Feed aggregator

As Israel’s High Court of Justice considered petitions challenging the law suspending the arrest of bnei Torah over the draft, Shas’ Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah issued a forceful proclamation declaring that the enlistment of yeshivah bochurim is categorically prohibited according to halachah.

Released on Tuesday during the High Court proceedings, the statement lays out the Moetzet’s unwavering opposition to drafting those whose lives are devoted to Torah learning, while making clear that the issue is one of immutable halachah rather than public policy.

The statement opens by emphasizing that the Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah does not recognize the authority of the High Court to rule on such matters. It explains that the declaration was issued solely “for the sake of making the eternal divine truth known.”

According to the Moetzet, the High Court has spent years waging what it describes as a “campaign of persecution” against lomdei Torah, repeatedly striking down legislation intended to protect their legal status. The statement further asserts that the Court is “as far removed from justice as east is from west,” maintaining that its rulings “have no validity,” including, according to the document, under international law.

The Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah states unequivocally that drafting yeshivah bochurim whose full-time occupation is Torah learning is “absolutely forbidden under halacha.” It characterizes efforts to compel their enlistment as “a campaign of religious coercion,” arguing that mandatory military service infringes upon religious freedom and even violates commitments contained in Israel’s Declaration of Independence.

To support its position, the statement cites numerous ma’amarei Chazal and the rulings of the great poskim. Among the sources quoted are passages from Maseches Nedarim and Maseches Sotah, which teach that Avraham Avinu and King Asa were punished for drafting talmidei chachamim into battle, despite those wars being fought to save Klal Yisroel. The Moetzet says these sources demonstrate that lomdei Torah do not participate in warfare, even when it is considered a milchemes mitzvah.

The document also focuses extensively on the Rambam’s Hilchos Shemittah V’Yovel, where he explains that Shevet Levi did not take part in the wars of Israel because its mission was dedicated to serving Hashem and teaching Torah. The Moetzet highlights the Rambam’s well-known ruling that “not only the Tribe of Levi,” but anyone who dedicates himself entirely to the service of Hashem and the study of Torah attains the same status. Based on that principle, the statement concludes that yeshivah bochurim and kollel yungeleit are exempt from military service according to halachah.

Addressing the frequently raised argument of “sharing the burden,” the Moetzet firmly rejects the premise, asserting that the greatest burden carried by Klal Yisroel is the constant labor of Torah learning. It states that the nation’s true security depends first and foremost upon the uninterrupted study of Torah.

The statement reinforces that position by citing pesukim and the teachings of Chazal emphasizing that Jewish military success comes through the merit of Torah learning, including the verses, “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord,” and, “Five of you shall chase a hundred.”

The Moetzet further argues that Israel’s victories in modern wars themselves testify to unmistakable Hashgachah Pratis, maintaining that the nation’s successes cannot be attributed solely to military strength. According to the statement, the spiritual protection generated by the Torah learned in the batei medrash safeguards Klal Yisroel, and any effort to remove yeshivah bochurim from their shtenders for military service directly weakens that protection.

Concluding its declaration, the Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah states that throughout Jewish history it has been the talmidei chachamim who preserved the Torah and ensured the survival of the Jewish people. The statement ends with a passionate warning: “Woe to us if דווקא here in the Land of Israel, in a Jewish state, Torah scholars are trampled upon and attempts are made to silence the voice of Torah.”

{Matzav.com}

In an unprecedented move, every Rav in London’s Golders Green neighborhood has signed a joint letter directing all mosdos haTorah not to begin the upcoming school year until every child has been accepted into an appropriate educational institution. The extraordinary directive comes amid an ongoing placement crisis that has left more than 20 children without schools for the new academic year.

The letter, addressed to principals and administrators of the community’s mosdos, instructs that neither the boys’ Talmudei Torah nor the girls’ schools may open their doors as long as even one child remains without a proper educational placement.

Widely viewed as a historic step within Britain’s Chareidi community, the directive calls for postponing the start of the zeman until every student has secured a suitable place to learn. The Rabbanim said the decision reflects their commitment to stand with families who have spent months enduring the anguish of not knowing where their children will study.

The letter opens by expressing profound appreciation to the principals and administrators who devote themselves tirelessly to maintaining the community’s educational institutions, praising their unwavering dedication to the chinuch of the community’s children and to strengthening its mosdos haTorah.

The Rabbanim then explain the reason for their extraordinary ruling. They note that more than 20 children, for various reasons, still have not been accepted into an appropriate school for the coming academic year. They write that these children and their parents have spent months waiting in deep distress for a solution that has yet to come. Therefore, acting together under the authority of the city’s Rabbanim, they are instructing that the doors of the schools and Talmudei Torah for the new classes remain closed until every child has found a suitable place to learn.

The Rabbanim openly acknowledge that postponing the opening of schools will inevitably result in lost Torah learning for thousands of other students. Nevertheless, they explain that the severity of the situation justifies such a step, writing that this is a time when extraordinary measures are required for the sake of Heaven.

The letter concludes with a heartfelt tefillah that peace and truth will prevail within the community, that every child will merit an education according to his or her proper path in the traditions of Yisroel Saba.

{Matzav.com}

The Belzer community is mourning the petirah of the dayan Rav Shmuel Pinchas Traube zt”l, who passed away Tuesday morning in Bnei Brak after enduring nearly two decades of severe illness. He was 64.

Rav Traube served for many years as the dayan of the Belzer Bais Medrash Beis Pinchas in Bnei Brak and as the senior rav hamachshir for the Machzikei HaDas kashrus organization in Eretz Yisroel.

He was also one of the foremost talmidim of the late posek, Rav Shmuel Halevi Wosner, author of Shevet Halevi, who held him in exceptionally high regard.

The levayah was held at Beis Pinchas Belz on Rechov Yoel in Bnei Brak. A second procession was held at the Sanhedria Funeral Home in Yerushalayim, passing the Belzer bais medrash in Kiryas Belz before continuing to the Machzikei HaDas section of Har HaMenuchos for kevurah.

Rav Traube was born on the 10th of Adar 5722 (1962) to Rav Ephraim Traube z”l, affectionately known in Belz as “Reb Ephraim Krakover.” His father served as a trusted aide to the Belzer Rebbe, Rav Aharon Rokeach zt”l, and for many years was the baal tefillah and baal koreh in the Belzer court.

He was educated in Belzer educational institutions in Yerushalayim before continuing to the Belzer yeshivah on Rechov Agrippas, where he quickly distinguished himself as one of the outstanding bochurim. At just 14 years old, while still in the Belzer yeshivah ketana, he was tested on the entire Maseches Chullin.

After his marriage to a daughter of Rav Shmuel Tzvi Greenwald z”l, one of the veteran and respected Belz Chassidim of Bnei Brak, Rav Traube’s extraordinary scholarship became even more evident.

He initially served as rosh kollel for Belzer avreichim before studying practical hora’ah under Rav Wosner. The famed posek later remarked during a visit to the Belzer Rebbe that throughout the many years he had examined and ordained dayanim and rabbanim, he had never encountered anyone who grasped complex halachic matters as quickly as Rav Traube. Rav Wosner predicted that he was destined to become one of the leading poskim of his generation.

For many years, Rav Traube headed the special beis din overseeing the Machzikei HaDas kashrus organization, serving as its chief rav hamachshir and supervising food production facilities throughout the country.

When the Beis Pinchas Belz bais medrash opened on Rechov Yoel in Bnei Brak, the Belzer Rebbe personally appointed Rav Traube to serve as its dayan. He fulfilled that role for many years while also serving as the congregation’s baal tefillah and baal koreh.

Approximately 20 years ago, Rav Traube was diagnosed with a debilitating muscular degenerative disease. His condition steadily deteriorated over the years. At the Belzer Rebbe’s instruction, his children and family began accepting Shabbos from midday each Friday as a zechus on his behalf, and those close to him credit that practice with extending his life for many years.

In recent weeks, his condition worsened significantly. He was hospitalized two weeks ago after developing a severe infection, and on Tuesday morning he passed away.

Rav Traube is survived by children who are accomplished talmidei chachamim, maggidei shiur, and mashpi’im within the Belzer community.

Yehi zichro boruch.

{Matzav.com}

A longstanding bein hazemanim tradition in Kiryat Sanz, Netanya, is facing an unprecedented downturn this summer, as widespread financial pressures and government sanctions have dramatically reduced the number of Chareidi families able to rent vacation apartments during the annual break from the yeshivos.

For decades, families living in Kiryat Sanz routinely rented out their apartments during bein hazemanim to visitors from other Chareidi communities. Depending on the size of the apartment and its proximity to the beach, daily rental prices typically ranged between ₪1,000 and ₪3,000, creating a mutually beneficial arrangement for homeowners and vacationing families alike.

This year, however, residents say the market has virtually dried up.

According to a report, telephones that would normally ring constantly with rental inquiries have remained largely silent. Even when prospective renters do call, homeowners quote the same prices they have charged in previous years—only to hear the same painful response.

“We simply have no way to pay those prices. They’ve cut us from every direction, our financial situation is extremely difficult, and we have no money at all.”

Some families attempt to negotiate, offering only ₪300 or ₪350 per day for apartments that ordinarily command several times that amount. Yet even at those sharply reduced prices, many deals never materialize, as the financial impact of sanctions and budget cuts has left many avreichim unable to afford even modest vacations.

As a result, many apartments throughout Kiryat Sanz are remaining vacant this summer, while both homeowners and would-be renters are grappling with an economic reality that has upended the familiar rhythm of bein hazemanim.

One resident of the neighborhood told the publication that the trend has become impossible to ignore.

“I know several families—even in my own building there are two or three families that were accustomed to renting out their apartments for the entire vacation period. Right now they have tenants for only a few days, and even then it’s at much lower prices.”

He added that the situation appears to be worsening with each passing day.

“Every day you see more and more families who simply can’t rent out their apartments.”

According to the resident, the slowdown extends well beyond the summer vacation season.

“Even on Shabbos you can see there aren’t nearly as many guests as there used to be. Many people say it’s become too expensive for them, so they prefer renting apartments a couple of blocks away from Kiryat Sanz rather than paying the much higher prices inside the neighborhood itself.”

{Matzav.com}

Retired Brig. Gen. Erez Winner is warning that Israel faces a growing and potentially catastrophic security threat in Judea and Samaria, arguing that the country’s greatest danger does not come from Iran, Gaza, or Lebanon, but from a dangerous combination of terrorism, weapons smuggling, criminal networks, and the Palestinian Authority. He cautioned that unless Israel changes course, the next October 7-style attack could be even more severe.

As Israeli security forces continue battling an increase in terrorist attacks throughout Judea and Samaria, Winner, who chairs the Israel Defense and Security Forum (HaBitachonistim), said the deteriorating situation reflects a much deeper strategic failure rather than isolated operational shortcomings.

Winner rejected the widespread characterization that Israel is experiencing a “new” wave of terrorism, insisting the violence has been building steadily for many months while authorities failed to confront its root causes.

“Everyone is talking about a new wave of terror,” Winner told Arutz Sheva-Israel National News. “But I believe that this is not a new wave. For many months, there have been attempts to set farms on fire, poison livestock, and attack shepherds. The recent incidents simply received greater public attention, but this reality has existed for a long time.”

According to Winner, the October 7 massacre initially transformed the IDF’s approach in Judea and Samaria. He said the military reacted aggressively, particularly through reserve forces, adopting a policy of responding decisively to every act of violence, no matter how small.

“There was shock, and the IDF responded with force, primarily through reserve forces. We did not ignore any incident – not even a single stone-throwing attack. This determined policy significantly reduced the level of violence and friction.”

But Winner said that once security conditions improved, Israel gradually relaxed that aggressive posture, allowing hostile forces to regain momentum while incitement from the Palestinian Authority continued unabated through schools, the media, and public messaging.

He also argued that intensified debate over expanding Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria has fueled even greater Palestinian incitement. At the same time, he said, international organizations and Israeli advocacy groups have amplified allegations of so-called “settler violence,” creating an atmosphere that encourages additional attacks.

“The stronger the communities became, the more intense the Palestinian incitement against them became as well. At the same time, there is a broad campaign focused on ‘settler violence,’ promoted by Israeli organizations together with international NGOs and various UN bodies. All of these factors create an environment that fuels further violence.”

Winner called on Israel to return to the assertive security doctrine it employed immediately after October 7, combining military operations with civilian initiatives designed to restore deterrence.

“We must restore the firm approach that characterized the period following October 7 – not only through raids and arrests, but also through civilian measures. Ultimately, we are judged by the response we elicit from the other side.”

He maintained that the Palestinian leadership views control of territory as its overriding objective and argued that Israel should no longer continue operating under assumptions rooted in the Oslo Accords.

“If Abu Mazen has already declared that the Oslo Accords are dead, there is no reason that only Israel should continue operating as though those agreements still exist. We must understand that the Palestinian Authority is not a partner, but a hostile actor.”

Winner further accused the Palestinian Authority of actively promoting and financing terrorism while criticizing those who continue advocating for strengthening it or restoring its control over Gaza.

“This is an armed authority that incites terrorism, supports terrorism, and funds terrorism. And yet there are still those who continue to advocate strengthening it – and even returning it to power in Gaza. It is time to call things by their proper name.”

He added that numerous members of the Palestinian Authority’s own security forces have allegedly participated in terrorist activity over the past two years, saying Israel should abandon the notion that the PA serves as a security partner.

Drawing lessons from October 7, Winner warned against dismissing those who sound alarms before disaster strikes.

“Before October 7, there were people who warned about Hamas, but many dismissed them as extremists or alarmists. In hindsight, they were proven right. We must not repeat the same mistake with the Palestinian Authority.”

Addressing arguments that the IDF’s manpower shortages are limiting its ability to respond effectively, Winner said the real problem lies in strategy rather than troop numbers.

“The issue is not the number of forces, but the way they are used. We are spreading too few soldiers across too large an area. When forces operate offensively, with focus and initiative, they can achieve far more even with fewer personnel.”

He proposed concentrating military operations in selected areas, working closely with local Jewish communities, and launching focused campaigns to seize illegal weapons instead of attempting to tackle every challenge simultaneously.

“We do not need to do everything at once. We can begin in one area, or launch an operation to collect illegal weapons in a single city. The important thing is to make a decision and begin acting.”

Winner concluded with a stark warning that Israel must not underestimate the growing dangers developing closer to home.

“The real threat facing the State of Israel is not only Gaza, Lebanon, or Iran. It is also the hundreds of thousands of weapons smuggled into the region, the criminal organizations, and the Palestinian Authority. If we fail to address this in time, October 7 may prove to have been only a preview of what is still to come.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu held what Israeli officials described as a highly successful and productive meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday, with the two leaders focusing heavily on Iran and reaffirming their shared determination to prevent the Islamic Republic from obtaining nuclear weapons.

A senior Israeli official traveling with the prime minister described the Oval Office meeting as a “very good and very positive meeting.”

“The two talked about all arenas — primarily Iran — and reiterated the joint commitment to prevent Iran from having nuclear weapons,” says the official.

Following the meeting, another senior Israeli official told Channel 12 that the discussions come at a pivotal moment, as the Trump administration weighs its next steps regarding Iran.

“We are in a critical period,” a senior Israeli official told Channel 12.

“President Trump will make a decision soon where he is heading,” says the official. “We are not pushing him, but also aren’t burying our heads in the sand. Netanyahu presented [Trump with] the Israeli perspective.”

According to the report, Netanyahu provided President Trump with fresh Israeli intelligence assessments regarding Iran’s nuclear activities and military capabilities, seeking to underscore the urgency of the threat.

The senior official said Netanyahu believes military action against Iran may once again become necessary.

“Netanyahu believes there is no choice” but to attack Iran again, the Channel 12 report continues, apparently still quoting the senior Israel official. These need to be “significant attacks — on nuclear facilities, capabilities that have been rebuilt, and sites that weren’t previously hit.” Such strikes, Israel believes, would have the potential to “shake the stability of the regime.”

The Passaic and Lakewood Torah communities are mourning the petirah of Mrs. Chani Eisgrau a”h, who was niftar after enduring years of profound suffering with extraordinary faith and dignity. She was in her mid-40s.

Mrs. Eisgrau was the wife of Reb Menachem Eisgrau and a daughter of Rav and Mrs. Benzion Kokis, mashgiach ruchani at Beth Medrash Govoha in Lakewood.

For more than 15 years, Mrs. Eisgrau endured severe yissurim, accepting them with remarkable ahavah, unwavering emunah, and strength. Despite her immense physical suffering, those who knew her describe her as a true tzadeikes whose radiant spirit, optimism, and devotion to her family never diminished.

She was an exceptionally dedicated and loving mother who cared for her family with constant joy and selflessness. Even while facing tremendous challenges, she remained a source of warmth, encouragement, and faith, serving as a role model to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The levayah took place at Yeshiva Gedola of Passaic before continuing to the Lakewood Bais Olam for kevurah.

The family is sitting shivah at 288 Aycrigg Avenue in Passaic.

Yehi zichrah boruch.

{Matzav.com}

[COMMUNICATED]

There’s a remarkable new initiative making waves across the Jewish world.

The Power of a Million is an unprecedented initiative launched by Keren Tosafos Yom Tov to strengthen Kedushas HaTefillah throughout Klal Yisroel.

The goal is to inspire one million kabbalos, creating one million more focused, heartfelt tefillos. Yidden are committing not to speak during davening and taking on additional kabbalos that bring greater focus, respect, and meaning to every tefillah.

Every participant who accepts a kabbalah is also eligible for the largest prize ever offered in a campaign—a historic $1,000,000 prize toward their shul. The prize can be used for renovations, a new Sefer Torah, a mikvah, or other projects that enhance the beauty and kavod of the Makom HaTefillah.

Thousands of Yidden from every background and community have already joined this powerful movement and taken on Kabbalos to strengthen their tefillah.

Inspired by the powerful Mi Shebeirach of the Tosafos Yom Tov, which describes the extraordinary brachos promised to those who are careful not to speak during davening, this global initiative is bringing renewed respect to our batei medrash and elevating the power of tefillah throughout Klal Yisroel.

There is extraordinary power when Yidden unite in tefillah. Every individual kabbalah becomes part of something far greater, bringing together communities, shuls, and Yidden across the world through one shared commitment.

One million kabbalos means one million opportunities to strengthen our connection to Hashem and create an unprecedented collective zechus for all of Klal Yisroel.

A noted philanthropist funded the historic prize with one goal in mind: to help Yidden strengthen their tefillah and deepen their respect for the shul. At a time when so many are searching for zechusim and brachos, there is perhaps no greater zechus than honoring the Makom HaTefillah and protecting the sanctity of davening.

Be Part of Something Historic

Join thousands of fellow Yidden. Make a kabbalah not to speak during davening, strengthen your tefillah, and help bring Klal Yisroel closer to one million pure tefillos.

Visit KTYT.org and make your kabbalah today.

A massive fire tore through the Agri Star meat processing facility in Postville early Tuesday, sending towering plumes of smoke into the sky as firefighters from across northeast Iowa rushed to contain the fast-moving blaze. Officials have urged the public to stay away from the area while emergency crews battle the fire.

Numerous fire departments responded to the scene and are working together to bring the flames under control at the sprawling processing plant.

The blaze erupted during the early morning hours at the Agri Star Meat and Poultry Plant, the largest employer in Allamakee County, triggering a major emergency response.

As the fire continues to burn, smoke has been carried toward neighboring Fayette County, where authorities warn it may reduce visibility, particularly in and around the Clermont area.

Officials are asking both motorists and local residents to avoid the vicinity if possible and to exercise caution as firefighters and other emergency personnel remain on the scene.

Authorities have not reported any injuries, and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined or released.

Agri Star is among the world’s largest kosher meat processing facilities. The company was purchased by Mr. Hershey Friedman in 2009 from the Rubashkin family and serves as a major employer for many Orthodox Jewish residents of the Postville community.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli authorities have launched an investigation after Channel 12’s headquarters in Tel Aviv was targeted for the second time in less than a month, with vandals leaving behind a chilling letter threatening to continue the attacks and warning that “someone will die.” Police are also investigating a similar act of vandalism at the offices of the Haaretz newspaper to determine whether the two incidents are connected.

Employees arriving at Channel 12’s offices Tuesday morning discovered that the glass entrance door to the building had once again been smashed. Around the same time, officials reported nearly identical damage at the Haaretz headquarters elsewhere in Tel Aviv, prompting investigators to examine whether both attacks were carried out by the same suspect.

After the latest attack, a handwritten letter addressed to Channel 12 journalists was found at the scene containing explicit threats. It stated, “Until you ask for forgiveness for the Sde Teiman case, I won’t stop. Next time, the brick will be aimed at one of your heads.”

The letter escalated its warning with an even more ominous message: “Even an apology without meaning it is fine. Take this letter seriously, it’s too bad, because in the end, someone will die.” It also listed the names of current and former Israeli defense officials, branding them “dangerous traitors,” before ending with the declaration: “G-d’s judgment will be upon all of you.”

In response to the attack and the death threats, President Isaac Herzog spoke directly with Police Commissioner Danny Levi, emphasizing the seriousness of repeated acts of violence against Channel 12 as well as the growing threats directed at journalists and media organizations. Herzog stressed that violence and intimidation cannot be permitted to silence voices in Israel’s public discourse.

Levi assured the president that the police view the matter with the utmost seriousness and said he would convene an urgent meeting to address the escalating situation and determine the next steps in the investigation.

The Israel Police confirmed that detectives have opened a criminal investigation into the vandalism.

“Officers from the South Tel Aviv Police Station have opened an investigation into an incident involving damage to the entrance door of an office building in southern Tel Aviv. A short while ago, during a routine patrol, officers identified damage to the entrance door of a building on Haskalah Street in southern Tel Aviv.”

Police said investigators are already working to identify those responsible for the attack.

“Officers have begun collecting evidence and investigating the incident in an effort to identify those responsible.”

Channel 12 strongly condemned the latest assault, warning that the repeated attacks represent a dangerous escalation against the Israeli press and calling on both the government and law enforcement authorities to act decisively.

“We are waking up to another morning-the second in less than a month, in which dangerous violence has struck and smashed the entrance to our newsroom. This is a real alarm bell. The blood of Channel 12 journalists is not expendable. The Government of Israel and the communications minister must stop their inflammatory and unrestrained attacks on the free press, which also lead to serious acts. The Israel Police must act immediately to prevent this dangerous violence. We will not be deterred by the legislation, the incitement, or the violence.”

Just four days after the deadly terrorist attack near Havat Gilad that claimed the lives of Maj. Yuval Ezra and Master Sgt. (Res.) Binyahu Melet, the Israel Defense Forces announced that Palestinian laborers will once again be permitted to enter Israeli communities in Judea and Samaria beginning Tuesday.

According to the IDF, the decision was made following a new security assessment and will allow Palestinian workers to resume entering communities in the region under existing security procedures governing employment in industrial zones and residential areas.

The announcement marks a sharp reversal from the military’s position just one day earlier, when Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth ordered a halt to the entry of Palestinian workers into Israeli communities throughout Judea and Samaria in the wake of the terrorist attack.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir sharply criticized the decision, warning that it endangers Israeli lives.

“The retreat by the commander of Central Command in allowing the return of ‘Palestinian’ workers to communities in Judea and Samaria is a grave mistake that could cost us precious Jewish blood,” Ben Gvir said.

He called on Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu to intervene immediately and reverse the decision.

“I call on the Prime Minister to instruct the Chief of Staff to immediately cancel Maj. Gen. Bluth’s decision, which sends a message of surrender to terrorism,” Ben Gvir said.

{Matzav.com}

Israel’s High Court of Justice on Tuesday temporarily blocked the implementation of the law that freezes the arrest of bnei Torah who have not reported for military service, issuing an interim order while signaling that a final ruling on the legislation is expected in the near future.

The temporary injunction was issued shortly after an expanded panel of nine Supreme Court justices, led by Deputy Chief Justice Noam Sohlberg, concluded a lengthy hearing on a series of petitions seeking to strike down the law.

Those challenging the legislation include the Israel Hofsheet (Be Free Israel) movement, the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, the Brothers and Sisters in Arms organization, along with MKs Yair Lapid and Avigdor Liberman. The petitioners argued that the law was enacted through an improper legislative process and unlawfully violates the constitutional principle of equality in a manner that fails to satisfy the standards required under Israel’s Limitation Clause.

The proceedings took an unusual turn because the government declined to send anyone to defend the very law it had passed. Instead, the Knesset was represented by its legal adviser, attorney Yitzhak Bart, who told the Court that “there is no choice but to strike down the law,” maintaining that the legislation was approved through a process that did not comply with the requirements of Basic Law: The Knesset or the Knesset’s own procedural rules.

Justice Gila Canfy-Steinitz questioned how the Court should handle a situation in which the Knesset declines to defend legislation it enacted. Bart replied that this was “a unique and highly unusual situation,” explaining that the Knesset’s legal advisers are obligated to defend legislation only when it has been passed in accordance with the law. He added that throughout the legislative process, the legal advisers repeatedly warned lawmakers about serious flaws in the bill.

Representing Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, attorney Aner Helman argued that the legislation is “defective and harmful,” insisting that it does not satisfy “even a single requirement of the Limitation Clause.”

Helman contended that the law effectively bars criminal enforcement against those who fail to report for military service and could even halt prosecutions that are already underway. He argued that, particularly at a time when the IDF says it needs thousands of additional soldiers, there is no basis for allowing the law to remain in effect.

Several members of the Court also pressed the state’s legal representatives during the hearing. Justice Yael Wilner questioned why so much emphasis was being placed on the current wartime situation, asking whether the same concerns about discrimination would not exist during peacetime as well. Justice Daphne Barak-Erez observed that the legal dispute is not about the enlistment of yeshivah bochurim itself, but rather about whether criminal sanctions may be imposed.

In a rare development, the justices later permitted attorney Natan Rosenblatt, who was not one of the parties to the case, to address the Court on behalf of the Chareidi community. Rosenblatt argued that the Chareidi public has endured a series of hardships in recent months and asserted that it has repeatedly been treated unfairly by the judicial system.

“We have never, not even once, received a favorable ruling from the High Court.”

Rosenblatt went on to ask the Court: “In a Jewish and democratic state, is it appropriate to place a person before the dilemma of whether to obey the Torah or obey the law?”

Justice David Mintz sharply challenged that assertion.

“Sir, with all due respect, I am restraining myself. I am listening to what you’re saying, and I simply cannot believe what I am hearing. Is there a Torah prohibition against military service?”

Rosenblatt answered that there is, replying: “Your Honor, as a religious man, knows that there is such a prohibition. All the leading Torah sages say so.”

Justice Mintz rejected that characterization, responding: “That itself is apparently subject to very serious dispute. Not all the leading Torah sages. You are speaking from a sectarian perspective. What kind of statement is that?”

{Matzav.com}

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) is openly questioning whether he is still welcome in the Democratic Party, expressing growing frustration over what he views as the party’s increasingly anti-Israel direction while Republicans continue encouraging him to switch sides.

In an interview with NBC News, Fetterman suggested that some members of his own party appear eager to push him out because of his outspoken support for Israel and his willingness to break with Democratic leadership on key issues.

“If the Democratic caucus doesn’t want me, they could just let me know,” Fetterman said, adding that he is troubled by “the very anti-Israel party that we’re becoming.”

The Pennsylvania Democrat has become one of the most vocal pro-Israel voices in his party, repeatedly condemning Hamas, defending Israel’s military campaign, and criticizing progressive Democrats who have called for cutting off U.S. military aid to the Jewish state. His positions have increasingly placed him at odds with the party’s activist base.

His latest remarks come as Republican lawmakers continue making public and private appeals for him to leave the Democratic Party. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has said Republicans would welcome Fetterman into the GOP, while other Republican senators have likewise praised his willingness to challenge his own party on issues such as Israel, immigration, and energy policy.

Despite the overtures, Fetterman has stopped short of saying he intends to switch parties. Instead, he has made clear that his continued membership in the Democratic Party hinges on one issue above all others: Israel.

Earlier this month, Fetterman warned that he would leave if Democrats formally embraced an anti-Israel platform.

“If our party ever becomes, and just makes it official, the anti-Israel party, that’s when I would leave because that’s been a moral clarity for me,” he said.

Fetterman has pointed to a growing shift within the Democratic Party following votes by more than 100 House Democrats to block billions of dollars in military aid to Israel, saying he believes support for America’s closest Middle East ally should remain a core Democratic principle.

His willingness to challenge progressive orthodoxy has also made him a target on the left. Progressive activists and candidates have sharply criticized his positions on Israel, while some have accused him of abandoning the movement that helped elect him.

For now, however, Fetterman insists he has not made any decision to leave the Democratic Party. Even as Republicans continue to court him, he has maintained that his immediate focus remains representing Pennsylvania, while warning that the party’s trajectory on Israel could ultimately determine whether he stays.

{Matzav.com}

A coalition of prominent Jewish legal organizations is sharply criticizing New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after he failed to appoint a single Jewish member to an influential committee that helps recommend judicial nominees, accusing his administration of continuing a pattern that has left many Jewish New Yorkers feeling excluded and ignored.

In a joint letter, the Queens Brandeis Association, the Jewish Lawyers Guild, the Brooklyn Brandeis Society, and the Bronx County Jewish Bar Association expressed outrage over the makeup of the 18-member Mayor’s Advisory Committee on the Judiciary.

“Your recent announcement of appointees to the Mayor’s Advisory Committee on the Judiciary has left us deeply disappointed,” the organizations wrote.

The groups noted that, despite City Hall’s pledge that the panel would represent the diversity of New York City, none of the appointees were Jewish attorneys, judges, or legal professionals.

“Not a single Jewish attorney, former judge or legal professional was appointed to a committee your administration described as one that would be ‘truly reflective of New York City,’” the letter continued.

According to the organizations, the latest decision is not an isolated incident but part of a broader trend that has increasingly alienated the city’s Jewish community. They pointed to Mamdani’s refusal to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism, as well as the omission of Jewish neighborhoods from a city map highlighting immigrant communities, as additional examples of what they view as a troubling pattern.

The organizations also emphasized that the controversy comes at an especially sensitive time, just days after a violent antisemitic attack outside an Upper West Side synagogue heightened concerns about the safety and security of Jewish residents throughout the city.

Calling on the mayor to reverse course, the groups urged him to add qualified Jewish representatives to the committee and reaffirm that the Jewish community deserves equal treatment.

“We urge you to correct this exclusion by appointing qualified Jewish members to the Advisory Committee and to reaffirm that Jewish New Yorkers are entitled to the same representation, respect and protection as every other community.”

The letter was signed by Elizabeth Forspan, Benjamin Kaufman, Jeffrey Miller, and Matthew Kluger, who also voiced particular frustration over the administration’s decision not to appoint retired Appellate Division Justice John Leventhal.

City Hall rejected allegations that religion played any role in Leventhal’s exclusion. Instead, Mamdani’s office said the decision stemmed from Leventhal’s previous legal work involving convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell.

“To date, Mayor Mamdani has had the privilege of appointing a dozen qualified judges from a range of backgrounds, including Jewish judges,” Mamdani press secretary Joe Calvello told Politico.

“When informed that Mr. Leventhal served on [Ghislaine] Maxwell’s legal team, the Mamdani administration chose not to move forward with his appointment. Any suggestion that the decision around MACJ was motivated by religion is false.”

The advisory committee is led by attorney Ali Najmi, a close confidant of Mamdani who has publicly referred to the mayor as his “brother.” Najmi played a significant role in Mamdani’s rapid rise within New York City’s Democratic socialist movement and now oversees the panel responsible for evaluating judicial candidates before they are nominated by the mayor.

The dispute adds to growing tensions between Mamdani and many leaders in New York’s Jewish community, who have repeatedly accused him of using anti-Israel rhetoric that they believe has contributed to a hostile atmosphere for Jewish residents.

Last week, Mamdani released a video message on social media in which he described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a “war criminal” and declared that he is “not welcome” in New York City ahead of Netanyahu’s expected appearance at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

The mayor also acknowledged that New York City has no legal authority to arrest Netanyahu based on a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, since the United States is not a member of the court.

Just two days after those remarks, Raul Morales allegedly carried out a stabbing attack on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, injuring an Asian man and a Jewish man wearing a yarmulke while reportedly shouting “Allahu Akbar.”

Morales has been charged with attempted murder and hate crimes and could face up to 40 years in prison if convicted.

The day after the attack, Jewish leaders gathered outside the synagogue where the assault occurred and blamed the mayor’s rhetoric for helping create an increasingly dangerous environment.

“Mayor Mamdani, stop fanning the flames of hatred and division. The consequences are not abstract, they are playing out on our streets,” said UJA-Federation of New York CEO Eric Goldstein.

Apple briefly crossed the historic $5 trillion market valuation threshold Tuesday, becoming only the second company ever to reach the milestone and reclaiming its position as the world’s most valuable publicly traded company after a sharp rally in its stock price.

The iPhone maker’s shares climbed as much as 1.8% during early trading, reaching $342.89 per share and pushing the company’s market capitalization above the $5 trillion mark for the first time. Although the stock later surrendered much of those gains, the milestone underscored Apple’s remarkable resurgence in recent weeks.

With its latest surge, Apple overtook Nvidia to become the world’s most valuable company. Apple now holds an estimated market value of roughly $5 trillion, compared with Nvidia’s approximately $4.7 trillion. Alphabet follows with a valuation near $3.9 trillion, while Microsoft stands at about $2.9 trillion.

Apple’s stock has significantly outperformed Nvidia this year despite the latter’s dominance in artificial intelligence. Shares of Apple have climbed nearly 25% since the start of the year, while Nvidia’s stock has gained just 2.6% over the same period. Nvidia shares slipped about 1.4% in Tuesday trading.

The achievement highlights how rapidly the largest technology companies have expanded over the past several years. Apple became the first publicly traded company to reach a $1 trillion valuation in 2018, doubled that figure to $2 trillion in 2020, and crossed the $3 trillion mark in 2022. Nvidia later became the first company to surpass both $4 trillion and $5 trillion as investor enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence sent its valuation soaring.

The milestone came on the same day Apple unveiled a new financing program designed to make iPhones more affordable for consumers. Beginning soon, U.S. customers will be able to lease an iPhone for up to two years through a new program called Upgrade, with monthly payments starting at $17.99. The initiative is being launched in partnership with buy-now, pay-later provider Klarna and will be available through both Apple’s retail stores and online platform.

The announcement follows recent price increases across several Apple product lines. The company recently raised the starting prices of iPads and Mac computers by at least $100, with some premium models increasing by more than $1,000, citing a worldwide shortage of memory components.

For much of the past decade, Apple held the title of the world’s most valuable company after surpassing Exxon in market capitalization in 2011. The company later alternated with Microsoft for the top position before Nvidia overtook both amid the explosive growth of AI-related investments.

Like its largest competitors, Apple has been increasing investments in artificial intelligence, though at a far more measured pace. The company spent approximately $12.7 billion on capital expenditures during fiscal 2025, well below the massive spending plans announced by its rivals. Alphabet has projected about $205 billion in AI-related investments this year, while Microsoft and Amazon have each outlined plans to spend up to roughly $190 billion and $145 billion, respectively, as the race to dominate artificial intelligence intensifies.

The Shwekey family has a new voice. Radio host Menachem Toker revealed this week that the mystery singer who recently released a debut song under a veil of secrecy is none other than Rabbi Moshe Dovid Shwekey, the eldest brother of renowned Jewish music stars Yaakov Shwekey and Yosef Chaim Shwekey.

Toker made the announcement during his Bein Hazmanim program on Kol Chai, ending days of speculation over the identity of the previously unknown performer. The revelation came after Toker challenged listeners during his previous broadcast to identify which famous singer’s brother was behind the anonymously released track.

One listener, Chaggai from Netanya, correctly guessed that the singer was a member of the Shwekey family and won a dinner for two at a Yerushalayim restaurant.

A noted talmid chochom and marbitz Torah, Reb Moshe Dovid has long been active behind the scenes in Jewish music, earning recognition as a composer rather than a performer. Among the songs he has written are “Lech Ami” and “Tefillas HaShelah,” along with other well-known compositions. Despite his years of musical involvement, he had never pursued a public singing career, leaving the spotlight to his younger brothers.

“The oldest brother in the Shwekey family never sang publicly and never stepped into the limelight,” Toker said. “He left the stage to his younger brother Yaakov and his even younger brother Yosef Chaim—and now, perhaps, he’s beginning a career.”

Toker explained that the debut song was initially released without identifying the performer by name, but the singer’s identity was disclosed during the radio program. The audience was then treated to the new recording.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump signaled Tuesday that he is still pursuing a diplomatic resolution with Iran rather than another round of military action, even as he emphasized that the United States retains the ability to inflict devastating damage on the Islamic Republic if necessary. His comments, delivered just hours before meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, also included a pointed remark suggesting he does not need updates from the Israeli leader about developments inside Iran.

Speaking in an interview with Fox News before his White House meeting with Netanyahu, Trump addressed concerns surrounding the Iranian nuclear facility known as “Pickaxe Mountain,” where Israeli intelligence reportedly believes Tehran has transferred uranium enrichment centrifuges. The president dismissed the importance of the site, saying, “It’s not a big deal.”

Asked whether Netanyahu had informed him about Iranian activity at the facility, Trump brushed aside the suggestion with a sharp response directed at the prime minister.

“I don’t need Bibi to tell me that. I know exactly what’s going on there.”

Trump went on to underscore America’s overwhelming military capabilities, saying the United States could rapidly cripple Iran’s infrastructure by targeting bridges, electrical facilities, and other key assets. Despite that, he stressed that military action is not his preferred course.

“I want to avoid that. I’m not interested in doing it,” he said.

The president also asserted that Tehran is once again interested in negotiations with Washington following the recent conflict.

“Iran wants to talk. There’s a chance we’ll make a deal,” Trump said, adding that Iranian officials sought a halt to U.S. military operations and expressed interest in returning to the negotiating table after the latest fighting.

Trump’s remarks came only hours before Netanyahu was scheduled to present updated intelligence on Iran’s nuclear program and the regime’s efforts to restore its military capabilities. The Israeli leader is expected to urge the president not to place too much confidence in diplomacy alone as Tehran works to rebuild.

Still, Trump’s public comments indicate that, at least for the moment, he remains focused on pursuing negotiations and maintaining diplomatic pressure rather than launching another large-scale military campaign against Iran, while continuing to emphasize that the military option remains available if circumstances change.

Dear Matzav Inbox, 

As a mother whose child is currently enrolled in day camp, I was deeply disappointed to hear from my son about his day-to-day experience and to observe firsthand how a counselor failed to uphold the expected standards and conduct of a ben Torah, including the use of inappropriate language directly in front of the campers. Equally troubling is how common it has become to see multiple counselors absorbed in their smartphones instead of engaging with the children, often standing around scrolling while the kids are left unsupervised or ignored. After speaking with several other mothers whose children also attend the camp, I found that they share the very same concerns and sense of disappointment—to the point that one parent has already chosen to pull her child out of the camp entirely because of these issues.

It leaves many of us wondering: Why are parents who cannot afford sleepaway camp forced to expose their children to this kind of environment? Day camp is the reality of summer for so many families in our community, and those children deserve the same protected, refined atmosphere that is expected throughout the rest of the year.

While discussing this troubling situation with fellow parents, one important systemic point was raised. Because many fine bnei Torah are immersed in their yeshivos or away in camps during July, the pool of local candidates for day camp counselors can sometimes be critically shallow. However, local Roshei Yeshivah could play a transformative role by encouraging bochurim who remain in the city to step up for the sake of the community, rotating to take responsibility for a bunk or supervise activities a few times each week.

Additionally, many bungalow colony day camps successfully utilize a model in which rebbeim rotate supervising afternoon activities or serve directly alongside the staff. While we certainly respect that rebbeim deserve time with their own families during the summer, we must ask: If it were their own children sitting in these bunks, exposed to inappropriate language and constant smartphone distraction, wouldn’t they step in and make personal sacrifices to protect them? Adopting these community-based approaches—bringing in committed bochurim and having experienced leadership rotate through these roles rather than relying solely on younger, distracted staff—would provide a consistent presence of positive mentorship, proper standards, and meaningful supervision.

Camp is not merely a place for recreation; it is an extension of our children’s chinuch and character development during the summer months. Counselors serve as frontline role models, and our community relies on them to model integrity, patience, and middos tovos. When those entrusted with our children’s care fall short of these foundational values—whether through unbecoming speech or constant distraction by their phones—it sends a discouraging message to the young minds who look up to them.

I hope this serves as a wake-up call to camp administrations about the profound responsibility they bear in shaping our youth and the need to strengthen both their hiring standards and their staffing model before more families feel compelled to walk away.

Sincerely,

A Frustrated Mother

To submit a letter to appear on Matzav.com, email MatzavInbox@gmail.com

DON’T MISS OUT! Join the Matzav Status by CLICKING HERE. Join the Matzav WhatsApp Groups by CLICKING HERE.

The opinions expressed in letters on Matzav.com do not necessarily reflect the stance of the Matzav Media Network.

A young boy miraculously escaped without injury after being struck and run over by a moving vehicle in Bnei Brak in what witnesses described as an extraordinary act of Divine protection.

The frightening incident occurred at the intersection of Kahaneman Street and Kibbutz Galuyot Street as the child was crossing the road alongside his older sister, who was pushing a baby stroller.

tHE boy’s yarmulke suddenly fell off his head while the siblings were in the middle of the crosswalk. Without warning, the child turned back toward the center of the roadway to retrieve it.

At that very moment, a vehicle entered the intersection and struck the child before continuing forward, passing directly over him.

Bystanders rushed to the scene, fearing the worst after seeing the car drive over the young boy.

To the amazement of everyone present, the child got up on his own moments later and appeared to be completely unharmed. Witnesses described the incident as nothing short of miraculous.

Emergency responders were called to the scene to examine the child, who, according to sources, did not suffer any apparent injuries despite the terrifying ordeal.

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

[COMMUNICATED]

No matter where you live, the word “cancer” is a frightening reality for all too many of your neighbors, r”l. This dreadful disease and its treatment regimens afflict men, women, teenagers, even young children, of all ages and backgrounds – as well as their family and friends. 

In our communities, virtually every one of these suffering souls relies on RCCS as a lifeline – the one-stop resource that guides them from diagnosis through recovery and makes sure that everyone has access to the absolute best medical care available anywhere in the world. 

One recent case illustrates just how life-changing RCCS’s work can be. 

A young patient with a specific strain of colorectal cancer was referred by RCCS to an experimental study of a new drug that seemed hopeful. To be eligible for this study, patients needed to have a specific biomarker that is only found in 5% of patients with this strain of cancer. He was one of only 12 patients accepted into the study, where patients received three doses of the experimental treatment over the course of 12 weeks. 

The results were astounding and the treatment so effective that the pharmaceutical company decided to commission a second study that would be open to patients with colorectal cancer, even without the indicated biomarker, with the hopes that the same efficacy could still be achieved. Although there was concern that the results would not be as good as the previous results of the first experimental treatment, it was a hopeful development nonetheless for patients stricken with this cancer. 

A while later, when 35-year-old Shloimy was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer, the RCCS Patient Department was hopeful that he could be referred to this study and receive this potentially lifesaving treatment. 

Unfortunately, the study was not going to be open and available for some time. Being a stage 3 diagnosis, on the verge of metastasizing, the cancer needed to be treated immediately, before it risked spreading to other areas of the body. 

RCCS refers many colorectal cancer patients to a top specialist at Cornell Medical Center to undergo surgical removal of the tumorous tissue before undergoing chemotherapy. After meeting with the doctor, Shloimy’s prognosis was bleak. He was told that surgery must be performed immediately. There were numerous roadblocks in the way, but RCCS managed to get all the necessary testing, imaging and paperwork done and schedule the surgery for the next Monday. 

Having lost his father at a young age, the prognosis was devastating for Shloimy. On the day of his father’s Yahrzeit, which happened to fall out a few days before his surgery and treatment was scheduled to commence, he went to the kever and cried and davened. On that very day, RCCS unexpectedly received the amazingly good news that the second phase of the experimental trial treatment was now open. 

It was determined that the patient was a candidate and could join, but only before undergoing the surgery. On this experimental drug, he would receive three infusions over eight weeks. The subsequent surgery would then have a good chance for a vastly better outcome, while also negating the need for chemotherapy. 

10 weeks later, Shloimy came out of surgery. The specialist reported that it appeared to be a great success, as only the cancerous tissue had to be removed, preserving the healthy surrounding tissue. It was clear that the experimental drug was helping. 

Baruch Hashem, Shloimy is now in remission! 

The work of RCCS is extremely broad. They provide medical referral and support, getting each patient into the best doctor for their diagnosis; this includes handling their medical records and expediting appointments. To this end, they conduct extensive medical research to provide patients with the most cutting-edge medical treatment. They provide crucial financial support to cover insurance premiums and other out-of-pocket expenses. In essence, they serve as the patient’s virtual “back office” from beginning to end. 

They arrange insurance guidance and advocacy, helping a patient navigate the complex world of insurance and advocating for them when an insurer rejects a claim. They ensure that finances never stand between a patient and world-class treatment.  

RCCS is having their annual online campaign this week, and everyone is urged to please support it generously. All funds raised go to support their incredible work – giving Jewish cancer patients the best possible chance of recovery and survival.  Please visit dryveup.com/rccs to participate.