Israeli and American forces have succeeded in destroying a large portion of Iran’s ballistic missile launch platforms, a development that significantly limits Tehran’s ability to carry out missile attacks, according to former Israel Defense Forces spokesman Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus.
Speaking Monday on Newsmax, Conricus said the campaign against Iran has focused heavily on eliminating the launchers used to fire missiles, which he described as the critical weak point in Iran’s missile capabilities.
“So I’m happy to say that Israel and the U.S. have been successful in taking out approximately 70% of Iran’s missile launchers, the ballistic missile launchers,” Conricus said on “Bianca Across the Nation.”
Conricus explained that destroying the launch infrastructure is strategically more important than the number of missiles Iran still has in its arsenal.
“And that’s a very important figure because that is the bottleneck, and that is the most important number,” he said. “If we take out all the launchers, then they can have stockpiles of weapons — of missiles — but they won’t be able to fire them.”
According to Conricus, Israeli and American forces have concentrated on tracking and striking mobile launch systems across western Iran. The effort involves a combination of intelligence gathering, aerial operations, and precision long-range strikes.
“And that’s what we are hunting now over western Iran in Iranian skies and with continuous steady success,” Conricus said.
The current campaign began on Feb. 28, when President Donald Trump authorized Operation Epic Fury, a sweeping military effort targeting Iran’s missile and drone infrastructure, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command systems, military installations, and air defense networks after tensions escalated in the region.
Defense officials say the results of those strikes have already been visible on the battlefield. Iranian missile and drone launches have dropped significantly as launch platforms and support systems have been destroyed.
Military briefings and open-source analysis indicate that Iranian missile barrages have declined by more than 80 percent since the operation began, largely due to the systematic targeting of the transporter-erector-launchers used to deploy ballistic missiles.
Even with those gains, Conricus noted that Israeli civilians still face the threat of incoming attacks.
“Granted, Israelis still rush to shelters,” he said. “I had to go to shelters … three or four times today.”
Missiles launched from Iran and rockets fired from Lebanon continue to target Israeli population centers despite the damage inflicted on Iran’s launch capabilities.
“We have incoming missiles from Iran and rockets from Lebanon,” Conricus said.
The continued attacks have also resulted in civilian casualties inside Israel.
“Sadly, today, two Israeli civilians were killed,” he said, adding that the total number of civilians killed in Israel from Iranian ballistic missile strikes had reached 14.
“That’s, of course, a tragedy for us,” he said.
Still, Conricus said Israeli society remains determined to withstand the current conflict.
“But Israeli society is strong,” he said. “I think we’re resolute here, and we understand that this is a period that we will have to tough through.”
He added that the broader goal of the military campaign is to weaken Iran’s capabilities to such an extent that the regime will no longer be able to threaten Israel or other countries in the region.
“And eventually, I think when you boil it down to the military mechanics of it, Israel and the U.S. will be able to really degrade military capabilities of Iran and bring that regime to a situation where they don’t have the teeth or the muscle to actually do anything,” Conricus said.
{Matzav.com}
Thirteen residents, including five children, were injured early Tuesday morning after a fire broke out in a residential building on Harav Asi Street in Bnei Brak. Emergency call centers received multiple reports of heavy smoke filling the four-story building.
Four firefighting teams, along with a ladder truck and the shift commander, were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered flames coming from an electrical cabinet on the first floor, which caused thick black smoke to quickly spread throughout the building’s stairwell. Authorities believe the fire may have been sparked by a heating device that ignited within the electrical cabinet.
Firefighters immediately began extinguishing the flames and conducted thorough searches of all floors to locate and rescue trapped residents. At the same time, crews worked to ventilate the building and remove the heavy smoke. Medical teams who were called to the scene treated 13 individuals suffering from smoke inhalation and transported them to Sheba Medical Center for further treatment.
Due to concerns that smoke could enter apartments, fire dispatchers instructed residents by phone to remain inside their homes until emergency crews arrived.
United Hatzalah issued a statement saying: “United Hatzalah medical teams were dispatched to Harav Asi Street in Bnei Brak following reports of a fire in a residential building. Medics provided treatment at the scene to thirteen victims in light condition (ages 13–70) who were suffering from breathing difficulties caused by smoke inhalation.”
Hatzalah night-duty coordinator Yoel Shechter said: “When I arrived at the scene, I saw an active fire on the first floor of a residential building and a large number of people trapped inside. After firefighters conducted searches and rescues, we, together with medics and paramedics from MDA, provided initial medical treatment to 13 victims, including five children, who showed signs of smoke inhalation. They were evacuated with the assistance of MDA ambulances staffed by Hatzalah volunteers to receive further medical care at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer.”
{Matzav.com}
issued a warning Monday night in response to remarks by President Donald Trump indicating that the war with Iran could be approaching its end.
In a statement quoted by Reuters, the IRGC said they would “determine the end of the war,” adding that Iran would not allow “one liter of oil” to be exported from the region if US and Israeli attacks continue.
Trump responded to the threat in a message posted on his Truth Social platform. “If Iran does anything that stops the flow of Oil within the Strait of Hormuz, they will be hit by the United States of America TWENTY TIMES HARDER than they have been hit thus far.”
He followed with an additional warning about what could happen if Iran attempts to block the strategic waterway. “Additionally, we will take out easily destroyable targets that will make it virtually impossible for Iran to ever be built back, as a Nation, again – Death, Fire, and Fury will reign upon them – But I hope, and pray, that it does not happen! This is a gift from the United States of America to China, and all of those Nations that heavily use the Hormuz Strait. Hopefully, it is a gesture that will be greatly appreciated.”
Earlier in the day, Trump told reporters at a press conference that the fighting could be nearing its final phase. “we are close to finishing”. He added that the conflict might end “soon” but suggested that it would not happen this week.
When asked what would constitute a victory, the President said the goal is to ensure Iran loses the ability to develop weapons capable of threatening the United States or its allies. “When, basically, I can see that they will no longer have any capacity whatsoever, for a very long period of time, of developing weaponry that could be used against the United States… or any of our allies.”
Earlier Monday, the IRGC issued another statement saying that any Arab or European nation that expels the ambassadors of Israel and the United States from its territory would be granted complete freedom to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
The fighting has already disrupted shipping and energy exports moving through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global chokepoint that carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supply.
{Matzav.com}
International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi said Monday that a significant portion of Iran’s uranium enriched to nearly weapons-grade levels is believed to remain stored at a tunnel complex in Isfahan, a site that appears to have escaped the severe damage inflicted on other Iranian nuclear facilities during joint Israeli and American strikes last June.
Speaking to reporters, Grossi indicated that close to half of Iran’s uranium enriched to roughly 60% purity—just below the threshold considered weapons-grade—had been stored at the underground facility prior to the attacks and is likely still located there.
The tunnel complex at Isfahan is believed to be the only major location tied to Iran’s nuclear program that did not suffer extensive destruction during the strikes carried out last summer by Israel and the United States.
For years, diplomats have maintained that the Isfahan installation served as a storage location for uranium enriched to the 60% level. The IAEA confirmed in a report distributed to member states last month that such material had indeed been stored at the facility, although the agency did not publicly disclose the total amount kept there.
According to IAEA estimates, when Israel initiated its first wave of strikes in June, Iran had accumulated approximately 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%. Based on the agency’s calculations, if that material were enriched further, it could yield enough fissile material to produce as many as ten nuclear weapons.
Grossi told reporters that a large share of that stockpile had been kept at the Isfahan site. “What we believe is that Isfahan had until our last inspection a bit more than 200 kg, maybe a little bit more than that, of 60% uranium,” Grossi told reporters in Paris.
He explained that most of the material had been stored there, while some uranium located at other facilities may have been destroyed during the strikes. “The widespread assumption is that the material is still there. So we haven’t seen – and not only us, I think in general all those observing the facility through satellite imagery and other means to see what’s going on there – movement indicating that the material could have been transferred,” Grossi said.
Since the June attacks, Iran has not updated the IAEA about the condition or whereabouts of its highly enriched uranium, and it has not permitted agency inspectors to return to the nuclear sites that were targeted.
Before the strikes, Iran had three active enrichment facilities: two located at Natanz and another at Fordow. All three installations were either destroyed or sustained major damage during the June attacks.
Grossi also noted that some enriched uranium could still be present at Natanz. “There is an amount (of 60% uranium) in Natanz also, which we believe is still there,” he said.
In recent days, the IAEA chief reiterated his concern about Iran’s growing reserves of uranium enriched to levels approaching weapons grade and the government’s refusal to allow inspectors full access to its nuclear facilities.
“I have been very clear and consistent in my reports on Iran’s nuclear program: While there has been no evidence of Iran building a nuclear bomb, its large stockpile of near-weapons-grade enriched uranium and refusal to grant my inspectors full access are cause for serious concern,” Grossi wrote in a post on social media.
He added that the lack of cooperation from Tehran prevents the agency from offering assurances about the nature of the country’s nuclear program. “For these reasons,” he added my previous reports indicate that unless and until Iran assists the IAEA in resolving the outstanding safeguards issues, the Agency will not be in a position to provide assurance that Iran’s nuclear program is exclusively peaceful,” he added.
{Matzav.com}
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The Knesset on Monday approved in its first reading a government bill designed to regulate the annual Lag BaOmer gathering at the kever of Rabi Shimon Bar Yochai on Har Meron for the year 2026, marking the fourth consecutive year that special legislation has been advanced to organize the event.
The proposal, prepared by the Ministry of Yerushalayim and Jewish Tradition, aims to ensure that the gathering will take place in safety, while incorporating lessons learned from previous years and the recommendations of the state commission of inquiry established after the Meron disaster.
Communications Minister Dr. Shlomo Karhi presented the legislation to the Knesset plenum after the government assigned him responsibility for overseeing this year’s event.
In his address, Karhi said he views the task as far more than a logistical responsibility. “This is about safeguarding one of the greatest spiritual moments of the Jewish people. We approach this sacred work with the memory of the 45 victims of the terrible disaster engraved in our hearts. That wound obligates us to maintain the highest level of vigilance so that every person who ascends the mountain will return home safely.”
The legislation largely mirrors similar laws passed in previous years and formally anchors the framework that has been implemented at the gathering in recent years under the leadership of the Ministry of Yerushalayim and Jewish Tradition.
Karhi also praised former minister MK Meir Porush for the foundations he established while overseeing the event in earlier years, noting that the goal is to continue creating an atmosphere in which all segments of the Jewish people feel welcome at the site of Rabi Shimon Bar Yochai.
The bill also advances continued development of permanent infrastructure at the Meron complex, including improvements to the grounds and the construction of large hospitality tents, as well as expanded areas for food service and davening to better accommodate the thousands of pilgrims who travel to the site.
Under the proposed framework, dozens of traditional bonfire lightings are expected to take place throughout the Meron complex during the celebration. This will include the central lighting conducted by the Boyaner Rebbe, following longstanding tradition, along with additional lighting areas prepared within the expanded Meron complex and at the Bnei Akiva compound, allowing communities from across the Jewish world to participate.
Despite the complicated security situation and ongoing tensions in northern Israel, officials at the Ministry of Yerushalayim and Jewish Tradition said preparations for the gathering are continuing at full speed. Planning efforts are moving forward with flexibility to adjust to different possible security developments.
Officials stressed that the extensive investment in improving infrastructure and safety measures is accompanied by hope and prayer that the security situation will calm before Lag BaOmer arrives.
The intention, they said, is to enable tens of thousands of Jews to travel safely to Meron and observe the long-standing tradition in an atmosphere of calm and spiritual elevation.
The bill has now been transferred to the Knesset’s National Security Committee, chaired by MK Tzvika Fogel, where it will be prepared for its second and third readings. Lawmakers hope to complete the legislative process before the Knesset recess begins. Karhi concluded his remarks with a message to the public: “Meron is waiting for you. Come with joy, pray with devotion, and return home safely.”
{Matzav.com}Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a message of support to Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, signaling Moscow’s continued alignment with Tehran even as the region faces escalating military conflict.
The message was delivered as Iran grapples with ongoing airstrikes targeting key facilities in Tehran and elsewhere, underscoring the growing tensions across the Middle East.
Putin was among the first world leaders to congratulate Khamenei after Iran’s Assembly of Experts selected him to assume the role of supreme leader following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei.
The timing of the letter drew attention as it came while Iran was attempting to recover from recent Israeli airstrikes that reportedly targeted oil depots and refining infrastructure in Tehran.
In his message, Putin expressed strong solidarity with Iran and reaffirmed Russia’s support for the country during what he described as a challenging period.
“At a time when Iran is facing armed aggression, your tenure in this high office will undoubtedly require great courage and dedication. I am confident that you will honorably continue the work of your father and unite the Iranian people in the face of severe trials. For my part, I would like to reaffirm our unwavering support for Tehran and our solidarity with our Iranian friends. Russia was and will remain a reliable partner of the Islamic Republic.”
Putin also wrote that he believes Mojtaba Khamenei will continue his father’s legacy and successfully lead Iran during a period of regional instability and war.
China has also signaled support for the leadership transition in Tehran, noting that the process was carried out in accordance with Iran’s constitution and effectively granting international recognition to the change in leadership.
Putin’s message, which described Russia as a “reliable partner” and pledged “unwavering support,” was widely viewed as a signal to Western governments that the alliance between Moscow and Tehran remains strong despite the ongoing conflict.
{Matzav.com}
New York City officials are weighing whether to convert many of the city’s free street parking spaces into metered spots as the administration of Mayor Zohran Mamdani confronts a $5.4 billion budget shortfall.
The proposal surfaced as City Hall explores potential sources of revenue while grappling with the growing fiscal gap, which critics say has been driven by the mayor’s expansive social spending agenda.
First Deputy Mayor Dean Fuleihan indicated last week that the idea of charging for parking in areas that are currently free — or introducing “dynamic pricing” that adjusts based on demand — is under consideration as officials look for ways to narrow the deficit.
“Yes, we should be looking at all those things,’ Fuleihan said at Thursday’s CityLaw breakfast event.
Despite that acknowledgment, Fuleihan cautioned that such measures alone would not solve the city’s massive budget problem.
“But it’s not going to address the $5.4 billion problem,” he acknowledged.
He later reiterated that the proposal remains only a topic for discussion at this stage.
“I said it’s a very good policy question, and one that needs to be discussed,” he later clarified of the meter issue.
A study by the Center for an Urban Future estimated that dramatically expanding the number of parking meters throughout the city could bring in as much as $1.3 billion in annual revenue.
According to the report, roughly 800,000 of New York City’s more than 3 million street parking spaces — about 25 percent — currently require payment at meters.
The analysis suggested that an additional 750,000 parking spots would need to be converted to metered spaces to generate that level of income while also easing traffic congestion.
The possibility of expanding paid parking drew immediate criticism from elected officials representing neighborhoods outside Manhattan.
“Like the Mayor’s proposal to hike our property taxes, this is just another way to shakedown outerborough working and middle class households, who need cars to get around because they don’t have adequate transportation options. ” said Staten Island GOP City Councilman David Carr.
Carr’s criticism comes as Mamdani has warned that property taxes could rise by nearly 10 percent if Governor Kathy Hochul does not approve higher taxes on wealthy residents to help fund the administration’s agenda.
“How exactly would this make New York City more affordable?” Carr continued.
Queens Republican Councilwoman Joann Ariola also blasted the proposal, arguing that expanding parking meters would unfairly burden residents who depend on their cars.
“another tax on the middle and working classes.
“Not every New Yorker has the luxury of living in places like Astoria or Manhattan where there are plenty of transit options available,” she said.
“Some of us rely on our cars to get around, and I encourage the Mayor to come out to South and Southeastern Queens and take a look around before he decides to levy this burden on working families who just want to park near their homes.”
In a statement to The Post, Mamdani emphasized that his preferred solution for addressing the deficit remains raising taxes on high-income residents.
“Our administration is committed to filling the budget gap by ending the drain on New York City and taxing the rich,” the mayor said.
“As my First Deputy Mayor said yesterday, you do not fill a $5.4 billion budget gap through parking meters, we need structural change at the scale necessary to put our city back on firm financial footing.”
{Matzav.com}
President Donald Trump warned that the United States would respond with overwhelming force if Iran attempts to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor for global oil shipments. His warning comes as the ongoing conflict with Iran has sharply disrupted vessel traffic through the narrow passage, driving oil prices upward.
In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump issued a direct threat to Tehran over any effort to interfere with the oil route, which is one of the most important shipping lanes in the world.
“If Iran does anything that stops the flow of Oil within the Strait of Hormuz, they will be hit by the United States of America TWENTY TIMES HARDER than they have been hit thus far,” he said on Truth Social. “Additionally, we will take out easily destroyable targets that will make it virtually impossible for Iran to ever be built back, as a Nation, again — Death, Fire, and Fury will reign upon them — But I hope, and pray, that it does not happen!”
Trump has repeatedly cautioned Iran that interfering with traffic through the strait would lead to an escalation of U.S. military action. The narrow waterway sits between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula and is responsible for transporting about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.
Earlier Monday, Trump told CBS News that he was weighing the possibility of placing the strategic shipping route under U.S. control.
{Matzav.com}
