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Israeli President Isaac Herzog is not expected to make a near-term decision on Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s request for a pardon, and is instead exploring the possibility of initiating mediation aimed at reaching a plea agreement in the long-running corruption case against the prime minister, according to two senior Israeli officials cited by The New York Times.

In a statement, the president’s office indicated that Herzog views an “amicable solution between the parties” as serving the broader public good, adding that any eventual decision on the pardon request will be made in accordance with Israeli law and “the best interests of the state of Israel.”

Although the presidency in Israel is largely ceremonial, it includes the authority to grant pardons. Officials said Herzog sees his position as one that can help bridge divisions, and believes that mediation may be the most viable route to reducing tensions surrounding the ongoing trial.

Under the approach being considered, informal negotiations would take place under the auspices of the president’s office, with representatives from the state prosecution and the attorney general participating on one side, and Netanyahu’s legal team on the other. A similar effort previously broke down in late 2021 and early 2022.

The legal situation surrounding a potential pardon remains unclear.

An opinion issued last month by the Justice Ministry’s Pardons Department concluded that there is no legal justification for granting a pardon unless Netanyahu admits guilt, steps down from office, or is convicted. The department also noted that broader considerations, such as national security, fall outside its purview.

At the same time, Herzog is reviewing a separate legal opinion submitted on behalf of the government by Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu of the Otzma Yehudit party, which contends that the president has the authority to take wider historical and national factors into account.

The president’s office is also awaiting guidance from its own legal advisers before moving forward.

Netanyahu, 76, submitted his formal request for a preemptive pardon in November while his trial was ongoing, arguing that bringing the case to an end would help ease divisions within the country and allow him to focus on governing.

He has not indicated any willingness to acknowledge wrongdoing or withdraw from public life—steps that many legal experts and political opponents say would be necessary for any plea deal to materialize.

The trial, which began on May 24, 2020, encompasses three interconnected cases involving allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, including claims related to gifts from wealthy individuals and regulatory actions in exchange for favorable media coverage.

Netanyahu has consistently denied all allegations, describing the proceedings as a “witch hunt.” Under Israeli law, a bribery conviction carries a maximum sentence of 10 years, while fraud and breach of trust each carry potential penalties of up to three years.

Calls for a pardon have largely come from Washington. During an address to the Knesset in October, President Donald Trump directed remarks to Herzog, saying, “Mr. President, why don’t you give him a pardon?”

He later reiterated that position in a letter sent in November and has since referred to Herzog as “disgraceful” and a “weak and pathetic guy.”

Yohanan Plesner, president of the Israel Democracy Institute, told the Times that “Netanyahu knows the option of a plea bargain is always available to him,” and that an “admission of guilt, expressing remorse and agreeing to leave or not to run for office would be the essence of any plea bargain.”

National elections in Israel are expected to take place within the next six months.

According to individuals close to Herzog, he does have the authority to grant a pardon, but any such move would likely face scrutiny and potential review by the Israeli Supreme Court.

{Matzav.com}

Elon Musk is advancing plans to roll out X Money, a built-in payments and banking system for his social media platform, as part of a broader effort to transform X into a hub for both communication and everyday financial activity, according to Bloomberg.

The initiative, which has been under development since Musk acquired Twitter—now rebranded as X—in October 2022, represents a major shift from the platform’s original role as a social network into a more expansive digital ecosystem.

Users who have tested early versions of the service report features such as roughly 3% cash back on select purchases, a savings yield approaching 6%, and free peer-to-peer transfers. That interest rate stands far above standard U.S. bank offerings—about 15 times higher than what most banks provide—though X has not clarified whether those rates will remain in place long term.

The platform is also expected to roll out a debit card connected to user accounts, along with an artificial intelligence-based system designed to monitor spending, categorize transactions, and provide personalized financial insights, functioning much like a digital financial assistant.

Musk’s aim is to keep users engaged within the app not only for social interaction, but also for handling their financial lives.

If successful, the platform would merge social networking and financial services in a way no major U.S. company has yet accomplished on a large scale.

Musk has repeatedly emphasized that payments are central to his long-term vision for X, telling employees he wants the platform to play a key role in how users send, spend, and store money in their daily lives.

Despite that ambition, industry analysts and payments experts remain cautious.

Some highlight gaps in the current system, particularly the absence of a seamless one-click checkout feature, which is widely viewed as essential for building a competitive e-commerce platform.

Without that capability, critics say X may struggle to convert user engagement into significant transaction volume.

As Richard Crone, founder of Crone Consulting LLC and longtime payment sector analyst, put it: “He [Musk] doeson’t have a one-click buy — and he needs that or e-commerce on his site will lag.”

Others point to trust as an even greater hurdle.

While users may quickly adopt simple peer-to-peer transfers, persuading them to rely on X as a primary financial account presents a far more difficult challenge, requiring strong regulatory compliance, reliability, and confidence in how funds are managed.

The rollout has already encountered regulatory obstacles.

Launching a nationwide payments system requires licensing across all 50 states, and although X has secured approvals in 44 states so far, it is still working to obtain authorization in several key areas. In some states, lawmakers have raised concerns related to oversight and consumer protections.

Even with those challenges, Musk enters the space with a significant advantage: a massive user base.

X already serves hundreds of millions of users, including content creators who receive payments through the platform, many of whom are expected to transition to X Money and help establish initial usage.

Early testers have already used the system to send payments through profiles and direct messages, indicating that the core infrastructure is already functioning.

Important details—including pricing, the full scope of services, and the timeline for a full national rollout—have yet to be finalized.

Still, the direction is clear: Musk is betting that integrating financial tools into a social platform will drive deeper user engagement and unlock new revenue opportunities.

If adoption grows, X Money could quickly evolve from a supplementary feature into a central component of both the platform and how many Americans manage their finances.

{Matzav.com}

The United Arab Emirates demanded that Pakistan repay billions in outstanding loans, a move widely seen as linked to Islamabad’s efforts to mediate in the Iran conflict and one that placed significant strain on Pakistan’s already fragile financial position.

According to a report by the Financial Times, the UAE issued what was described as a “shock request” for repayment of $3.5 billion at a time when Pakistan was grappling with severe economic challenges and depending on a $7 billion bailout program from the International Monetary Fund.

Pakistan went on to return approximately $3.45 billion, a step that threatened to deplete nearly 20 percent of its foreign currency reserves, which stood at about $16 billion, based on various reports.

Although Pakistani officials publicly characterized the move as a “routine financial transaction,” analysts and regional experts argue that the timing suggests a political motive rather than a standard financial procedure.

Officials in Abu Dhabi are believed to have been displeased with Pakistan’s attempt to position itself as a neutral intermediary in the U.S.-Israel confrontation with Iran, an approach the UAE reportedly viewed unfavorably.

“There’s no neutrality in this,” said Neil Quilliam of Chatham House, noting the UAE sees the conflict in stark terms, with little room for middle-ground diplomacy, Financial Times reported.

From the Emirati perspective, efforts at mediation may be interpreted as a lack of clear alignment.

The Times of India noted that the repayment highlights how closely Pakistan’s financial stability is tied to shifting geopolitical dynamics.

The loans in question were first extended in 2019 and had routinely been rolled over, making the sudden demand for repayment particularly destabilizing.

The repayment also risked complicating Pakistan’s commitments under its IMF agreement, which requires the country to raise its reserves beyond $18 billion.

Economic analysts caution that without new inflows of capital, the move could weaken the Pakistani rupee and further exacerbate the country’s financial instability.

At the same time, broader tensions within the Gulf region may have played a role in the development.

Relations between Saudi Arabia and the UAE have cooled in recent years, including disagreements over the conflict in Yemen.

Pakistan’s increasing alignment with Saudi Arabia, including a mutual defense agreement signed last year, has reportedly added another layer of tension with the UAE.

In response to the financial pressure, Saudi Arabia moved quickly to support Pakistan, depositing $3 billion and offering an additional $5 billion facility.

While this assistance allowed Pakistan to meet immediate obligations, it also underscores a growing reliance on Saudi backing—one that experts warn could become problematic if Riyadh faces economic constraints of its own.

Meanwhile, The South China Morning Post reported that public opinion in the UAE shifted sharply against Pakistan during the Iran conflict.

Social media criticism questioned Islamabad’s stance, with users asking, “Where do you stand?”

Such reactions are widely viewed as reflecting deeper dissatisfaction at official levels.

Despite the tensions, both governments have attempted to minimize the perception of a lasting dispute.

Pakistani officials have insisted there is “no gap” in ties, while commentators in the UAE have suggested that relations could stabilize over time.

Still, the episode serves as a clear reminder that Pakistan’s economic stability remains heavily dependent on external partners, leaving it exposed to geopolitical pressures during times of crisis.

{Matzav.com}

MK Yoav Ben Tzur launched a sharp attack Monday on Naftali Bennett, arguing that Bennett’s newly formed political partnership with Yesh Atid leader MK Yair Lapid is unlikely to succeed and will ultimately lose significant support at the polls.

Speaking in an interview with Kol Berama Radio, Ben Tzur dismissed Bennett’s political standing, saying, “Bennett has no voter base – he’s neither right nor left, has no stance on core issues, is not security-minded, and does not understand economics or welfare,” Ben Tzur said in an interview with Kol Berama Radio.

He went on to argue that Bennett’s early momentum in surveys has historically faded, adding, “Throughout the years, Bennett starts with a big bang in the polls, with around twenty seats, and then drops to below double digits. Throughout his entire political career, he crossed into double digits only once, and that was when he was first starting out. He is not a gifted or talented politician, and he has not a single achievement to his name.”

Reviewing Bennett’s political trajectory, Ben Tzur pointed to what he described as a pattern of inconsistency, stating, “He hasn’t stopped zigzagging. In 2013 he ran with Jewish Home. In 2015 he got 8 seats. In 2019 he led the New Right, which didn’t pass the threshold. Then he ran with Yamina and got seven [seats]. In the 25th Knesset elections he fled in shame and didn’t run. Now, in this ‘Beyachad’ list, polls give him over twenty seats?”

He further accused Bennett of repeatedly shifting allegiances and abandoning his principles, concluding, “He didn’t just change his positions over the years – he switched [between] five parties, replaced all his partners, and sold all his values. I don’t want to attack him personally, but would you make a deal with someone like that? Can an unstable person run a country?”

{Matzav.com}

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar met Monday afternoon in Yerushalayim with UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis Plasschaert, pressing for immediate international steps to address Hezbollah’s ongoing operations conducted in close proximity to UN forces stationed in Lebanon.

During the meeting, Sa’ar stressed that Hezbollah has continued to breach the ceasefire in a consistent and deliberate manner, arguing that these actions advance Iranian objectives rather than serving the interests of Lebanon itself.

The foreign minister also presented figures outlining the extent of recent hostilities, noting that since March 2—when Hezbollah entered the conflict under pressure from Tehran—roughly 10,000 missiles, rockets, and drones have been launched toward Israel.

He further pointed out that many of these attacks originated from areas located near UNIFIL positions and installations.

“We are seeing an increasingly dangerous pattern: Hezbollah systematically deploys its terrorists and assets next to UNIFIL stations, taking advantage of UNIFIL’s presence for its hostile actions. Hezbollah is using these positions for surveillance against IDF forces and is moving its terrorists in vehicles identical to those of UNIFIL,” Sa’ar stated. “The Government of Lebanon must act decisively against Hezbollah and its terrorists, including through financial measures targeting its sources of funding.”

{Matzav.com}

Three Yidden were attacked in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood by a man reportedly wearing a shirt displaying the Iranian flag, according to a report by the New York Post.

The incident occurred Friday evening, shortly before the onset of Shabbos, and involved victims ages 48, 38, and 21.

.@NYPD90Pct with the help of @WSPUShomrim arrested a perp with a Iranian flag on his shirt on Throop Ave & Bartlett St, he assaulted 3 people which was treated by Hatzolah on Harrison Ave & Middleton St. pic.twitter.com/460d471Ok4

— WILLIAMSBURG NEWS (@WMSBG) April 26, 2026

Authorities identified the suspect as Andrzej Wnuk, 41, who is accused of punching the victims in the upper body, including the head and face, while yelling “[Curse] Jews.”

Emergency responders from Hatzalah provided medical treatment to those injured at the scene. Wnuk was subsequently taken into custody and later arraigned in Brooklyn Criminal Court, where he faces charges of assault and committing a hate crime. Bail was set at $5,000, and he remains in custody.

{Matzav.com}

Rabbi Eyal Zionov, who recently drew widespread attention after appearing in public dressed in clothing closely resembling the traditional garments of the Rishon Letzion, has agreed to discontinue that style of dress following discussions with community leadership.

The decision came after a phone conversation between Rabbi Zionov and Avraham Doron, head of the Council of Sephardi and Oriental Communities in Yerushalayim, during which the matter was addressed and a resolution reached.

In that discussion, Zionov explained his perspective and proposed a middle ground that would allow him to continue wearing dignified rabbinic clothing while avoiding confusion or any perceived disrespect toward the Chief Rabbinate. As part of the understanding, he agreed to stop wearing the ornate cloak adorned with gold and silver embroidery, a distinctive feature historically associated with the Rishon Letzion dating back to the Ottoman period in Eretz Yisroel.

He also agreed to modify his headwear by removing the diagonal stripe that identifies the serving Sephardic Chief Rabbi, further ensuring that his appearance would not be mistaken for that of the official position.

Doron stated that there is neither a halachic nor legal issue with wearing standard rabbinic garments that do not include official insignia, and he praised the agreement as a responsible step that brings the matter to a close.

Zionov, who maintains a strong following on TikTok, first became the subject of national attention last week when he attended Israel’s Independence Day state ceremony. His appearance there led to confusion among attendees and viewers, some of whom assumed he was the Chief Rabbi, including the event’s broadcast director, who repeatedly focused the camera on him.

Days earlier, Zionov’s visit to the Har Habayis—an area the Chief Rabbinate has ruled off-limits—caused additional confusion, even prompting Shin Bet officials to contact the Chief Rabbi’s office after mistakenly believing the visit had not been properly coordinated.

In the days since the story broke, Zionov has also been seen in places not typically associated with rabbinic figures, including a Tel Aviv nightclub and a soccer game, further fueling public attention around his activities.

{Matzav.com}

Dear Matzav Inbox,

We all heard the story—maybe with slight variations, maybe with different details—but the core of it was the same. A babysitter in New Jersey ordered dinner through Uber Eats. The food arrived. Three frum children sat down and ate it. Only afterward did it become clear that what had been ordered was treif—from the wrong Smash House, not the kosher one.

It’s a shocking story. It’s the kind of story that spreads quickly, the kind people shake their heads over and say, “Gevalt, how could that happen?”

But I’ll tell you what’s even more shocking: this wasn’t a one-off. It wasn’t some bizarre, isolated mistake. It’s a symptom of something much deeper…and much more disturbing.

Since the new kosher establishment opened in Toms River, I’ve made it my business to ask people a simple question. Not a trick question. Not a hard one. Just this: “Whose hashgocha is it under?”

I’ve asked about forty people. People I meet, people I know, people who consider themselves careful, conscientious, Yidden. They were all hocking about the new fast food place, etc. And you know what I found?

Not one person knew. Not one person could name the hashgocha. [The place actually has a good hashgocha. That’s not the point.] The issue is that nobody even thought to know.  [Four people named a certain local kashrus agency. They were wrong.] Nobody cared enough to ask. Nobody felt it was basic information they should have before putting food into their mouths.

How did we get here?

Since when did we become so apathetic, so indifferent, so downright ignorant when it comes to kashrus? Since when is it acceptable to eat “wherever,” as long as it looks good, as long as it’s convenient, as long as it’s on an app?

We used to know. We used to ask. We used to care. A Yid didn’t walk into a place—or click a button—without knowing exactly what he was eating and under whose supervision it was prepared.

Now? “It’s probably fine.” “I think it’s kosher.” “Someone told me it’s okay.” “Everyone is eating there.” “It’s in or near Lakewood, so it must be okay.”

This isn’t about one babysitter. This isn’t about one mistaken order.

This is about us.

If we don’t even know whose hashgocha we’re relying on, then what exactly are we relying on? A logo? A rumor? A guess?

We can do better. We must do better. Because if we don’t wake up to this now, the next story won’t surprise us at all—and that’s the most frightening part of all.

Sincerely,
M. R.

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

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On the hills of Givat Ze’ev, Givat Hashalvah is being developed around a goal many frum families feel strongly about. Life in Eretz Yisroel should come with dignity, pride, and a standard that reflects who we are and what we value. That mindset guides the project from the quality of construction to the shared spaces designed to support real Torah living and a steady community rhythm.

Community is a central priority here. The aim is a genuine kehilla where families who share a way of life build something together, and where everyday living naturally turns neighbors into relationships. Early buyers are already shaping the character of the neighborhood through the values they bring and the standards they expect.

This vision is supported by the builder behind the work. Solel Boneh is Israel’s most recognized construction name, with more than a century of experience and a track record tied to the country’s most significant national projects. For buyers, that translates into something simple: execution you can trust, quality that lasts, and delivery you can rely on.

Givat Ze’ev also offers a distinct lifestyle and a strong value proposition. From the outset, the developers spared no effort to deliver the highest possible standard, so the same budget can go further here through higher-end finishes, larger layouts, and a plan built for daily ease. Parking is moved underground, freeing the surface level for families, greenery, and a calmer streetscape. The masterplan includes 18 residential buildings in three clusters, connected by a promenade that runs through parks and gardens from end to end.

Between the clusters sit 7 dedicated multi-story residential lounges, totaling 26,000 square feet of community amenities planned for real daily use, including children’s gymborees, simcha halls,  mother’s meeting lounges, shared workspaces, and Torah libraries. Fountains and seating areas are woven into the walkways, with a bike path looping around the project.

To round out the living experience, the plan also includes a multilevel shopping mall, protected living, a 54,000 square foot fitness center, a pool, and ten shuls. The result is a neighborhood designed to support a fuller way of living, both inside the home and together beyond it.

Explore Givat Hashalvah 

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Sunday that Democrats would not make impeaching President Trump a priority if they regain control of the House following the upcoming midterm elections.

Appearing on “Fox News Sunday,” Jeffries dismissed the idea when asked directly whether impeachment would be at the top of the agenda, responding, “of course not.”

He emphasized instead that Democrats would focus on economic concerns affecting everyday Americans. “I’ve made clear from the very beginning that our top priority is going to be to drive down the high cost of living,” the House minority leader added.

Expanding on that message, Jeffries outlined what he described as the core promise of the American system. “We believe in this country, you work hard, you play by the rules. You should be able to live an affordable life, a comfortable life, in fact, to live the good life, and that means a good paying job and good housing, good health care, good education for your children, and when it’s all said and done, a good retirement,” he added.

Jeffries has repeatedly criticized Trump over rising costs, particularly pointing to higher gas prices during the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Earlier this year, President Trump warned House Republicans that he could face impeachment if the party fails to hold its majority after the midterms.

Although there was renewed discussion months into the war about removing the president, those efforts have not advanced, largely due to a lack of support.

Democrats have scaled back talk of impeachment after acknowledging they do not have the necessary votes to move forward.

Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) previously underscored that reality during an appearance on CNN, saying, “to do those things, you have to have the votes. And when I see that we have Republicans who won’t even have hearings in regard to oversight, so there’s no oversight by Republicans, and they control the House, they control the Senate, they have the presidency.”

He continued by explaining his focus on broader national concerns: “So realistically, I don’t have the time, I’m worried about the country, the country’s economy, the American people, and that’s where my efforts are going to be moving forward,” he added in comments that align with Jeffries’s Sunday statements.

Jeffries has also highlighted Democrats’ efforts to redraw congressional districts across the country as part of a broader strategy to gain seats in the House, while signaling a renewed focus on working-class voters following losses among that group in the 2024 election.

He said that access to health care, affordable housing, and equal educational opportunities should be central to the party’s message.

“That’s been the American dream for decades, but for far too many people, that American dream has slipped out of reach, and we should be focused on actually doing the type of things necessary to ensure that people in this country cannot simply survive, but they can thrive,” he told anchor Shannon Bream.

“And that, of course, will be at the heart of all of these midterm campaigns,” Jeffries added.

{Matzav.com}

A 9-year-old boy with special needs from Yerushalayim who went missing Sunday afternoon in the Geula neighborhood was located hours later dozens of miles away, in a dramatic turn that ended in what many described as a clear miracle. He was found at the central bus station in Netanya, thanks to remarkable circumstances and the alertness of civilians.

The search began after a report was received by the ZAKA 1220 emergency hotline regarding the child’s disappearance. This led to the immediate mobilization of volunteers from the organization’s missing persons unit, who launched extensive ground searches while also spreading the alert widely across social media.

The turning point came as a result of that widespread publicity. A woman who had seen the child’s photo recognized him in Netanya and quickly notified ZAKA. Eliezer Lifshitz, head of ZAKA’s Netanya team, together with volunteer Ben-El Amira, rushed to the scene. They arrived at the central bus station, located the child in good condition, and ensured his safe return.

Chaim Weingarten, ZAKA’s Deputy Director of Operations, said, “The cooperation of the public and the distribution of the alert are what made it possible to locate him. The ZAKA organization thanks everyone who took part.”

{Matzav.com}

Former President Barack Obama responded Sunday to the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump and members of his cabinet, urging Americans to firmly reject violence as a political tool.

In a statement posted on X, Obama addressed the incident, which took place during the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, emphasizing the need for unity and restraint in a tense moment.

“Although we don’t yet have the details about the motives behind last night’s shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner, it’s incumbent upon all us to reject the idea that violence has any place in our democracy,” Obama said.

He also praised the actions of law enforcement, highlighting the bravery displayed by the Secret Service agents who intervened. “It’s also a sobering reminder of the courage and sacrifice that U.S. Secret Service Agents show every day. I’m grateful to them – and thankful that the agent who was shot is going to be okay,” he added.

Authorities identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, who allegedly planned to attack the president and several cabinet officials during the event. Allen, a resident of Torrance, California, is said to have traveled across the country by train before arriving at the Washington Hilton carrying a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives.

According to investigators, Allen outlined his intentions in a manifesto prior to the incident, targeting members of the administration. “Administration officials (not including Mr. [Kash] Patel): they are targets, prioritized from highest-ranking to lowest,” he allegedly wrote before adding, “I experience rage thinking about everything this administration has done.”

Law enforcement officials said Allen was stopped as he attempted to breach a security checkpoint on a floor above the dinner venue. He fired two shots before being subdued by U.S. Secret Service agents. One agent was struck by gunfire but was protected by a bulletproof vest, and no additional injuries were reported.

Speaking at a press conference following the incident, President Trump—who has previously survived two assassination attempts—called on Americans to settle disagreements without violence and pointed to the sense of unity he observed at the event.

“I ask that all Americans recommit with their hearts in resolving our difference peacefully. We have to we have to resolve our differences. I will say, you had Republicans, Democrats, Independents, Conservatives, Liberals, and Progressives. Those words are interchangeable perhaps, but maybe they’re not,” Trump said. “But yet everybody in that room, big crowd, record-setting crowd, there was a record-setting group of people. And there was a tremendous amount of love and coming together. I watched, I watched and I was very, very impressed by that.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu revealed during Sunday’s cabinet meeting the extent of the damage caused by the leak of the operation’s timing in Iran, warning that it could have undermined the element of surprise in the opening strike. “This is not just an attack against the Americans; it’s the destruction of the operation! And it gives advance warning to Khamenei and their defense systems ahead of our attacks,” Netanyahu said.

According to a report by Moti Kastel on Channel 14, Netanyahu delivered harsh criticism over the leak and told those present, “This is the most criminal leak I have known in decades! It is being investigated very seriously.” He later added to one of the ministers, “This caused damage like the false leak about Unit 100.”

During the meeting, Education Minister Yoav Kisch questioned the pace of the investigation, asking, “What is happening with the investigation? It must not be dragged out!” Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs responded that “both the Shin Bet and the Defense Ministry’s security department are involved; it’s sensitive.” Deputy Minister Almog Cohen added, “This could have been a major attack against the Americans.”

As previously reported, about a month ago the defense establishment opened an investigation into suspicions that the timing of the strike against Iran had been leaked to Channel 12.

Defense Minister Katz announced the development during a cabinet meeting after Education Minister Yoav Kisch raised the issue. “I don’t understand how it is possible that someone leaked the exact timing of the strike to Channel 12 and it passes quietly? How is that possible?” Kisch asked.

{Matzav.com}

There was a lower level of security for the White House correspondents’ dinner than for other gatherings of high-ranking officials, even though the president and many Cabinet members were in attendance, according to officials familiar with the plan.

 

President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance were quickly evacuated to safety when a gunman charged the security perimeter and attempted to storm the ballroom at the Washington Hilton Hotel. Others in attendance included Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The concentration of high-ranking leaders in one ballroom left the nation unusually vulnerable as the would-be assassin raced past Secret Service before he was apprehended. A worst-case scenario might have resulted in passing the power of the presidency to the senior-most senator of the majority party, Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), who was not at the event and is third in line to the presidency behind Vance and Johnson.

When so many officials gather in one place for official functions such as an inauguration or State of the Union address, the secretary of homeland security typically puts the Secret Service in charge of coordinating all security through a formal designation known as a “National Special Security Event.”

There was no such designation on Motzoei Shabbos at an event also attended by thousands of journalists and other government officials, according to local and federal officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss security details. The suspected gunman, 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, wrote a statement saying he wanted to target members of the Trump administration and ridiculed what he called lax security at the hotel, according to two law enforcement officials familiar with the writings. He said Iranian agents could easily have brought more dangerous weapons to the venue, according to the text.

The White House referred questions to the Department of Homeland Security, which did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A spokesperson for the Washington Hilton said in an email that the Secret Service “led security for the event.”

The Secret Service did not answer questions about its role.

One D.C. government official said they were not aware of an instance when the annual dinner had been designated as a National Special Security Event. It typically hosts high-ranking officials, but the lineup of those who attend varies from year to year.

WHCA Executive Director Steve Thomma also said in a text he was not aware of such a designation in the past. “Not a thing that’s ever come up in my time as executive director,” said Thomma, who has been the association’s executive director since 2017.

The Secret Service considered the site it was charged with protecting to be the ballroom and the immediate perimeter around it, according to two law enforcement officials briefed on the investigation who spoke on the condition of anonymity because there is a pending prosecution. The agency did not take responsibility for the entire Hilton hotel.

Outside, D.C. police handled road closures and traffic. In between, there was no clear responsibility for the security of the thousands of guests and rest of the Hilton property, where authorities said the suspect had booked a room.

Acting attorney general Todd Blanche said Sunday he did not view the incident as a security failure. The gunman was detained before reaching the ballroom.

“On the contrary, it was a massive security success story,” Blanche said during an interview with CNN’s Dana Bash. “I mean, if you think about what happened as far as what we know right now, this suspect barely breached the perimeter.”

The full range of security precautions taken before and during the event was not immediately detailed by authorities. Attendees were free to enter the hotel with only a paper or digital ticket, then mill about for hours before walking through metal detectors.

Attendees including Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania) and Kari Lake, senior adviser for the U.S. Agency for Global Media, questioned the security at the event. Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-New York) called for an investigation.

In a post on X, Grassley said he was setting up a briefing with Secret Service leadership about “security protocols & related law enforcement matters” involving the dinner. He thanked the Secret Service for “quick action” at the scene.

D.C. police said the gunman was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and knives. One Secret Service officer was struck by a bullet but protected by a bulletproof vest. Blanche said authorities initially believe the suspect fired the shot that struck the officer.

“While this was extraordinarily dangerous and put a lot of lives at risk,” Blanche said during an interview with NBC News’s “Meet the Press,” “the system worked. All of us were safe. President Trump was safe.”

In a statement, WHCA President Weijia Jiang said the evening was “was a harrowing moment for everyone in attendance.”

“Our dinner exists to celebrate the First Amendment and the hard daily work of the journalists who defend it,” Jiang wrote. “The WHCA board will be meeting to assess what happened and determine how to proceed. We will provide updates as soon as any are available.”

Jiang and Thomma did not immediately respond to questions about whether there had been any discussion with DHS prior to the dinner about whether it should be designated a National Special Security Event or who was responsible for security outside the immediate perimeter of the ballroom.

The absence of a National Special Security Event designation last came under scrutiny for the failure to protect the U.S. Capitol during the certification of the presidential election results on Jan. 6, 2021. Pro-Trump rioters overpowered the Capitol Police and breached the building, forcing lawmakers to evacuate and suspending the certification for hours. The Capitol was eventually cleared with help from the D.C. police, federal agents and the National Guard.

In the aftermath, the House Jan. 6 committee, the Government Accountability Office and the Justice Department Inspector General all recommended designating future electoral certifications as National Special Security Events. The joint session of Congress on Jan. 6, 2025, was such an event, with the Secret Service in charge.

A D.C. government official briefed on the preparation for the event, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly, said National Special Security Events tend to be for multiday events with regular attendance by the president and top cabinet officials.

“This is a dinner that he might not go to at the last minute and is not annually attended by him,” the official said in a text message in response to questions about why the event was not given the highest security level. “The State of the Union can only occur with the president, the WHCD has occurred many times without POTUS.”

Trump told reporters after the dinner that Secret Service and law enforcement did what they were supposed to do.

“I’m the one that would complain,” he said on Motzoei Shabbos. “I’d be up here right now saying they didn’t do their job. Oh, believe me, because, you know, it’s my life.”

(c) 2026, The Washington Post · Emily Davies, Isaac Arnsdorf, Jeremy Roebuck, Joe Heim 

{Matzav.com}

Sen. Tim Sheehy announced Sunday that he plans to push forward legislation aimed at expediting the construction of a proposed ballroom at the White House, citing security concerns highlighted by a recent shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

Writing on X, the Montana Republican said he intends to introduce the measure and seek unanimous consent in the Senate to move it quickly. “This week I will introduce and seek unanimous consent for legislation providing express approval for construction of a presidential ballroom.

He pointed to the broader implications of the incident, arguing that it reflects poorly on the country’s ability to safely host major events in the capital. “It is an embarrassment to the strongest nation on earth that we cannot host gatherings in our nation’s capital, including ones attended by our president, without the threat of violence and attempted assassinations.”

Sheehy also addressed the issue of political violence more broadly, emphasizing that such behavior has no place in American society. “there is no place for political violence in America. Unfortunately, it seems, too many people believe trying to kill our president and members of our government is acceptable.”

He concluded by stressing that ensuring the safety of national leaders and event attendees should not be a partisan matter, calling for swift action on the proposal. “a president of any party should be able to host events in a secure area without attendees worrying about their safety. This is common sense. Let’s get it done.”

{Matzav.com}

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The suspect accused in Saturday night’s shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner navigated through the Washington Hilton using a deliberate path designed to avoid security checkpoints and crowded areas, according to a report from CBS News.

Cole Tomas Allen was reportedly observed leaving his room on the hotel’s 10th floor dressed in black and carrying multiple weapons. Authorities said he had a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives, all packed in a black bag.

Instead of taking the main hallways, Allen allegedly chose an internal stairwell, descending roughly 10 floors. Investigators believe this route allowed him to steer clear of heavily monitored sections of the hotel where guests and security personnel were concentrated.

Law enforcement sources told CBS News that by using this path, Allen was able to move toward the event without being noticed, despite the presence of President Donald Trump and other senior officials inside.

Allen eventually reached the terrace level of the hotel, which connects to the foyer leading to the red carpet entrance of the dinner. This positioned him only a short distance from a key entry point into the ballroom.

At that stage, Allen reportedly ran toward the area, rapidly closing the gap before security intervened.

Officers assigned to the event responded within seconds. Members of the Secret Service Uniformed Division quickly moved in and subdued Allen shortly after he appeared near the entrance.

Authorities said that after detaining him, officers followed established procedures, removing his outer garments and inspecting his bag to confirm that he did not have additional weapons or explosive materials.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:36 p.m., while the event was already in progress. The dinner was attended by thousands, including the president, first lady Melania Trump, Cabinet members, and journalists.

Officials noted that security screening was beginning to wind down at the time. Metal detectors that had been used to check incoming guests were already being taken apart, and no further attendees were being admitted into the ballroom.

{Matzav.com}

Iran has put forward a revised diplomatic framework to the United States through Pakistani mediators, proposing that efforts focus first on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending the current conflict, while postponing negotiations over its nuclear program, according to a report Sunday night.

Sources familiar with the discussions told Axios that the Iranian proposal aims to prioritize maritime access and de-escalation before addressing the nuclear issue. A U.S. official and two individuals briefed on the matter said Tehran is attempting to break the current stalemate while navigating internal disagreements over how far it is willing to go in limiting its nuclear activities.

American officials, however, are wary of such sequencing. They believe that resolving the Hormuz situation first, particularly if it involves easing the U.S. blockade, would weaken Washington’s negotiating position. Without that leverage, they fear it would be more difficult to compel Iran to give up its enriched uranium stockpile or commit to long-term restrictions on enrichment.

President Donald Trump has made curbing Iran’s nuclear capabilities a central pillar of his administration’s strategy, whether through diplomatic engagement or increased pressure.

According to three U.S. officials cited in the report, Trump is expected to gather senior national security and foreign policy advisers in the Situation Room on Monday to review the impasse and consider possible paths forward. One official said the meeting would center on the collapse of recent talks and the options available going forward.

Over the weekend, Trump called off a planned round of negotiations that had been set to take place in Islamabad. Senior envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner had been slated to travel there for discussions with Iranian representatives.

“I just cancelled the trip of my representatives going to Islamabad, Pakistan, to meet with the Iranians,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

“Too much time wasted on traveling, too much work! Besides which, there is tremendous infighting and confusion within their ‘leadership,’” he continued. “Nobody knows who is in charge, including them. Also, we have all the cards, they have none! If they want to talk, all they have to do is call!!!”

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi concluded a visit to Pakistan without any significant breakthroughs after meeting with local intermediaries.

Following those talks, Araghchi traveled to Muscat, Oman, on Sunday, where discussions reportedly focused on the Strait of Hormuz, before returning to Islamabad for additional meetings.

He is expected to continue on to Moscow on Monday for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Behind the scenes, officials involved in the talks say Araghchi and Pakistani mediators explored a phased approach designed to move past the current deadlock over Iran’s nuclear program.

One source said Araghchi told mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar that Iran’s leadership remains divided over U.S. demands for a long-term halt to uranium enrichment and the removal of enriched material from the country.

Under the revised framework being circulated, the immediate priority would be resolving the Hormuz crisis and lifting the U.S. blockade. This would be followed by either a prolonged ceasefire or a permanent cessation of hostilities.

Only after those steps, according to the proposal, would negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program begin.

Pakistani officials have already relayed the plan to the White House, though it remains unclear whether the U.S. is willing to entertain the proposal.

White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said: “These are sensitive diplomatic discussions and the US will not negotiate through the press. As the president has said, the United States holds the cards and will only make a deal that puts the American people first, never allowing Iran to have a nuclear weapon.”

{Matzav.com}

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) said Sunday that security officials should reevaluate whether President Trump and Vice President JD Vance should appear together at major public events following Saturday’s shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

Appearing on CNN’s State of the Union, McCaul, who attended the event in Washington, said the incident raised serious concerns about the concentration of leadership in one place.

“The takeaway I got was that the line of succession,” McCaul said during the interview.

He pointed out that multiple top officials were seated together at the same table during the event, increasing the potential risk in the event of a coordinated attack.

“You had the president and the vice president at the head table, both of them together, and [House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La)]. Had an explosive device gone off, you would have knocked out the president, vice president, Speaker. The three in line of succession,” the Texas Republican noted.

When asked directly whether those leaders should avoid appearing together in public settings, McCaul reiterated his concern.

“I think the Secret Service needs to reconsider having both the president and vice president together.”

Under the current line of succession, if a president is unable to serve, the vice president and then the House Speaker would assume the role. McCaul also referenced the next official in line.

The next in succession would be the president pro tempore of the Senate, currently 92-year-old Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa).

Meanwhile, the investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Several news organizations have reported that the suspect is 31-year-old Cole Allen of Torrance, California, though that identification has not been independently confirmed.

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said Saturday that the suspect is expected to appear in federal court Monday to face charges, including using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche indicated earlier Sunday that additional charges could be forthcoming, depending on the findings of the investigation.

He said the suspect “absolutely” could be charged with attempting to assassinate Trump depending on his “motive, his premeditation [and] what he wanted to do.”

According to a CBS News report citing law enforcement and White House officials, the suspect authored a manifesto outlining his intentions. The document reportedly described a plan to target administration officials in order of rank.

The manifesto stated he aimed to target Trump administration officials “prioritized from highest-ranking to lowest.” A White House official confirmed to The Hill that such a document exists.

Blanche said he remains confident in the level of security at the event and emphasized that the administration will not change its approach in response to the attack.

He said he is “very comfortable” that Trump, Vance and Johnson were present and stressed that the shooting “is not the kind of thing that will deter” the administration.

“This is not the kind of thing that will cause us to go down in a bunker and not come out. … We are going to continue to do our jobs,” Blanche added.

He also underscored the importance of continuing normal operations, including engagement with the press, while maintaining strong security measures.

“And our jobs include interacting with the press, which we do, which I’m doing now, which we did last night, and so very comfortable, because what you do when you have an environment like that, when you have the leaders of the free world in one room, is you make sure that you have security that will stop anybody from getting anywhere near any of those individuals,” he continued.

{Matzav.com}