this. This is completely unacceptable.”

Anna Schneider, chief reporter for the German newspaper Die Welt, similarly criticized ZDF, arguing that the network had focused attention on social media figures instead of addressing the event that sparked the unrest.

According to Schneider, the real issue was the attempted beheading in Belfast and the broader concerns surrounding migration policy.

“The core of the debate, which has almost been forgotten, is the obviously massively misguided migration policy decisions of recent years, which have put moral self-righteousness above control and brought the population into uncertainty. Just as if the citizens were somehow absorbing all the risks that obviously come across the border. That would be worth a fresh ZDF magazine,” she said.

The latest controversy is not the first time ZDF has been accused of serious journalistic errors.

Earlier this year, the network was forced to apologize after broadcasting an AI-generated video that falsely portrayed a migrant family being arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.

The broadcaster also issued a retraction last year after Washington correspondent Elmar Theveßen wrongly claimed that slain American activist Charlie Kirk had advocated stoning homosexuals to death. Following Kirk’s murder, fellow ZDF presenter Dunja Hayali accused him of espousing views that were “too radical, too racist, too misanthropic, misogynistic, and dehumanising.”

{Matzav.com}

In a major boost for travelers ahead of the busy summer season, the Israel Airports Authority announced Wednesday that Terminal 1 at Ben Gurion Airport will soon reopen, a move expected to ease congestion and significantly improve passenger flow.

The decision comes as international airlines continue resuming service to Israel and passenger traffic steadily increases following months of reduced operations during Operation Roaring Lion.

According to the Airports Authority, the reopening will take place in stages. Domestic flights will resume operating from Terminal 1 on June 28, 2026, while international flights will return to the terminal beginning July 1, 2026.

Airport officials said the move is intended to accommodate the growing demand expected during the summer travel season and provide a more efficient and comfortable experience for travelers.

In recent months, Terminal 1 operated on a limited basis, with many flights redirected to Terminal 3 as the airport adjusted to wartime conditions and reduced aviation activity.

The reopening marks another step toward a full return to normal operations at Israel’s main international gateway.

During Operation Roaring Lion, outbound flights from Israel were operated exclusively by Israeli carriers, including El Al, Israir, Arkia, and Air Haifa, as many foreign airlines suspended service.

In recent weeks, however, international air traffic has rebounded significantly. Several foreign carriers have resumed flights to Israel, including U.S.-based Delta Air Lines and Latvia’s airBaltic, signaling renewed confidence in the Israeli market.

The Airports Authority is urging passengers to verify in advance which terminal their flight will depart from in order to avoid confusion and ensure timely arrival at the airport. Travelers are encouraged to check directly with their airlines and monitor official airport updates.

Airport officials noted that flight locations have changed frequently in recent months. For example, domestic flights to Eilat were temporarily transferred from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 last October while upgrade work was carried out at the smaller terminal.

The reopening of Terminal 1 coincides with a series of major expansion and modernization projects underway at Ben Gurion Airport.

The Airports Authority is investing hundreds of millions of shekels in upgrades to Terminal 3, including the addition of approximately 7,000 square meters of new space, improvements to passport control and security screening areas, and an expansion of the airport’s duty-free shopping complex.

Officials say the projects are designed to prepare Ben Gurion Airport for continued growth in passenger traffic over the coming years while enhancing service quality and the overall travel experience.

{Matzav.com}

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich is throwing his support behind President Donald Trump’s agreement with Iran, calling it a significant diplomatic breakthrough that avoids both appeasement and another costly American military intervention in the Middle East.

Writing on his website, Gingrich argued that Trump successfully brought together a broad coalition of international partners while applying economic and military leverage that forced Tehran into a far weaker negotiating position than it previously held. He also brushed aside criticism from opponents across the political spectrum, saying many detractors rushed to condemn the agreement without first examining its contents.

“Negotiating with Iran, monitoring its commitments and occasionally having to pressure the dictatorship militarily or economically is simply reality. (Remember Ronald Reagan’s advice to ‘Trust but verify’ and Connie Mack’s ‘You get what you inspect, not what you expect.’) There will be no end to the requirement to police, monitor, and occasionally penalize the religious dictatorship,” Gingrich wrote. “The leaders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps will try to push for as much influence and flexibility as they can get away with. It’s simply their nature.”

Gingrich went on to defend the agreement itself, arguing that many of its critics have failed to propose a workable alternative.

“A lot of people on the right and left have already criticized the upcoming agreement — even when they have never seen it,” Gingrich wrote. “It is hard to understand what they thought the alternative should be.”

According to Gingrich, Trump charted a middle course between what he characterized as the Obama-Biden strategy toward Iran and the prospect of a major ground war, while simultaneously preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

“President Trump steered a course between the Barack Obama-Joe Biden appeasement model and strategy which would have required a huge ground invasion,” Gingrich wrote. “He used our technological strengths in airpower and intelligence capabilities to bludgeon the religious dictatorship into positions far distant from where they were under Obama and Biden.”

The former speaker also credited Trump with building international support for a more stable regional order, saying numerous countries have aligned with Washington’s efforts to counter Iranian aggression and reduce tensions in the Middle East.

“President Trump has been managing a broad coalition which is committed to a more stable Middle East and is prepared to work together despite Iranian attacks,” Gingrich wrote.

Since Gingrich published his remarks, reports have indicated that Trump formally signed an agreement with Iran intended to end the conflict and create a pathway toward a broader peace arrangement. Under the framework, Iran pledged not to pursue nuclear weapons, while the United States agreed to seek sanctions relief and support economic development initiatives during the next phase of negotiations.

{Matzav.com}

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is celebrating the recent U.S.-Iran agreement as a major triumph for Tehran, claiming that Iran used threats and ultimatums to force President Donald Trump to accept its demands and pressure Israel to halt military operations in Beirut’s Dahieh district.

In a rare interview with Iranian state television overnight, Ghalibaf offered an unusually detailed account of the negotiations, portraying the agreement as evidence that Tehran successfully dictated terms to Washington.

“Lebanon is part of the resistance front, so it is natural that when a ceasefire is established, it must apply to all fronts—especially Lebanon,” Ghalibaf said. He added that Iran entered the talks with clear demands, including an end to fighting across all theaters and the lifting of sanctions.

According to Ghalibaf, Tehran relied on direct threats to compel the United States to comply.

“When Israel attacked Dahieh, we threatened the United States and issued an ultimatum: Our demands must be accepted, otherwise we will respond,” he said. “Trump was forced to publish a tweet and tell Netanyahu that he had to stop the fire and not attack Dahieh.”

He further claimed that when Dahieh was targeted again, Iran launched what he called Operation “Nesr” to demonstrate its resolve.

“That is when the enemy understood that when we speak about negotiations, our sword is also ready at the same time,” he said.

Ghalibaf also recounted what he described as a pivotal moment in the negotiations that occurred while Iran was engaged in talks with international mediators this past Sunday.

“Then the Dahieh incident occurred. In the middle of the negotiations, I immediately tweeted that we would certainly respond to the attack in Dahieh,” he said. “After that, the atmosphere of the negotiations changed completely.”

The Iranian official said Tehran made it clear that retaliation was non-negotiable.

“They said: Do not respond. But we said: We will certainly respond, and if you respond, we will expand the scope of our response. This is exactly the culture of negotiation as struggle,” he explained.

Celebrating the outcome of the talks, Ghalibaf argued that Iran achieved far more through diplomacy than it could have through military action.

“Everything we wanted to achieve through military action, we achieved many times over through negotiations,” he claimed. “I am a fighter, not a diplomat, but I manage diplomacy with the spirit of a fighter.”

Turning to the agreement itself, Ghalibaf described the deal as “a certificate of America’s failure.” He noted that under the original understandings, the lifting of the blockade was expected to occur within 30 days, but Trump announced it would be removed immediately.

“And in practice, that is exactly what happened,” Ghalibaf said.

He concluded by warning that Iran remains prepared to abandon the agreement and escalate tensions if Washington fails to uphold its commitments.

“If the enemy does not understand the language of logic, we will deal with it in the language of force—the finger is on the trigger,” Ghalibaf warned. “If the United States does not fulfill its obligation, Iran will not fulfill its obligation either.”

{Matzav.com}

A rare reunion of American political leaders is expected to take place this week as Presidents Biden, Clinton, and Bush are reportedly planning to attend the opening celebration of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.

According to a report published Wednesday by the Chicago Sun-Times, all three presidents are expected to join President Barack Obama for the landmark event. The newspaper cited a source familiar with the plans for the ceremony.

The gathering is also expected to include several former first ladies. The report said Laura Bush, Hillary Clinton, and Jill Biden will be among those attending the festivities.

The Obama Presidential Center is scheduled to officially open on Thursday. Organizers have planned a major celebration featuring performances by a number of acclaimed entertainers and artists.

Valerie Jarrett, chief executive of the Obama Foundation, said the opening ceremony is being designed as a unique and uplifting experience that goes beyond a traditional ribbon-cutting event.

“will be unlike any other — filled with music, performances, and hope.”

Jarrett said the program is intended to celebrate the center’s mission while encouraging people to believe they can make a difference in their own communities.

“The Grand Opening Ceremony will reflect a spirit of inspiration and joy, with a big boost from the performers who are sharing their talent with us. We hope to inspire people everywhere to believe in their power to bring change home.”

A growing number of prominent Republicans are openly rebelling against President Donald Trump’s newly unveiled memorandum of understanding with Iran, with critics warning that the agreement hands Tehran sweeping concessions while demanding little in return.

Among the most vocal opponents is Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), who on Wednesday blasted the framework and suggested that the president is being poorly advised on the negotiations.

“History teaches that giving billions of dollars to theocratic lunatics who want to murder us is not a good idea. I think the president is receiving some very poor advice on this deal,” Cruz told The Hill.

Cruz’s criticism intensified after the administration released the full text of the interim agreement. The document outlines a path toward removing restrictions on Iranian oil exports and includes plans for Iran to gain access to a $300 billion reconstruction fund intended to support rebuilding efforts following the war.

The Texas senator is not alone in his opposition. Other Republicans have also sharply condemned the agreement, arguing that it rewards Tehran despite years of hostility and aggression.

Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) joined the criticism on Wednesday, denouncing the proposal and calling it the “worst foreign policy blunder in decades.”

In a social media post attacking the framework, Cassidy wrote, “Reagan is rolling over in his grave. Iran’s nuclear ambitions were not curbed, and they have learned that threatening the Strait of Hormuz works and will undoubtedly leverage it in the future. Now, Iran gets to build brand-new infrastructure under this deal.”

Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley also voiced strong objections, arguing that the agreement effectively finances the reconstruction of facilities and infrastructure damaged during the conflict.

“Hitting Iran’s nuclear and missile sites was the right move. This regime chants death to America, murders our troops, and attempts to assassinate Americans on US soil. They believe they have an obligation to destroy us,” Haley wrote in a post on social media.

“Now, we plan to unlock billions of dollars and lift sanctions, with the promise of even more money. They will use that money the way they always do- to further their nuclear ambitions and on terrorist proxies against us. It’s a huge mistake to pay to rebuild the threat we just destroyed,” she added.

The criticism began even before the complete text of the agreement became public. On Tuesday, former Vice President Mike Pence sharply questioned the wisdom of the arrangement.

Speaking with CNN, Pence argued that the memorandum of understanding “smells of appeasement” and said it offers extensive benefits to the Iranian regime without requiring significant concessions in exchange.

As details of the agreement continue to emerge, the administration is facing increasing pressure from within its own party, with critics warning that the deal could strengthen one of America’s longtime adversaries while weakening U.S. leverage in the region.

{Matzav.com}

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who had previously voiced concerns about the Trump administration’s agreement with Iran, announced Wednesday that he now supports the memorandum of understanding, citing a lengthy conversation with President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.

Graham said his position changed after what he described as an extensive and constructive discussion regarding the goals and potential benefits of the agreement.

“After this discussion, it is my opinion that signing the MOU will be beneficial to the United States, in as much as the Strait of Hormuz will begin to open, and the hostilities with Iran will stop,” Graham, who had previously expressed skepticism about the agreement, wrote on social media.

While acknowledging that major questions remain regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions and future negotiations, Graham argued that pursuing diplomacy carries little risk.

“Whether or not the United States can reach an acceptable, verifiable deal with Iran regarding its nuclear program and other issues is yet to be determined, but I see little downside to trying,” he continued.

The South Carolina senator also emphasized the broader economic and geopolitical benefits that could result from easing tensions in the region.

“The economic stability that comes from opening up the Strait and the cessation of hostilities could create a pathway to peace well beyond the Iranian conflict.”

Graham said that a larger objective remains expanding regional normalization efforts between Israel and its Arab neighbors, particularly Saudi Arabia.

“The expansion of the Abraham Accords and normalizing relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel is President Trump’s and my ultimate goal. I think that is best achieved by creating economic stability for the United States, the region and the world, as well as the cessation of hostilities. The signing of the MOU is an essential step to make that happen and thus it is worthwhile,” concluded Graham.

His endorsement came as the United States and Iran formally put the agreement into effect. According to Axios, both governments electronically signed the memorandum of understanding on Wednesday, making it officially operational.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei confirmed that the signing process was underway and nearing completion.

“Right now, as I’m speaking with you, the text of the Islamabad memorandum has probably reached the presidents of Iran and the United States for signature.”

Baghaei said both sides agreed to execute the accord electronically and suggested that doing so would strengthen compliance with the agreement.

“It has been agreed that the Iran-US memorandum will be signed digitally. Once the memorandum reaches the presidents of both countries for signature, any violation of it will carry a higher cost.”

He also revealed that earlier plans for a formal signing ceremony in Europe had been scrapped because of the decision to finalize the document electronically.

According to Baghaei, negotiators had considered holding an in-person ceremony in either Geneva or Brussels, but the digital signing process eliminated the need for a public event in Switzerland.

{Matzav.com}

A unique and educational Torah event will take place this evening, Thursday, June 18, when the Agudath Israel of America Torah Projects Commission presents a special shiur featuring Rav Amitai Ben-David, acclaimed author of Sichas Chulin and a renowned expert in the practical and halachic aspects of shechitah.

The program will begin at 8:45 p.m. at Bais Medrash Lutzk (Simcha Hall), located at 520 New Egypt Road in Lakewood, New Jersey, and is expected to attract Daf Yomi participants, bnei Torah, rabbanim, and members of the broader community seeking a deeper understanding of one of the most fascinating and practical areas of halachah.

What makes this event especially noteworthy is that the shiur will feature a live shechitah and treifos demonstration, offering attendees a rare opportunity to witness firsthand many of the concepts discussed in Maseches Chulin and related areas of Torah study. Through practical examples and real-life illustrations, participants will gain a clearer appreciation of the intricate halachos governing kosher slaughter and the examination of animals.

Organizers explain that the program is designed not only for Daf Yomi learners studying or reviewing the sugyos of Chulin, but also for anyone interested in understanding the halachic foundations behind the kosher food that appears on Jewish tables every day.

Rav Amitai Ben-David has earned widespread recognition for his ability to present complex halachic subjects in a clear, engaging, and accessible manner. His sefer, Sichas Chulin, has become a highly regarded resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of shechitah and treifos.

The shiur, as mentioned, will take place this evening at Bais Medrash Lutzk (Simcha Hall), 520 New Egypt Road in Lakewood, beginning at 8:45 p.m.

{Matzav.com}

Rav Nir Ben Artzi delivered a sharp critique of recent chareidi demonstrations that have involved blocking major roads, arguing that such tactics are inappropriate and undermine the honor of Torah and Judaism.

Addressing the protests, Rav Ben Artzi, a mekubal, head of the Tlamim community in southern Israel, and the head of the Tair Neri organization, said that chareidim should not engage in demonstrations that disrupt traffic and inconvenience the public.

“It is forbidden for chareidim to hold protests like these and block roads. This is not honoring Hashem,” he said.

According to Rav Ben Artzi, road closures and disruptions harm innocent people and run contrary to the values of derech eretz and consideration for others.

“There is a proper way to act,” he said. “Stopping traffic and holding people up is already hatred and wrongdoing. It is not derech eretz. It is not honorable. It is not kavod Hashem.”

He pointed to the hardships caused by lengthy traffic disruptions, noting that motorists may be delayed for hours while trying to get to work, care for family members, or attend to urgent personal needs.

“You cannot hold demonstrations, close roads, and leave people waiting on the highway for 10 hours,” he said. “A woman may need a restroom. There are pregnancies. There is work. There are children waiting at home. There is livelihood. What are you doing?”

Rav Ben Artzi further argued that many participants are simply following instructions without fully understanding the consequences of their actions.

“Ninety percent of the protesters are demonstrating only because they were told to demonstrate,” he claimed. “That is forbidden. It is a very serious sin. Derech eretz kadmah laTorah, and ‘Ve’ahavta l’reiacha kamocha’—that is the entire Torah.”

Instead of street protests, he urged opponents of government policies to channel their efforts into prayer.

“Want to hold a demonstration? Don’t close roads. Go to the desert. Go and daven,” he said.

Rav Ben Artzi emphasized that the true strength of the Jewish people lies not in physical confrontation but in prayer, Torah study, and the recitation of Tehillim.

“The power of the Jewish people is in the mouth—prayer, Torah, and Tehillim,” he said. “That is an infinite power.”

He suggested organizing massive tefillah gatherings at locations throughout Israel, including the Negev and the Galilee, where tens or even hundreds of thousands of chareidim could beseech Hashem for help.

“‘Ribbono Shel Olam, save us, help us.’ That is worth 100 billion demonstrations,” he said. “It would shake Heaven and earth.”

Rav Ben Artzi also expressed frustration with what he described as a reliance on physical activism rather than spiritual means, saying that unity and prayer are the proper response to challenges facing the community.

“The power of Am Yisroel is prayer, not physical force,” he said. “Unity and peace.”

In addition, he claimed that many leading rabbanim and admorim are not receiving accurate information about events unfolding in Israel, asserting that aides and advisors often present them with distorted accounts.

“All your admorim are being lied to,” he said. “The people around them tell them stories that are not true, and they believe them.”

Rav Ben Artzi concluded by encouraging the public to listen directly to Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and members of the right-wing government rather than relying on intermediaries.

“Believe only the right-wing government and Binyamin Netanyahu,” he said. “Listen to him directly. He will tell you the truth.”

A leading Israeli news outlet is sharply attacking President Donald Trump’s developing agreement with Iran, warning that the proposed arrangement could undermine the goals of the recent military campaign against Tehran and leave much of the regime’s nuclear infrastructure untouched.

In a strongly worded opinion article published Wednesday, Times of Israel founding editor David Horovitz argued that the emerging deal amounts to a “catastrophic capitulation to” Iran’s aggressors and could leave Israel exposed to future threats while limiting its ability to respond.

Horovitz contended that the draft memorandum of understanding currently under discussion would grant Tehran substantial economic benefits while delaying decisive action on the central issue of Iran’s nuclear program.

The criticism comes as the Trump administration moves toward completing a framework agreement following months of warfare, diplomatic maneuvering, and negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

According to Horovitz, the proposed framework falls well short of the objectives previously articulated by Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. Earlier this year, Witkoff stated that any acceptable agreement would require Iran to end its nuclear activities, dismantle its ballistic missile program, and cease support for regional proxy organizations.

Horovitz highlighted comments Witkoff made in March concerning Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. At the time, Witkoff referenced Iranian claims that the regime possessed roughly 460 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, material that experts say could potentially be further refined for weapons purposes.

The opinion piece argues that permitting Iran to maintain its current nuclear posture during a proposed 60-day negotiating period could provide the regime with additional opportunities to move closer to nuclear weapons capability.

Horovitz also pointed to reports indicating that American intelligence officials remain skeptical about Iran’s willingness to make meaningful compromises in any final agreement.

In addition, he criticized portions of the framework that he believes would significantly restrict Israel’s ability to launch future military operations against Iran, while raising doubts about whether the deal would permanently block Tehran from eventually acquiring nuclear weapons.

The article also scrutinized Trump’s recent remarks regarding Israel and Hezbollah. The president has repeatedly called for restraint in Israeli military actions and has suggested that regional actors, including Syria, could help contain Hezbollah’s influence and activities.

Trump, however, has vigorously defended his approach, maintaining that American military action combined with diplomacy successfully prevented Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and strengthened Israel’s overall security position.

Speaking during the G7 summit, Trump asserted that Israel had benefited enormously from U.S. intervention and argued that Iran was nearing nuclear weapons capability before American forces acted.

Horovitz disputed that conclusion, insisting that the proposed agreement effectively rewards Tehran and risks leaving Israel to confront ongoing dangers from both the Iranian regime and its network of regional proxies.

{Matzav.com}

Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley forcefully condemned the emerging U.S.-Iran agreement on Wednesday, arguing that the deal would effectively finance the reconstruction of the very regime and infrastructure targeted by American military operations during the war.

In a sharply worded social media post, Haley defended the military strikes against Iran while warning that the proposed agreement risks undoing their gains.

“Hitting Iran’s nuclear and missile sites was the right move. This regime chants death to America, murders our troops, and attempts to assassinate Americans on US soil. They believe they have an obligation to destroy us,” Haley wrote in a post on social media.

She went on to criticize provisions that would unlock Iranian assets and ease economic restrictions, arguing that Tehran would use the resources to strengthen its military and terrorist networks.

“Now, we plan to unlock billions of dollars and lift sanctions, with the promise of even more money. They will use that money the way they always do- to further their nuclear ambitions and on terrorist proxies against us. It’s a huge mistake to pay to rebuild the threat we just destroyed,” she added.

Haley’s comments came after details of the U.S.-Iran framework agreement were made public earlier Wednesday. The document outlines a preliminary understanding under which Iran receives substantial economic and diplomatic benefits while pledging not to pursue nuclear weapons.

The framework establishes a 60-day period during which negotiators are expected to finalize a permanent agreement.

Until that process is completed, the United States would end its naval blockade of Iran, remove additional restrictions imposed on the country, and pull its forces farther from the region.

Under the agreement, Iran would guarantee the free and secure movement of commercial shipping between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman for a period of 60 days.

The framework also includes a U.S. commitment to develop a reconstruction and economic development package for Iran worth at least $300 billion, while eliminating sanctions imposed by the United States, the United Nations Security Council, and the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Board of Governors.

In addition, Washington agreed to immediately issue a waiver permitting the export of Iranian crude oil, refined petroleum products, and related derivatives, along with the banking and financial services necessary to facilitate those transactions.

Haley is not the only prominent Republican raising alarms about the agreement.

On Tuesday, former Vice President Mike Pence sharply criticized the memorandum of understanding being negotiated between the Trump administration and Iran.

During an interview with CNN, Pence argued that the deal “smells of appeasement” and said it provides sweeping benefits to Tehran without requiring significant concessions in return.

{Matzav.com}

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