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An Austrian tourist has been rescued after falling six meters down a cliff on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.

FBI Director Kash Patel says the J. Edgar Hoover headquarters in D.C. will be “shut down permanently,” with employees moving to the Ronald Reagan Building instead of a new Maryland campus. Maryland officials have sued the Trump administration, alleging $555 million in funding meant for the Maryland project was wrongly diverted after Congress had already […]

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu was preparing to leave for the United States on Sunday morning, ahead of a high-level meeting with President Donald Trump that is expected to take place in Florida at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.

According to Israeli officials, Netanyahu plans to use the meeting to brief Trump on new intelligence indicating that Iran has made significant progress in restoring its ballistic missile program. He is also expected to ask for a “green light” to act militarily should Israel determine that such action is necessary.

The prime minister is also expected to make clear that Israel will not agree to advance to Phase B of the Gaza Strip framework as long as Hamas remains armed and until the body of the final Israeli hostage, Ran Gvili, is returned to Israel for burial. Israel has insisted that any further steps depend on the full disarmament of Hamas.

Beyond the planned meeting with Trump on Monday, Netanyahu’s visit is set to include additional discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as engagements with members of the Jewish community in Miami.

Recent intelligence assessments cited by NBC News reported last week that Israeli officials believe Iran has resumed production capabilities damaged in earlier strikes and is simultaneously rebuilding its air defense systems. Those developments, officials said, are currently viewed as more urgent threats than Iran’s nuclear program.

A separate report last month by Channel 13 News stated that Iran has replenished much of its missile arsenal and is approaching the number of missiles it possessed prior to Operation Rising Lion.

According to that report, roughly six months after the 12-day war last June, Iran has intensified production of surface-to-surface missiles and is expected within months to hold approximately 2,000 missiles capable of striking Israel.

{Matzav.com}

At least 15 people were killed and 19 others injured after a bus plunged into a ravine along the Inter-American Highway in Guatemala.

A group of 21 Arab, Islamic, and African countries, organizations, and entities issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty.

Downtown Hargeisa lit up with the Israeli flag as residents of Somaliland’s capital celebrated Jerusalem’s move to recognize their sovereignty.

Israeli officials were assessing an unusual online message over the weekend after the Iranian hacker collective known as Handala released a cryptic post that appeared to reference Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s upcoming travel plans to the United States, including a planned meeting with President Donald Trump in Florida.

The message, posted today on X, contained an oblique warning aimed directly at Netanyahu and included vivid imagery suggesting surveillance, secrecy, and concealed information traveling alongside him. “As ‘Flight BB Gate’ rises above the clouds, encrypted currents stir quietly among the watchers and the watched,” the group wrote. “Layers of protection tighten as the journey unfolds, but sometimes, secrets take flight too – leaving trails only the most attentive can see. On this day, those who guard the skies may find that the unexpected travels with them, and not every hidden truth remains grounded. And Bibi, it seems you’re carrying some rather interesting souvenirs with you this time.”

The post concluded with a brief but ominous line: “Tik Tok…Tik Tok.”

The warning surfaced amid preparations for a high-level meeting between Netanyahu and Trump, which follows a phone call between the two leaders earlier this month. After that conversation, the Prime Minister’s Office said Trump had invited Netanyahu to meet with him at the White House.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the meeting is slated for December 29, though the White House has not yet issued a formal announcement confirming the date or location.

NBC News reported that the meeting is expected to take place at Mar a Lago, where Netanyahu is reportedly planning to present Trump with various options for potential new strikes against Iran.

{Matzav.com}

A Moscow court sentenced former Foreign Ministry official Arseniy Konovalov to 12 years in a high-security prison for treason, finding he had leaked classified information to U.S. intelligence; he was detained in March 2024.

U.S. cities are on heightened alert for potential terrorist attacks during New Year’s Eve celebrations, while seven countries have canceled or their events altogether citing safety and security concerns.

SNOW TOTALS: Central Park: 4.3″ JFK: 4.2″ Newark, NJ: 4.2″ Islip, NY: 6.6″ Bridgeport, CT: 7.1″

New NASA boss Isaacman says U.S. will return to the moon within Trump’s term * NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the U.S. will return to the moon within President Donald Trump’s second term. * Isaacman said that will be key to unlocking an “orbital economy,” which could include Helium-3 mining and space data centers. * […]

Prime Minister Netanyahu plans to tell President Trump when they meet on December 29 at Mar-a-Lago that any agreement which leaves Hamas armed and in control of Gaza would be a “historic mistake,” i24NEWS reports. Israeli officials fear Washington may move ahead with the next phase of Gaza talks without a clear plan to disarm […]

Severe weather battered the Gaza Strip, with strong winds and heavy rain tearing through the area and sending tents flying.

Saudi Arabia says it rejects Israel’s announcement recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty, calling the move a unilateral secessionist action that violates international law.

During Chanukah, ArtScroll rolled out 8 extraordinary deals at 33% off, one each day. If you didn’t get a chance to take advantage of them, now’s your moment. These are the lowest prices of the year on each of these sets!

For 48 HOURS only — from Motzei Shabbos until Monday at midnight — every one of those 8 best-selling deals return in one final encore.

Whether you’re building your library or stocking up on gifts for months to come, this is a rare opportunity. There are no purchase limits — just a firm deadline — so act fast.

Here are the sets that are on sale:

• Deal 1: Jaffa Edition Weekly Parashah English and Hebrew Sets
• Deal 2: Rubin/Milstein/Kesuvim Nach Sets
• Deal 3: Or HaChaim Chumash Set
• Deal 4: Chumash and Navi with Teachings of the Talmud
• Deal 5: Yerushalmi Talmud Sets in both English and Hebrew
• Deal 6: English and Hebrew Midrash Sets
• Deal 7: Schottenstein Mishnah Elucidated (English) and Ryzman Hebrew Mishnayos
• Deal 8: Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen Hilchos Shabbos Set

Hurry! These deals end this Monday, 12/29 at midnight. Don’t miss your chance – shop now at ArtScroll.com or your local Hebrew bookseller.

{Matzav.com}

It is with great sadness that Matzav.comreports the petirah of Rabbi Nachman Sonenzon zt”l. He was 55.

Reb Nachman’s formative years were spent immersed in Torah and avodah within the walls of the bais medrash. For many years, his life revolved around hasmadah in learning that left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Approximately twenty years ago, Reb Nachman suffered a heart attack at Bais Medrash Govoah on Purim morning, a tragic medical episode that abruptly altered the course of his life. In a manifestation of remarkable Hashgocha, he survived the ordeal, but he never fully recovered. From that moment on, his life became one of daunting nisayon for him and his family.

Throughout these long and challenging years, Reb Nachman was surrounded by unwavering devotion and love. His family and friends tended to him with extraordinary mesirus nefesh, providing round-the-clock care with patience, dignity, and compassion. Their steadfast commitment was a living testament to the chessed and loyalty that define Klal Yisroel at its finest.

Reb Nachman is survived by his devoted wife, Mrs. Rochel Sonenzon, and their wonderful family, who stood by him with remarkable strength and faith through every stage of his prolonged illness.

The levayah will take place today at 1:00 PM at the Bendheim Bais Medrash of Bais Medrash Govoah in Lakewood, NJ followed by kevurah in Lakewood.

Yehi zichro boruch.

{Matzav.com}

The news that emerged from Sydney on Sunday night, December 14, 2025, was devastating. A Chanukah menorah lighting organized by Chabad of Bondi turned into a scene of terror when an attack claimed the lives of 15 innocent people. Among those murdered was the widely loved Chabad shaliach, Rabbi Eli Schlanger HY’D. Scores of others were wounded. The shock reverberated throughout Australia and across Jewish communities worldwide, leaving Rabbi Schlanger’s family, kehillah, and friends stunned and brokenhearted.

Thousands of miles away in South Florida, one of Rabbi Schlanger’s closest friends struggled to absorb the loss. Geography had never weakened their bond; they spoke often, shared life, and leaned on one another. The moment the reality set in, he knew with certainty that he had to attend the Levaya—no matter how daunting the journey.

At the time, nothing was clear. The aftermath of the attack was chaotic, and there was no confirmed funeral date. Rumors spread that the Levaya might be arranged on only a few hours’ notice. Many friends questioned whether flying at all made sense. The attack had occurred on Sunday night; perhaps the funeral would be over before anyone from the United States could even land.

Two mutual friends, Levi and Mendel, made a bold decision. They booked flights from Los Angeles to Sydney for Monday night, accepting the risk that they might not arrive in time. The Florida-based friend wrestled with the same choice. It was Chanukah, and leaving would upend his family’s Yom Tov entirely. Torn, he turned to his wife and told her plainly, “You have the final say.”

She did not hesitate. “It’s the right thing to do.”

What followed was a race against time. At 3:20 PM, he secured a last-minute American Airlines ticket from Miami to Los Angeles, departing at 5:35 PM, with a connection on United Airlines from LAX to Sydney at 10:40 PM. On paper, the plan worked. In reality, almost nothing did.

In Miami, boarding suddenly stopped. A vague “service issue.” A gate change. Minutes stretched into hours. By the time the plane finally left the gate—more than two hours late—it was obvious that his international connection was hanging by a thread.

While the plane was taxiing and then climbing into the air, a message arrived with the first concrete detail: the Levaya was set for Wednesday at 11:00 AM in Sydney. There was still a chance—but only if everything else went perfectly.

He prepared himself for disappointment. If he missed the connection and arrived too late, then so be it. “Whatever happens, happens,” he thought. If he would travel halfway around the world only to turn around again, that too was part of Hashem’s plan.

What he did not know was that, behind the scenes, others were already moving. Friends realized he was unlikely to make the Sydney flight. Calls were made. Messages sent. Somewhere along the way, people with the authority to act became aware of the situation—and chose to act quietly, decisively, and without telling him a word.

Roughly two-thirds of the way to Los Angeles, a flight attendant stopped at his seat.
“Is this seat 36A?” she asked.
When he nodded, she handed him a handwritten note from the captain.

United, the note explained, would not hold the Sydney-bound flight.
American Airlines would.

There was another plane headed to Sydney—and it would wait. Relief washed over him as the weight of the moment finally lifted.

From then on, nothing unfolded in a normal way. Shortly before landing, he was moved from the very back of the aircraft to seat 9C near the front. The plane itself, originally assigned to a distant domestic gate, was rerouted to an international gate just two gates away from the Sydney flight.

As soon as the aircraft stopped, an American Airlines manager boarded, cutting past every standard procedure.
“I’m here specifically for the Sydney passenger,” he announced. “Is that Mr…?”

He was taken off the plane before any other passenger. As they hurried through the terminal, the manager explained that American Airlines had made a decision. The international flight had been held. His seat had been comped. And then, quietly and sincerely, the manager added, “And, on behalf of American Airlines, we are so sorry for your loss.”

They stopped for a photo—airline staff standing together with one grieving traveler while an entire plane waited. Still stunned, he asked them to take a picture on his own phone as well. “I needed proof,” he later said. “Or one day I might think it was all a dream.”

The extraordinary care continued on the other side of the world. When the plane touched down in Sydney at 8:40 AM, he was again escorted off first. An airline representative met him at the jetway and sped him through the airport. At immigration, an officer looked up, offered a soft “Shalom,” and waved him through.

Minutes later, he was outside. Levi and Mendel—also rushed through—were waiting. Together, they headed straight to the shul, arriving just moments before the Levaya began. The Niftar, Rabbi Eli Schlanger HY’D, was already there.

For his friend, the message was unmistakable. So much had aligned, against every reasonable expectation, that it could not be coincidence alone. Human kindness had played its part—but something more was at work as well.

“No doubt,” he later reflected, “Eli was pulling strings. He wanted his friends there.”

Based on a report by Shaina Glick for CrownHeights.info.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli security officials confirmed that the assailant responsible for Friday’s deadly ramming and stabbing attacks was Ahmad al-Roub, a 37-year-old resident of the Palestinian Arab village of Qabatiya. After fleeing the scenes of the attacks in his vehicle toward Afula, he was located and neutralized.

The attacks left two people murdered: 19-year-old Aviv Maor and 68-year-old Mordechai Shimshon. A third victim, a 16-year-old boy, sustained light injuries.

In response, combined forces from the Israel Defense Forces, the Israel Security Agency, and the Israel Prison Service launched a counterterrorism operation on Friday in and around Qabatiya. The activity followed the sequence of attacks that unfolded near Beit She’an, and later in Ein Harod and Afula.

As part of the operation, Israeli forces carried out a targeted operational search at the home of the terrorist. Security personnel also questioned suspects connected to the case while IDF soldiers and ISA agents began mapping the residence in advance of a possible demolition.

According to the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, the operation remains ongoing, with forces continuing to sweep additional locations in the area as part of broader efforts to thwart further terrorist activity.

Senior military leadership traveled to the region throughout the day to oversee developments on the ground. Chief of the General Staff Eyal Zamir conducted a situational assessment, alongside Central Command head Avi Bluth and 96th Division commander Oren Simcha, during visits to Beit She’an. Additional assessments were held by Judea and Samaria Division commander Kobi Heller, who was present with IDF forces operating in the Qabatiya area.

Security officials emphasized that operations in the region will continue as long as necessary to prevent additional attacks and maintain stability.

{Matzav.com}

Negotiations aimed at ending the war between Ukraine and Russia have picked up pace in recent weeks, with U.S. officials saying progress has accelerated after months of stagnation. One senior American official characterized the recent discussions as “positive and constructive,” asserting that more has been accomplished in the past two weeks than during the previous year of stalled diplomacy.

As part of that momentum, President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are expected to meet Sunday in Florida, according to officials familiar with the planning. Ukrainian sources told Axios the meeting is scheduled for that day, though the White House has not publicly confirmed the timing.

The talks are expected to take place at Mar-a-Lago, where Trump would host Zelenskyy as both sides work toward finalizing a U.S.-backed framework designed to bring the nearly three-year conflict to a close. Axios reported that the meeting is being viewed as a significant sign that negotiations have advanced to a critical stage.

Trump had previously indicated that he would only meet with Zelenskyy if an agreement was close, adding to the sense that the discussions have reached a pivotal point. Behind the scenes, talks have intensified over the past two months, including weekend sessions in Florida involving Trump advisers Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, along with senior negotiators from Ukraine and Russia.

Zelenskyy appeared to signal that a meeting was imminent in a Friday post on X, written after a briefing from his chief negotiator, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. “We are not losing a single day,” he wrote, adding that “a lot can be decided before the New Year.”

At the center of the U.S. proposal are security guarantees for Kyiv from both the United States and Europe. According to Axios, the language of those guarantees is modeled on NATO’s Article 5 commitment, and the package could be sent to the Senate for ratification. Zelenskyy has said such guarantees would trigger a military response and renewed sanctions if Russia were to invade again.

Still, major obstacles remain. Russia continues to demand control over the entire Donbas region, a position that remains the most serious sticking point in the talks. The U.S. plan reportedly envisions converting contested areas into a demilitarized “free economic zone,” but Zelenskyy has insisted that any territorial concessions would require approval by Ukrainian voters in a referendum.

Analysts at the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War warned in a recent assessment that Moscow is pressing for terms it is unlikely to secure through military means, including control of territory it has not captured. ISW suggested Russia may be seeking to conserve manpower and resources while setting the stage for future aggression.

On the battlefield, the situation remains fluid. The New York Post reported that while Russia has taken most of Luhansk and large portions of Donetsk, Ukrainian forces recently scored a victory near Kupyansk. Pro-Russian military bloggers have accused Russian commanders of overstating those territorial gains.

That combination of military pressure and diplomatic urgency has strengthened Trump’s hand as he pushes for a deal. Russia is facing mounting costs, Ukraine is seeking firm and reliable guarantees, and American voters are increasingly demanding an end to an open-ended conflict that has drained resources with no clear endpoint.

{Matzav.com}

The mother of slain Israeli hostage Israel Police Master Sgt. Ran Gvili will accompany Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his trip to the United States for his meeting with President Donald Trump on Dec. 29.

Talik Gvili said in a public statement that she would join Netanyahu’s Dec. 28 flight as part of her campaign to secure the return of her son’s body from Gaza.

An Israeli delegation led by Coordinator for Hostages and Missing Persons Brig. Gen. (res.) Gal Hirsch met with senior Egyptian officials and international mediators in Cairo on Wednesday to discuss efforts to recover the remains of Gvili, the last hostage being held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

According to Israeli authorities, Gvili, 24, died of wounds suffered battling terrorists at the entrance to Kibbutz Alumim during the Hamas-led terrorist invasion of the northwestern Negev on Oct. 7, 2023. He was posthumously promoted from staff sergeant to master sergeant.

The 20 last living hostages were freed on Oct. 13, and the bodies of deceased hostages have been returned sporadically since that date.

Phase 1 of President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan called for the return of all hostages, living and dead, by Oct. 13. Netanyahu and Trump are expected to discuss next steps in the Gaza ceasefire plan during their meeting at Trump’s Mar‑a‑Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. JNS

{Matzav.com}