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President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Iran should capitulate as U.S. forces continue efforts to weaken its capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump asserted that Tehran is under heavy pressure and signaled that negotiations are likely. “They play games, but let me just tell you, they want to make a deal. And who wouldn’t, when your military is totally gone?”

Trump argued that Iran’s military strength has been significantly diminished, describing its current capabilities as limited to firing “peashooters.” He also made clear that the U.S. intends to maintain its position in the region, stating that “nobody’s going to challenge the blockade” of Iranian shipping.

When asked about potential violations of the ceasefire, Trump declined to define a specific threshold that would trigger a U.S. response, even after Iran launched cruise missiles and attack drones targeting the United Arab Emirates.

Earlier in the day, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine briefed reporters at the Pentagon following recent Iranian strikes on shipping lanes and targets in the United Arab Emirates.

Hegseth described Project Freedom, the ongoing naval mission aimed at ensuring safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that it is distinct from other military operations. “This operation is separate and distinct from Operation Epic Fury. Project Freedom is defensive in nature, focused in scope, and temporary in duration-with one mission: protecting innocent commercial shipping from Iranian aggression.”

He issued a warning to Tehran, saying, “To what remains of Iran’s forces: if you attack American troops or innocent commercial shipping, you will face overwhelming and devastating American firepower,” he added. We prefer this to be a peaceful operation, but are locked and loaded to defend our people.”

Hegseth also underscored that the U.S. is asserting control over the critical waterway. “What we’re demonstrating with Project Freedom is they [Iran] don’t control the Strait. We know Iran is embarrassed by the fact that our blockade is holding, and we can run ships through – and we’re going to help the world run ships through,” Hegseth said.

Gen. Caine noted that while Iran has carried out attacks, they have not yet escalated to a level that would prompt a broader military response. He detailed the scale of U.S. operations in the region, stating, “On the surface, guided missile destroyers and other warships are detecting and defeating Iranian threats. This includes fast boats and one-way attack drones. In the air, more than 100 fighters, attack aircraft, and other manned and unmanned aircraft, synchronized by the 82nd Airborne Division are in the air 24 hours a day, providing defensive overwatch for the enhanced security area.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu opened his testimony in court Tuesday by sharply criticizing the timing of the proceedings, calling it “absurd” in light of the intense security and diplomatic responsibilities currently on his agenda.

At the start of his remarks, Netanyahu detailed a demanding schedule over the previous day, emphasizing the volume of high-level engagements he has been handling.

“In the last 24 hours, I spoke with four heads of state-among them President Trump, and you can imagine about what,” Netanyahu said at the start of his remarks. He added that he had also spoken with the director-general of the Peace Council regarding developments in Gaza, where, according to him, “an interesting development is unfolding.”

Netanyahu went on to note that in addition to those international discussions, he also held three separate meetings with Israel’s senior security officials, underscoring the burden of managing ongoing military and regional challenges. His comments were aimed at illustrating the difficulty of balancing such responsibilities with the demands of a court appearance.

Wrapping up his statement, the prime minister questioned the court’s priorities in scheduling the hearing at this time. “Now we are taking three hours to discuss how I responded to a headline?” he asked those present in the courtroom.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump said the conflict with Iran could continue for another two to three weeks, warning that the country is approaching what he described as a “natural explosion” tied to its oil infrastructure that could severely damage its ability to recover.

Speaking Monday during an appearance on “The Hugh Hewitt Show,” Trump said the United States currently holds a clear advantage in the fighting, pointing to both military dominance and economic pressure on Tehran.

“One way or the other, we win,” Trump said, adding that the U.S. has already achieved major battlefield successes.

Trump said Iranian naval forces have largely been neutralized, with U.S. operations targeting remaining capabilities in recent engagements.

U.S. Central Command reported that multiple Iranian boats posing threats to commercial shipping had been destroyed, highlighting American control over critical routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, according to the New York Post.

Even as fighting continues and the possibility of a ceasefire remains uncertain, Trump said the timeline favors the United States.

“We’ve taken out much of what we’d have to do, probably another two weeks, maybe three weeks,” he said, suggesting the campaign could soon reach its final stage.

Trump also repeated his position that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

“They will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, arguing that earlier agreements, including the Obama-era deal, would have accelerated Tehran’s path to obtaining one.

He added that he has received strong backing from the public during recent appearances.

In addition to military developments, Trump pointed to what he described as an impending economic crisis inside Iran, centered on its oil sector.

“In two weeks, they’re going to have a natural explosion of their oil,” Trump said, describing a scenario that could cripple Iran’s economy for decades.

At the same time, Iranian forces have continued offensive actions across the region.

According to the Post, missiles and drones were launched toward the United Arab Emirates, with some intercepted and others striking oil facilities and commercial vessels.

Trump declined to detail whether further U.S. strikes are planned, saying such information could not be disclosed.

“I can’t tell you that,” he said after Hewitt asked about future military plans, noting that revealing details would be strategically unwise.

Despite the conflict abroad, Trump pointed to strong economic performance in the United States, including a record stock market and stable oil prices, as signs of resilience.

He said global energy markets have adjusted by finding alternate routes and boosting domestic production.

“They find ways of getting it done,” Trump said of global energy markets adapting to the conflict.

As the situation develops, Trump framed the confrontation as critical to both U.S. interests and global security, emphasizing the importance of preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear power.

“We have all the cards,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

Rudy Giuliani is showing clear signs of improvement after a serious bout of pneumonia left him in critical condition, with his son Andrew Giuliani saying Tuesday that the former New York City mayor is now awake, breathing on his own, and even in good spirits.

“Good news update: Thank you for the love and support you’ve shown my Dad over the past few days,” the younger Giuliani said.

“Just yesterday he was in critical condition, so I’m incredibly grateful to share that he is now conscious, off the ventilator, and even cracking jokes.”

Giuliani, 81, was admitted to the hospital over the weekend after developing pneumonia, which was reportedly worsened by a respiratory condition linked to his exposure during the September 11, 2001 terror attacks.

According to those close to him, he had lapsed into a coma but regained consciousness on Monday.

Tom Von Essen, a longtime friend who served as New York City fire commissioner during 9/11, said Tuesday morning that Giuliani’s condition appears to be improving.

“It looks like Rudy’s has turned a corner. We hope he continues to improve,” said Von Essen, who has been briefed on his condition.

“I worry about him. What he has done for New York City and the compassion he showed 9/11 families is remarkable. I hope he has a great recovery.”

President Donald Trump on Monday declared May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month, recognizing the impact of Jewish Americans on the country’s development and unveiling plans for a nationwide Shabbos observance later in the month.

In his proclamation, Trump underscored the longstanding influence of Jewish Americans in promoting core American values such as faith, family, and liberty since the nation’s earliest days. He pointed to President George Washington’s 1790 letter to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island, in which Washington expressed hope that Jewish residents would “continue to merit and enjoy the goodwill of the other Inhabitants.”

Trump also highlighted the role of Haym Salomon, describing him as a key figure during the American Revolution who supported the Continental Congress financially and championed the cause of freedom, even after being imprisoned by British forces.

The president reiterated that his administration remains focused on addressing antisemitism, noting ongoing efforts to prosecute crimes against Jewish Americans and confront rising hostility, particularly on college campuses.

As part of events marking the United States’ 250th anniversary, Trump announced a national Shabbos to take place from sundown on May 15 through nightfall on May 16. He encouraged people across the country to take part in a time of rest, reflection, and appreciation.

“Throughout this historic year, we rejoice in the triumph of the American spirit and rededicate ourselves to the cause of liberty and justice for all,” writes Trump. “In special honor of 250 glorious years of American independence and on the weekend of Rededicate 250 — a national jubilee of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving — Jewish Americans are encouraged to observe a national Sabbath.”

The proclamation urges Americans to observe Jewish American Heritage Month through educational programs, community events, and other initiatives that highlight the importance of religious liberty and the contributions of Jewish Americans.

“Through every trial and triumph, the contributions of Jewish Americans have shaped our past, have strengthened our communities, and will continue to inspire American greatness for generations to come,” the proclamation states.