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A fugitive drug trafficker wanted by authorities in Ecuador and the United States was recaptured more than a year after he escaped from prison in the Andean nation, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa announced Wednesday. José Adolfo Macías, alias “Fito,” who led a gang called “Los Choneros” in Ecuador and has been indicted in New York City on charges he imported thousands of pounds of cocaine into the United States, was captured in the Ecuadorian city of Manta, his hometown, officials in Ecuador said. Interpol had issued an arrest warrant for Macias after hi s mysterious prison escape in early 2024 from the Guayaquil Regional Prison, where he was serving a 34-year sentence for drug trafficking. Ecuadorian authorities have yet to explain how he escaped. They only learned of his escape when a military contingent arrived to transfer him to another maximum-security prison but didn’t find him in his cell. The Ecuadorian army confirmed Macias’ recapture in what appeared to be the basement of a house. A video provided by the army showed the moment of the arrest, with a uniformed officer aiming a gun at the head of the drug trafficker, who gave his full name. The officers had found him hiding in a small hole beneath what appeared to be a kitchen counter. Wednesday’s announcement of his arrest comes in the same week that Federico Gómez, alias “Fede,” the leader of another gang called Las Aguilas, was confirmed to have escaped from an Ecuadorian prison. Last year, U.S. Attorney John Durham said in a news release that Macias led Los Choneros and its “network of assassins and drug and weapon traffickers” since at least 2020. With an extensive criminal record including charges of murder and organized crime, Macías has cultivated a cult status among fellow gang members and the public in his home country. While behind bars in 2023, he released a video addressed to “the Ecuadorian people” while flanked by armed men. He also threw parties in prison, where he had access to everything from liquor to roosters for cockfighting matches. The seven-count indictment unsealed in Brooklyn charges Macías and an unidentified co-defendant with international cocaine distribution, conspiracy and weapons counts, including smuggling firearms from the United States. Los Choneros employed people to buy firearms, components and ammunition in the United States and smuggle them into Ecuador, according to the indictment. Cocaine would flow into the United States with the help of Mexican cartels. “Los Choneros operated a vast network responsible for the shipment and distribution of multi-ton quantities of cocaine from South America through Central America and Mexico to the United States and elsewhere,” the indictment says. Last year, the U.S. classified Los Choneros as one of the most violent gangs and affirmed its connection to powerful Mexican drug cartels who threaten Ecuador and the surrounding region. Authorities in Ecuador have classified the gang as a terrorist organization. Earlier this month, the Ecuadorian government announced the reward for the capture of Macías would be increased to $1 million. (AP)

A fugitive drug trafficker wanted by authorities in Ecuador and the United States was recaptured more than a year after he escaped from prison in the Andean nation, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa announced Wednesday. José Adolfo Macías, alias “Fito,” who led a gang called “Los Choneros” in Ecuador and has been indicted in New York City on charges he imported thousands of pounds of cocaine into the United States, was captured in the Ecuadorian city of Manta, his hometown, officials in Ecuador said. Interpol had issued an arrest warrant for Macias after hi s mysterious prison escape in early 2024 from the Guayaquil Regional Prison, where he was serving a 34-year sentence for drug trafficking. Ecuadorian authorities have yet to explain how he escaped. They only learned of his escape when a military contingent arrived to transfer him to another maximum-security prison but didn’t find him in his cell. The Ecuadorian army confirmed Macias’ recapture in what appeared to be the basement of a house. A video provided by the army showed the moment of the arrest, with a uniformed officer aiming a gun at the head of the drug trafficker, who gave his full name. The officers had found him hiding in a small hole beneath what appeared to be a kitchen counter. Wednesday’s announcement of his arrest comes in the same week that Federico Gómez, alias “Fede,” the leader of another gang called Las Aguilas, was confirmed to have escaped from an Ecuadorian prison. Last year, U.S. Attorney John Durham said in a news release that Macias led Los Choneros and its “network of assassins and drug and weapon traffickers” since at least 2020. With an extensive criminal record including charges of murder and organized crime, Macías has cultivated a cult status among fellow gang members and the public in his home country. While behind bars in 2023, he released a video addressed to “the Ecuadorian people” while flanked by armed men. He also threw parties in prison, where he had access to everything from liquor to roosters for cockfighting matches. The seven-count indictment unsealed in Brooklyn charges Macías and an unidentified co-defendant with international cocaine distribution, conspiracy and weapons counts, including smuggling firearms from the United States. Los Choneros employed people to buy firearms, components and ammunition in the United States and smuggle them into Ecuador, according to the indictment. Cocaine would flow into the United States with the help of Mexican cartels. “Los Choneros operated a vast network responsible for the shipment and distribution of multi-ton quantities of cocaine from South America through Central America and Mexico to the United States and elsewhere,” the indictment says. Last year, the U.S. classified Los Choneros as one of the most violent gangs and affirmed its connection to powerful Mexican drug cartels who threaten Ecuador and the surrounding region. Authorities in Ecuador have classified the gang as a terrorist organization. Earlier this month, the Ecuadorian government announced the reward for the capture of Macías would be increased to $1 million. (AP)

Israel and Iran seemed to honor the fragile ceasefire between them for a second day Wednesday and U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that American and Iranian officials will talk next week, giving rise to cautious hope for longer-term peace. Trump, who helped negotiate the ceasefire that took hold Tuesday on the 12th day of the war, told reporters at a NATO summit that he was not particularly interested in restarting negotiations with Iran, insisting that U.S. strikes had destroyed its nuclear program. Earlier in the day, an Iranian official questioned whether the United States could be trusted after its weekend attack. “We may sign an agreement, I don’t know,” Trump said. “The way I look at it, they fought, the war is done.” Iran has not acknowledged any talks taking place next week, though U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff has said there has been direct and indirect communication between the countries. A sixth round of U.S.-Iran negotiations was scheduled for earlier this month in Oman but was canceled after Israel attacked Iran. Iran has insisted that it will not give up its nuclear program. In a vote underscoring the tough path ahead, its parliament agreed to fast-track a proposal that would effectively stop the country’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. watchdog that has monitored the program for years. Ahead of the vote, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf criticized the IAEA for refusing “to even pretend to condemn the attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities” that the U.S. carried out Sunday. “For this reason, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran will suspend cooperation with the IAEA until security of nuclear facilities is ensured, and Iran’s peaceful nuclear program will move forward at a faster pace,” Qalibaf told lawmakers. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said he wrote to Iran to discuss resuming inspections of their nuclear facilities. Among other things, Iran claims to have moved its highly enriched uranium ahead of the U.S. strikes, and Grossi said his inspectors need to reassess the country’s stockpiles. “We need to return,” he said. “We need to engage.” International Atomic Energy Agency Director Rafael Grossi said Wednesday that Iran must quickly resume cooperation with international inspectors, telling French broadcaster France 2 that the IAEA had lost visibility over sensitive nuclear materials since the onset of hostilities. Grossi said Iran is legally obligated to cooperate with the IAEA under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. “During a war, inspections are not possible. But now that hostilities have ceased, and given the sensitivity of this material, I believe it is in everyone’s interest that we resume our activities as soon as possible,” he said. The Israel Atomic Energy Commission said its assessment was that the U.S. and Israeli strikes have “set back Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons by many years.” It did not give evidence to back up its claim. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, confirmed that the strikes by American B-2 bombers using bunker-buster bombs had caused significant damage. “Our nuclear installations have been badly damaged, that’s for sure,” he told Al Jazeera on Wednesday, refusing to go into detail. He seemed to suggest Iran might not shut out IAEA inspectors for good, noting that the bill before parliament only talks of suspending work with the agency, not ending it. He also insisted […]

Israel and Iran seemed to honor the fragile ceasefire between them for a second day Wednesday and U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that American and Iranian officials will talk next week, giving rise to cautious hope for longer-term peace. Trump, who helped negotiate the ceasefire that took hold Tuesday on the 12th day of the war, told reporters at a NATO summit that he was not particularly interested in restarting negotiations with Iran, insisting that U.S. strikes had destroyed its nuclear program. Earlier in the day, an Iranian official questioned whether the United States could be trusted after its weekend attack. “We may sign an agreement, I don’t know,” Trump said. “The way I look at it, they fought, the war is done.” Iran has not acknowledged any talks taking place next week, though U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff has said there has been direct and indirect communication between the countries. A sixth round of U.S.-Iran negotiations was scheduled for earlier this month in Oman but was canceled after Israel attacked Iran. Iran has insisted that it will not give up its nuclear program. In a vote underscoring the tough path ahead, its parliament agreed to fast-track a proposal that would effectively stop the country’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. watchdog that has monitored the program for years. Ahead of the vote, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf criticized the IAEA for refusing “to even pretend to condemn the attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities” that the U.S. carried out Sunday. “For this reason, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran will suspend cooperation with the IAEA until security of nuclear facilities is ensured, and Iran’s peaceful nuclear program will move forward at a faster pace,” Qalibaf told lawmakers. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said he wrote to Iran to discuss resuming inspections of their nuclear facilities. Among other things, Iran claims to have moved its highly enriched uranium ahead of the U.S. strikes, and Grossi said his inspectors need to reassess the country’s stockpiles. “We need to return,” he said. “We need to engage.” International Atomic Energy Agency Director Rafael Grossi said Wednesday that Iran must quickly resume cooperation with international inspectors, telling French broadcaster France 2 that the IAEA had lost visibility over sensitive nuclear materials since the onset of hostilities. Grossi said Iran is legally obligated to cooperate with the IAEA under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. “During a war, inspections are not possible. But now that hostilities have ceased, and given the sensitivity of this material, I believe it is in everyone’s interest that we resume our activities as soon as possible,” he said. The Israel Atomic Energy Commission said its assessment was that the U.S. and Israeli strikes have “set back Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons by many years.” It did not give evidence to back up its claim. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, confirmed that the strikes by American B-2 bombers using bunker-buster bombs had caused significant damage. “Our nuclear installations have been badly damaged, that’s for sure,” he told Al Jazeera on Wednesday, refusing to go into detail. He seemed to suggest Iran might not shut out IAEA inspectors for good, noting that the bill before parliament only talks of suspending work with the agency, not ending it. He also insisted […]

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Following the unprecedented remarks of US President Donald Trump, who on Wednesday evening called for the corruption cases against Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to be dropped, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar published a scathing post on Thursday morning in which he attacked the judicial system and deemed the cases against Netanyahu as a perversion of justice against him and the entire country. Sa’ar wrote that “during long months in which the Prime Minister stood at the forefront of managing a historic campaign against Iran, he was forced to appear again and again in court—for a trial that has lost all real value, a trial on events from a decade ago that has been going on for five years regarding an offense that should have been removed from the books.” “The judges already suggested two years ago that the prosecution reconsider the indictment on the bribery charge. Since then, almost nothing remains—and yet the state continues to conduct a long and exhausting trial for breach of trust while recruiting three state witnesses. This is a farce that is stagnating, not advancing justice, and it is a perversion of justice not just for Netanyahu but for the entire country.” Sa’ar noted that even when he was in the opposition, he called for ending the trial with a plea bargain, but according to him, “the prosecution refused any attempt at mediation and entrenched itself in its path.” Now, he says, with the military campaign against Iran in full swing and the Prime Minister “managing it around the clock,” the prosecution is expected to put an end to the legal saga: “The prosecution has the authority to stay the proceedings—it should have been exercised a long time ago. No wonder the call for a pardon is rising, and Trump simply said what everyone thinks.” Culture Minister Miki Zohar posted an image of Netanyahu and Trump in front of an image of a lion and stated, “President Trump is right—it’s time to call off the trial! The president of the world’s greatest superpower and a true friend of the Jewish people, Donald Trump, voices what many Israeli citizens feel in their hearts—especially and particularly in the midst of historic days in the nation’s history. The legacy of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu will be etched in the annals of history as one who saved the Jewish state from a proven existential threat and a real danger of annihilation and as one of the greatest leaders in its history.” “Especially in these days, when we all need to focus on the return of the hostages and the defeat of our enemies, it is time to put an end to the inconceivable injustice and personal persecution against him and to cancel the baseless trial immediately. The cases are collapsing anyway, and therefore it is not too late to recalculate.” National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir stated, “Israel is indeed an independent and sovereign country, but President Trump is absolutely right—it is time to cancel the absurd trial that the deep state fabricated in an attempt to carry out a coup against democracy. An urgent reform in the judicial system is a must!” Likud MK Tally Gotliv went even further than her colleagues, calling on Trump to impose personal sanctions against top judicial officials. She wrote, “Dear President Trump, you […]

Following the unprecedented remarks of US President Donald Trump, who on Wednesday evening called for the corruption cases against Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to be dropped, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar published a scathing post on Thursday morning in which he attacked the judicial system and deemed the cases against Netanyahu as a perversion of justice against him and the entire country. Sa’ar wrote that “during long months in which the Prime Minister stood at the forefront of managing a historic campaign against Iran, he was forced to appear again and again in court—for a trial that has lost all real value, a trial on events from a decade ago that has been going on for five years regarding an offense that should have been removed from the books.” “The judges already suggested two years ago that the prosecution reconsider the indictment on the bribery charge. Since then, almost nothing remains—and yet the state continues to conduct a long and exhausting trial for breach of trust while recruiting three state witnesses. This is a farce that is stagnating, not advancing justice, and it is a perversion of justice not just for Netanyahu but for the entire country.” Sa’ar noted that even when he was in the opposition, he called for ending the trial with a plea bargain, but according to him, “the prosecution refused any attempt at mediation and entrenched itself in its path.” Now, he says, with the military campaign against Iran in full swing and the Prime Minister “managing it around the clock,” the prosecution is expected to put an end to the legal saga: “The prosecution has the authority to stay the proceedings—it should have been exercised a long time ago. No wonder the call for a pardon is rising, and Trump simply said what everyone thinks.” Culture Minister Miki Zohar posted an image of Netanyahu and Trump in front of an image of a lion and stated, “President Trump is right—it’s time to call off the trial! The president of the world’s greatest superpower and a true friend of the Jewish people, Donald Trump, voices what many Israeli citizens feel in their hearts—especially and particularly in the midst of historic days in the nation’s history. The legacy of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu will be etched in the annals of history as one who saved the Jewish state from a proven existential threat and a real danger of annihilation and as one of the greatest leaders in its history.” “Especially in these days, when we all need to focus on the return of the hostages and the defeat of our enemies, it is time to put an end to the inconceivable injustice and personal persecution against him and to cancel the baseless trial immediately. The cases are collapsing anyway, and therefore it is not too late to recalculate.” National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir stated, “Israel is indeed an independent and sovereign country, but President Trump is absolutely right—it is time to cancel the absurd trial that the deep state fabricated in an attempt to carry out a coup against democracy. An urgent reform in the judicial system is a must!” Likud MK Tally Gotliv went even further than her colleagues, calling on Trump to impose personal sanctions against top judicial officials. She wrote, “Dear President Trump, you […]

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In the wake of Zohran Mamdani’s stunning first-place finish in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, President Donald Trump unleashed a scathing and deeply personal tirade against the 33-year-old socialist lawmaker — warning that his rise marks a dangerous new chapter for the Democratic Party and the country at large. “Democrats have crossed the line by elevating a 100% Communist Lunatic,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post Wednesday morning, reacting to Mamdani’s upset victory over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who conceded the race late Tuesday after trailing by roughly 70,000 votes. Trump, never one to hold back, turned his fire not just on Mamdani’s politics but his appearance, intelligence, and supporters. “He looks TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart, he’s got AOC+3 — Dummies ALL — backing him,” Trump wrote. “Even our Great Palestinian Senator, Cryin’ Chuck Schumer, is groveling over him. Yes, this is a big moment in the History of our Country!” The “AOC+3” label is Trump’s long-used nickname for the progressive congressional bloc led by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, joined by Reps. Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley, and Rashida Tlaib — all of whom have expressed support for Mamdani’s candidacy. Trump’s broadside follows a night of political whiplash in New York, where Mamdani — a self-described democratic socialist and Queens assemblyman — toppled one of the state’s most recognizable political figures in Cuomo. The upset has sparked elation among progressives and concern across much of the Democratic establishment. In a follow-up post dripping with sarcasm, Trump said the party should go all-in: “The Democrats should nominate Low IQ Candidate, [Congresswoman] Jasmine Crockett, for President, and AOC+3 should be, respectively, Vice President and three High Level Members of the Cabinet. Added together with our future Communist Mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani, and our Country is really SCREWED!” Trump’s comments were not without political resonance. In Mamdani, Republicans believe they’ve found a symbol of Democratic extremism heading into 2026 — one they hope to use to fuel their messaging nationwide. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

In the wake of Zohran Mamdani’s stunning first-place finish in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, President Donald Trump unleashed a scathing and deeply personal tirade against the 33-year-old socialist lawmaker — warning that his rise marks a dangerous new chapter for the Democratic Party and the country at large. “Democrats have crossed the line by elevating a 100% Communist Lunatic,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post Wednesday morning, reacting to Mamdani’s upset victory over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who conceded the race late Tuesday after trailing by roughly 70,000 votes. Trump, never one to hold back, turned his fire not just on Mamdani’s politics but his appearance, intelligence, and supporters. “He looks TERRIBLE, his voice is grating, he’s not very smart, he’s got AOC+3 — Dummies ALL — backing him,” Trump wrote. “Even our Great Palestinian Senator, Cryin’ Chuck Schumer, is groveling over him. Yes, this is a big moment in the History of our Country!” The “AOC+3” label is Trump’s long-used nickname for the progressive congressional bloc led by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, joined by Reps. Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley, and Rashida Tlaib — all of whom have expressed support for Mamdani’s candidacy. Trump’s broadside follows a night of political whiplash in New York, where Mamdani — a self-described democratic socialist and Queens assemblyman — toppled one of the state’s most recognizable political figures in Cuomo. The upset has sparked elation among progressives and concern across much of the Democratic establishment. In a follow-up post dripping with sarcasm, Trump said the party should go all-in: “The Democrats should nominate Low IQ Candidate, [Congresswoman] Jasmine Crockett, for President, and AOC+3 should be, respectively, Vice President and three High Level Members of the Cabinet. Added together with our future Communist Mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani, and our Country is really SCREWED!” Trump’s comments were not without political resonance. In Mamdani, Republicans believe they’ve found a symbol of Democratic extremism heading into 2026 — one they hope to use to fuel their messaging nationwide. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

In a candid interview in Hebrew with Kikar HaShabbat, Shas chairman and War Cabinet member Aryeh Deri offered his firsthand reflections on Israel’s unprecedented military campaign against Iran. Deri described the behind-the-scenes deliberations that preceded the operation, the unexpected successes, and the dramatic moments in the command bunker when the order was given to launch the offensive.

“We paid a heavy price in this war,” Deri acknowledged, referencing the loss of 28 people. “But that number is less than 8% of the minimum estimate we were given before the operation—and not even 3% of the maximum projection. We must recognize the miracles.”

Deri emphasized that the decision to act militarily came only after months of preparation and growing evidence that Iran was fast approaching a nuclear breakout point. “The Iranians advanced their nuclear program significantly,” he said. “It was a matter of weeks until they’d reach the point of no return. We also saw they had created entire industrial lines for missile production. Once we identified the severity of the threat, we knew this was our mission. It was existential.”

He described the tense atmosphere in the bunker on the night the mission—Operation Am K’Lavi—was greenlit. “At first, it looked like we had started on the wrong foot. There were signs that someone—though not from within—had tipped off the Iranians. They spotted planes and evacuated their homes. But what seemed like a disadvantage turned into an advantage. We ended up achieving more than we originally planned. It was one of the few times I’ve seen that happen.”

On the question of whether the operation dismantled Iran’s nuclear capabilities, Deri was measured. “I can tell you that the immediate existential threat—the nuclear program and missiles—has been removed. What will happen in a few years? We must remain vigilant and not become complacent.”

Pressed further on whether the uranium was present in the targeted sites, Deri smiled and simply said, “L’chaim.”

Deri also addressed reports that ground commandos operated covertly inside Iran during the war. While confirming such activity in general terms, he stressed the importance of American support in pulling off the strike, particularly against the Fordow nuclear facility. “There were moments we weren’t sure we’d get U.S. cooperation. We hoped America would stand with us, but we weren’t certain. We understood that everything hinged on one man. And when you’re dealing with America, it all depends on who that one man is.”

Asked what he really thinks of President Trump, Deri didn’t comment directly, but made clear that the U.S.-Israel coordination wasn’t guaranteed. “There were ups and downs. Today it’s easy to paint everything as staged or deceptive. But there were real concerns.”

Regarding the war in Gaza, Deri acknowledged the latest losses, including seven soldiers killed in Khan Yunis. “We heard the news yesterday afternoon, during a discussion about a ceasefire. We had just begun to breathe after two difficult weeks and the tragedy in Be’er Sheva. To receive this kind of news—seven neshamos kedoshos who gave their lives for Am Yisrael—it’s a terrible tragedy. Our hearts are with the families.”

Deri responded to criticism from United Torah Judaism MK Moshe Gafni, who questioned the continuation of fighting in Gaza amid growing casualties. “We now know clearly that Hamas had a detailed plan to destroy Am Yisrael. We had been naive, believing they were focused on economic development. The truth is, they were preparing to annihilate us. Sinwar was the first to act, but they were all part of it. Why are we still fighting? Because their desire to destroy us remains. Hamas hasn’t repented—they’re still a terrorist organization ruling over Gaza. We must eliminate the threat entirely.”

He linked the Iran operation to Gaza’s isolation. “With siyata diShmaya, we cut off Gaza’s oxygen. They have no Hezbollah, no Iran—just isolation and no money. They’ll soon face a choice: surrender, return the hostages, change leadership, or face exile. If not, I hope we move forward with the Gaza emigration plan—with U.S. support.”

“There’s a major opportunity now regarding the hostages,” he added. “I can’t share details, but conditions have never been more favorable to end the war in Gaza.”

Deri reflected on how the October 7 Hamas massacre forced Israel to open its eyes. “That Simchas Torah was the worst disaster in our nation’s history. Humiliation and pain. But it opened our eyes. We had been living in a fool’s paradise. The tragedy was horrific, but it forced us to wake up. That’s the greatness of Am Yisrael—we rise from our darkest moments. That’s siyata diShmaya.”

Turning to domestic politics, Deri revealed that just before the launch of the Iran operation, he had worked until dawn to avert the dissolution of the Knesset over the draft law. “We were minutes from a preliminary vote to dissolve the Knesset. Had that passed, and the next night we launched a war, what would the world say? That we’re going to elections in the middle of a war? What would the Americans think? What would Trump say? But I couldn’t tell anyone. It was all on my shoulders.”

On the issue of the draft law, Deri said a compromise text acceptable to all chareidi parties had been reached. “It’s progressing. I’m not dealing with it right now—it’ll be delayed because of the war—but I believe the disputes are behind us.”

As for when Israel might head to elections, Deri believes the government will serve out its full term. “In my opinion, elections will take place on schedule. There’s no reason to call them early. The government and the prime minister still have many tasks ahead.”

In one of the more striking moments of the interview, Deri spoke of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s own spiritual transformation during the war. “I’ve known him for decades. He didn’t grow up in a home of emunah, unfortunately. But to hear him now speak of siyata diShmaya—after all we’ve been through—there’s no other explanation. We didn’t just deal with Hamas. We faced Hezbollah, Iran, and Syria. You can’t explain that with anything but hashgachah pratis.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Kan News Arab affairs commentator Roi Kais wrote on X on Wednesday that shortly before the outbreak of the war with Iran, a young Chassidish man from New York visited Jewish kehillos in Iran. Kais wrote, “He documented the visit and left the country before the war broke out.” “The young American, who in the meantime does not want to reveal his identity due to the tensions between the two countries, visited markets in Tehran and other cities while traveling with a local ‘guide’ assigned to him by the regime.” “He videoed himself traveling by train with the ‘guide’ while the songs ‘Mi Shebeirach’ for IDF soldiers and HaTikvah were playing in the background.” The Chassid has visited almost 50 countries throughout the world and documents his adventures on Instagram, Arutz Sheva reported. He visited Iran only two weeks before the war as part of his dream to visit every country in the world. He owns his own communications company and works remotely while traveling around the world with his wife of two years. “I had to go everywhere with a guide who followed me to make sure I wasn’t spying” he said. “The regime is cruel and restricts the movements of tourists.” However, he said he received a warm welcome from Iranians on the street, even after identifying himself as an American Jew. They were excited to meet him and offered him free fruits and vegetables. He added that Iranians were not afraid to denounce the regime to him, telling him that it was “cruel” and they hoped it would be replaced. He wrote on his account, “I left Iran a few days before the war started. I can say the people in Iran were truly welcoming and nice to me. Everyone gave me a smile and invited me to their country.” “YES, the regime/government are terrorists. Even the locals hate them. But Iranians are really nice and normal people. I pray for the civilians in Iran.” (YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)

Kan News Arab affairs commentator Roi Kais wrote on X on Wednesday that shortly before the outbreak of the war with Iran, a young Chassidish man from New York visited Jewish kehillos in Iran. Kais wrote, “He documented the visit and left the country before the war broke out.” “The young American, who in the meantime does not want to reveal his identity due to the tensions between the two countries, visited markets in Tehran and other cities while traveling with a local ‘guide’ assigned to him by the regime.” “He videoed himself traveling by train with the ‘guide’ while the songs ‘Mi Shebeirach’ for IDF soldiers and HaTikvah were playing in the background.” The Chassid has visited almost 50 countries throughout the world and documents his adventures on Instagram, Arutz Sheva reported. He visited Iran only two weeks before the war as part of his dream to visit every country in the world. He owns his own communications company and works remotely while traveling around the world with his wife of two years. “I had to go everywhere with a guide who followed me to make sure I wasn’t spying” he said. “The regime is cruel and restricts the movements of tourists.” However, he said he received a warm welcome from Iranians on the street, even after identifying himself as an American Jew. They were excited to meet him and offered him free fruits and vegetables. He added that Iranians were not afraid to denounce the regime to him, telling him that it was “cruel” and they hoped it would be replaced. He wrote on his account, “I left Iran a few days before the war started. I can say the people in Iran were truly welcoming and nice to me. Everyone gave me a smile and invited me to their country.” “YES, the regime/government are terrorists. Even the locals hate them. But Iranians are really nice and normal people. I pray for the civilians in Iran.” (YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)

Local immigration police raided a slaughterhouse in the Mirigama area of Sri Lanka on Monday and arrested five shochtim and Rabbanim who were carrying out shechita for the local Jewish community, Kikar H’Shabbat reported. The Rabbanim, from Israel, Australia, and Italy, arrived in the area in recent weeks to help the kehilla perform shechita. According to the police, they were charged with the violation of immigration laws by performing work and religious activity while in the country on a visitor visa only. After their arrest, they were deported from the country. The Jewish kehilla in the island country, which numbers several hundred people, was shocked by the arrests. Sources in the kehilla said that the arrests were the result of malicious betrayal by an individual who harasses the community at every opportunity and involves the government in order to persecute the Jewish community. The sources said that the campaign includes attempts to close one of the Jewish community centers in the country and the use of all existing laws to restrict Jewish activity and prevent the growth of the community. Community officials fear that the arrests are a dangerous precedent that could deter Rabbanim, shochtim, and other senior public figures from coming to Sri Lanka and assisting the kehilla. In their statements, they called on international Jewish organizations to intervene and put pressure on the Sri Lankan government to stop what they call a “systematic policy of persecution.” (YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) responded enthusiastically to the outcome of New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, hailing Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani’s win as an “incredible victory.”

Taking to X, Omar offered her congratulations and applauded New Yorkers for rejecting what she described as the influence of “bigots and corrupt billionaires.” Her post came shortly after Andrew Cuomo, the former New York governor, acknowledged Mamdani’s lead and conceded the race.

“Congratulations @ZohranKMamdani!” Omar wrote. “This is an incredible victory and testament to the people powered campaign you put together. Thank you NYC for not letting the bigots and corrupt billionaires prevail. This victory also belongs to you.”

Omar also sent encouragement to Mamdani as he prepares for the general election. “As you’ll get read for the general election, know that we will all be cheering you,” she said, ending her message with “Alhamdulillah!”—an Arabic phrase meaning “All praise is due to Allah.”

Although Mamdani is currently in the lead and has declared he is “honored” to be the Democratic nominee for mayor, the final result hinges on New York City’s ranked-choice voting system, which may still alter the outcome.

According to previous reporting from Breitbart News, Mamdani openly embraces “far-left socialist views” but comes from a well-off background. He is the son of Mira Nair, the noted Indian-American filmmaker known for Salaam Bombay and Monsoon Wedding, and was raised amid considerable privilege.

Despite this upbringing, Mamdani has attempted to distance himself from his privileged roots. There have been claims that he has used different accents to tailor his speech depending on the audience he’s addressing.

After securing a seat in the New York State Assembly, Mamdani began applying his creative talents in support of his political ideology. As noted by City and State New York: “Since joining the Assembly, Mamdani has drawn on his unique background in film production and performance to advance socialist causes. ‘Why do we only need to make a glossy, accessible, fun, compelling video when you’re running for office as opposed to when we’re in office fighting for the things that we said we would do?’ he asked.” The article further likens his approach to that of a well-known political icon. “He’s the socialist, Muslim Ronald Reagan,” Najmi said.

Though celebrated by left-wing figures like Omar, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), Mamdani has also drawn criticism from more moderate Democrats. Among his critics are New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Rep. Laura Gillen (D-NY), both of whom have expressed concern over his political leanings, calling him “too extreme to lead.”

In a segment on Fox News Channel’s Fox & Friends, Mayor Adams was especially blunt, referring to Mamdani as “a snake oil salesman” and accusing him of being willing to “say and do anything to get elected,” according to Fox News.

As Adams seeks a second term, he is doing so under a different banner—this time running as an independent. He has promoted the idea that the city requires leadership beyond partisan politics. “I have always put New York’s people before politics and party — and I always will,” Adams said back in April. “I am running for mayor in the general election because our city needs independent leadership that understands working people.”

{Matzav.com}

When the ceasefire between Israel and Iran went into effect on Tuesday morning, HaGaon HaRav Yitzchak Zilberstein spoke briefly after serving as the sandak at the bris milah of his great-grandson. Among other things, he said, “Today is a day of transformation. What nissim Hakadosh Baruch Hu did for us! It’s indescribable. All the nations of the world are against us, and Am Yisrael rises like a lion— doesn’t ask any questions—and defies everyone, like a lion that asks no questions.” “This is a very great day. A transformation has occurred—we’re returning to the yeshivos, returning to avodas hakodesh, returning to complete security. Baruch Hashem, we’re on top. They killed all those who needed to be killed, all the reshaim. These are nissim, like no other, neis after neis.” “The nations of the world have decided that the war is over, no more war. And b’ezras Hashem, we’re now returning to kollel. From here—straight to kollel.” (YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s new vaccine advisers alarmed pediatricians Wednesday by announcing inquiries into some long-settled questions about children’s shots. Opening the first meeting of Kennedy’s handpicked seven-member panel, committee chairman Martin Kulldorff said he was appointing a work group to evaluate the “cumulative effect” of the children’s vaccine schedule — the list of immunizations given at different times throughout childhood. Also to be evaluated, he said, is how two other shots are administered — one that guards against liver-destroying hepatitis B and another that combines chickenpox protection with MMR, the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. It was an early sign of how the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is being reshaped by Kennedy, a leading antivaccine activist before becoming the nation’s top health official. He fired the entire 17-member panel this month and replaced it with a group that includes several anti-vaccine voices. “Vaccines are not all good or bad,” Kulldorff said. “We are learning more about vaccines over time” and must “keep up to date.” His announcement reflected a common message of vaccine skeptics: that too many shots may overwhelm kids’ immune systems or that the ingredients may build up to cause harm. Scientists say those claims have been repeatedly investigated with no signs of concern. Kids today are exposed to fewer antigens — immune-revving components — than their grandparents despite getting more doses, because of improved vaccine technology, said Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The American Academy of Pediatrics announced Wednesday that it would continue publishing its own vaccine schedule for children but now will do so independently of the ACIP, calling it “no longer a credible process.” “The narrative that current vaccine policies are flawed and need ‘fixing’ is a distortion,” said the AAP’s Dr. Sean O’Leary. “These policies have saved trillions of dollars and millions of lives.” The ACIP, created more than 60 years ago, helps the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention determine who should be vaccinated against a long list of diseases, and when. Those recommendations have a big impact on whether insurance covers vaccinations and where they’re available, such as at pharmacies. After Kennedy’s abrupt dismissal of the existing expert panel, a number of the CDC’s top vaccine scientists — including some who lead the reporting of data and the vetting of presentations at ACIP meetings — have resigned or been moved out of previous positions. And shortly before Wednesday’s meeting, a Virginia-based obstetrician and gynecologist appointed to the committee stepped down. According to the Trump administration, he withdrew during a customary review of members’ financial holdings. Scientists show data that COVID-19 vaccines protect pregnant women and kids First on the committee’s agenda Wednesday were COVID-19 vaccinations. Kennedy already sidestepped the panel and announced the vaccine will no longer be recommended for healthy children or pregnant women. Yet CDC scientists told the panel that vaccination is “the best protection” during pregnancy, and said most children hospitalized for COVID-19 over the past year were unvaccinated. COVID-19 remains a public health threat, resulting in 32,000 to 51,000 U.S. deaths and more than 250,000 hospitalizations since last fall, according to the CDC. Most at risk for hospitalization are seniors and children under 2 — especially infants under 6 months who could have some protection if their mom got vaccinated during pregnancy, according […]

In a pointed address delivered during a Pirkei Avos shiur this past Shabbos in the central Satmar beis medrash in Kiryas Yoel, the Satmar Rebbe, Rav Aharon Teitelbaum, issued a scathing critique of the recent war in Eretz Yisroel, attributing its outbreak to political calculations rather than genuine security threats.

Speaking to his chassidim, the Rebbe described the profound fear experienced by the Jews living in Eretz Yisroel during recent missile attacks. He reflected on the traumatic atmosphere caused by the ballistic missile barrages and claimed that the war lacked a real existential threat, saying it was triggered as a maneuver by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to preserve his government amid internal political pressure.

“This is not the first time the State of Israel has gone to war,” the Rebbe stated. “Around sixty years ago, there was the Six Day War, which bears some similarity to what we’re seeing now. But back then, the fear didn’t grip the entire country—only the border areas felt it. This time, with these ballistic missiles, the entire Land of Israel is living in constant terror.”

He described the fear in stark terms: “No one knows what’s happening when the missiles come. The buildings shake, the homes tremble. The people of Eretz Yisroel sit in shelters, frightened, hearing the blasts. ‘Outside the sword bereaves, and within, terror.’”

While acknowledging the miracles that spared many lives, the Rebbe emphasized the psychological trauma. “Although physical injuries have been relatively limited, the emotional toll on men, women, and children is impossible to measure. Our brothers are in deep distress. And even here in New York, Jews are in danger. They hear the news and rejoice at the supposed military success—but the Jews in the bunkers aren’t rejoicing.”

He compared the present situation to that of 1967: “Back in 5727 (1967), the Zionists lied to the world, saying they went to war to save the Jewish people from Egyptian threats of annihilation. But those who know the truth know the real aim was control over the Suez Canal—control over money. They fought that war for nothing.”

“The same thing is happening now,” the Rebbe asserted. “The Iranians are evil and they want to destroy Jews, but they’re not the only ones. And this time, there was no concrete danger. So what was there? The prime minister was afraid his coalition would fall. Anyone paying attention knows that the chareidi MKs were threatening to leave the coalition over the draft decree.

“He had no other option to save his government except going to war,” the Rebbe claimed. “Think carefully—this war was launched only to preserve his political power. And because of that, over twenty precious Jews have been killed, Hashem yikom damam. Because of that, the Jews of Eretz Yisroel have been living in fear and terror for more than a week.”

“This entire war is purely political,” the Rebbe charged. “And he’s willing to risk the well-being of Jews all over the world just to stay in power.”

Quoting the Mishnah in Pirkei Avos, “One who accepts upon himself the yoke of Torah is spared the yoke of worldly matters,” the Rebbe said: “Someone who lives according to Torah, who thinks through the lens of Torah, doesn’t get caught up in WhatsApp groups and other destructive things. He doesn’t listen to the news. He walks the path of Torah and sees the real reason behind this war.”

The Rebbe concluded his words with a heartfelt plea: “May Hashem protect us. Klal Yisroel is in grave danger—physically, yes, but even more so spiritually. The draft decree against bnei yeshivos has now taken full effect. A bochur or avreich will be unable to obtain a driver’s license, open a bank account, or access basic services. They are becoming like the bochurim in pre-Holocaust Europe—hidden, isolated, and denied their dignity.

“May the Ribono Shel Olam save us from the wicked—both the non-Jewish ones and the Jewish ones. May He have mercy on His people wherever they are, and protect them from all harm. And may we soon witness the complete nullification of the Zionist state without any suffering or harm to a single Jew. We don’t know how it will happen, but Hashem is all-powerful and doesn’t need our suggestions. May we merit the coming of Mashiach Tzidkeinu, speedily and in our days, amein.”

{Matzav.com}

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte extended a warm and colorful welcome to President Donald Trump during Wednesday’s alliance summit in The Hague, lauding him as “a man of strength,” “a man of peace,” and even “the daddy” who managed to broker a truce between Iran and Israel.

According to SkyNews, Trump likened the recent conflict to a schoolyard brawl, saying, “They fight like hell. You can’t stop them. Let them fight for about two, three minutes. Then it’s easier to stop them.”

Rutte picked up on the analogy, replying with a grin, “Then, daddy has to sometimes use strong language,” in reference to Trump’s colorful remarks during his efforts to enforce the ceasefire, as reported by SkyNews.

Trump’s direct language didn’t go unnoticed. At a press briefing the previous day, he had vented frustration over the ongoing hostilities, saying, “We basically have two countries that have been fighting so long and so hard that they don’t know what the f**k they’re doing.”

Though Trump’s use of profanity sparked some initial criticism, the blunt approach ultimately seemed to resonate—leading to a renewed ceasefire agreement that held. His unfiltered comment became one of the more unexpected moments of the 12-Day War between Iran and Israel.

On Wednesday, Trump defended Israel’s actions, saying the country had been “technically” correct in its assessment that Iran was the first to breach the truce. He commended the Israeli government for showing restraint in the aftermath, saying he was “proud” of how they responded.

Rutte also commended Trump for accomplishing what previous presidents could not: securing a NATO pledge to boost defense expenditures to five percent of each member nation’s GDP by the year 2035. The breakdown includes 3.5 percent earmarked strictly for military purposes and another 1.5 percent for broader security needs like intelligence and cyber capabilities. Among NATO countries, only the U.S. currently comes close to meeting that target.

“This would not have happened if you would not have been elected in 2016 and re-elected last year… so I want to thank you,” Rutte said at a joint news conference with Trump, voicing strong support for the ambitious new spending benchmark.

Historically, most NATO members have fallen short of even the previously agreed-upon 2 percent threshold. Trump, who has long argued that the U.S. shoulders a disproportionate share of NATO’s burden, has repeatedly pressed for higher contributions. On Tuesday, he continued to apply pressure, calling out Canada for its minimal defense outlays and signaling frustration with another NATO partner.

“Spain is not agreeing, which is very unfair to the rest of them, frankly,” Trump remarked.

To underscore the positive momentum, Trump shared a congratulatory message he received from Rutte on his Truth Social platform. The text praised Trump’s actions during the conflict, saying: “Decisive action in Iran,” which Rutte described as “truly extraordinary, and something no one else dared to do,” had “made us all safer.”

Rutte’s message continued enthusiastically: “You are flying into another big success in The Hague this evening. It was not easy, but we’ve got them all signed on to five percent!”

He added, “Donald, you have driven us to a really, really important moment for America and Europe, and the world. You will achieve something NO American president in decades could get done. Europe is going to pay in a BIG way, as they should, and it will be your win.”

In response, Trump expressed satisfaction that NATO leaders had embraced the increased funding demands.

“I’ve been asking to go up to 5% for a number of years and they’re going up to 5%, from 2%, and a lot of people didn’t even pay the 2%. I think that’s going to be very big news. NATO’s going to become very strong with us,” he said at the summit.

Rutte again emphasized Trump’s role in the breakthrough, asserting, “without President Trump, this would not have happened,” and forecasting that the outcomes of the meeting would make a “big splash.”

Trump, in turn, acknowledged Rutte’s endorsement and took the opportunity to contrast his success with the lack of progress under the previous administration.

“When Biden was here it just died, it just died, like everything else died,” Trump said.

{Matzav.com}