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Israel’s military has imposed a strict cap on crowd sizes in the Meron area ahead of Lag BaOmer, dealing a major blow to plans for the annual pilgrimage to the kever of Rav Shimon Bar Yochai.

In a statement issued Sunday evening, the IDF spokesperson said that following a situational assessment by the Home Front Command, it was decided to revise defensive guidelines and restrict public gatherings in frontline areas. Under the new rules, no more than 1,500 people will be permitted to gather at one time in the Meron region and nearby communities, including Meron, Bar Yochai, Or HaGanuz, and Safsufa. The directive remains in effect until 8:00 p.m. Monday.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu convened a meeting to discuss the Lag BaOmer event at Meron. According to reports, the prime minister and several ministers opposed holding the celebration in its usual large-scale format, while Minister Meir Porush and his team supported maintaining the traditional arrangements.

Project coordinator Yossi Deitch also backed Porush’s position. However, Netanyahu pushed for a significantly scaled-down event limited to only a few thousand participants. A final decision is expected to be made by the smaller security cabinet.

The IDF’s latest announcement appears to effectively eliminate the remaining possibility of holding the gathering in its customary form, as only 1,500 individuals will be allowed on the mountain at any given time. Authorities are expected to determine how access permits will be distributed.

In a related development, it was reported earlier here on Matzav.com that the central bonfire lighting ceremony led by Rav Meilech Biderman will not take place in Meron this year. Due to the complex security situation in northern Israel and the tight restrictions in and around Meron, organizers have decided to relocate the event to Yerushalayim. The ceremony is expected to be held at the intersection of Yirmiyahu and Shamgar streets, in a large open-air venue.

{Matzav.com}

Police have arrested an eighth suspect in the killing of Yamano Binyamin Zelka, a 21-year-old pizza shop employee who was fatally stabbed on the eve of Israel’s Independence Day in Petach Tikva, as the investigation into the case continues to expand.

According to police, officers from the Central District, led by the Sharon region’s serious crime unit, took the additional suspect into custody on Sunday in connection with the violent altercation that led to Zelka’s death. The latest suspect is a minor, bringing the total number of detainees in the case to eight and underscoring the scale of the incident and the extensive investigative efforts underway.

The investigation, which remains under a court-issued gag order, is focused on uncovering the circumstances surrounding the brutal street fight in Petach Tikva that claimed Zelka’s life. Zelka, who worked at a local pizzeria, was attacked after finishing his shift.

Of the eight suspects arrested so far, two have been released to extended house arrest for 12 days by court order, while the remaining suspects have been brought before a judge for hearings on extending their detention as investigators continue gathering evidence. Authorities are working to determine each suspect’s role, including who carried out the stabbing and who may have assisted afterward.

“Israel Police shares in the family’s grief and will continue to act decisively to complete the investigation, establish an evidentiary foundation, and bring all those involved to justice,” the police said in a statement.

At the same time, disturbing footage from the violent confrontation has surfaced. Due to the graphic nature of the material, only brief and blurred segments have been made public.

The attack took place shortly after 1:15 a.m. on the night of Independence Day. Zelka was rushed in critical condition to Beilinson Hospital, where doctors fought for his life for two days before he was pronounced dead on Thursday.

According to details emerging from the investigation, a group of youths is suspected of lying in wait for Zelka outside his workplace. When he finished his shift, they allegedly ambushed and stabbed him. As of earlier stages of the investigation, no arrests had initially been reported.

Tamir Zilber, manager of the pizzeria where Zelka worked for five years, described the victim as a dedicated and well-liked employee who had steadily advanced in his role—from bicycle delivery to motorcycle courier, and eventually to shift manager.

“He was a good, smiling kid, a true friend who helped anyone who needed it. A guy who knew how to work and loved to work, always looking to give more of himself,” Zilber said.

Recounting the moments leading up to the attack, Zilber said: “The youths came inside and started spraying ‘snow spray’ on the customers. The workers asked them to go outside. After a few minutes, they came back and threatened the workers again, and we thought it was over. Then a delivery worker came into the branch and said that the employee had been stabbed. He was sitting there and didn’t respond to me. I immediately called MDA. As soon as we heard the terrible news, we closed the branch.”

Emergency medical teams from Magen David Adom’s Yarkon region arrived quickly at the scene and found Zelka unconscious with a penetrating wound. After providing lifesaving treatment on-site, they transported him urgently to the hospital, but his injuries proved fatal.

The shocking incident has left residents of Petach Tikva reeling and prompted a strong response from Mayor Rami Greenberg, who issued a lengthy and emotional statement.

“There are no words to describe the depth of the shock and pain over the loss of a young life under such harsh and cruel circumstances. This was a young man who worked for his livelihood, who politely asked a group of youths not to spray inside the pizzeria where he worked—and in response, he was stabbed to death. This is an inconceivable event, which shows how quickly violence can escalate and exact the heaviest price. The youths who attacked and murdered will be caught by the police and brought to justice. There is no comfort in that, but there is a clear commitment to justice,” Greenberg said.

He also issued a direct appeal to young people and parents, urging serious reflection.

“Avoid violence! There is no heroism in it, only destruction. One moment of anger can destroy entire lives—the victim’s, the family’s, and even the attackers themselves,” he said.

Turning to parents, Greenberg added: “Talk to your children. Be involved, show interest, check where they spend time and with whom, especially at night. Responsibility belongs to all of us. The Petach Tikva Municipality operates a wide range of educational, awareness, and enforcement measures to combat violence and will intensify its efforts, but that is not enough. We must act together across all systems and speak with our youth at home and in educational frameworks. This is a moment for reflection. We must act together to prevent the next case. I share in the family’s grief during this difficult time. We will continue to support them as needed. May his memory be blessed.”

{Matzav.com}

There is growing excitement among Belzer chassidim after the Belzer Rebbe made a decision to hold the long-awaited Heichala D’Malka Shabbos for donors this coming Shabbos, Parshas Emor, following a delay due to his weakened condition.

The special Shabbos, which had originally been scheduled for last week’s Parshas Acharei-Kedoshim and postponed because of the Rebbe’s health, will now take place this coming Shabbos in a hotel in the Yerushalayim hills. While it had initially been planned for the D-City complex, other locations are now being considered, though that option has not been ruled out.

The event is being described as a historic Shabbos for major supporters who have committed $100,000 to the Belz institutions, payable over three years, or over two years for donors from overseas.

The announcement created a stir within the Chassidus after senior representatives entered the Rebbe’s private chamber on Sunday following Mincha. Those present included Rabbi Pinchas Lerner, CEO of the Belz institutions’ U.S. offices, and Rabbi Shimon Faivush, a member of the Belzer leadership in Israel. During the meeting, the Rebbe expressed a strong desire to participate in the upcoming Shabbos, which coincides with Pesach Sheni.

After leaving the Rebbe’s residence, Rabbi Lerner shared an emotional message that was distributed widely among Chassidim.

“Blessed is He who has kept us alive, sustained us, and brought us to this time. As all Belzer Chassidim can see and hear, thank G-d that our master is feeling better, and even more so—may Hashem continue to help. The Rebbe’s son, Rav Aharon Mordechai Rokeach, asked me to reenter and present all the options, and whatever the Rebbe says—that is what we will do, with G-d’s help. I went in after Mincha and told the Rebbe that there are Jews abroad calling me and saying that the Rebbe should not be burdened and the Shabbos should be postponed, while others insist that it must take place now so that the tzibbur should not cool off, Heaven forbid.”

“I told the Rebbe that whatever he says, we will follow, and I presented all the options: to hold the Shabbos on Parshas Beha’aloscha or Bamidbar, or on Parshas Matos-Masei. The Rebbe thought for a long minute and then said clearly: ‘Parshas Emor.’ I then gathered the courage and said that the president in America is threatening war every day, and I wanted to know whether we could invite people from all over the world to attend. The Rebbe responded that they can come to the Holy Land and return home safely, with G-d’s help. After that, the Rebbe told me: ‘Tell them that whoever comes for Shabbos will add to my health.’”

Rabbi Lerner continued, visibly moved by the message. “Ladies and gentlemen, to hear such holy words from the Rebbe! Every one of us is concerned for his well-being and health. I say this again with emotion: any Belz חסיד who hears such words and has the ability to give the $100,000 requested should seize this opportunity and merit that the Rebbe himself declared ‘Parshas Emor.’ Let us not be among those who regret missed chances—let us take advantage of this moment. We eagerly await seeing you, with G-d’s help, this holy Shabbos together with our Rebbe.”

{Matzav.com}

The central Lag BaOmer bonfire lighting led by Rav Meilech Biderman will not take place in Meron this year and has instead been relocated to Yerushalayim in a major change driven by the ongoing security situation.

After weeks of uncertainty and intensive security consultations, a final decision was made on Sunday to move the large-scale gathering, which annually draws tens of thousands. The event will now be held in the heart of Yerushalayim, at the intersection of Yirmiyahu and Shamgar, where authorities are preparing a massive open-air venue.

The shift comes in light of heightened tensions in northern Israel and strict restrictions imposed on the Meron area and surrounding regions, making it impractical to host the event there.

In previous years, the ceremony was held at “Compound 89” near Meron and became a central attraction for those unable to access the kever of Rav Shimon Bar Yochai itself. The move to Yerushalayim marks a significant departure from that setup and reflects broader changes to this year’s Lag BaOmer schedule amid the war.

Large gatherings associated with Rav Biderman have historically drawn overwhelming crowds. Organizers and officials recall past events in Beit Shemesh where police were forced to halt the music multiple times due to dangerous overcrowding and concerns for public safety as masses of participants flooded the area from across the country.

This year, event planners and community organizers are working to prepare the Yerushalayim site to safely accommodate the anticipated crowds.

Israel sent its Iron Dome missile defense system to the United Arab Emirates during the ongoing conflict with Iran, marking a first-of-its-kind deployment aimed at helping defend the Gulf nation from sustained Iranian attacks, according to a report published Sunday.

The move, which had not been disclosed until now, was revealed by Axios, citing two Israeli officials and one U.S. official familiar with the matter.

Security coordination between Israel and the UAE has significantly deepened since the war began on Feb. 28, when joint U.S.-Israeli strikes targeted Iran’s political leadership and key military sites.

According to the report, the UAE has faced the heaviest barrage of Iranian fire among countries in the region. The Emirati Defense Ministry said Iran has fired about 550 ballistic and cruise missiles and more than 2,200 drones at the country.

While a large portion of those projectiles were intercepted, some managed to hit both civilian and military locations.

Israeli officials said that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized the transfer of an Iron Dome battery, including interceptors and dozens of Israeli personnel to operate the system, following a conversation with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

A senior official told Axios this marked the first time Israel had deployed an Iron Dome battery outside its borders, and the UAE became the first country, aside from the U.S. and Israel, where the system was actively used.

In addition to the deployment, the Israeli Air Force carried out preemptive interceptions of short-range missiles in southern Iran before they could be launched toward the UAE and other Gulf states.

Israel and the UAE formalized relations in 2020 under the Abraham Accords, an agreement brokered during President Donald Trump’s first term that also included Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan.

Despite occasional disagreements, including over matters related to Gaza, officials from both nations told Axios that their alliance has grown stronger than ever during the conflict.

Tareq Alotaiba, a former member of the UAE’s National Security Council, wrote in an analysis Friday for the Arab Gulf States Institute that Israel was among the countries that “have stepped up to provide real assistance to the UAE.”

“Primarily, the United States and Israel have proved to be true allies by offering support through extensive military aid, intelligence sharing, and diplomatic backing,” Alotaiba wrote.

A senior Emirati official emphasized the importance of the assistance, telling Axios that support from Israel and Netanyahu came at a decisive moment: “We are not going to forget it.”

Another Emirati official echoed that sentiment, noting that multiple allies played key roles in defending the UAE, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Australia.

“It was a real eye-opening moment [seeing] who our real friends are,” the second official said.

{Matzav.com}

Slabodka rosh yeshiva Rav Dov Landau delivered a historic shiur klali Sunday evening at Ponovezh Yeshiva in Bnei Brak. During his divrei chizuk, he declared unequivocally that bnei yeshiva will not join the army under any circumstances, regardless of legal or political developments.

“Bnei yeshiva will not go to the army under any circumstances, neither by coercion nor voluntarily, whether there is a law or not,” he said.

In his remarks, the rosh yeshiva reflected emotionally on his early years in the very yeshiva where he spoke. “I am here in this place, moved and excited by the place where I spent my youth,” he said, noting that Ponovezh has become “the birthplace of many talmidei chachomim.”

Turning to the actions of the judicial system, Rav Landau said, “The judicial authorities continue in their wickedness, we, believers, believe that Hashem will burden their hearts.” He added, “Even when Hakadosh Boruch Hu assigns a burden through the obligated, the fate of the wicked is to be held to account.”

He urged the olam hayeshivos to remain steadfast and unwavering in its commitment to limud haTorah, despite mounting pressures. “All these difficulties will not hinder our Torah study; on the contrary, we will increase Torah study, increase Torah learners, increase houses of study,” he said.

The rosh yeshiva further emphasized his position in absolute terms, rejecting any compliance with outside demands. “We will not pay attention to their decrees, we will ignore them, and they and their decrees will vanish like a passing wind and like a fleeting dream,” he said.

Concluding his address, he stated, “It is the authorities’ role to regulate this and not to make it difficult, and if they insist, comfort and salvation will come to the Jews from another place.”

{Matzav.com}

Former prime ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid announced Sunday evening that they will run together in the upcoming 2026 elections under a new joint party called “B’Yachad,” with Bennett leading the list in a move aimed at uniting the center-right bloc.

Opening the joint announcement, Bennett framed the decision as a pivotal moment for the country, addressing the public directly. “My brothers and sisters, fateful moments require bold steps—and that is what we are doing now. I am happy to tell you that tonight, together with my friend Yair Lapid, we are taking the most Zionist and patriotic step we have ever taken, for the sake of our country,” he said.

Bennett went on to explain the reasoning behind the alliance, emphasizing the importance of unity despite differences. “Tonight we are uniting and establishing the ‘Together’ party under my leadership—a party that will lead to a great victory and the opening of a new era for our beloved country. Yair and I have different views on a range of issues—and we are not hiding that; on the contrary, we are proud of it. I am proud that two leaders with different views can fight together for the people of Israel, just as our sons, our soldiers, fight shoulder to shoulder. Our unity is a message to the entire nation: the era of division is over; the era of repair has begun.”

Highlighting their past partnership, Bennett pointed to what he described as achievements of their previous government. “When we work together, we win. In the government I led, we accomplished in one year what other governments did not achieve in four: we moved the economy from a massive deficit to a surplus, stopped the suitcases of cash to Hamas, refused to tolerate even a single incendiary balloon, and restored personal security to the streets. Those were good days for Israel.”

Looking ahead, Bennett said a future government under their leadership would operate with greater speed and effectiveness. “This time, in the new government we establish, it will be bigger, faster, and better—a government of professionals, CEOs, and people of action who think only about Israel’s good. The state will return to being well-managed. We are coming with ready work plans so as not to waste a single moment.” He also suggested that the move marks the beginning of a broader political shift. “This is a major step toward repairing the state—but certainly not the last. You will see more moves and more surprises that will change the face of the country.”

He then outlined specific policy priorities for a future administration. “On the first day of the new government under my leadership, we will establish a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 massacre to bring truth to the families and answers to all of Israel. We will advance a universal service law and stop funding draft evasion even by a single shekel. We will limit the term of a prime minister to eight years, and it will apply first and foremost to me. We will protect our land and not give up a single centimeter to the enemy. We will strengthen an inclusive and positive Judaism without coercion. Above all, we will ensure that the young men and women of Israel, who serve and give so much of themselves to the state, can build their future here.”

Bennett praised Lapid for stepping aside from the top position, calling it an act of leadership. “Not for the first time, Yair Lapid is proving leadership—that for him, the good of the state truly comes first. He has the courage to decide and the generosity to act. Your excellent party members from Yesh Atid are joining tonight with my colleagues into one large family—together! We are charging forward toward victory.” He also extended an invitation to former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot to join the effort. “Gadi, our door is open to you,” he said, adding that the country would soon return to a government focused on “we” rather than “I.” “We will lead the nation along a path believed in by a large majority of Israeli citizens—the liberal Zionist right: political and security strength alongside a home for all of Israeli society. Every Israeli will feel wanted, loved, and respected here—even if they did not vote for me. Better days are coming for all of Israel.” He concluded with a biblical verse: “The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.”

Following Bennett’s remarks, Lapid addressed the crowd and described the alliance as a necessary step for the country’s future. “We stand here today together to begin a great repair in the people of Israel. We stand here together for our children. The State of Israel needs to change direction. This is a test of our leadership, and we will meet it. What you see here today is the first step. We are here because this country needs unity like air to breathe. We stand here together for everyone who believes in democracy, believes in the deep Jewish foundation of the state, believes in the values of Zionism, and in our right to this land,” he said.

Lapid then turned to members of his own party to explain his decision to forgo the top spot on the list. “I want to say to the people of Yesh Atid, who have been fighting with love for the country for 14 years: today we are doing what we have always known how to do—we are putting the ego aside and doing what is right for the State of Israel.”

{Matzav.com}

Rav Zevadia Cohen was elected chief rabbi of Tel Aviv–Jaffa and, shortly after the results were announced, arrived at the city’s Religious Council building to deliver his victory address, outlining his vision for the role.

Opening his remarks, Rav Cohen reflected on his years of service as head of the rabbinical courts in the city, a position he held for 18 years, during which he oversaw matters of marriage, divorce, conversion, and agunah cases both in Israel and abroad.

“Rav Ovadia Yosef, of blessed memory, who served here as the city’s rabbi, taught us in halacha to act with leniency in order to unite everyone together. Also in my new role as chief rabbi, which includes kashrus, mikvaos, and eruvin, we will be able to follow his path and provide the best service with warmth and pleasantness. Until now, we have done everything quietly, without headlines, all for the benefit of the city’s residents—to serve them as one man with one heart. I travel throughout the entire city, in all its neighborhoods, providing whatever is needed with a welcoming approach that connects and unites.”

He continued by emphasizing the qualities required of a leader, drawing on well-known teachings.

“When Hashem sought to appoint a leader, the Midrash says He chose Moshe Rabbeinu. Why? Because when He saw that Moshe was a shepherd, He noticed a young goat that was thirsty, and Moshe placed it on his shoulders. Hashem said: if you care about a small goat, you can be a leader. King David would first bring out the weaker goats to graze on the softer grass, and only afterward the stronger ones. A leader must always look to the weaker ones and those in need of help. You will hear the cry of the poor and respond to their plea. With Hashem’s help, I intend to gather all the community rabbis to sit together and elevate the city spiritually, all with a pleasant demeanor and kindness, and to sanctify Hashem’s Name in public.”

Rav Cohen’s election comes after eight years in which the city operated without a permanent chief rabbi, following the retirement of Rav Yisrael Meir Lau in 2018. With his appointment, Rav Cohen will also automatically become a member of the Chief Rabbinate Council of Israel.

The election committee, chaired by retired Supreme Rabbinical Court judge Rav Yaakov Zamir, released the final results: Rav Zevadia Cohen received 37 votes, Rav Chaim Amsalem received 21, and Rav Aryeh Levin received 3 votes, out of a total of 64 eligible voters. Other committee members included Rav Yitzchak Levy, attorney Rachel Dayan, Tal Tanami, Yonit Gisfan, and representatives of the Ministry of Religious Services’ legal department. The committee secretary was Tzuriel Porat.

Sephardic Chief Rabbi Rav David Yosef spoke with Rav Cohen following the results. Rav Yosef bentched him to continue strengthening Torah and spreading its influence, following the path of Aharon HaKohen: “One who loves peace and pursues peace, loves people, and brings them closer to Torah.” Rav Cohen thanked him warmly and said, “It is a great merit for me. I will act under the guidance of our master, may he live long, for the benefit of all the residents of Tel Aviv–Yaffo, and to increase peace.”

Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai also responded to the election, stating: “I congratulate Rav Zevadia Cohen on his election as chief rabbi of Tel Aviv–Yaffo. After eight years in which the city functioned without a chief rabbi, elections were held today in accordance with the law enacted by the state requiring us to do so. I want to say clearly that with or without a chief rabbi, Tel Aviv–Yaffo is a free, liberal, and democratic city that respects the choices and lifestyles of all its residents—and it will remain so. I wish the newly elected rabbi success in his role and am confident he will act with an understanding of the unique character of Tel Aviv–Jaffa and its diverse population.”

Director-General of the Ministry of Religious Services Yehuda Avidan welcomed the outcome, saying: “We congratulate the conclusion of this process. Thanks to a professional and orderly procedure that began under the outgoing minister MK Michael Malchieli, we have merited today to have strong spiritual leadership for the city of Tel Aviv. I would like to thank Mayor Ron Huldai for his cooperation in conducting the election process. Rav Zevadia Cohen is a symbol of halacha and warmth, and I am confident he will connect all the city’s residents to the world of Torah and make Judaism accessible in a clear and unifying way. This is a significant step in strengthening the Chief Rabbinate of Israel.”

Eldad Mizrachi, chairman of the Tel Aviv Religious Council, also congratulated Rav Cohen, stating: “Tel Aviv–Jaffa has chosen a chief rabbi and dayan of the highest caliber, a Torah scholar who has lived among the people of Tel Aviv for many years. He knows how to connect and embrace others with warmth and a balanced, inclusive halachic approach. He continues the distinguished rabbinic tradition that has existed in this city.”

{Matzav.com}

The IDF announced that Sergeant Idan Fooks, 19, from Petach Tikva, a combat soldier in Battalion 77 of the 7th Brigade, known as the “Golan Surge,” was killed during fighting in southern Lebanon.

Fooks is scheduled to be laid to rest on Monday at 4:00 p.m. in the military cemetery section in Segula, located in his hometown.

In the same incident in which he was killed, an IDF officer and three soldiers were seriously injured, while another soldier sustained moderate injuries and a sixth was lightly wounded. All six were evacuated to hospitals for treatment, and their families were informed.

During the episode, two additional explosive drones were launched toward IDF forces operating near the village of Taybeh. One of the drones was intercepted and detonated close to the troops as they were evacuating the wounded. No further injuries were reported in that part of the incident. The IDF subsequently carried out strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon.

Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a statement mourning the fallen soldier, saying: “I mourn the fall of Staff Sergeant Idan Fooks, a fighter in Battalion 77 who fell in battle in southern Lebanon, and send my deepest condolences to his family at this difficult time. Idan fought bravely alongside our other heroic soldiers, in defense of the residents of the north against a brutal terrorist organization-which will pay a heavy price for its actions.

I wish a full and speedy recovery to the soldiers wounded in this difficult incident, and I strengthen the IDF soldiers operating with strength and determination in Lebanon. The IDF will continue to act with all necessary means and backing until full security is achieved for the residents of the north. May his memory be blessed.”

Petach Tikva Mayor Rami Greenberg also paid tribute, stating: “I share in the deep sorrow of the Fooks-Ara family over the loss of their son / nephew / grandson, a hero of Israel, soldier Idan Fooks of blessed memory, who fell during the fighting in southern Lebanon. Idan was a resident of Petach Tikva, the Pisgat Hadar neighborhood, and a graduate of the Ben Gurion High School in the city. We share the family’s profound grief. May his memory be blessed.”