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[Video below.] Hakeem Jeffries found himself momentarily surprised when a child posed a pointed question about Democrats’ public image during a Capitol Hill event.

The exchange took place during a Take Your Child to Work Day program, where children of members of the press were invited to question lawmakers directly.

The moment quickly drew attention after one young participant raised a blunt issue that reflects a broader political challenge for Democrats as they approach a crucial election season.

The first question came from the daughter of CNN correspondent Manu Raju, who asked Jeffries, “Why do voters view Democrats so poorly?”

The question prompted laughter from the audience, while Jeffries appeared taken aback and jokingly asked whether the question had been suggested in advance by her father.

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He quickly added that it was “a great question.”

“It’s a great question in that — I’m gonna have words with you after this, Manu,” Jeffries said.

Jeffries then offered a detailed response, pointing to a broader sense of frustration among Americans toward institutions.

“I think that we exist in an era right now where the American people are understandably frustrated with institutions because far too many people in this country are struggling to live paycheck to paycheck,” he said.

“They can’t thrive and can barely survive. And so there’s a frustration with Congress. There’s frustration with institutional political parties, whether that’s Democrats or Republicans. certainly a frustration with the courts, with organized religion, with the media, frustration with institutions of higher education and, of course, frustration with the current president of the United States of America.

“There’s a great frustration that applies to every organized institution in this country, and Democrats are not immune from that,” he continued. “And we do have a responsibility to continue to convince the American people that, as a party, we’re actually focused on making their life better.”

Jeffries, who has led House Democrats since 2023, is playing a central role in shaping the party’s message as it works to respond to Republican criticism and reconnect with voters concerned about economic pressures and the cost of living. Recent polling and analysis have highlighted concerns about the party’s standing with key constituencies, adding weight to the question raised during the event.

The exchange highlighted the communication hurdles Democrats face heading into a pivotal election cycle, with even an unscripted question from a child echoing broader concerns among voters.

{Matzav.com}

A new controversy has emerged among hundreds of volunteers from the Gerer chassidus who serve as responders with Magen David Adom after the community’s rabbinic technology committee issued a formal letter questioning the permissibility of certain operational devices.

In the letter sent to MDA leadership, the committee stated that the POC devices—commonly referred to by volunteers as the “yellow device”—no longer meet the chassidus’s accepted standards. The announcement has left many volunteers grappling with both hashkafic and technological concerns.

According to the document, the decision followed a thorough review by experts working with the committee, who concluded that the devices are not fully secure. “We hereby inform you that MDA POC devices (the yellow device) are not approved for use by Gerer chassidic responders due to the existing breach,” the letter stated.

The committee pointed to a specific issue that led to its ruling: the Waze navigation app. According to the rabbonim, it is possible to access an external, unfiltered network through the app, creating what they described as a serious breach in the community’s technological safeguards.

At the same time, the committee emphasized that the decision is not meant to impose an impossible standard, and that it is open to dialogue in order to find a technical solution that would allow volunteers to continue their work. Any device would need to undergo further testing or receive certification from an approved oversight body before being permitted for use, the committee clarified.

Sources familiar with the matter said the letter was not intended to immediately pull devices out of service or halt volunteer activity, but rather to highlight the issue to MDA leadership so that stronger filtering solutions can be implemented in line with the chassidus’s strict requirements.

The issue now rests with MDA officials, who rely on hundreds of chareidi volunteers nationwide. The organization will need to balance maintaining operational readiness and constant communication with dispatch centers against the stringent religious standards set by rabbinic authorities.

Within the chassidus, there is hope that ongoing discussions with MDA will produce a workable solution, one that ensures the life-saving device is free of any technological concerns, allowing volunteers to continue their critical work under rabbinic guidance.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump has announced that US representatives will not travel to Pakistan for talks with Iran.

“I just cancelled the trip of my representatives going is Islamabad, Pakistan, to meet with the Iranians,” he wrote on Truth Social. “Too much time wasted on traveling, too much work! Besides which, there is tremendous infighting and confusion within their ‘leadership.’ Nobody knows who is in charge, including them. Also, we have all the cards, they have none! If they want to talk, all they have to do is call!!!”

In an interview, Trump told Fox News, “I’ve told my people a little while ago they were getting ready to leave, and I said, ‘Nope, you’re not making an 18 hour flight to go there. We have all the cards. They can call us anytime they want, but you’re not going to be making any more 18 hour flights to sit around talking about nothing.'”

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi left Pakistan earlier without holding talks with US representatives. During his visit, Araghchi met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir, and according to reports, conveyed Tehran’s response to the latest proposal to end the war.

This evening, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that control of the Strait of Hormuz constitutes Tehran’s “final strategy” in the conflict.

“Control of the Strait of Hormuz, and maintaining the deterrent effect it creates against America and the White House’s allies in the region, is the Islamic Republic of Iran’s ultimate strategy,” the IRGC said in a Telegram statement.

Gadi Eisenkot issued a warning to Shin Bet chief David Zini, cautioning that political elements may attempt to interfere with upcoming elections, while also delivering a sharp critique of the government’s security and political decisions.

Speaking at a political conference, Eisenkot directed pointed criticism at both the political leadership and the security establishment, according to a report by Ynet, focusing heavily on concerns over the integrity of the electoral process.

Addressing Zini directly, Eisenkot warned of possible attempts to undermine the vote. “Zini needs to open his eyes. There will be political actors who will try to sabotage these elections. After what I saw in terms of political organizing around the Supreme Court, my assumption is a strict one—that there will be political actors who will try to disrupt these elections.”

He stressed that the opposition must prepare in advance to oversee the process. “Therefore, as an opposition, we have spoken about the need to establish teams that will monitor every polling station across the State of Israel, from the Central Elections Committee and below, and not assume that there are people of integrity who accept Israeli democracy.”

Eisenkot linked his concerns to broader developments, arguing that recent events signal a challenge to democratic norms. “We are seeing a challenge to Israeli democracy, and therefore we must assume that there needs to be very tight supervision, because those who try to disrupt proceedings in the Supreme Court and cause a situation where Supreme Court justices have to be evacuated during a hearing must be assumed to have no limits. They will do everything to preserve this regime into the future, and therefore the test is a test of action. We need to be very meticulous and assume that this will happen.”

He also launched a direct attack on government policy in Judea and Samaria, placing responsibility on Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. “I want to say clearly: the one who sowed the wind and we are now reaping the storm is Binyomin Netanyahu, through the most recent coalition agreement. He dismantled the authority of the IDF as the sovereign force in Judea and Samaria, gave Smotrich control over the Civil Administration, and Ben Gvir control over the police in the Judea and Samaria district. In practice, today there is an inability for the military commander to control Judea and Samaria, and therefore we are seeing anarchy.”

Eisenkot also called for decisive action against nationalist violence, urging security officials to acknowledge what he described as a real threat. “I condemn violence and certainly terrorism, and I call on the head of the Shin Bet to open his eyes and not say there is no Jewish terrorism. There is Jewish terrorism. It is a minority, but a minority of hundreds that must be fought.”

He further appealed to Defense Minister Israel Katz to restore administrative detention powers to the IDF, describing them as a key tool in combating terrorism. Referring to recent violent incidents, he said: “To see ten Jews come to a home and set it on fire with its occupants inside—eight people were injured—is something that must be fought with an iron fist.”

In closing, Eisenkot addressed the political arena and his communications with Naftali Bennett. “I see him as a central partner,” he said. “We are corresponding, speaking, even two or three days ago. We have a shared goal—to replace this government and bring a state-oriented Zionist government that will lead the State of Israel and carry out deep reform. Even if we currently have disagreements about the path…”

“What guides me is how to win the elections, period. Ego—I promise—will not be a factor, and I promise I will do everything necessary to win.”

{Matzav.com}

Zohran Mamdani stood by his decision to single out billionaire Ken Griffin in a viral video promoting a proposed pied-à-terre tax, saying Friday he has no regrets as tensions grow between City Hall and the hedge fund giant.

Speaking to reporters in Brooklyn, Mamdani declined to express regret for referencing Griffin’s Manhattan penthouse in the video, which was filmed outside the Citadel founder’s 24,000-square-foot residence on Central Park South—purchased for $238 million in 2019.

“That home, when it was purchased, was the most expensive home in the United States of America, publicly reported, and it was described as such,” Mamdani said when pressed by reporters during an unrelated press conference in Brooklyn.

“And in a political environment where there is always an attempt to describe any increase in taxes as if it would be one that would apply to all, we wanted to make very clear that this applies to a very select group of properties,” he said.

The remarks followed Mamdani’s April 15 video, in which he declared “today, we’re taxing the rich,” highlighting Griffin’s luxury apartment as a prime example of properties that would fall under Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed levy on high-end secondary homes in New York City.

The comments drew a sharp response from Citadel, where a senior executive criticized the mayor in a strongly worded internal email and raised the possibility of pulling back from a major development project in Manhattan.

“From his comments, it is apparent that the Mayor’s view is that these individuals do not contribute enough to the greater good,” Citadel COO Gerald Beeson wrote in the message.

“It is shameful that he used Ken’s name as the example of those who supposedly aren’t carrying their fair share of the burdens associated with New York City’s often costly and wasteful spending,” he wrote.

“In doing so, the Mayor has once again manifested the ignorance and disdain of the elite political class towards those who have been consistently committed to building one of the greatest cities in the world.”

Beeson also suggested Citadel could reconsider its plans for a $6 billion redevelopment at 350 Park Avenue, a project he said would generate thousands of jobs.

“The project – if we move forward – will entail more than $6 billion dollars of spending,” he wrote.

Asked whether he was concerned about the potential loss of the project, Mamdani did not directly address the possibility but emphasized his broader support for economic growth and business success in the city.

“I want New Yorkers to succeed. I want them to build businesses, to grow our economy and to create good paying jobs. And Ken Griffin has been a part of that. He’s an important employer and business leader in our city, and as I do with every New Yorker, I do want him to succeed, as mayor,” he said.

“I will continue to work with business leaders, including Mr. Griffin, as partners in building a city that continues to be the economic engine, not just of this state, but also of this country,” he continued — before pivoting to what he called the nation’s “fundamentally broken” tax system.

When asked again about naming Griffin in the video and whether he would meet with him, Mamdani sidestepped the question about regret but said he is open to dialogue.

“I’d be happy to speak with many business leaders across the city,” he said.

“We all want this city to succeed, and that is something that I’m committed to, no matter a question of unanimity on every single political issue,” he said.

He also avoided answering whether he had personally reached out to Griffin, instead pointing to broader economic concerns facing the city, which he described as a “a generational fiscal crisis” exceeding the severity of the 2008 downturn.

Mamdani said his focus is on balancing the city’s finances by asking wealthier individuals and corporations to contribute more.

“And that means Ken Griffin, and that means so many others across the city, and that also means those who would love to join us.”

Pressed again on whether he regretted singling out Griffin—especially in light of recent high-profile violence against corporate figures—Mamdani instead reiterated that his intent was to illustrate the limited scope of the proposed tax.

“And the reason that I gave other examples of this is that this piece of legislation is not motivated by any one individual. Rather, it is one that applies broadly without exception,” he said. “And so the next day, I spoke about a Saudi prince who bought an apartment for $90 million a Russian auto dealer who bought an apartment for close to $30 million in cash.

“I say these things not because I do not want these individuals to be here in New York City or to purchase property in New York City,” he insisted, “but rather to outline that we are talking about a proposal that will have a very narrow impact, and one that is being driven by an intention to ensure that everyone can remain in the city, including those that are taxed.”

{Matzav.com}

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that Hezbollah is attempting to disrupt emerging efforts toward a potential peace process with Lebanon, as Israeli forces carried out additional strikes in southern Lebanon following rocket fire toward northern Israel.

In a statement issued ahead of Shabbos, Netanyahu said Israel is continuing to reshape the Middle East while working closely with the Trump administration to pressure Iran. “I promised you that we would change the face of the Middle East – and that is exactly what we are doing,” he said.

The prime minister reported that he held what he described as a productive conversation with President Donald Trump, emphasizing that the United States is maintaining strong pressure on Iran through both economic and military means. “We are operating in full cooperation,” Netanyahu said.

Addressing developments on the northern front, Netanyahu said Israel has begun a process aimed at achieving what he called a historic peace between Israel and Lebanon, but warned that Hezbollah is actively trying to sabotage those efforts. “It is clear to us that Hezbollah is trying to undermine this. We are maintaining full freedom of action against any threat, including emerging threats,” he said.

Referring to ongoing military activity, Netanyahu added, “We struck yesterday and we struck today. We are determined to restore security to the residents of the north.”

Separately, the IDF confirmed that the Israeli Air Force carried out strikes on military structures in the village of Deir Aames, located north of the forward defense line in southern Lebanon. The attack followed rocket launches the previous night from the area toward the community of Shtula in the western Galilee.

According to the IDF, the targeted sites were used by Hezbollah to advance plans for attacks against Israeli forces and the State of Israel. The strike is part of continued efforts to eliminate threats to northern communities and to enforce the ceasefire.

The military said it will continue to act decisively against any threats to Israeli civilians and IDF troops, in accordance with directives from the political leadership. During recent operations in southern Lebanon, Israeli forces have uncovered extensive Hezbollah infrastructure, including underground command centers and rocket launch systems.

The ongoing operations come as President Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon by an additional three weeks, alongside a commitment to work with Lebanon to protect it from Hezbollah.

Israel’s annual Lag BaOmer gathering at Meron is now in jeopardy of being canceled due to the worsening security situation in the north, according to sources.

Defense officials have instructed government agencies involved in organizing the event to halt preparations, citing the escalating tensions and ongoing sirens in northern Israel. The directive effectively freezes all planning related to the large-scale gathering.

In an effort to reassess the situation, a high-level meeting is scheduled for Sunday with the prime minister to discuss whether the event can proceed. Participants are expected to include Communications Minister Shlomo Karchi, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, representatives from the IDF and police, and MK Meir Porush.

Despite the pause in planning, construction and infrastructure work at the Meron site is continuing for now, in order to preserve the possibility of holding the event if security conditions improve.

At this stage, the directive applies broadly to all aspects of the event, including transportation logistics, road closures, and crowd management. Up to 200,000 people had been expected to attend the gathering at the kever of Rav Shimon Bar Yochai.

In a separate update responding to media inquiries, the Ministry of Yerushalayim Affairs and Heritage said it has not received any formal instruction from the Home Front Command or the defense establishment regarding the cancellation of the Meron event.

The ministry stated that, in line with legal guidelines and in coordination with the police and Home Front Command, it has continued preparations in recent weeks for what was intended to be a standard and celebratory event, with public safety as a top priority. Officials added that discussions led by the prime minister are ongoing, and further updates will be issued as decisions are made.

{Matzav.com}

Heavy weapons use during the recent conflict with Iran has significantly depleted key U.S. munitions stockpiles, with officials and analysts warning it could take years to fully replenish supplies, according to a new report that is fueling debate over long-term military readiness.

The findings point to the strain placed on American resources during a high-intensity campaign, prompting fresh concern about the country’s ability to sustain another major conflict—particularly against a peer adversary such as China.

U.S. forces have fired more than 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles and as many as 2,000 advanced air-defense interceptors, including Patriot and THAAD systems, since fighting began in late February, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Officials say replacing those weapons could require several years, leading to internal discussions about how to revise contingency planning in light of the reduced inventories.

While leaders do not see an immediate threat to U.S. security, the focus has shifted to longer-term preparedness.

Some officials cautioned that if tensions with China escalated in the near future, the United States could encounter a temporary “munitions gap,” potentially increasing risks for American forces in a high-end conflict such as a defense of Taiwan.

Despite those concerns, officials in the Trump administration rejected suggestions that the military is underprepared.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed the warnings, emphasizing the strength of U.S. capabilities.

“The United States of America has the most powerful military in the world, fully loaded with more than enough weapons and munitions,” she said, the Journal reported.

Pentagon leaders echoed that message, underscoring that the U.S. maintains a “deep arsenal” and has carried out operations across multiple regions without jeopardizing national security.

Independent defense experts, however, say the situation is more nuanced.

A recent analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies found that the Iran conflict drew down substantial portions of critical missile reserves, including about one-quarter of Tomahawk supplies and more than half of certain defensive interceptor systems.

“It’s going to be years before we can rebuild those inventories,” CSIS senior adviser Mark Cancian said.

The report highlights a broader strategic issue: a potential future conflict with a nation like China would likely demand even larger quantities of sophisticated weapons, particularly long-range strike capabilities and missile defense systems.

Even so, military officials say the campaign against Iran has also yielded benefits, including valuable operational experience and a demonstration of U.S. combat effectiveness.

Adm. Samuel Paparo, who commands U.S. forces in the Pacific, told lawmakers he does not see any immediate degradation in America’s ability to deter China.

In the meantime, the Pentagon has begun taking steps to restore its stockpiles.

The Trump administration has proposed significant new funding to expand the defense-industrial base, aiming to increase production capacity and shorten delivery timelines.

Major defense firms, including Lockheed Martin and RTX Corporation, have already announced plans to ramp up missile manufacturing in the coming years.

Analysts say that while the U.S. remains capable of sustaining current operations, rebuilding inventories and preparing for future large-scale conflicts will require ongoing investment and careful strategic planning.

The overall picture, they say, is that the U.S. military continues to hold a dominant position, but the pace and demands of modern warfare are placing increasing pressure on its arsenal.

{Matzav.com}

A large majority of Americans say Donald Trump is responsible for the recent spike in gasoline prices, a trend that is creating political challenges for Republicans ahead of the November midterm elections, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey.

The poll, completed earlier this week, found that 77% of registered voters believe Trump holds at least some responsibility for the increase in fuel costs, which followed his decision to enter a war with Iran alongside Israel.

That sentiment cut across party lines, with 55% of Republicans, 82% of independents, and 95% of Democrats saying the president is to blame for higher gas prices.

The survey also showed that 58% of voters—including about 20% of Republicans and roughly two-thirds of independents—said they would be less inclined to support candidates in the November 3 elections who back Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict.

The United States and Israel launched a surprise offensive against Iran in February, resulting in the death of the country’s leader and thousands of casualties. Iran retaliated by striking U.S. allies in the region, damaging oil infrastructure and disrupting about 20% of global oil shipments. Since then, gasoline prices in the U.S. have climbed to roughly $4 per gallon, about $1 higher than before the war began.

The prolonged conflict is putting pressure on household budgets and adding to concerns among Republicans heading into the midterms, where the party faces a difficult path to holding onto its majority in the House and risks losing the Senate as well.

“Right now, it’s bad. People are upset,” said Sarah Chamberlain, strategist and president of the Republican Main Street Partnership that advocates for conservative lawmakers.

“Republicans are obviously very concerned about maintaining the House, but if we can get through the Iran situation by summertime and gas prices drop back down, or at least go down maybe not to quite the level they were prior to the war, then I think we have a really good shot.”

According to the poll, 77% of Americans view fuel prices as a major concern, and respondents were more than twice as likely to expect prices to rise over the next year than to fall.

Trump won the 2024 election after promising to tackle inflation, which had been a major issue during the administration of Joe Biden. He has continued to describe the U.S. economy as strong, including remarks in Las Vegas on April 16, while the White House website promotes what it calls a “GOLDEN AGE.”

However, 70% of those surveyed disagreed with the idea that the economy is booming, and 82% said inflation remains a significant concern.

“Trump has made affordability and bringing down prices a cornerstone of the Make America Great Again movement, and with costs going up in the country, that is a hard circle to square, messaging wise,” said Erin Maguire, a Republican strategist.

Maguire added that Republican candidates will need to carefully balance their messaging on the Iran war while emphasizing the administration’s efforts to reduce taxes.

The poll also indicated that Republicans’ traditional advantage on economic issues has narrowed considerably. The latest survey, conducted between April 15 and April 20, found that 38% of voters favor the Republican approach to the economy, compared to 37% who prefer the Democrats. That one-point margin is a sharp drop from the 14-point lead Republicans held shortly after Trump began his second term in January 2025.

The Reuters/Ipsos poll surveyed 4,557 adults nationwide, including 3,577 registered voters, and carries a margin of error of two percentage points.

Pollster John McLaughlin criticized redistricting efforts led by Democrats in New York, arguing that while both parties engage in drawing political maps, Democrats have been inconsistent in how they address the issue.

Speaking on Newsmax’s “Ed Henry The Big Take,” McLaughlin pointed to recent adjustments to congressional districts in New York, saying the changes had a direct impact on Republican representation.

Referring to the 2024 election cycle, he said Democrats moved to redraw the maps after Republicans made gains under court-drawn lines.

In New York in 2024, “the Democrats redistricted because the judge drew fair lines and Republicans won 11 seats.

“And guess what [New York Gov. Kathy] Hochul did? They came back. They did a redistricting thing in spite of referendums that passed statewide,” he added.

Redistricting in New York has been the focus of ongoing legal and political battles in recent years, with courts stepping in ahead of the 2022 midterms to revise district boundaries.

Republicans saw improved results under those court-ordered maps, picking up additional seats.

According to McLaughlin, later changes to the maps reversed some of those Republican gains.

“They redrew the lines, which cost us Brandon Williams’ seat in Syracuse,” he said. “And it cost us New York District 3 because they all of a sudden they started redrawing the lines again in 2024.”

He also took aim at Kathy Hochul for criticizing redistricting efforts in other states.

“Then Gov. Hochul has the nerve to attack Gov. [Greg] Abbott for redistricting in Texas,” McLaughlin said.

Redistricting takes place every ten years following the U.S. Census and often leads to partisan disputes, as both Democrats and Republicans are frequently accused of gerrymandering to gain an advantage in states they control.

Greg Abbott and other Republican leaders have defended their state’s redistricting process as lawful, while Democrats argue that such maps weaken minority representation and solidify GOP control.

Donald Trump warned that the United States will respond with significant tariffs if Britain continues imposing its digital services tax on major American technology companies.

The dispute centers on the United Kingdom’s 2% levy on digital revenues, introduced in 2020, which has drawn criticism from both Trump and Joe Biden.

Speaking to reporters at a White House event, Trump made clear that further action could follow if the policy remains in place.

“If they don’t drop the tax, we’ll probably put a big tariff on the UK,” the president told reporters ⁠during a White House event.

The comments come just days before a planned visit by King Charles III to the United States.

Trump said he believes the king could play a role in easing tensions between Washington and London, as relations between the two allies have shown signs of strain in recent months.

The United States intends to extend an invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin for the upcoming G20 summit in Miami, according to a U.S. official, though Donald Trump said he is skeptical that Putin will actually show up.

Such an invitation would signal a notable shift in how Western nations are dealing with Putin, who has largely been isolated internationally since launching the 2022 invasion of Ukraine—though not by Trump.

As host of this year’s Group of 20 gathering, the United States is preparing for a high-profile summit scheduled for December in Florida, a state Trump calls home.

“All G20 members will be invited to attend ministerial meetings and the leaders’ summit,” a senior Trump administration official said in a statement.

When asked later about the invitation, Trump appeared uncertain about whether Putin would participate.

“I don’t know that he’s coming. I doubt he’d come, to be honest with you,” Trump said.

Still, Trump indicated he would welcome Putin’s presence, arguing it could be beneficial.

“If he came, it would be probably very helpful.”

He also revisited his criticism of former President Barack Obama for removing Russia from what was then the G8, a group of major industrialized democracies, after Moscow’s 2014 move into Ukraine.

“President Putin, he was very offended by that – rightfully,” Trump said.

Trump pointed to a prior meeting with Putin in Alaska in August, marking the Russian leader’s first visit to Western territory since the start of the war.

Since returning to the White House, Trump has made efforts to reopen diplomatic channels with Moscow in hopes of bringing the Ukraine conflict to an end.

Although he initially pledged to resolve the war within 24 hours, those efforts have yet to produce significant breakthroughs, despite multiple rounds of talks between Russian and Ukrainian officials.

Trump has frequently faulted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of refusing to give up territory as part of a potential settlement.

Earlier Thursday, the Kremlin said no decision has been made regarding Putin’s attendance at the summit.

“No such decisions have been made yet,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in Moscow.

Russia has received an invitation at “the highest level” for the Dec. 14–15 summit in Miami, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Pankin, as reported by the state news agency RIA Novosti.

Putin has avoided travel to certain countries since 2023, when the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for his arrest related to the war, raising the possibility of detention in nations that recognize the court’s authority.

The United States is not a member of the ICC and has opposed its actions under Trump’s leadership.

Putin has not attended a G20 leaders’ summit since 2019, first due to the coronavirus pandemic and later because of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced Friday that he will veto legislation aimed at protecting educational institutions from protests, while allowing a separate bill concerning houses of worship to move forward—prompting sharp criticism from several leading Jewish organizations.

Mamdani said he will permit the worship-related bill to take effect, noting that it passed with a veto-proof majority, unlike the schools measure, which lacked sufficient support to override a veto.

The proposals have sparked significant debate, touching on tensions between free speech and assembly rights on one hand, and concerns about religious freedom and discrimination on the other.

Left-leaning advocacy groups, including some Jewish organizations aligned with Mamdani, opposed both measures, arguing they would limit free expression.

The mayor had not previously revealed his intentions, leading to weeks of speculation over whether he would block one or both bills.

The legislation was introduced following two heated demonstrations outside synagogues in New York City, including one in Queens that also took place near a school. Both bills were approved by the City Council last month.

They are part of a broader legislative effort led by City Council Speaker Julie Menin to address antisemitism in the city.

The worship-focused bill originally proposed a buffer zone of up to 100 feet around religious institutions, but that provision was removed after the NYPD raised concerns about enforcement challenges.

In a statement, Mamdani said he will “allow it to become law,” though he did not specify whether he would formally sign it. If he takes no action, the bill will automatically take effect once the 30-day review period expires.

“It initially raised constitutional concerns. However, the final version of the bill that passed is narrower in scope and effect,” Mamdani said in a statement. “Following a thorough legal review, I do not believe it poses the same risks it once did, and that is why I will allow it to become law. That said, I disagree with its framing of all protest as a security concern.”

Mamdani drew a distinction between the two measures, arguing that the bill addressing schools carried broader implications.

“As the bill is written, everywhere from universities to museums to teaching hospitals could face restrictions,” he said. “This could impact workers protesting ICE, or college students demanding their school divest from fossil fuels, or demonstrating in support of Palestinian rights.”

“That is why I am vetoing this legislation,” he said. As of Friday afternoon, the formal veto had not yet appeared in City Council records.

Despite being described as “buffer zone” bills, the legislation does not mandate fixed distances, and law enforcement already establishes perimeters at protest sites. During one demonstration outside Park East Synagogue in November, protesters were permitted to gather near an entrance—an incident the police later acknowledged as a mistake and pledged would not be repeated. A separate protest in Queens was held more than 100 feet from the synagogue.

Under the proposed framework, police would be required to create “security perimeters” designed to prevent obstruction, intimidation, and interference, while still protecting free speech and assembly rights. Officers would also be tasked with developing plans to manage such risks, submitting them to the mayor and the City Council speaker, and making them publicly available online.

Organizers behind the synagogue protests said their demonstrations were aimed at events tied to West Bank settlements. However, reports indicated that protesters harassed Jewish individuals, directed antisemitic remarks at congregants, and chanted calls for violence, including slogans supporting Hamas and a “global intifada.”

In New York City, Jews are targeted in hate crimes more than any other group combined. Councilmember Eric Dinowitz, who sponsored the schools bill, said during a recent antisemitism hearing that roughly a quarter of such incidents in the city involve children.

Mamdani noted that various organizations, including reproductive rights groups, had also opposed the legislation. While New York law already protects access to abortion facilities, a separate proposal to establish 100-foot buffer zones around clinics has not faced similar resistance.

The mayor’s decision further strains his already tense relationship with major Jewish organizations and highlights ongoing friction between City Hall and City Council leadership, which have clashed on some issues while cooperating on others.

Leading Jewish groups responded by saying they were deeply disappointed with the decision.

Donald Trump said Friday that Iran is expected to present a proposal aimed at meeting U.S. expectations, as Washington moves ahead with plans for direct discussions in Pakistan.

Speaking in an interview with Reuters, Trump indicated that a potential offer from Tehran is forthcoming but cautioned that its details remain to be seen. “They’re making an offer and we’ll have to see,” Trump said.

He added that U.S. negotiators are currently engaging with those holding power in Iran, saying officials “are dealing with the people who are in charge now”.

The remarks came after the White House confirmed that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner will travel to Pakistan on Saturday for in-person talks with Iranian representatives.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the trip during a Fox News interview on Friday.

“I can confirm that Special Envoy Witkoff and Jared Kushner will be off to Pakistan again tomorrow morning to engage in direct talks with representatives from the Iranian delegation,” she said.

Leavitt said the discussions will be facilitated by Pakistan, noting that the initiative came from Iran. “The Iranians reached out, as the President called on them to do, and asked for this in-person conversation, so the President is dispatching Steve and Jared to go hear what they have to say, and we’re hopeful that it will be a productive conversation,” she said.

Meanwhile, Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, arrived in Islamabad on Friday, though Iranian outlets pushed back on reports that he would meet with U.S. officials.

According to the Iranian news agency Tasnim, “American officials and the media have been fabricating stories about a new round of talks for more than 10 days.”

The outlet also reported that negotiations with Washington “are not currently on the agenda,” adding that Araghchi’s discussions in Pakistan will instead focus on “Iran’s considerations regarding ending the war.”

The U.S. government has moved to block approximately $344 million in cryptocurrency believed to be linked to Iran, intensifying financial measures against Tehran even as the outlook for diplomatic progress remains unclear, CNN reported.

Officials at the Treasury Department said the action focused on several digital wallets as part of a wider effort to disrupt funding streams connected to Iran.

Authorities pointed to blockchain tracking that identified transactions tied to Iranian exchanges, as well as accounts associated with the country’s central bank.

The asset freeze was executed with the cooperation of Tether, which said it took action after being provided with intelligence from U.S. agencies indicating suspected illicit activity.

Analysts noted that while the move is notable, it is unlikely to have a major impact on Iran’s overall financial standing, as the country has repeatedly adjusted to sanctions and has increasingly turned to cryptocurrency as a way to work around restrictions.

Donald Trump sharply criticized the Southern Poverty Law Center after a federal indictment was unsealed, saying that if the accusations are confirmed, the results of the 2020 presidential election should be “permanently wiped from the books.”

In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump described the SPLC as “one of the greatest political scams in American history” and called the case “another Democrat hoax,” tying the allegations to broader concerns about left-leaning advocacy groups and their fundraising practices.

The comments followed news that a federal grand jury in Alabama charged the SPLC with 11 counts, including wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

According to prosecutors, the organization allegedly redirected about $3 million in donor funds to individuals connected to extremist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan and neo-Nazi organizations over a period spanning 2014 through 2023.

The indictment claims the SPLC concealed these payments through the use of shell companies and deceptive financial reporting, while continuing to present itself publicly as an organization dedicated to fighting extremism.

Prosecutors said the nonprofit misrepresented how donations were used, raising serious concerns about its transparency and accountability to contributors.

“The SPLC was not dismantling these groups,” Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said during a Justice Department press briefing.

“It was instead manufacturing the extremism it purports to oppose by paying sources to stoke racial hatred.”

The case represents one of the most significant federal prosecutions ever brought against a well-known civil rights organization and comes amid long-standing criticism from conservatives who argue the SPLC operates with political bias against right-leaning individuals and groups.

Trump pointed to the indictment as confirmation of those criticisms, suggesting that the alleged conduct could have broader implications.

“If it is true, the 2020 Presidential Election should be permanently wiped from the books and be of no further force or effect!” Trump wrote.

The president’s remarks reflect his ongoing challenges to the legitimacy of the 2020 election, which he has repeatedly questioned, pointing to claims of voter fraud.

Trump and his allies have maintained that emerging information about political organizations and influence efforts justifies renewed scrutiny.

The indictment outlines what prosecutors describe as a long-running scheme in which money was routed through disguised accounts and fictitious businesses to compensate informants placed within extremist groups.

In some instances, prosecutors allege, payments reached into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, including funds sent to an individual associated with the 2017 Charlottesville rally, an event that resulted in one death and became a major flashpoint in national debates over extremism and political violence.

Officials with the SPLC have denied the allegations, saying their use of confidential informants was a lawful method of gathering intelligence on dangerous groups.

The organization said it intends to contest the charges in court.

The Department of Justice has decided to terminate its criminal investigation into Jerome Powell over the soaring cost of renovations at the Federal Reserve’s Washington headquarters, transferring the matter to internal oversight instead.

U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., Jeanine Pirro, announced Friday that the Federal Reserve’s inspector general will now examine the ballooning construction expenses, which have climbed into the billions and are ultimately borne by taxpayers.

“The IG has the authority to hold the Federal Reserve accountable to American taxpayers,” Pirro said. “I expect a comprehensive report in short order and am confident the outcome will assist in resolving, once and for all, the questions that led this office to issue subpoenas.”

“Accordingly, I have directed my office to close our investigation as the IG undertakes this inquiry,” she added, warning she would “not hesitate to restart a criminal investigation should the facts warrant doing so.”

Earlier this year, Pirro’s office issued subpoenas to Powell in connection with testimony he gave to Congress regarding the $2.5 billion renovation project at the central bank.

Plans tied to the overhaul reportedly included upscale features such as rooftop garden terraces and even Italian beehives, according to reporting first published last year.

Those subpoenas were halted by a federal judge last month, effectively pausing the criminal inquiry.

The investigation began in January after Powell denied before the Senate Banking Committee that the upgrades included high-end additions that were driving costs beyond initial projections.

“There’s no VIP dining room, there’s no new marble. There are no special elevators,” Powell testified. “There are no new water features, there’s no beehives, and there’s no roof terrace gardens.”

In a video statement released Jan. 11, Powell addressed the probe, saying: “The threat of criminal charges is a consequence of the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve the public, rather than following the preferences of the president.”

Donald Trump visited the construction site last July, donning a hard hat and telling reporters that his background in real estate would make him unafraid to remove Powell if costs continued to rise.

Trump has repeatedly pressured Powell to lower interest rates during his second term and has, on several occasions, threatened to dismiss him over policy disagreements.

The Federal Reserve has also been grappling with financial losses, reporting a cumulative deficit of approximately $233 billion between 2022—the year after the renovation project received approval—and 2025.

Critics have blasted the scope of the renovation, with Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott and a former Fed official likening it to a “Palace of Versailles” on the National Mall.

The central bank operates two main buildings—the Eccles Building and the adjacent Federal Reserve Board East Building—both currently undergoing renovation led by architect Paul Cret.

Planning documents describe features including Georgian white marble, skylights, elaborate water elements, and a modern elevator system leading to a VIP dining suite, along with a private art collection housed in the basement.

Originally estimated at $1.9 billion in 2019, the project’s cost has since risen by roughly 32%, with completion expected in 2027.

Powell’s term as Fed chair is set to expire next month, while his proposed successor, Kevin Warsh, has faced delays in confirmation after Thom Tillis blocked consideration in protest of the DOJ investigation.

“American taxpayers deserve answers about the Federal Reserve’s fiscal mismanagement, and the Office of the Inspector General’s more powerful authorities best position it to get to the bottom of the matter,” White House spokesman Kush Desai said in a statement.

“The White House remains as confident as before that the Senate will swiftly confirm Kevin Warsh as the next Federal Reserve Chairman to finally restore competence and confidence in Fed decision-making.”

A newly enacted law in Canada is making it possible for millions of Americans to pursue Canadian citizenship, significantly expanding eligibility through ancestral connections.

The measure, which took effect on December 15, allows individuals born before that date to claim citizenship by descent if they can demonstrate a direct Canadian ancestor. Previously, citizenship through lineage was limited to a single generation, but the updated policy now permits claims through grandparents, great-grandparents, and even more distant relatives.

Since the change was implemented, there has been a noticeable surge in applications from Americans seeking to take advantage of the expanded eligibility. The uptick comes amid ongoing friction between the two countries, fueled in part by statements from Donald Trump about annexing Canada as the 51st state.

An immigration lawyer based in Washington told the Associated Press that demand has sharply increased, saying his firm has been “pretty much flooded with this,” and noting, “We’ve kind of shifted a lot of other work away in order to push these cases through.”

Similarly, Vancouver attorney Amndeep Hayer reported a dramatic rise in interest, with his office moving from handling around 200 citizenship cases annually to fielding more than 20 consultations each day. He estimated that millions of Americans may now qualify for Canadian citizenship under the revised law.

{Matzav.com}

An 11-year-old girl who was critically wounded in an Iranian missile strike in Bnei Brak has died after weeks in intensive care, following widespread tefillos on her behalf across the Jewish world.

Nesia Karadi Hy”d succumbed to her injuries after being struck on the eve of Pesach while sleeping in her home. Her condition had remained critical since the attack, and many had been davening for the recovery of Nesia bas Hila.

The tragic news was announced by Sheba Medical Center, where she had been hospitalized since the incident.

Despite ongoing tefillos and many people taking on kabbalos in her merit, Nesia passed away surrounded by her family, who remained at her bedside throughout her hospitalization.

Her body was transferred ahead of Shabbos to the morgue at Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center. The levayah is scheduled to take place on Motzaei Shabbos, Parshas Kedoshim. She is expected to be buried in Elad, with further details on the exact time to be announced.

Nesia was a student at the Chorev school in Ramat Gan. She was the daughter of Rabbi Elazar Elchanan Karadi and Mrs. Hila Karadi of the Shimoni family from Bat Yam, and a niece of Rabbi Michael Lasri.

Her mother shared that the name “Nesia” was chosen because her birth was considered a miracle. “I remember that the midwife shouted to us in the delivery room that this child was born by a miracle,” she said in an interview with Kol Berama radio.

Recalling the moment of the attack, her mother said, “Nesia was the child who was most careful about following Home Front Command instructions. At every siren, she was the first to run to the protected space. But during the siren in Bnei Brak, Nesia was asleep, and before she could get up and run — the missile fell and severely injured her.”

The city of Bnei Brak is mourning her loss. In an official statement, municipal leaders wrote: “The mayor, his deputies, members of the city council, and all residents of the city are shocked and pained upon receiving the bitter news of the passing of the girl Nesia Karadi Hy”d who returned her pure soul to her Creator after being critically wounded by a cluster missile on the eve of the recent Pesach Yom Tov. Tens of thousands of city residents, together with all of Klal Yisroel, prayed and pleaded for her recovery since the severe injury, and followed with hope her struggle for life at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer. To our great sorrow, the decree was sealed and the young flower was cut down in the prime of her life.”

{Matzav.com}

Pete Hegseth and Dan Caine briefed reporters on Friday, outlining what they described as major progress in Operation Epic Fury and signaling the campaign is shifting into a new stage focused on diplomacy and continued pressure on Iran.

During the press conference, Hegseth said the operation delivered a “decisive military result” in a short period of time, stressing that the overarching goal remains to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He indicated that the next phase will test whether Tehran chooses to engage in negotiations.

“Iran has an important choice, a chance to make a deal – a good deal, a wise deal,” Hegseth stated.

He pointed to the growing U.S. naval presence in the Strait of Hormuz, calling the blockade “ironclad,” and noted that an additional aircraft carrier will soon be deployed to the region. Hegseth said the effort is continuing to expand.

“Our blockade is growing and going global,” he said, adding that 34 vessels not affiliated with Iran have been allowed to transit the strait, although overall maritime traffic remains well below normal levels.

Addressing recent Iranian activity, Hegseth accused Tehran of targeting commercial shipping, describing the incidents as involving “random ships” approached by Iranian speedboats. Referring to orders issued by Donald Trump authorizing force against attempts to lay naval mines, he emphasized that U.S. forces are operating under clear engagement rules.

“If Iran is putting mines in the water or threatening American shipping or forces, we will shoot to destroy. No hesitation,” he said.

Caine outlined enforcement actions under the blockade, reporting that numerous ships have reversed course. He said one vessel, the M/V Touska, had been taken into custody, and two tankers tied to Iran were intercepted in the Indo-Pacific. Their crews remain detained by U.S. authorities.

“We will continue maritime interdictions in the Pacific and Indian Oceans against Iranian vessels,” Caine said.

While a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is still formally in place, friction continues as both sides vie for influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies. Iran has reportedly sought to impose fees and seize ships, while U.S. forces have stopped several vessels connected to Tehran.

President Trump said Thursday that the United States has “total control” over the waterway and reiterated that military action could resume if Iran declines to negotiate, though he signaled he is not rushing the process.

“I want to make the best deal,” Trump said.

In a separate development, a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon was extended after discussions at the White House, reflecting broader regional dynamics involving Iran and its allied groups.

At the same time, leadership changes continued at the Pentagon, as Navy Secretary John Phelan stepped down following direction from President Trump and Hegseth.

{Matzav.com}