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A senior American official is disputing Iranian reports about the newly announced agreement between Washington and Tehran, insisting that Iran will not receive access to billions of dollars in frozen assets before fulfilling its obligations under the deal.

Speaking Sunday to Axios reporter Barak Ravid, the official rejected assertions that Iran would be granted immediate access to $12 billion in blocked funds before the beginning of formal negotiations over a final agreement.

“This is completely not true. This is a pay-for-performance deal and no frozen funds will be released without the Iranians implementing their commitments,” the official stated.

The dispute emerged shortly after President Donald Trump publicly unveiled the agreement Sunday evening. Soon afterward, Iran’s semi-official Mehr news agency released what it described as the 14 core provisions of the arrangement.

According to the Iranian report, the financial component of the agreement requires the United States to approve the release of $12 billion in frozen Iranian funds before substantive negotiations begin. The report further claimed that another $12 billion would become available during a 60-day period designated for negotiating a permanent accord.

The published details also asserted that Washington would suspend sanctions on Iran’s oil and petrochemical industries while dismantling its naval blockade of Iran within 30 days.

Mehr further reported that these measures are intended to occur before final treaty negotiations can move forward. Under the framework described by the Iranian outlet, discussions on a permanent agreement would not commence until the initial $12 billion is released, energy-related sanctions are paused, and maritime restrictions are lifted.

The Biden administration’s characterization of the agreement differs sharply from Tehran’s account, with U.S. officials emphasizing that any financial relief will be contingent upon Iran first meeting its commitments under the deal. The conflicting descriptions underscore the uncertainty surrounding the precise terms of the agreement as both sides prepare for the next phase of negotiations.

{Matzav.com}

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President Donald Trump announced that a sweeping agreement with Iran has been finalized, declaring that the deal secures unrestricted access through the Strait of Hormuz and prevents Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He also revealed that he remains prepared to resume military action if negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program ultimately collapse.

Speaking in a Sunday interview with The New York Times, Trump said the newly negotiated arrangement guarantees that ships will be able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz indefinitely without paying transit fees. He further argued that the agreement spared Israel from what he described as a potentially catastrophic nuclear threat, despite opposition from Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu.

The president said that while a broader nuclear agreement is still being negotiated, talks are expected to begin Friday in Switzerland. He warned that if Iran refuses to reach a final accord, military pressure could quickly return.

Trump also floated another possible framework under which the United States would provide regional security guarantees in exchange for a 20 percent share of Middle Eastern revenues.

The comments came during a 28-minute telephone interview initiated by Trump from the White House residence, followed by a shorter follow-up call. Throughout the discussion, Trump maintained that his military campaign against Iran earlier this year, combined with the naval blockade imposed after Tehran closed the Strait of Hormuz, fundamentally shifted the balance of power in the region in America’s favor.

During the conversation, Trump praised both Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin for helping facilitate the ceasefire arrangement. At the same time, he sharply criticized Netanyahu, claiming Israeli military actions nearly unraveled the diplomatic breakthrough.

“He’s a very difficult guy,” Trump said of Netanyahu, “and to be honest with you, he should be very thankful to us for doing this. Because if Iran had a nuclear weapon, Israel wouldn’t be around for two hours.”

Trump repeatedly compared his new agreement to the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated during President Barack Obama’s administration, while insisting that his framework would permanently prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

According to Trump, negotiators are still debating how long Iran’s enrichment program would remain frozen. While discussions have centered on a 20-year freeze, he suggested he could accept a 15-year arrangement. Regardless of the final term, Trump said Iran’s enrichment activities would remain permanently limited to low levels unsuitable for military use. He noted that the Obama-era agreement contained a similar provision, though Iran later increased enrichment to near-weapons-grade levels after the United States withdrew from that accord in 2018.

The interview followed Trump’s formal announcement of the agreement on Truth Social.

“The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow! President DONALD J. TRUMP,” he wrote.

In a subsequent post, Trump expanded on the significance of the agreement.

“This Great Deal will bring Peace and Security to the whole Region. Many presidents have tried to make Peace with Iran, and all have failed before me. The Leaders of the Region have, for the first time, found a President who can help them achieve real Peace. With the opening of the Strait upon the signing of the Deal on Friday, for purposes of mine removal, oil will flow on both ends again for the Region, and the World!”

Earlier, Trump told The Wall Street Journal that he expected to issue an official announcement confirming that Washington had reached an agreement with Tehran.

He indicated that the agreement could ultimately be signed electronically either by himself or by Vice President JD Vance.

Trump also stated that Netanyahu “is okay” with the deal.

Prior to the public announcement, Trump and Netanyahu held a telephone conversation. According to a senior official familiar with the discussion, the president updated the prime minister on the progress toward finalizing the agreement with Iran.

Netanyahu temporarily suspended a meeting of Israel’s security cabinet in order to take the call. The cabinet session resumed after the conversation and concluded shortly afterward.

{Matzav.com}

A firestorm erupted after journalist and Matzav HaRuach editor Chaggai Hoberman allegedly called for physical violence against chareidim, describing opponents of military service as “enemies of the state.” The remarks have sparked widespread outrage in the chareidi community, with many demanding an immediate investigation. Police have reportedly begun reviewing the incident.

The controversy began after Huberman posted a message in a journalists’ discussion group that read, “Run over every ‘dos,’ destroy every chareidi.” According to reports, the comments were made in response to demonstrations and road blockages organized by members of the Peleg Yerushalmi.

One journalist in the group reacted with shock, asking, “What did you write here??” Rather than retracting his comments, Hoberman reportedly doubled down and elaborated on his position.

Attempting to justify his remarks, Hoberman argued that blocking roads constitutes violence and therefore warrants a forceful response. He went on to write: “The public response to those blocking roads because of opposition to the draft should be physical violence: break their bones, preferably with clubs.”

During the discussion, Hoberman drew a distinction between various protest groups. He said that while he also opposes anti-government demonstrators associated with the Kaplan protests, he views them as “enemies of the government, not enemies of the state.” He added that he still sees a shared future with them, writing, “Ultimately, we will be in the same tank or armored personnel carrier when the time comes.”

His tone toward the chareidi community was considerably harsher. Referring to those who oppose military conscription, Huberman reportedly stated: “The chareidim who oppose army service across the board are enemies of the state. I have nothing in common with them. Even our Judaism is not the same Judaism.”

The latest controversy is not the first time Hoberman has found himself at the center of public criticism over inflammatory comments.

In June 2022, he reportedly sent a message to then-MK Idit Silman warning that if she voted against legislation involving Judea and Samaria regulations, he would publish a damaging headline. Silman later publicized the message and wrote: “I received this extortion and threat message from editor and journalist Chaggai Hoberman this afternoon. I will not make any decision based on threats or intimidation.”

Critics also pointed to earlier comments Huberman made in 2013, when he wrote: “I admit that not one tear would fall from my eye if I saw the Ponevezh, Mir, Slabodka and Chevron yeshivos standing together in the condition of Yeshivas Chachmei Lublin in Poland,” a comparison many viewed as deeply offensive given the destruction of European Torah institutions during the Holocaust.

In 2015, Huberman again generated controversy after sharply criticizing Michal Kesten Kedar, the widow of Lt. Col. Dolev Kedar Hy”d, following her participation in a left-wing rally. He published an article titled “She Killed Her Husband and Cries That She Is a Widow,” arguing that the policies she supported would lead to additional casualties.

Vice President Kamala Harris remains the leading choice among Democratic voters looking ahead to the 2028 presidential election, though a new national survey suggests her dominance may be weakening as other potential contenders gain ground.

The latest Center Square Voters’ Voice Poll found Harris leading the field with 27% support among Democrats and left-leaning independents. Her closest competitor was California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who garnered 14%.

While Harris continues to hold a commanding lead, the survey indicates that her support has gradually eroded over time.

According to the poll, Harris has fallen from 33% support last October and 31% in March to 27% in the latest survey. Newsom has also seen his numbers decline, dropping from 21% last fall to 14%.

The results suggest that the Democratic field remains unsettled, with several prominent figures beginning to attract greater attention as the next presidential cycle slowly comes into focus.

Among the candidates tested, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recorded the strongest improvement. Buttigieg reached double-digit support for the first time, earning 11% and gaining four percentage points compared to previous surveys.

New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also posted gains, receiving 8% support after experiencing a decline earlier in the year.

A significant portion of the Democratic electorate remains undecided. Seventeen percent of respondents said they have not yet chosen a preferred candidate for a potential 2028 primary, highlighting the uncertainty that still surrounds the race.

Harris demonstrated particularly strong support among younger voters and black voters. Nearly half of black respondents—49%—said they would back her, while 48% of voters between the ages of 18 and 29 selected her as their preferred candidate.

The former vice president also performed well among voters without college degrees, winning 35% support in that category. Among white voters, Harris led with 17%, narrowly ahead of Newsom at 16% and Buttigieg at 15%.

Her strength was not universal, however.

Among voters aged 65 and older, Newsom emerged as the clear leader with 23% support. Buttigieg followed at 15%, while Harris received 11%. Newsom also held a slight edge among voters with postgraduate degrees, leading Harris 19% to 18%.

The survey was conducted by Noble Predictive Insights between June 4 and June 6 and included 1,224 registered voters who identified as Democrats or left-leaning independents. Of those surveyed, 1,013 were Democrats and 211 were independents. The poll utilized an online opt-in panel along with text-to-web outreach.

The findings differ markedly from another recent survey that suggested a far tighter Democratic contest.

An Emerson College Polling survey released last month found neither Harris nor Newsom capable of reaching 20% support in a crowded field. In that poll, Harris declined three points since February to 10%, while Newsom dropped four points to 16%.

The Emerson survey also showed momentum building for other Democrats, including Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who climbed to 10%, and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who rose to 9%.

On the Republican side, that survey found Secretary of State Marco Rubio running nearly even with Vice President JD Vance in an early test of the GOP nomination race.

Despite the recent slippage in her numbers, the Center Square poll indicates that Harris still maintains a substantial advantage over the rest of the Democratic field.

Other potential Democratic candidates remained far behind the top tier. Mark Kelly and Josh Shapiro combined for 9% support, while figures such as J.B. Pritzker, Wes Moore, Cory Booker, Amy Klobuchar, Chris Murphy, and California Rep. Ro Khanna attracted smaller levels of backing.

{Matzav.com}

A bochur at the Sephardic Yeshivas Be’er HaTalmud was reportedly suspended after publicly criticizing former Health Minister and Shas MK Uriel Bussu during a wedding in Ashdod, according to a report aired Sunday by Kan News journalist Daniel Groveis.

According to the report, the yeshiva bochur shouted at Bussu, “Shame on you, you’re asleep,” during the event.

The report claimed that a parliamentary aide who had previously worked for Bussu and remains close to the MK subsequently took steps that led to the bochur’s removal from the yeshiva.

According to Kan News, the bochur remained out of the yeshiva for a week before being allowed to return following what was described as an apology conversation involving Bussu.

During that discussion, Bussu reportedly told the bochur, “Bussu the individual forgives you — the Knesset member does not.”

The bochur was later readmitted to the yeshiva. However, sources cited in the report claimed that he recently received another warning, allegedly being told, “If this story is publicized, you will be expelled permanently.”

Bussu denied the allegations and rejected claims that he had any involvement in disciplinary decisions made by the yeshiva.

“Educators make their decisions professionally and independently, without political intervention. The statements and remarks attributed to MK Bussu have no connection to reality whatsoever,” his office said in a statement.

Be’er HaTalmud also issued a response, emphasizing that bochurim are expected to conduct themselves appropriately in public settings.

“It is strictly forbidden for bochurim to participate in demonstrations or to behave in public places with belligerence and a lack of proper respect that are unbecoming of bnei Torah. After the seriousness of the matter was made clear to the bochur, he was returned to the yeshiva,” the yeshiva said.

{Matzav.com}

Israel’s Health Ministry on Sunday released the findings of an investigative committee that examined the circumstances surrounding an experimental treatment administered several years ago at Bnei Brak’s Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center under what was described as a “compassionate use” arrangement.

According to the ministry, the committee concluded that the treatment was administered unlawfully and that several of the violations were committed knowingly by those involved.

The panel was established by the Health Ministry’s Public Complaints Commission for Medical Professions following a complaint filed regarding the case. The ministry said it will continue reviewing the conduct of the institutions and individuals involved and will determine what enforcement and disciplinary measures may be warranted after receiving responses to the report’s findings.

According to the investigation, the case involved an 84-year-old patient suffering from advanced pancreatic cancer with metastases. In February 2019, the patient sought treatment with an experimental drug known as Gammora, developed by a pharmaceutical company. The treatment was administered under the designation of “compassionate use” despite lacking approval from the Health Ministry.

During the course of treatment, the patient reportedly developed sudden neurological symptoms. The treatment was subsequently halted at the family’s request, and the patient died several weeks later.

As part of its review, the committee examined the conduct of the hospital’s Helsinki Committee and the approval procedures that were followed, including the evaluation of the request, regulatory aspects surrounding preparation and administration of the drug, the actions of the individuals involved, and compliance with Health Ministry regulations and guidelines.

The committee found that the treatment was carried out improperly and suffered from significant procedural failures. According to the report, the treatment did not qualify under any of the legally recognized pathways for administering such care, including clinical trials, emergency treatment, or compassionate-use treatment. It was not approved by the Health Ministry and was carried out in violation of both legal requirements and ministry regulations. Investigators also found that misleading information had been provided to the reviewing committee.

The report further determined that the drug had never been approved for use in humans. Import authorization had been granted based on declarations that the substance was intended solely for laboratory use, a designation that was explicitly stated in the manufacturer’s documentation. The committee concluded that converting the substance for human treatment was unlawful and that the preparation of the drug was performed by individuals who lacked the appropriate qualifications.

Investigators also identified major deficiencies in the hospital’s approval, oversight, and supervision procedures. According to the findings, authorization for the treatment relied in part on approval previously granted for a different patient at Ichilov Hospital. The committee concluded that the failures were not the result of a systemic breakdown but rather represented conscious decisions made by those involved.

At the same time, the committee emphasized that despite the seriousness of its findings, it could not determine with a high degree of certainty whether the irregularities directly contributed to the patient’s deterioration or death. Investigators noted that the patient may have died as a result of the progression of his underlying illness and worsening medical condition.

The report concludes by stressing the importance of adhering to regulatory safeguards designed to protect patients, even in cases involving severe illnesses where families are searching for additional treatment options.

{Matzav.com}

Tensions are rising within the Likud Party as Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu reportedly continues to push for canceling the party’s traditional primaries in favor of a candidate-selection process that would allow him greater flexibility in shaping the party’s slate ahead of the next election.

According to remarks aired Sunday on Channel 13 News, several Likud ministers and Knesset members have expressed opposition to the proposal, arguing that party members—not a selection committee—should determine the makeup of the party’s list.

A source close to MK David Bitan made his position clear, saying, “David will not allow there to be a selection committee. Only primaries.”

Despite the resistance, Netanyahu has continued advocating for the idea in private discussions. Transportation Ministry Director-General Moshe Ben Zaken reportedly participated in one such conversation with the prime minister, while Minister Miri Regev has not ruled out supporting the proposal.

Others within the party have taken a more definitive stance. Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar declared, “I prefer primaries. There will be no committee; there will be primaries.”

Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman appeared unfazed by the internal debate, saying, “I don’t care about anything—whether there is a committee or not, I will be in the next Knesset.”

MK Sasson Guetta struck a more humorous tone, remarking, “If Bibi puts me in the top ten, I’ll sell all of you.”

Netanyahu has defended the proposed change by arguing that the next election will be uniquely important and may require unconventional measures. According to reports last week, he told associates, “These are fateful elections. We need to take unusual steps. We need to put forward a list that can appeal to broader audiences.”

One lawmaker reportedly being considered for removal from a future slate is MK Tally Gotliv, with critics arguing that she “drives away voters” and limits the party’s ability to maximize its electoral strength.

Despite Netanyahu’s efforts, many party insiders remain skeptical that he will succeed in eliminating the primary system altogether.

Several senior figures reportedly believe that “a complete cancellation of the primaries will be difficult” to achieve.

As a result, many within Likud view the current dispute less as a genuine restructuring effort and more as an internal power struggle, with one party source characterizing the confrontation as little more than “arm-twisting” among competing factions.

Israel’s Central Elections Committee is advancing a legislative proposal that would allow voters to cast ballots near their current location rather than traveling to their registered home address, a move that could significantly affect voting patterns among young people and other mobile populations.

According to a report by Amiel Yerachi on i24NEWS, the proposed change would permit eligible voters who notify election authorities in advance that they will not be near their official residence on Election Day to vote at a designated polling station closer to where they are staying.

If approved, the measure is expected to have a particularly significant impact on yeshiva students, many of whom currently must travel long distances to their parents’ cities or hometowns in order to vote.

Supporters of the initiative say it would make voting more accessible and remove logistical obstacles that prevent some citizens from exercising their right to participate in elections.

In addition to the proposed voting reform, the Central Elections Committee is reportedly pursuing several other changes to election procedures. Among them are new disclosure requirements for videos generated using artificial intelligence and a proposal to move up the deadline for submitting candidate lists to 50 days before Election Day.

A spokesperson for the Elections Committee said the purpose of the proposal is to expand access to voting and make it easier for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.

If the legislation is approved by the Knesset, the new voting procedures could already be in place for Israel’s next national election.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has unveiled a large collection of newly declassified documents detailing American funding for more than 120 biological laboratories in over 30 countries, arguing that the records substantiate concerns that were previously dismissed by critics as misinformation.

The release revisits a controversy that first gained attention after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, when Gabbard questioned the scope and nature of U.S.-supported biological laboratories in the country. At the time, opponents accused her of promoting Russian talking points, while supporters contended that legitimate concerns about oversight and transparency were being ignored.

Among the documents are Office of the Director of National Intelligence briefing materials outlining the extent of U.S. involvement in Ukraine’s network of laboratories.

One of the records indicates that more than 40 Ukrainian laboratories received American funding and maintained collections of potentially dangerous bacteria and viruses, including some specimens dating back to the Soviet period. The documents further show that Ukrainian researchers participated in U.S.-funded training programs involving hazardous pathogens and took part in initiatives focused on particularly dangerous infectious diseases.

The records identify numerous pathogens that were studied or stored within the laboratory system, including anthrax, tuberculosis, plague, Ebola virus, Marburg virus, MERS, and SARS.

Additional documents describe U.S.-financed construction projects and facility upgrades at laboratories throughout Ukraine, including sites in Kherson, Odesa, and western regions of the country. According to the records, engineering firm Black & Veatch played a major role in the projects, with individual facilities receiving between approximately $1.7 million and $3.5 million in U.S. funding.

One declassified report centers on a veterinary research facility in Kharkiv that received Pentagon support through the Defense Department’s Biological Threat Reduction Program.

According to the assessment, the laboratory maintained hundreds of samples of dangerous pathogens, including Brucella bacteria, which can cause the disease brucellosis. The report warned that the facility could become vulnerable during wartime, whether through damage, capture, compromise, or use as a target in Russian information campaigns.

Another ODNI briefing slide describes what it calls a “web of connections” linking Ukrainian laboratories to U.S. government agencies, universities, private contractors, and research institutions. According to the document, American funding supported studies involving avian influenza and other highly contagious viruses in high-security laboratory environments.

Gabbard argued that the newly released materials show the public was not fully informed about the scope of U.S.-backed biological research activities overseas. Critics, however, continue to maintain that the laboratories were part of longstanding public-health and threat-reduction initiatives intended to secure dangerous pathogens and reduce biological risks, rather than serve as components of a biological weapons program.

The declassification is expected to renew arguments over government transparency, gain-of-function research, and the broader extent of U.S.-funded biological research efforts around the world.

{Matzav.com}

Transcripts released Sunday night provide a glimpse into conversations allegedly held between two suspects connected to the case involving demonstrations outside the home of Supreme Court Deputy President Justice Noam Sohlberg. The discussions reportedly centered on evidence gathered by investigators, the possibility of arrest, and concerns about the ongoing investigation.

The transcripts, first reported by i24NEWS, suggest that the two suspects spent considerable time discussing the evidence authorities claimed to possess and the options available to them during questioning.

According to the report, much of the conversation focused on photographs and video footage that investigators allegedly presented during interrogations. The suspects reportedly attempted to assess the strength of the evidence and whether it would be possible to deny involvement in the incident.

In one exchange, one of the suspects said his attorney had advised him to admit involvement only if the footage clearly and definitively identified him. The second suspect reportedly disagreed, insisting that no admission should be made even if investigators presented photographs from the scene.

The discussion later turned to the possibility of an extended detention, media coverage of the case, and concerns about the legal proceedings that could follow. Near the end of the conversation, one of the suspects was heard reciting from Shir LaMaalos, while the other sought to be mechazeik him, saying that ultimately everything is determined by Hashem.

Earlier Sunday, prosecutors filed indictments against four individuals accused of involvement in the demonstration outside Justice Sohlberg’s residence earlier this month.

According to the indictment, Nachman Plotnik, 20, Avraham Fried, 20, Gershon Hanun, 21, and Shimon Attaf, 41, all residents of Beit Shemesh, were charged with participating in a riot. Two of the defendants were additionally charged with trespassing.

The court ordered that the four defendants remain in custody until further notice, while other suspects connected to the case were released to house arrest pending further proceedings.

{Matzav.com}

All are asked to daven for the Horedenka Rebbe of Manchester, England, who is in very serious condition and in need of abundant Heavenly mercy.

Sources said that the Rebbe has been hospitalized for an extended period at a hospital in Zurich, Switzerland. Over the past month, he underwent surgery on his leg and his condition had shown signs of improvement. However, his condition deteriorated significantly over the last 24 hours after he developed a severe infection. He is currently said to be in critical condition.

The Rebbe is widely known throughout the chassidic world and is regarded as one of its foremost supporters of Torah institutions and chassidic causes. His brother is Rav Chanoch Dov Weiss, the renowned dayan of Antwerp.

Calls for tefillah have been issued by the Badatz of the Eidah Hachareidis as well as by the Chassidus of Sanz.

The Rebbe’s name for tefillah is Rav Yitzchak Aryeh ben Chana.

{Matzav.com}

United Torah Judaism MK Meir Porush has launched a sharp attack on the government following a State Comptroller report that uncovered significant failures in Israel’s handling of security detainees, accusing authorities of misplaced priorities and demanding immediate corrective action.

In a strongly worded letter sent to Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Ministers Yisrael Katz, Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Yariv Levin, Porush condemned what he described as a “systemic failure and hypocrisy that cries out to the heavens.”

The comptroller’s report found that thousands of terrorists involved in the October 7 massacre were released back into Gaza because of overcrowding and a shortage of detention facilities. According to the report, some of those releases occurred without direct approval from elected officials. The findings also indicated that law enforcement authorities delayed filing indictments against terror suspects for extended periods.

Citing those revelations, Porush questioned the government’s allocation of resources and priorities.

“How is it possible that a state that declares ‘it has no room in its prisons’ for Palestinian terrorists, and releases a Gaza hospital director who hid hostages, suddenly finds budgets, personnel and detention facilities to arrest yeshiva students?”

Porush urged senior government officials to intervene and redirect resources toward combating terrorism rather than pursuing what he characterized as aggressive enforcement against bnei yeshiva.

“It is unacceptable to allow a situation in which the safety of Israeli citizens is abandoned because of detention failures, while those same systems behave with bullying and callousness toward Torah scholars. Direct resources to the places where they are truly needed – their detention, trial and the severe punishment of the terrorists who seek our lives.”

{Matzav.com}

With millions of soccer fans expected to pour into the New York metropolitan area for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, officials are warning travelers to beware of a growing threat at the region’s airports: scammers posing as legitimate taxi and ride-share drivers.

Concerned that visitors and residents alike could become targets of illegal transportation operators, the Port Authority has unveiled a sweeping $100 million enforcement initiative known as Operation Legal Ride. The program is designed to combat unauthorized drivers soliciting passengers at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, and LaGuardia Airport.

Officials say the effort is aimed at eliminating a long-standing problem in which travelers arriving at airports are approached by individuals offering unlicensed rides, often at inflated prices and under questionable safety conditions.

“Hustlers target vulnerable travelers, first-time visitors and non-English speakers, by taking advantage of unfamiliar surroundings for those who are new to our region or country,” Kathryn Garcia, Port Authority Executive Director, said in a statement this week.

“This multi-jurisdictional problem requires a multi-pronged solution, and that’s exactly what we’re proud to deliver today, working with our partners across the city and the state to bolster our efforts and end this dangerous practice.”

According to the Port Authority, these illegal operators pose a significant public safety risk because they may be driving uninsured or underinsured vehicles and often lack the licenses required of legitimate taxi, limousine, and ride-share drivers. Agency officials say many offenders are repeat violators who repeatedly return to airport terminals despite prior enforcement actions.

JFK Airport has become a particular focus of the campaign due to its large volume of international passengers, many of whom may be unfamiliar with local transportation systems.

The crackdown comes as New York and New Jersey prepare to host massive crowds for the World Cup. MetLife Stadium is scheduled to host eight matches, including a Brazil-Morocco contest on June 13 and the tournament final in mid-July.

As part of Operation Legal Ride, the Port Authority will significantly increase the presence of its officers and New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission enforcement personnel at all three major airports.

The initiative also introduces tougher penalties for offenders, including additional license points, eventual suspension of driving privileges for repeat violators, and possible arrest by the Port Authority Police Department if drivers continue operating vehicles on airport property after their licenses have been suspended.

Officials said individuals whose vehicles are seized in connection with illegal solicitation schemes will face substantially higher fees to recover them, helping offset the costs associated with enforcement efforts.

The program is also intended to protect licensed drivers who follow the rules by providing additional prosecutorial resources, accelerating enforcement actions, and reducing delays in collecting fines from violators.

Authorities are further deploying new technology designed to identify repeat offenders in real time, allowing investigators to target habitual violators more effectively. The campaign will also include a multilingual public-awareness effort featuring in-flight announcements, airport signage, and social media messaging warning travelers about illegal transportation scams.

“Our airports are New York’s gateway to the world, and no visitor to our state should have to worry about being taken advantage of by predatory taxi hustlers,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul. “Your trip to the city should not include being taken for a financial ride by scammers.”

“That’s why the Port Authority, DMV, and partners across government are cracking down on hustling, making our airports safer and putting these criminals out of business.”

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill voiced support for the initiative, stressing that visitors should not become victims the moment they arrive in the region.

“Visitors to our region deserve a warm welcome, not a shakedown.”

“I commend the Port Authority for partnering with city and state partners to tackle this problem and protect travelers and hardworking drivers who follow the rules.”

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump announced today that the United States and Iran have finalized a peace agreement ending more than three months of hostilities between the two countries, marking what he described as a major diplomatic breakthrough.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump declared that negotiations had concluded successfully and that the agreement was now in effect.

“The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The president also announced immediate steps aimed at restoring maritime traffic and global energy flows through one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.

“Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”

Trump’s announcement came just minutes after Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif revealed that Washington and Tehran had reached an understanding that would pave the way for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and launching formal discussions regarding the future of Iran’s nuclear program.

According to Sharif, representatives of both countries are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding during a ceremony scheduled to take place in Switzerland on Friday.

“Following intensive talks, we are pleased to announce that the Peace Deal between the United States of America and Islamic Republic of Iran has been REACHED,” Sharif wrote on X. “Both sides have declared the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts.”

The agreement appears to bring an end to a conflict that had persisted for approximately three and a half months and raised fears of a broader regional war. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to ease concerns over global energy supplies and international shipping routes, while upcoming negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program could shape the next phase of relations between Washington and Tehran.

Further details of the agreement have not yet been released.

{Matzav.com}

What began as a citywide celebration of the Knicks’ NBA championship quickly descended into disorder overnight, as violent crowds rampaged through parts of Manhattan, damaging police vehicles, setting buses ablaze in Times Square, and leaving dozens under arrest.

Authorities said 63 people were taken into custody during the unrest, while at least 10 NYPD officers suffered injuries. Police also reported that 15 suspects have already been charged with various crimes connected to the disturbances.

The violence extended beyond property damage. A 17-year-old boy was shot in the foot, and four separate stabbing incidents were reported amid the chaos, according to police officials.

“The vast majority of New Yorkers celebrated appropriately. There were some who did not,” Mayor Zohran Mamdani said Sunday.

“We said time and again, no matter how excited we are, there’s no tolerance for violence, whether towards police officers or anyone else.

“I appreciate the men and women of the NYPD for keeping our city safe,” he said.

Police said those arrested face a range of charges, including assaulting police officers, weapons possession, criminal mischief, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and obstruction of governmental administration. Among those charged was a 28-year-old man from Arlington, Texas, who is accused of attacking a police officer.

Dramatic footage from Times Square showed crowds swarming yellow school buses designated to transport soccer fans to FIFA World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Protesters and revelers were seen vandalizing multiple vehicles, while one bus was completely engulfed in flames.

Officials said rioters also damaged NYPD vehicles with baseball bats, launched fireworks into packed crowds, blocked roadways, and engaged in numerous street fights throughout the night.

The teenager who suffered a gunshot wound to his left foot near West 42nd Street and Broadway told officers he was riding a Citi Bike when he was struck, law-enforcement sources said. Investigators indicated that he has not been cooperating with the investigation.

He was transported to Bellevue Hospital and was reported to be in stable condition. Police detained three individuals in connection with the shooting and recovered a firearm at the scene, sources said.

“I’m scared for my homies,” a fan screamed in the chaos.

Another video captured a woman expressing frustration over the destruction of the school buses.

“You know, our taxpayer dollars go to public schools, right?” she said.

Governor Kathy Hochul also condemned the violence while noting that most fans celebrated peacefully.

“You know, it’s a shame.

“The vast, vast, vast majority of people who came out to celebrate did so peacefully.

“There’s always some people who mar it for others,” she said. “I thank the NYPD for their quick response and having to do what they do. But it was a great celebration, and unfortunately, there will always be a few who will try to ruin it for others.”

{Matzav.com}

Russian President Vladimir Putin used a phone call to President Donald Trump on Saturday to offer birthday wishes on his 80th birthday while also discussing a range of major geopolitical issues, including the war in Ukraine, negotiations with Iran, and the trajectory of relations between Moscow and Washington.

According to Kremlin adviser Yury Ushakov, the conversation lasted approximately 55 minutes and took place in a cordial and open atmosphere.

“Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin congratulated the U.S. president by phone today on his 80th birthday. The conversation was friendly and candid and lasted about an hour,” Ushakov told reporters following the call.

Ushakov said Trump was especially appreciative of the call because Putin was the first foreign head of state to personally reach out and congratulate him on his birthday.

“Donald Trump was touched by Putin’s words and thanked him, noting that Vladimir Putin was the first among all foreign leaders to call him at the White House,” Ushakov said.

The Kremlin aide added that Putin complimented Trump’s perseverance and resolve, expressing admiration for the American president’s ability to withstand political challenges and pressure.

Beyond the birthday greetings, the two leaders reportedly reviewed the current state of U.S.-Russia relations and discussed the possibility of future contacts between officials from both governments.

Iran was also a major topic of discussion. According to Ushakov, Trump told Putin that talks between Washington and Tehran appear to be approaching a breakthrough.

“Donald Trump said that an agreement is close, and he expects that the results of difficult but ultimately successful negotiations may soon be made public,” Ushakov said.

Putin reportedly welcomed indications that tensions involving Iran could be easing. The conversation took place as the Middle East continues to grapple with escalating tensions involving Iran and Israel.

Analysts note that ongoing instability in the region could ultimately benefit Russia economically.

Higher oil prices driven by Middle East unrest are expected to boost Russia’s energy income.

Experts also suggest that any diplomatic developments involving Iran that alter sanctions policies or reshape energy markets could create new opportunities for Moscow by improving conditions for Russian oil exports and expanding its flexibility in global energy trade.

The war in Ukraine remained one of the central subjects of the call. According to Ushakov, Trump reiterated his desire to end the conflict and indicated a willingness to apply pressure on all parties involved in pursuit of a ceasefire.

“Regarding the Ukrainian conflict, Donald Trump once again stressed the need to cease military operations,” Ushakov said. “He stated that he is prepared to exert influence on both European partners and Kyiv.”

Trump has consistently advocated for a ceasefire and a negotiated resolution to the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously expressed support for an unconditional ceasefire proposal backed by the United States.

However, efforts to secure such an agreement have stalled, with Russia continuing its military campaign and large-scale attacks across Ukraine.

According to Ushakov, Trump argued that a rapid end to the war could fundamentally reshape relations between the United States and Russia.

“Trump said that if the war is ended as soon as possible, this would open prospects for building a truly new quality of American-Russian relations,” Ushakov said.

The Kremlin also announced that Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, are expected to visit Russia in the near future for additional talks, a sign that diplomatic engagement between the two countries remains active.

{Matzav.com}

Dozens of members of Peleg Yerushalmi gathered Sunday outside the home of Supreme Court President Yitzchok Amit in Mevaseret Zion, protesting what they said was an attempted arrest of a draft evader in the area.

According to reports, the demonstration was organized in response to efforts by authorities to apprehend a yeshiva student classified by the military as absent from service.

The protest comes amid a growing trend of demonstrations by members of Peleg Yerushalmi targeting senior judicial figures as tensions over the draft issue continue to escalate.

Two weeks ago, a violent protest by extremist chareidi demonstrators took place outside the home of Supreme Court Deputy President Justice Noam Sohlberg in Alon Shvut. Protesters allegedly caused significant damage to vehicles and other property during the demonstration.

Following that incident, police detained approximately 70 suspects. Earlier today, the State Attorney’s Office filed indictments against Nachman Plotnik, Avraham Fried, Gershon Hanun, and Shimon Attaf, all residents of Beit Shemesh, for their alleged roles in the unrest near Sohlberg’s home. All four were charged with participating in a riot, while two also face trespassing charges.

In light of the disturbances at Sohlberg’s residence, Yerushalayim District police deployed large forces near Amit’s home during recent demonstrations in Mevaseret Zion. Authorities said the increased security presence was intended to prevent a repeat of the chaos that occurred in Alon Shvut.

Police established roadblocks on nearby streets and restricted access to the area surrounding the judge’s home in an effort to maintain order and prevent demonstrators from reaching the residence itself.

As Israel braces for a potential Iranian response and diplomatic efforts continue toward a broader regional agreement, senior Israeli ministers are increasingly voicing frustration with President Donald Trump, accusing him of sending a dangerous message in the wake of recent attacks against Israel.

The Security Cabinet convened Sunday evening at a secret location amid heightened tensions, but alongside preparations for possible developments with Iran, criticism of Washington’s approach has been growing in Israel.

According to reports, several cabinet ministers sharply criticized Trump’s reaction to the recent attacks from Lebanon, arguing that his comments effectively legitimize attacks on Israel.

“The message being conveyed normalizes attacks on a sovereign nation,” ministers reportedly said.

According to a report by i24NEWS, members of the government believe efforts to separate the Iranian front from the Lebanese front have failed and that policymakers must now recognize the direct connection between the two arenas.

The report also said that ministers participating in cabinet discussions called for a tougher Israeli response policy, arguing that “the era of restraint is over” and that every attack against Israel must be met with a forceful response.

The criticism comes after Trump publicly rebuked Israel following its strike in Beirut’s Dahieh district.

In a Truth Social post, the president wrote, “The attack should not have happened, especially on such a special day when we are so close to a peace deal with Iran.”

Trump further stated that “Israel has the right to defend itself against threats, but the attack it was responding to was very small and meaningless. No one was hurt or killed, and it should not disrupt this important process.”

The president also expressed optimism about a broader regional agreement, saying, “We are very close to a deal that will bring peace to the region, including Lebanon, and all sides should show restraint. There should be no more attacks by Israel anywhere in Lebanon, but there should also be no more attacks by any other side, including Hezbollah, against Israel. This could be the beginning of a long and beautiful peace — let’s not ruin it!”

Later, in an interview with Fox News, Trump predicted that “I expect the deal to be signed within two or three hours or tonight,” before revealing details of a conversation he had with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu.

“I spoke with Netanyahu on the phone and asked him, ‘What the …. are you doing?!’” Trump said.

{Matzav.com}