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Knesset Legal Adviser Sagit Afik has sharply criticized the legislative process surrounding the proposed Basic Law: Limud HaTorah, warning that the bill was advanced through the wrong committee and that the procedural defects could undermine the legislation as it moves forward.

In a formal letter issued following a heated meeting of the Knesset House Committee, Afik argued that the proposed Basic Law should have remained under the jurisdiction of the Knesset Constitution, Law and Justice Committee rather than being transferred to the House Committee.

Afik warned that routing the legislation through a different committee could create significant legal and procedural problems.

The controversy stems from a House Committee meeting held on June 22, during which members considered a request by the chairman of the Constitution Committee to transfer the bill to his committee. Instead, the House Committee voted to recommend that the legislation remain under its own jurisdiction, a recommendation that was approved by the Knesset plenum later that same day.

In her letter, Afik made clear that she had advised lawmakers that the Constitution, Law and Justice Committee was the only appropriate body to deliberate on a new Basic Law.

“I made clear that my position was that the committee authorized to discuss the bill was the Constitution, Law and Justice Committee, as originally determined,” Afik wrote.

She cautioned that “transferring the bill to another committee would create significant difficulties that would further complicate and cast a shadow over the continuation of the legislative process.”

Afik also rejected the argument that the Constitution Committee’s heavy workload justified moving the legislation elsewhere.

“Workload considerations in the authorized committee are not grounds for transferring the bill, particularly when the Knesset is approaching the end of its term, and especially when we are dealing with a new Basic Law,” she wrote.

Responding to questions raised by MKs during the committee debate, Afik noted that legal guidance for the legislation would nevertheless be provided by Dr. Gur Bligh, the legal adviser to the Constitution Committee, because of “the expertise required in formulating a new Basic Law and his familiarity with the subject.”

At the same time, she stressed that assigning the Constitution Committee’s legal adviser to the bill does not eliminate the underlying procedural concerns.

She wrote that doing so “does not lessen the fundamental difficulty created by holding discussions on the bill in a committee that lacks jurisdiction,” adding that “the continuation of the legislative process must meet an especially high standard of procedural integrity.”

Afik further revealed that after the Knesset approved transferring the legislation, she learned that the House Committee intended to conduct an accelerated series of marathon discussions on the proposal.

She noted that the Constitution Committee is already engaged in deliberations on several major and complex legislative initiatives being handled by Dr. Bligh. Because of that workload, attorney Esther Chen from the Knesset Legal Department will be assigned to assist in the deliberations.

Concluding her letter, Afik urged committee leaders to ensure that the remainder of the legislative process adheres to the highest procedural standards despite the political decision to transfer the bill.

“You will have to exercise even greater care to ensure a legislative process of an especially high standard, both with respect to hearing invited guests, outside representatives, members of Knesset, and diverse viewpoints, as well as regarding the manner in which the meetings are conducted and their frequency… This is necessary in order to remedy the defect and the harm to the legislative process that I pointed out during the House Committee discussion.”

{Matzav.com}

Amid growing public interest and numerous inquiries, Israel’s Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi, Rav Kalman Meir Bar, has published a comprehensive halachic essay addressing the kashrus status of various types of whiskey, clarifying the significant differences between American, Scottish, Irish, and Canadian whiskeys and explaining the halachic concerns surrounding barrels previously used for non-kosher wine.

The detailed article, published on Rav Bar’s online shu”t website, examines the widespread practice of aging whiskey in barrels that once contained stam yeinam, a subject that has long been discussed by contemporary poskim.

Rav Bar distinguishes between the various categories of whiskey based on the production regulations governing each country.

Regarding American bourbon, he writes that there is generally little cause for concern because U.S. law requires bourbon to be aged exclusively in new oak barrels, eliminating the issue of previously used wine casks.

The primary halachic concern, he explains, involves Scotch and Irish whiskeys, whose producers commonly age their products in used barrels that previously held wines such as sherry and port in order to impart distinctive flavor, aroma, and color.

Canadian whiskey, Rav Bar notes, raises an even greater concern because Canadian regulations permit the addition of flavoring agents that may, in some cases, include actual wine.

The Chief Rabbi then explores the halachic analysis in depth, presenting numerous grounds for leniency cited by leading poskim, including the Minchas Yitzchak and Igros Moshe. Among the issues discussed is the principle that wine absorbed into the walls of a barrel may become batel in a ratio of six—or according to other opinions, sixty—parts whiskey.

He further explains that the objective of barrel aging is not to impart the flavor of the wine itself, but rather to soften the harsh qualities of the wood. As such, the absorbed wine is not considered an ingredient intentionally added for flavor (avid l’taama). Rav Bar also discusses an additional basis for leniency regarding whiskey aged in second-fill and later-use barrels, since much of the absorbed wine has already been extracted by the first spirit aged in the cask.

Beyond the issue of wine casks, Rav Bar cautions that certain industrial additives used in whiskey production—such as blending agents—may contain non-kosher ingredients and therefore warrant careful scrutiny.

He also raises the separate concern of chametz she’avar alav haPesach in the case of distilleries owned by non-observant Jewish proprietors.

In his conclusion, Rav Bar writes that although there are substantial halachic arguments supporting leniency with respect to many whiskeys, “the one who fears the word of Hashem should not, l’chatchilah, rely on these grounds for leniency.”

Accordingly, he urges consumers to purchase only whiskey that bears the certification of reliable kashrus agencies. Rav Bar adds that the Chief Rabbinate will continue its longstanding policy of withholding approval for the importation of alcoholic beverages unless they have undergone thorough kashrus inspection and received proper certification.

A Yerushalayim Magistrate’s Court judge on Thursday ordered the release to house arrest of a driver accused of brandishing a handgun at chareidi protesters during Wednesday’s vehicle protest, a decision that drew sharp criticism from chareidi political leaders and protest organizers.

The incident occurred during one of the demonstrations in which protesters blocked roadways to protest the arrest of bnei Torah. Organizers noted that the demonstration had been coordinated with and approved by police.

According to reports, Magistrate Judge Ariel Ehrlich also criticized police in his ruling, pointing to what he described as the unusual circumstances surrounding the incident.

In his decision, Judge Ehrlich wrote: “The circumstances of the incident are unique. The alleged offense occurred in a situation of tension and panic, while law enforcement authorities were not providing a response. The roadblock created a serious hazard, which in itself posed significant danger to the public.”

The judge’s remarks came despite the fact that the demonstration had received prior police authorization.

Shas MK Meir Porush sharply condemned the ruling, arguing that it sends a dangerous message to the chareidi community.

“The release from custody of a person who drew a handgun toward participants in yesterday’s protest is, in essence, a message that the blood of the chareidi public has been deemed permissible.

“There is no doubt that Judge Ehrlich’s approach is influenced by the outlook of Justice Solberg, Attorney General Baharav-Miara, and Police Commissioner Levy, an outlook that has filtered down to the so-called ‘gatekeepers’—the judges and the police officers.

“We all saw on camera last week how police officers, who are supposedly ‘gatekeepers,’ beat chareidim until they bled.

“There is serious concern that officials within the Justice Ministry, who are also called ‘gatekeepers,’ act with the same malice, only behind robes, neckties, and closed doors without cameras.

“Sadly, all of these people are called ‘gatekeepers,’ yet among them are those whose hatred of lomdei Torah leads them to harm the chareidi public—whether through physical violence, judicial decisions, or by abandoning their safety.”

The incident took place during the vehicle protest on Route 1, the main highway connecting Yerushalayim and Tel Aviv. According to protest organizers, one of the drivers allegedly drew a handgun while approaching a group of chareidi demonstrators standing on the roadway.

Video released by protest organizers appeared to show the driver moving slowly in his vehicle while holding what appeared to be a handgun pointed in the direction of several protesters.

Protest organizers described the incident as “a threat of murder” and called on police “to act immediately against those inciting and carrying out violence. Enough with the violence.”

No shots were fired during the incident.

Police later announced the driver’s arrest. Following Thursday’s court hearing, however, the suspect was released to house arrest pending further proceedings.

{Matzav.com}

Israel’s Judicial Ombudsman, retired Judge Asher Kula, has dismissed complaints filed against Judge Michael Karshan, who signed a court ruling on Shabbos, and Judge Yifat Mishori, whose home was used for a gathering alleged to be political in nature. While rejecting both complaints, Kula recommended that similar situations be avoided in the future and sharply criticized the growing practice of filing public complaints based solely on media reports.

In the case involving Judge Karshan, Kula rejected the complaint concerning the judge’s issuance of a court decision on Shabbos and took the opportunity to criticize what he described as the phenomenon of “public complainants” filing complaints without conducting any independent inquiry or consulting those directly affected.

At the same time, Kula also dismissed the complaint against Judge Mishori, which stemmed from allegations that her husband hosted a political gathering at their home.

Although both complaints were rejected, the ombudsman emphasized that greater caution should be exercised to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Addressing the complaint against Judge Karshan, Kula noted that four nearly identical complaints had been submitted, all based exclusively on media reports and simultaneously circulated to news outlets before any official investigation had taken place. He warned that such coordinated complaints and their publication prior to review undermine the integrity of the complaint process.

Kula wrote that the time has come to apply principles of good faith to complaints filed by members of the public. He proposed that such complaints should meet two conditions before being considered: first, the matter must genuinely raise an issue of significant public importance, and second, where there is a directly affected individual, that person should first be contacted and asked whether he supports the filing of the complaint on his behalf.

Because only one of the complaints included the position of the attorney directly affected by the incident, Kula considered that complaint while dismissing the others outright.

The complaint alleged that Judge Karshan’s decision to sign a ruling on Shabbos violated the sanctity of the day. As part of the review, the ombudsman’s office sought the position of a Shomer Shabbos attorney involved in the case.

The attorney explained that while serving in reserve military duty he was required to keep his phone available. When he received an alert from Israel’s electronic court system on Shabbos, he assumed it related to an operational military matter and opened the notification, only to discover that it was a routine technical court decision. He described feeling hurt that his religious sensitivities had been affected but stressed that he held no personal grievance against the judge and sought only to prevent similar situations in the future.

In his response, Judge Karshan explained that he is not Shomer Shabbos and occasionally works on Saturdays because of his heavy caseload. He said the decision in question was merely technical and that he signed it without realizing Shabbos had not yet ended. He expressed regret that the attorney received the notification during Shabbos and suggested that a system-wide solution be implemented to prevent non-urgent decisions from being distributed on Saturdays.

Kula ruled that the judge should have considered the possibility that Shomer Shabbos attorneys would receive such notifications. Nevertheless, he accepted the judge’s explanation that the incident resulted from an unintentional oversight rather than deliberate conduct.

In his concluding remarks, the ombudsman emphasized the importance of preserving Shabbos within the judicial system and reaffirmed the principle that non-essential judicial decisions should not be issued during Shabbos. However, because the judge apologized, acknowledged the significance of the issue, and accepted the underlying principle, Kula concluded that the complaint should not be upheld. Instead, he recommended that the Director of the Courts once again remind judges not to sign non-essential decisions on Shabbos except when absolutely necessary.

In a separate decision released Thursday, Kula also dismissed the complaint filed against Judge Mishori following reports that a political gathering had taken place in her home.

That complaint likewise relied entirely on media reports. After reviewing the matter, Kula accepted Judge Mishori’s explanation that the event was not political, contained no political elements, and was attended by no political figures. He did note, however, that the Judicial Branch’s public response had not argued that the event was non-political, but only that the judge herself had been unaware it was taking place.

Although he rejected the complaint, Kula observed that, as a general rule, political gatherings should not be held in the home of a sitting judge. He recommended that such events be avoided even in circumstances where the judge neither attended nor participated in organizing them, in order to preserve public confidence in the judiciary’s impartiality.

Concern continues to mount throughout the olam haTorah over the condition of the Brisk Rosh Yeshivah, Rav Avraham Yehoshua Halevi Soloveitchik, as special tefillah gatherings and continuous Tehillim vigils are being held across Eretz Yisroel for his complete recovery.

Since Shacharis on Wednesday morning, uninterrupted tefillah watches have been taking place in Yeshivas Brisk, where Tehillim and the Yud-Gimmel Middos are being recited continuously on behalf of the Rosh Yeshivah, whose tefillah name is Rav Avraham Yehoshua Halevi ben Ettil.

The tefillos are being held in the legendary shiur room where the Rosh Yeshivah has delivered his shiurim for nearly fifty years. The room was once the home of the Brisker Rav, Rav Yitzchok Zev Soloveitchik, and has served as a center of Torah for close to ninety years.

In addition to the continuous tefillos in Brisk, a large public tefillah gathering was held at the Kosel HaMaaravi, while the central event took place late Wednesday night at the kever of Rav Shimon bar Yochai in Meron. Many participants also undertook personal kabbalos and acts of hischazkus in the zechus of the Rosh Yeshivah.

Rav Dovid Miller, one of the roshei yeshivah of Ponovezh and himself a longtime talmid of Brisk from his years as an avreich, was the driving force behind organizing the special tefillah at Meron.

According to the report, Rav Miller noted that the Brisker Rav had referred to the resting place of Rav Shimon bar Yochai as a unique place of tefillah. During the Brisker Rav’s own illness, his talmidim—including Rav Elazar Menachem Man Shach—traveled there to daven on his behalf.

In light of that precedent, Rav Miller instructed that a special tefillah gathering once again be held at the holy site, expressing hope that, through the power of the tefillos of the many, Hakadosh Baruch Hu would grant a complete recovery to the Brisk Rosh Yeshivah, enabling him to continue disseminating Torah to his thousands of talmidim for many years to come.

Near midnight, a distinguished group of gedolei Torah and leading talmidim of Rav Avraham Yehoshua arrived at the tziyun in Meron. Among those participating were Rav Dovid Miller, Rosh Yeshivah of Ponovezh; Rav Yitzchak Dov Schechter of Kol Torah; Rav Tzvi Braverman, Raavad of Beitar; Rav Meir Kessler, Rav of Modiin Illit; Rav Aryeh Berenstein, Rosh Yeshivah of Yagdil Torah; Rav Moshe Bunim Kraus, Rosh Yeshivah of Or Elchanan L’Tzeirim; Rav Menachem Krauss of Slabodka; Rav Zalman Dovid Zuckerman, Rav of the Perushim bais haknesses in Givat Shaul; Rav Yerucham Povarsky, Rosh Yeshivah of Slonim; Rav Yaakov Gedalia Waldenberg, Rav of Ezras Torah; Rav Shayeh Gorelik of Ganei Geulah; Rav Chaim Zelaznik; Rav Dovid Holes; the Rosh Yeshivah‘s son-in-law, Rav Weintraub; along with numerous talmidim and alumni of Yeshivas Brisk.

Leading the tefillah was Rav Yerachmiel Toker, one of the senior talmidim of Yeshivas Brisk and the longtime baal tefillah at Yeshivas Chevron during the Yomim Noraim. Over the course of several emotional hours, participants recited chapters of Tehillim with heartfelt fervor, beseeching Hakadosh Baruch Hu to grant the Rosh Yeshivah a complete and speedy refuah sheleimah.

President Donald Trump announced Thursday that the United States intends to use a portion of Iran’s frozen assets to purchase American agricultural products for delivery to the Islamic Republic, describing the move as part of ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

Speaking at the White House, Trump expressed confidence that Iran is eager to reach an agreement with the United States while pointing to increased oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

“Iran wants to make a deal with us very badly. We probably will. But the Strait is open. Yesterday they took out 19 million barrels of oil, that’s the most in the history of Strait.”

Trump to Farmers: We have a new market coming up, and that's called The Lovely Country of Iran. It's a beautiful place. Would anybody like to go there? They're having a hard time with food and we're going to be taking some of their money and we'll spend it and we're going to be… pic.twitter.com/k2IUXVDZsD

— Acyn (@Acyn) June 25, 2026

The President said recent U.S. military actions had strengthened America’s negotiating position and reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remains non-negotiable.

“We knocked the …. out of them, and now we’re negotiating from a position of pure strength, pure strength. They know that…but we had to do that. We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon,” Trump added.

Trump also claimed Iran is struggling with food shortages and said Washington plans to redirect some of Tehran’s frozen funds toward purchasing American-grown wheat, soybeans, and corn.

“We have a new market coming up, and that’s called the lovely country of Iran,” Trump said, adding, “It’s a beautiful place. Would anybody like to go there? The Islamic Republic of Iran.”

He continued by outlining what he described as a major agricultural initiative.

“They’re having a hard time with food, and we’re going to be taking some of their money and we’ll spend it, and we’re going to be buying wheat, soybeans and corn, a lot of it, and that process is going to be starting soon. It’s going to be pretty big,” he continued.

Iran quickly pushed back against Trump’s remarks. Just hours later, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who headed Tehran’s delegation during recent talks with the United States, denied that any unfrozen Iranian assets would be used to purchase American goods.

“America falsely claims our unfrozen assets will buy their agriculture. Interesting. The only crop we’re harvesting is what you planted: decades of mistrust. It’s organic, abundant, and homegrown. But apparently the US only exports GMO soybeans, broken promises and trash talks,” Ghalibaf wrote on social media.

The exchange comes as the United States and Iran continue negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent agreement after recently signing a Memorandum of Understanding that brought an end to the war between the two countries.

On Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored that the Trump administration expects Iran to fully honor the commitments it made during negotiations in Switzerland.

“We expect them to live up to the commitments they made in Switzerland,” he told reporters. “If they don’t live up to those commitments, the President has a lot of options at his disposal, including, I’m not saying he’s going to do it, I’m saying including reversing these sanctions.”

Rubio stressed that Tehran had made clear promises during the negotiations and said the administration expects those commitments to be fulfilled.

“They’ve made very straight-up commitments in Switzerland, and the President has been very clear they need to keep those commitments.”

He also emphasized that any lasting agreement must be meaningful and enforceable.

“If we’re going to get a deal, it has to be a real deal, and it has to be a good deal,” he said. “If Iran wants to make a good and real deal, the United States is open to that. If they’re not, then, of course, the President has options.”

A day before his latest remarks, Trump cautioned that the United States could rapidly resume military operations against Iran if its leaders failed to act responsibly following the recent agreement.

“Iran has been great – IF Iran is reasonable, IF they’re smart. Otherwise, we’ll have to finish the job,” Trump said at a rally in Pennsylvania.

He added, “As you know, we just achieved a historic peace agreement with Iran to end the conflict… and most importantly, we are ensuring one thing very importantly- because this is why I did it… Iran will NEVER have a nuclear weapon, and they’ve agreed to that.”

{Matzav.com}

The Israeli police officer who was filmed kicking a chareidi protester during last week’s demonstration on Route 4 was questioned Thursday by the Department for Internal Police Investigations (Machash), as authorities continue examining allegations of excessive force during the protest.

The investigation was launched after widely circulated video footage appeared to show the officer kicking a protester who was lying on the ground during the demonstration.

The incident took place during a protest on Route 4 near Bnei Brak against the arrest of bnei yeshivah who failed to report for military service. As police moved to clear the roadway, clashes erupted between officers and demonstrators.

Several videos from the scene sparked widespread public criticism. In addition to the footage showing the officer kicking a protester, another video appeared to show Bnei Brak-Ramat Gan Police Station Commander Superintendent Yuval Shavit dragging a protester across the ground while tearing his clothing.

Shortly after the videos were made public, Israel Police announced that the officer seen kicking the protester had been immediately suspended from operational duty pending an internal review.

At the time, Police Commissioner Danny Levy stated that if the investigation determined that officers or commanders had acted contrary to police procedures, the department would not hesitate to deal with the matter severely, including suspending those involved from operational service.

Police said that during efforts to disperse the demonstration, officers encountered resistance and violence from protesters. According to the department, two police officers were injured and required medical treatment, while five demonstrators were arrested on suspicion of assaulting police officers and disturbing the peace.

Police also emphasized that any incidents found to be inconsistent with departmental regulations or the standards expected of officers would be thoroughly investigated and addressed through disciplinary proceedings.

The footage also prompted sharp criticism from chareidi political leaders. Shas chairman Aryeh Deri appealed to National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, urging him to put an end to police violence against bnei Torah, while making clear that he does not support demonstrations of this nature.

With the officer now under formal investigation by Machash, the matter has moved beyond an internal disciplinary review and into a criminal investigative process. No decision has yet been announced regarding the officer, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The Trump administration took a major step toward repairing defense ties with Turkey on Thursday, formally notifying Congress that it intends to move ahead with a military sale valued at more than $700 million. The proposed agreement would provide Turkey with military aircraft propulsion systems, signaling a significant shift in U.S.-Turkish relations after years of tension.

The official notification to lawmakers followed reports that surfaced a day earlier indicating the White House was preparing to move forward with the transaction.

The proposed sale comes despite continuing objections from several members of Congress, who remain uneasy over Turkey’s decision to retain the Russian-made S-400 air defense system it purchased in 2019. Lawmakers have long argued that the system poses security risks to NATO and Western military technology.

Relations between Washington and Ankara deteriorated during President Donald Trump’s first administration after Turkey acquired the Russian S-400 missile defense system. U.S. officials maintained that the platform could potentially be used to gather intelligence on advanced Western defense capabilities.

Following that purchase, the United States imposed sanctions on Turkey’s defense procurement agency and removed Ankara from the multinational F-35 fighter jet program, ending its role in producing components for the aircraft and eliminating its opportunity to receive the stealth fighters.

More recently, however, reports have suggested that Turkey has expressed a willingness to give up the S-400 system, a move that could pave the way for its return to the F-35 program.

Thursday’s announcement was widely viewed as a symbolic gesture toward Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whom President Trump has increasingly described as an important strategic ally.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Trump revealed that he had personally urged Erdogan not to become involved in the conflict with Iran, saying the Turkish leader agreed to stay out.

“You know, he was a prime candidate to go into the war with Iran. Maybe, on Iran’s side because he’s not a big fan of Israel, as you know. And I asked him to stay out. He stayed out,” the President told reporters.

Trump continued by offering warm praise for the Turkish president, emphasizing both his patriotism and leadership.

“Erdogan loves Turkey, right? He’s doing a great job. He loves Turkey. I love the US, but he loves Turkey, and he’s doing a great job. He’s a respected man, a respected leader. He’s been a friend of mine.”

When asked whether his administration would ultimately approve Turkey’s long-sought request to acquire F-35 fighter jets, Trump suggested that such a move remains under consideration.

“I think so. He’s a member of NATO. Some people don’t consider himself, but he really is. He is a strong member of NATO. Yeah, I’m going to probably do something that’s going to make him very happy.”

{Matzav.com}

An Israeli citizen living in the United States has been released after spending nearly a month imprisoned in Northern Cyprus on what his attorney successfully argued were baseless smuggling charges. During his detention, he says he endured physical abuse by prison guards, death threats from fellow inmates, and horrific prison conditions before finally regaining his freedom.

Yisrael Meir Gutthold, 24, who has been living in the United States in recent years, was traveling back to America approximately one month ago carrying medical vials related to his work when he was detained at the airport in Northern Cyprus. Authorities accused him of illegally smuggling sensitive medical equipment.

“I explained to them that they were mistaken,” Gutthold recalled in an interview with Mako. “I showed them all the official documents, the international permits proving everything was completely legal and that I work in the United States and Mexico. But nothing helped. They were completely convinced of their version of events. They confiscated the equipment, arrested me, and threw me into a detention cell.”

Along with Gutthold, a local physician and the manager of a medical clinic who allegedly sold him the equipment were also arrested.

Gutthold said the initial police detention was manageable compared to what awaited him after he was transferred to Northern Cyprus’ central prison.

“The conditions were horrific,” he told Mako. “The food was terrible, and other than fruits and vegetables, I couldn’t bring myself to eat anything. I suffered severe physical and emotional abuse there.”

Housed in an overcrowded cell with 13 other inmates, Gutthold found himself surrounded by prisoners from Iran and Syria. He said the atmosphere became increasingly hostile because he was Israeli.

“They imposed punishments on me and ostracized me. They forbade me from smoking, exercising, or even praying. The war outside only made the way they treated me inside even worse,” he told Mako. “They openly threatened my life. They told me, ‘You’re Israeli. You’re going to stay here for a long time,’ and made it clear they would order me killed if I violated the rules they imposed on me, while they themselves were allowed to do whatever they wanted. I was terrified of them. I sat in the corner, frightened, constantly praying to God to get me out of there. I couldn’t sleep at night because I was afraid they would get up and slaughter me.”

Gutthold said the hostility did not come only from fellow prisoners.

“There was one prison guard who would punch and kick me in the face simply because I’m Israeli,” he said. “He cursed me and spat on me for no reason.”

As time passed, prison officials reportedly realized Gutthold himself was in danger from other inmates. Rather than releasing him, they moved him into solitary confinement, where he spent 11 days in a tiny makeshift cell located in a prison corridor.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Gutthold said he lost approximately 33 pounds during his imprisonment.

“I lost 15 kilograms during that month. It was the nightmare of my life. It’s the kind of place where people lose every bit of hope and simply commit suicide. There were very difficult moments when I was convinced I was going to be buried there for years over something I never did. Every day felt like an entire year.”

Meanwhile, Gutthold’s family enlisted the assistance of Rav Chaim Azimov, the Chabad shliach in Northern Cyprus. They also retained local attorney Mert Ugur, who worked tirelessly to improve Gutthold’s conditions and secure his release.

According to the family, Ugur demonstrated that Gutthold was neither a criminal nor a smuggler, but an authorized courier operating in full compliance with strict international medical standards.

At the same time, relatives organized tefillos for his release. This past Motzoei Shabbos, members of the extended family gathered at the Kosel to daven before the court hearing that ultimately resulted in what they described as a miraculous release.

Gutthold’s brother, Yossi, said that the family’s tefillos had been joined by many others.

“Many people prayed for his release. Every Motzoei Shabbos, friends, acquaintances, and family members gathered to pray for him, and I want to sincerely thank them. Our family is grateful to everyone who was involved in securing his release, and we thank Hakadosh Baruch Hu that he was freed unharmed.”

Five of the senior members of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah of Degel HaTorah have formally joined the call of Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch urging avreichim throughout Eretz Yisroel to undertake a daily taanis dibbur and intensified hasmadah in response to the escalating gezeiros against the olam haTorah.

In a special letter now being distributed to kollelim across the country, the gedolim expressed their wholehearted support for Rav Hirsch’s initiative, calling on avreichim to devote themselves to uninterrupted learning while observing a taanis dibbur during at least the first half-hour of the morning seder through the Yomim Noraim.

The letter states: “We hereby join wholeheartedly in the call of the Rosh Yeshivah, Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, shlita, to establish special siddrei shekidah in all the kollelim throughout Eretz Yisroel, learning with complete continuity and observing a taanis dibbur for at least the first half-hour of the morning seder, until the Yomim Noraim.”

The proclamation bears the signatures of five senior members of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah: Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman, Rav Berel Povarsky, Rav Aviezer Piltz, Rav Dovid Cohen, and Rav Eliezer Yehudah Finkel.

Concluding the letter, the gedolim offered a heartfelt berachah: “May this merit stand for Klal Yisroel against the severe persecutions and the renewed troubles brought about by those who oppress us.” The appeal comes amid the increasingly difficult situation facing the olam haTorah due to the ongoing gezeiras hagiyus and the continued withholding of funding from yeshivos.

The publication of the letter follows a special gathering held at Rav Hirsch’s home shortly before his departure to the United States on behalf of the Keren Olam HaTorah campaign. Dozens of roshei kollel from across Eretz Hakodesh participated in the meeting.

At that gathering, Rav Hirsch issued an extraordinary spiritual appeal, urging roshei kollel and avreichim to accept upon themselves a daily taanis dibbur during the first half-hour of every learning seder, beginning immediately and continuing through the conclusion of the Yomim Noraim. He emphasized that it is specifically the difficulty of such a commitment that gives it its power.

“This is something very difficult, and precisely because it is difficult and constitutes a form of mesirus nefesh, it will bring tremendous Kevod Shamayim,” Rav Hirsch wrote in his original letter. “As a result, Hakadosh Baruch Hu will draw closer to us, and we will merit special siyata diShmaya from Hakadosh Baruch Hu. Without that special siyata diShmaya, it will not be possible to prevail against those who are fighting against us.”

Organizers also announced that another gathering of leading gedolim is expected to take place at the home of Rav Dov Landau, where an additional call for spiritual strengthening and renewed kabbalos by avreichim and bnei Torah is anticipated.

A similar letter was recently issued by Rav Moshe Sternbuch, Gaavad of the Badatz of the Eidah HaChareidis, urging increased hischazkus as part of the spiritual battle against Amalek. The parallel calls from leading gedolim across different segments of the olam haTorah underscore the profound sense of urgency for heightened avodas Hashem during this challenging period.

{Matzav.com}

In an encouraging development, the mekubal of Tiveria, Rav Chizkiyahu Dov HaKohen Kook, spoke several words on Thursday for the first time since being hospitalized approximately six weeks ago with severe pneumonia.

Rav Kook was initially admitted to the intensive care unit at North Medical Center (Poriya). Earlier this week, he was transferred to a specialized rehabilitation hospital in Ness Tziona, where his condition has shown steady improvement.

According to those close to the rov, he has made notable progress in recent days. In addition to speaking a few words, he has been successfully weaned off mechanical ventilation, his eyesight has improved, and he is now able to communicate his wishes.

Because speaking remains physically taxing, family members and caregivers are limiting conversation with him to avoid exhausting him. Nevertheless, his ability to speak, even briefly, has been described as a deeply moving and significant milestone in his recovery.

Family members related that during the day the rov was asked to respond to several suggestions presented to him, indicating disapproval of some of them. Ultimately, he expressed a desire to have Mishnayos from Seder Taharos read aloud to him, preferring that over other suggestions that had been offered.

During the visit, the rov‘s father-in-law, Rav Yitzchak Zilberstein, also came to see him. Upon entering the room, Rav Zilberstein recited a Shehecheyanu over a new fruit, thereby exempting the brocha customarily recited upon seeing the rov after an extended absence. Family members observed that Rav Kook repeatedly lifted his head toward his father-in-law during the visit and appeared visibly comforted and uplifted by the encounter.

One of the Rav’s close associates told B’chadrei Chareidim, “This is a tremendous source of encouragement and strength for the public. We can clearly see that the tefillos are having an effect, and we must not stop praying for even a moment.”

Several weeks ago, following the instruction of the mashgiach, Rav Don Segal, and with the blessing of Rav Zilberstein, the name “Chizkiyahu” was added to the Rav Kook’s name in light of his critical medical condition.

All are asked to continue davening for the complete recovery of Rav Chizkiyahu Dov HaKohen ben Shoshanah.

{Matzav.com}

Fox News host Sean Hannity is reassuring viewers that he is recovering well after widespread online speculation about his health prompted questions over changes in his appearance during recent broadcasts.

In a post shared Wednesday on X shortly before his nightly television program aired, Hannity explained that the issue stemmed from a neck injury he suffered while exercising, not from any serious underlying medical condition.

“Thanks to everyone who has checked in. I’ve already addressed this several times on my radio show, but while training, I developed a painful pinched nerve in my neck,” Hannity wrote on the social platform X before his weeknight primetime show on the network aired. “My doctor put me on prednisone to reduce the inflammation, and while it’s helping, it led to laryngitis and some puffiness, which is normal for this medication.”

The longtime broadcaster said he continues to improve and has not slowed down despite the temporary side effects of the treatment. He also poked fun at the amount of attention the issue has generated online.

The conservative commentator said he is “fine, recovering well, and still training,” and he joked that “a few weeks of prednisone has generated more social media commentary than 30 years of ratings success.”

Hannity also thanked those who reached out with words of encouragement, while jokingly acknowledging that some of his critics may have hoped the news was more serious.

“I appreciate all the concern and well wishes—including from members of the left-wing media,” the host continued. “Sorry to disappoint them, but a pinched nerve, a raspy voice, and a puffy face aren’t taking me out anytime soon.”

His statement followed several days of online commentary from critics who had mocked the noticeable swelling in his face and neck during recent television appearances.

Among them was comedian Josh Johnson of “The Daily Show,” who made light of Hannity’s appearance.

“I’m sorry but what is going on with Sean Hannity’s face,” Josh Johnson, a comedian on “The Daily Show,” joked this week. “I mean, I have never seen white cheeks that big that haven’t been rapped about.”

Now 64, Hannity remains one of Fox News’ longest-tenured personalities and one of President Donald Trump’s most prominent media allies.

In addition to hosting his nightly Fox News program, Hannity also anchors a nationally syndicated weekday radio show and recently launched a podcast that regularly features Trump administration officials and other allies of the president.

In an unprecedented move, Yeshivas Mir—the world’s largest yeshivah—will suspend its regular learning schedule on Sunday as thousands of talmidim gather for a massive public tefillah rally in response to the continued imprisonment of one of the yeshivah‘s talmidim in Military Prison 10.

The extraordinary gathering will begin at precisely 12:15 p.m., when all the batei medrash of the yeshivah will empty as the thousands of lomdim proceed to Kikar Zvhil and along Rechov Shmuel Street in Yerushalayim. The rally will be led by the roshei yeshivah.

Organizers said the gathering will conclude promptly at 1:00 p.m., coinciding with the end of the morning seder.

The decision to hold the unprecedented public assembly was made by Mir Rosh Yeshivah Rav Eliezer Yehuda Finkel after consulting with Maranan Rav Dov Landau and Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch in light of the talmid‘s ongoing detention.

The rally marks a highly unusual step for the Mir, reflecting the growing concern throughout the olam haTorah over the continued arrests of bnei yeshivah.

Because thousands of participants are expected to fill the streets surrounding the yeshivah, significant traffic disruptions and heavy congestion are anticipated along Shmuel Hanavi and throughout the surrounding area during the rally.

Organizers said details regarding road closures and changes to public transportation routes will be released in the coming days.

{Matzav.com}

Over the last few years, an ongoing challenge has become apparent within the STa”M industry. Many completely well-intentioned buyers, who assume they are purchasing 100% kosher scrolls, are finding themselves uncertain about how to verify what is actually coming into their homes. 

This challenge is not a matter of klaf simply degrading over time, but rather a structural vulnerability in how STa”M is produced and distributed globally. Rabbi Moshe Elefant, COO of OU Kosher, recently shared an encounter that illustrates this exact issue. A professional sofer checking mezuzos in Lakewood, New Jersey, visited a large residence where the homeowner had spared no expense. Shockingly, every single one of the mezuzos in the home was found to be completely pasul, and they had been pasul from the moment they were written. The homeowners had acted with complete sincerity and spent significant sums, but they didn’t get the kosher mezuzos they had purchased.  

Writing a kosher mezuzah is an intricate, labor-intensive process governed by complex halachos. As Rabbi Ezra Sarna, Director of Halacha Initiatives at the Orthodox Union, explains, the margin for error is tremendous. “Each mezuzah contains over 700 letters, along with multiple other components. In many cases, if even one is off, the entire mezuzah can be pasul.” Furthermore, even if the klaf appears perfectly written, it could still be disqualified due to a sofer’s lack of knowledge or improper kavanah during the writing process – factors that are impossible to verify simply by looking at the finished product. 

Without a centralized quality assurance process, the market is continually flooded with varying qualities of mezuzos that have sadly not been written or checked k’halacha. Buyers are left in the dark, wondering who they can rely on, asking themselves if the bodek is truly reliable, or if the inspection was performed independently of the sofer who wrote the klaf. 

Recognizing this growing communal need, the lay leadership of the Orthodox Union stepped in a few years ago. They turned to the OU’s Kashrus department, the community’s trusted experts in systematic certification, to develop a proactive, long-term solution. The result is the OU STa”M Pikuach Initiative which works with multiple partners and vendors to bring confidence to your doorpost.  

The core vision is straightforward: the OU is doing for STa”M exactly what it has historically done for kosher food. For decades, the frum community has trusted the OU symbol to ensure the highest standards of kashrus in our kitchens. Now, that same level of trust and rigorous oversight is available to protect the doorposts of our homes and shuls.

What does an OU-endorsed mezuzah entail? It replaces uncertainty with a verifiable system of checks and balances. The OU provides direct oversight, ensuring every mezuzah is written by a vetted, certified sofer who maintains active certification. The klaf and dyo (ink) are verified and approved as 100% kosher for mezuzah use. The thorough inspection system requires that a completed mezuzah is checked by a chain of two separate magiim (Mashgichim for STa”M). It is then inspected by rabbonim, examined once again by both magiim, and scanned by a cutting-edge, AI-powered computer program designed to detect even the slightest inaccuracies. Any issues raised during the checks are paskened on by rabbonim. 

Once a mezuzah passes this rigorous process and is deemed strictly kosher l’chatchila, it is packaged in a tamper-proof plastic sleeve bearing the “Endorsed by OU” logo. This provides consumers with unprecedented transparency. The packaging includes a certificate of authenticity detailing exactly who the sofer was, who the magiim were, what materials were used, and when the mezuzah requires its next checking.  

The OU STa”M Pikuach Initiative is committed to educating the frum community on the issues related to acquiring mezuzos confidently. There will be opportunities in communities across the US to learn more through shiurim and public lectures. OU-endorsed mezuzos are currently available for purchase through various trusted vendors. To learn more about this vital initiative and to find an authorized vendor near you, please visit ou.org/mezuzah. 

New York Attorney General Letitia James publicly criticized socialist Muslim New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani over his efforts to reshape the Democratic Party by backing a slate of democratic socialist candidates in statewide races, saying many of those he endorsed lack the experience and understanding needed to represent New York’s diverse communities.

In an interview with CNN, James voiced frustration over Mamdani’s political endorsements following his election victory last November, arguing that several of the candidates he supported are disconnected from the districts they hope to represent.

“Some of the candidates that he has supported are individuals who do not understand the politics of New York City, the cultural differences from district to district, who have not been part of the history and the struggle of some of these districts, and are relatively new to the body politic,” James told CNN.

The attorney general also contended that a number of Mamdani-backed candidates lack a sufficient understanding of issues involving race and economic inequality, according to the network.

Despite those criticisms, Mamdani’s influence was evident in this week’s Democratic primaries. Several candidates he endorsed scored victories, including Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier in congressional races, along with two successful campaigns for the state Senate and four wins in contests for the State Assembly.

James acknowledged that dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party is widespread but warned against pursuing sweeping ideological changes.

James said other political colleagues have expressed that they are “disappointed” in Mamdani’s push to change the party.

“All of us are a little frustrated with the Democratic Party. But you don’t blow it up. That’s what MAGA has done,” James told CNN.

Mamdani’s growing political influence has also prompted concern among some Democrats, who worry his endorsements could strain relationships with members of Congress, business leaders, investors, and other influential figures across New York.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, however, dismissed suggestions that the Democratic Party is drifting too far to the left because of Mamdani’s rise.

“No, Donald Trump has a working relationship with the mayor of the city of New York, and he’s made that publicly and explicitly clear to America not once but twice in the Oval Office,” Jeffries said to reporters when asked if the party was moving too far left after Tuesday’s primary results.

President Donald Trump and Mamdani met at the White House in both February and November, surprising many observers. Photographs from the meetings showed the two shaking hands and smiling despite their political differences.

Even so, Trump weighed in on the primary results Wednesday with a post on Truth Social, offering a pointed warning about the direction of American politics.

“America the Beautiful will NEVER be a Communist Country!!!” he said.

{Matzav.com}

Federal officials are sounding the alarm after a series of politically charged acts of vandalism struck Washington’s National Mall, including repeated “8647” markings, damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, and a disturbing incident in which a person allegedly wrote on the Washington Monument using their own blood.

Interior Department Communications Director Katie Martin told Fox News Digital that authorities have seen a sharp increase in attacks on federal landmarks throughout the summer.

“Unfortunately, this summer has seen a significant increase in vandalism to the National Mall – for example, several 8647 markings, a person writing words in their own blood on the Washington Monument and the cutting of fuel lines around the Great American State Fair,” Interior Department communication director Katie Martin told Fox News Digital.

The latest incidents followed President Donald Trump’s initiative to restore and repaint the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. According to officials, protesters responded by damaging the newly restored surface, cutting into it with sharp objects and removing protective fencing before throwing debris into the water.

Fox News Digital reported that the first known act of vandalism targeting the Reflecting Pool occurred on June 9. At the time, Interior Department officials deliberately chose not to publicize the incident, hoping it would remain an isolated act rather than inspire additional copycats.

“At the time of the June 9 incident, the vandalism was under investigation and believed to be isolated. So as not to encourage deranged individuals, we did not announce what we hoped to be an isolated incident,” Interior Department communication director Katie Martin told Fox News Digital about the initial vandalism on the Reflecting Pool.

“It wasn’t until several days thereafter that there were recurring cases and videos of people ripping at the coating began to circulate,” she added. “We then knew this was not an isolated incident, but a new trend to attempt to damage the Reflecting Pool.”

Among the incidents now under investigation are multiple “8647” messages found throughout the National Mall. In a separate case, police say an individual used his own blood to write the words “I’ve come” on the Washington Monument.

The Trump administration has previously interpreted the number “86” as a political threat because of its common use in restaurant slang to mean eliminating or refusing service, while “47” is viewed as a reference to President Trump serving as the nation’s 47th president.

Earlier this month, authorities also launched an investigation after an enormous “8647” message appeared carved into the grass of the National Mall, adding to growing concerns over politically motivated vandalism and threats against public property.

Officials said the Reflecting Pool itself was vandalized on the very day it reopened following restoration. According to a police report obtained by Fox News Digital, the suspect left “razor-blade-like slashes along the liner in the southern middle section of the pool.”

Investigators determined that the damage extended for more than 300 feet, with “some cuts [that] were slits while other sections measuring roughly 6–15 inches had been cut out entirely.”

Authorities also reported that sections of the surrounding metal fence were removed and tossed into the Reflecting Pool, along with a broken black chain that had been attached to the fencing.

The U.S. Park Police later released a photograph of one suspect and appealed to the public for help identifying the individual.

“The United States Park Police is seeking assistance in identifying the individual depicted here in connection with a Destruction of Government Property investigation. The incident occurred on June 19, 2026, at approximately 3:36 p.m. at the Reflecting Pool on the grounds of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC,” said the post.

“Anyone with information regarding the identity of this individual is asked to contact the United States Park Police Tip Line: USPP_TIPline@nps.gov or (202) 379-4877,” it read.

President Trump weighed in on the vandalism Wednesday by posting a photograph of the newly restored Reflecting Pool on Truth Social before it was refilled with water.

“This is the hard rubber surface — No Paint — Before the Vandals cut and pulled it apart,” he wrote.

According to a previous administration official, five individuals have already been arrested on vandalism charges related to the Reflecting Pool, while another five people received federal citations. Authorities have also filed 14 separate police reports involving damage to the site.

Among those charged is former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, who received a misdemeanor citation for destruction of government property after authorities alleged he reached into the Reflecting Pool and grabbed a hose being used by a National Park Service employee.

The administration had already planned to install fencing around the Reflecting Pool before the Fourth of July because the area serves as one of the launch locations for the annual fireworks display. However, officials accelerated that timetable by a full week following the repeated acts of vandalism.

“The Reflecting Pool was always set to be fenced off ahead of the 4th of July. As in years prior, one of the launch pads for the fireworks is around the pool so fencing is put up to ensure public safety,” said White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers. “With the increase in vandalism by leftist activists, the fencing is going up earlier than originally planned to ensure no more damage is done to this historic site.

“While the President was restoring a crown jewel of our nation’s capital, which is supported by Americans across the country, vandals were attempting to destroy, impede and delay the ongoing work,” she added.

President Trump has repeatedly condemned the attacks, first drawing attention to the damage in a Truth Social post last Friday before discussing the incidents again with reporters this week.

“Somebody went in with the knife and cut it. They cut it up good and then they cut at 200, 350 [feet], in the form of lots of little slits. We know horrible stuff,” Trump said Tuesday while speaking with reporters.

Referring to the large “8647” marking carved into the National Mall, Trump added: “Vandals “destroyed the grass. We put a brand-new big load of grass out there. They destroyed it. So it’s all been fixed. But it’s a shame.”

Throughout the restoration project, demonstrators have continued gathering at the National Mall, with some carrying signs reading “Team Algae,” a reference to the Reflecting Pool’s water.

{Matzav.com}

Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a stern warning to Iran on Thursday, declaring that the Trump administration will not permit Tehran to impose fees or tolls on commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital maritime chokepoints.

Speaking to reporters after meeting with leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council in Bahrain, Rubio dismissed reports that Iran may seek to charge ships for passage through the strategic waterway, calling the proposal unrealistic and unacceptable.

“Fees and tolls are the same thing to me,” Rubio told reporters. “If you’re paying someone to go there, I don’t care if you call it a fee or a toll or a donation. It’s a toll.”

Rubio argued that any attempt to collect such payments would inevitably require the use or threat of force, making the proposal both impractical and dangerous for global commerce.

“Let’s say a ship says, ‘Well, I’m not going to pay the fee,'” he said. “It’s not like a toll on a road. You don’t get a ticket in the mail. They get shot at. You shoot at one ship, you sink one ship, no other ship is going to move. So that sort of system is not only unwise, it can’t happen. It’s not even workable. So you might as well abandon the fantasy now.”

The secretary emphasized that Gulf nations are united in opposing any effort to charge ships for transiting the Strait of Hormuz and said President Donald Trump has made it clear that such a provision is unacceptable in any future agreement with Iran.

“There isn’t a nation on Earth that supports having to pay money to go through the straits,” Rubio said, adding, “If you are charging money to use the straits, we won’t support it. We won’t tolerate it. We won’t allow it.”

Rubio’s comments followed reports that some Iranian officials have suggested imposing charges for security, insurance, and related services after last week’s memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, which temporarily restored unrestricted navigation through the strait while broader negotiations continue.

As part of that Trump administration-brokered agreement, Iran committed to allowing toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz for at least 60 days while both governments work toward a broader diplomatic settlement.

Rubio said the administration is ultimately concerned with Iran’s conduct rather than its public rhetoric and indicated that compliance with the agreement will be measured by whether international shipping continues uninterrupted.

“We’re interested in whether or not ships are moving,” he said. “If ships are moving as they should be moving, then that’s what we’re going to judge. If this rhetoric is backed up by actual ships being threatened and ships are not moving, that’s a violation of the agreement and we’re going to have a problem with it.”

The secretary reiterated that the United States remains committed to pursuing diplomacy, but stressed that negotiations will not come at the expense of American interests or regional security.

“We’re going to give diplomacy every chance to work,” Rubio said. “If Iran is interested in making a real deal, the United States is open to doing it. If they’re not, then the president will know that, and he’ll have options available to him.”

{Matzav.com}

Retired British Army commander Col. Richard Kemp delivered a bleak assessment of Britain’s political climate, rising antisemitism, and deteriorating relations with Israel, while also urging patience regarding President Donald Trump’s diplomatic efforts with Iran and emphasizing that Israel must never compromise its own security interests.

In an interview with Arutz Sheva–Israel National News’ Yoni Kempinski during the JNS International Policy Summit, Kemp discussed the turmoil in British politics, the surge in anti-Israel sentiment across the United Kingdom, developments involving Iran, and the strength of the U.S.-Israel alliance.

Asked about the reported resignation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Kemp said many Britons would likely welcome the development.

“I think it’s going to be quite welcome news in the country because Prime Minister Starmer has been very unpopular for pretty much all of his premiership,” Kemp said.

Despite that, he cautioned that replacing Starmer would not necessarily improve Britain’s policies toward the Jewish state.

“We don’t know who’s going to take over from him. Obviously, the most likely is Andy Burnham. I don’t think anything’s going to change much in Britain, particularly Britain’s relationship with Israel, which is, I think, at an all-time low at the moment,” he stated.

When asked whether a new leader could reverse that trend, Kemp said he was pessimistic, arguing that hostility toward Israel has become deeply entrenched within much of the governing party.

“I don’t think it’ll improve. It may even get worse than it is now because so many people, so many of the party’s supporters, both in Parliament and outside Parliament, are vehemently opposed to Israel.”

“They’ve bought, they’ve eaten up all this anti-Israel propaganda and they do not want Britain to have good relations with Israel. They don’t want cooperation with Israel,” he added.

Kemp also expressed serious concern over the growing sense of insecurity among British Jews, saying increasing antisemitism has led many to consider leaving the country.

“I think the situation is quite bad. I’ve spoken to many British Jews and a large number of them either have left Britain, are thinking about leaving Britain or are in the process of leaving, which is a terrible thing,” he said.

He argued that such an exodus would represent a major loss not only for Britain’s Jewish community but for the country as a whole.

“It’s bad for us as a country for two reasons. One, because we’re supposed to be a shining pillar of Western democracy and liberty and equal rights. And we’re showing ourselves, I think in some respects, to be the opposite in relation to a Jewish population,” he explained.

“The other reason why it’s bad for Britain is because over the years, including now, our Jewish community has contributed so much to the United Kingdom in so many different ways. I think disproportionate to the numbers of Jews that actually are in the UK. So if more and more leave, it’ll be a great tragedy for Britain for those reasons.”

Turning to the emerging agreement with Iran, Kemp rejected the notion that it either signals the end of the conflict or should automatically be viewed as a failure.

“I don’t think it’s the end of the war. And I don’t think it’s necessarily a failure either. It’s probably a bump in the road,” he said.

“I think we’re going to see events unfold maybe in a completely different way that we’re expecting over the coming months.”

Kemp acknowledged that some Israelis may be disappointed by President Trump’s approach, but argued that the president is balancing broader American strategic interests.

“President Trump is a man who many people here may think he’s made the wrong decision. He’s betrayed Israel. They may think that. But actually, he has a bigger strategy and he has bigger interests for his country than just Israel.”

He added that Trump is not likely to remain committed to an agreement if it fails to produce the desired results.

“He’s also a man who is not going to be wedded to this MOU if it doesn’t work out the way he wants it to work out. So I don’t see this as being an absolute disaster. I think it’s maybe a bit of a problem, but maybe it will resolve itself.”

Regardless of how negotiations unfold, Kemp said Israel must remain firm in defining and defending its own national security boundaries.

“Whatever happens, I think it’s really important that Israel establishes its red lines, what it’s prepared to do, what it’s not prepared to do, and sticks by them.”

Kemp also dismissed claims that Israel merely acts as an extension of U.S. policy, insisting that the Jewish state makes its own sovereign decisions.

“I think Israel is far from a proxy or a vassal of the US,” he said.

He praised the close relationship between Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu and President Trump, while noting that both leaders ultimately prioritize the interests of their own countries.

“Under Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has, by the way, an extraordinary relationship with President Trump, even through thick and thin, they don’t always see eye to eye. But as I understand it, they understand each other,” Kemp said.

“I think that Prime Minister Netanyahu, obviously, as any prime minister should, his number one priority is not America. It’s not even relations with America. It’s Israel’s national interest, which does include good relations with America.”

Kemp concluded by expressing confidence that Netanyahu will continue to stand firm on Israel’s core security interests, particularly with regard to Lebanon.

“I think he’s a man who’s going to be able to stand up and specify what his red lines are, and then stick to them. And I think in particular, that includes Lebanon,” Kemp concluded.

{Matzav.com}

Iran is reportedly seeking to generate tens of billions of dollars annually by imposing new charges on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a proposal that has drawn swift opposition from the Trump administration and regional allies who insist the vital international waterway must remain free of transit fees.

According to a report published Thursday by The Wall Street Journal, Iranian officials believe a new framework involving charges for security, safety, and environmental services in the Strait of Hormuz could produce as much as $40 billion a year for participating countries while significantly expanding Tehran’s influence over one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes.

The report says Iranian officials have presented the concept to neighboring Gulf states and to China, arguing that the strategic waterway has entered a new era following the recent U.S.-Iran conflict and that management of the strait “will never return to the way it was before.”

If implemented, the proposal would represent a major departure from decades of international maritime practice, under which commercial vessels have enjoyed toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio firmly rejected the idea while visiting Bahrain on Thursday, warning that permitting Iran to charge ships for passage through an international waterway would establish an unacceptable precedent, according to CBS News.

“The reality is that no country on Earth has the right to charge for the use of international waterways,” Rubio said. “That will never be an acceptable condition of any deal.”

Oman’s Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, echoed Rubio’s position following meetings with the secretary of state and fellow Gulf leaders, stating that any future agreement governing the Strait of Hormuz “will not involve imposing any transit fees.”

President Donald Trump also sought to reassure markets on Wednesday, saying on Truth Social that Iranian officials had informed the United States they intended to impose “no tolls, no insurance costs & no other charges of any kind” on vessels passing through the strait.

Trump added that if reports of planned fees prove accurate, negotiations with Tehran would end “immediately.”

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, carrying approximately 20 percent of global oil supplies. While commercial shipping has gradually resumed following the recent conflict, some shipping companies continue to exercise caution.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Iran has already established an insurance company that it says vessels should utilize when transiting the strait and has introduced new registration requirements directing ships to notify Iranian authorities two days before entering the waterway.

Legal experts told the newspaper that Iran would face formidable legal obstacles in implementing such a system.

Unlike Turkey, which possesses treaty-based authority under a 1936 international agreement to collect certain fees in the Dardanelles, any comparable arrangement in the Strait of Hormuz would almost certainly require broad international approval through the International Maritime Organization.

As negotiations with Tehran continue, the Trump administration has repeatedly emphasized that unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains a non-negotiable principle of U.S. policy.

{Matzav.com}

Vice President JD Vance said the latest round of negotiations with Iranian officials in Switzerland produced an agreement in principle to establish a new direct communication channel between the United States and Iran, describing the move as an important step toward easing regional tensions and resolving future disputes.

In an interview with UnHerd Magazine, Vance explained that one of Washington’s primary objectives during the talks was to establish “a channel on the Iranian side” through which both governments could manage conflicts more effectively.

“Which we did,” Vance stated. He said the arrangement calls for representatives of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) to maintain direct contact in Doha. “That’s how we’re going to settle a lot of these disputes,” he said.

Vance cautioned that the initiative’s success will ultimately depend on whether Tehran follows through on the commitments it has made.

“They’re certainly talking differently than they have in the past,” he said. “But whether the action will follow, whether the final deal actually meets some of what they’re promising in general terms – that’s what we have to figure out.”

The vice president also described how discussions with Iranian negotiators have evolved over time, saying the atmosphere has changed considerably since the first direct meeting.

“The first time we ever sat down with them was in Istanbul, and it almost felt like a performance,” Vance said. He added that after initial exchanges, “it got to a good place where we were able to actually have a conversation.”

Discussing the proposed memorandum of understanding currently being negotiated between Washington and Tehran, Vance dismissed suggestions that it resembles the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

“There are many things I don’t like about the comparison to the JCPOA,” he said, adding that the current memorandum is “a much more generic document” and serves as “a foundational document.”

According to Vance, the proposed framework is intended to reopen maritime shipping lanes, end military hostilities, and create a foundation for negotiating a broader agreement over Iran’s nuclear program.

“Let’s open the Strait, let’s stop shooting at each other, and let’s see if we can make a nuclear deal,” he said, describing the US position.

Vance also asserted that Iran has put forward proposals that go beyond the terms of the JCPOA, including a more stringent inspection system and the complete “elimination” of its existing stockpile of enriched uranium.

“The flip side,” he said, “is that they really want a fundamentally transformed relationship with the United States and the world – and I don’t know where we’re going to be able to land in the middle.”

The vice president said America’s diplomatic efforts have been welcomed by several Gulf nations, highlighting what he described as unprecedented dialogue between the United Arab Emirates and Iran.

“The Emiratis – by far the most hawkish, by far the most pro-Israel country in the GCC – they’re having conversations with the Iranians that have never happened before,” he said, adding that discussions have included economic incentives and conditions for investment.

Addressing broader regional security concerns, Vance said negotiators also made progress on issues involving Lebanon, including discussions about mechanisms to prevent military escalation.

“Israel, and every other nation in the region, has the right of self-defence,” he said. “But we want to make sure everyone has that right of self-defence in a background where we’re talking about how to de-escalate.”

Vance expressed guarded optimism about recent developments in Lebanon, saying the ceasefire appeared to be holding despite lingering concerns.

“I think we’re now at 48 hours where the ceasefire in Lebanon has effectively held,” he said, adding that while challenges remain, the situation had improved compared to previous weeks.

Concluding his remarks, Vance emphasized that the ultimate test of the diplomatic process will be whether Iran follows its recent rhetoric with meaningful action.

“Whether the action will follow, whether the final deal actually meets some of what they’re promising in general terms – that’s what we have to figure out,” he said.

{Matzav.com}