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In a powerful shmuess delivered last night in the beis medrash of Yeshivas Slabodka in Bnei Brak, Rav Dov Landau, addressed the bochurim and avreichim with words of chizuk in light of the ongoing war between Israel and Iran.

“Klal Yisroel is experiencing very difficult days,” Rav Landau began. “These are days of confusion, days when it becomes so clear that HaKadosh Baruch Hu is guiding every aspect of creation. So many things people rely on disappear in a moment — swept away by the will of Heaven. This strengthens our understanding that we have no one to depend on other than our Father in Heaven. Ashreinu, how fortunate we are to have been raised with this awareness — that everything is from Shamayim.”

The Rosh Yeshiva continued: “We are living in a time when din and rachamim are intertwined. We don’t have prophets to tell us exactly what Hashem demands of us, but we do know what is expected of us. We, the bnei hayeshivos, the learners of Torah, are the crown of creation. We uphold the world. Our Torah study shields Klal Yisroel in the most literal sense. Therefore, we must fulfill our mission with even greater intensity. We must learn and learn, immerse ourselves in Torah without interruption, rejoice in a kushya, and find delight in every word of Torah.

“This is our mission, this is our obligation, and it is our greatest zechus,” Rav Landau said. “Only through this can we protect Klal Yisroel from all its many enemies who cry out, ‘Let us wipe them out as a nation.’ Alongside our learning, we must increase our tefillah with deep kavanah. We must be even more careful with the halachos of tefillah. It is said in the name of the Chazon Ish zt”l that during times of trouble, reciting the chapter of Yosheiv B’Seser is especially effective.

“Of course,” the Rosh Yeshiva added, “we must strengthen our emunah and bitachon, to remember that everything that happens is from Hashem. One who lives with this knowledge is calm, happy, and places all his hope in the One Who is good and does only good. Kol ma d’avid Rachmana l’tav avid. When we strengthen our faith and trust, Hashem showers goodness upon His beloved, for Hashem is close to all who call out to Him.”

Rav Landau then addressed the importance of following safety instructions: “We also have an obligation of hishtadlus. There are laws of pikuach nefesh. One must be exceedingly careful to follow all official instructions. This is a Torah-level obligation — v’nishmartem me’od l’nafshoseichem. It is said in the name of the Brisker Rov zt”l that through fulfilling the commandment of v’nishmartem, HaKadosh Baruch Hu brings salvation.

“There is something else I must say,” Rav Landau stated emphatically. “It is absolutely forbidden to go out and look at ‘interesting sights’ related to the war. The Gemara in Berachos teaches that placing oneself in danger causes one’s sins to be scrutinized. But beyond that, what is this? Entertainment? A spectacle? A ben Torah should be learning and davening that no tragedy occur! How can someone walk outside just to satisfy irresponsible and inconsiderate curiosity? That is not the behavior of a ben yeshiva!”

In conclusion, Rav Landau offered one final piece of advice: “It is very important to remain calm and composed. And there is a way to do that: stop obsessing over every bit of news. It is enough to know the basics — don’t chase after more and more information. It’s unnecessary and only leads to fear and anxiety. Eleh varechev v’eleh basusim va’anachnu b’shem Hashem Elokeinu nazkir. Heimah kar’u v’nafalu va’anachnu kamnu vanis’odad. Hashem hoshia HaMelech ya’aneinu b’yom koreinu. May Hashem save us and answer us swiftly in our time of need.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

The Trump family said it is licensing its name to a new mobile phone service, the latest in a string of ventures that have been announced while Donald Trump is in the White House despite ethical concerns that the U.S. president could mold public policy for personal gain. Eric Trump, one of President Donald Trump’s sons running The Trump Organization, said the new venture called, Trump Mobile, will sell phones that will be built in the U.S., and the phone service will maintain a call center in the country as well. The announcement of the new mobile phone and service, called T1 Mobile, follows several real estate deals for towers and resorts in the Middle East, including a golf development in Qatar announced in April. A $1.5 billion partnership to build golf courses, hotels and real estate projects in Vietnam was approved last month, but the deal was in the works before Trump was elected. “Hard-working Americans deserve a wireless service that’s affordable, reflects their values, and delivers reliable quality they can count on,” said Eric Trump in a statement. Trump criticized Apple last month because it planned to make most of its U.S. iPhones in India, and threatened to slap a 25% tariff on the devices unless the tech giant starts building the product in its home country. The Trump family company said the new, gold-colored phone available in August, called T1 Phone, won’t be designed or made by Trump Mobile, but by another company. The Trump Organization did not respond immediately to a request for more details. The service, which will cost $47.45 a month, is partnering with existing cellular carriers with access to a 5G network. The Trump service will offer free texts and calls, and unlimited data. It will also offer free roadside assistance and a telehealth service that will allow callers to get prescriptions. (AP)

The Trump family said it is licensing its name to a new mobile phone service, the latest in a string of ventures that have been announced while Donald Trump is in the White House despite ethical concerns that the U.S. president could mold public policy for personal gain. Eric Trump, one of President Donald Trump’s sons running The Trump Organization, said the new venture called, Trump Mobile, will sell phones that will be built in the U.S., and the phone service will maintain a call center in the country as well. The announcement of the new mobile phone and service, called T1 Mobile, follows several real estate deals for towers and resorts in the Middle East, including a golf development in Qatar announced in April. A $1.5 billion partnership to build golf courses, hotels and real estate projects in Vietnam was approved last month, but the deal was in the works before Trump was elected. “Hard-working Americans deserve a wireless service that’s affordable, reflects their values, and delivers reliable quality they can count on,” said Eric Trump in a statement. Trump criticized Apple last month because it planned to make most of its U.S. iPhones in India, and threatened to slap a 25% tariff on the devices unless the tech giant starts building the product in its home country. The Trump family company said the new, gold-colored phone available in August, called T1 Phone, won’t be designed or made by Trump Mobile, but by another company. The Trump Organization did not respond immediately to a request for more details. The service, which will cost $47.45 a month, is partnering with existing cellular carriers with access to a 5G network. The Trump service will offer free texts and calls, and unlimited data. It will also offer free roadside assistance and a telehealth service that will allow callers to get prescriptions. (AP)

A senior Iranian diplomat has revealed that Iran’s military and political leadership are willing to abandon uranium enrichment in order to preserve the regime, amid growing fears that the ongoing war with Israel could spell the end of the ayatollah’s regime. Speaking to IranWire on condition of anonymity, the diplomat—who previously served in the Islamic Republic’s intelligence services—said bluntly: “The real priority of the Supreme Leader and our government is survival. The ongoing cycle of attacks and counterattacks between Israel and Iran will inevitably weaken our military, security forces, economy, public morale, and ultimately, the government.” He warned that if the conflict continues, the Iranian army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) would “inevitably lose control of the situation,” adding, “We do not want to repeat Saddam Hussein’s mistake. We are ready to negotiate.” Dozens of explosions were reported across Tehran over the weekend, with columns of smoke rising from central and outlying neighborhoods, including Valiasr Street, Tehran Pars, and Niavaran. Residents described hearing loud blasts near prominent landmarks such as Ferdowsi Square, Palestine Square, and the Chitgar district. When asked whether Iran’s long-standing use of proxy groups and pursuit of nuclear capabilities justified Israel’s aggressive response, the diplomat repeated the government’s standard line that the nuclear program is peaceful. But he acknowledged a shift in tone: “Whatever happened in the past — whatever actions our government took — we live in a new reality now. The priority is to save the system and prevent the destruction of our country.” The diplomat added that any move toward abandoning uranium enrichment would require a “face-saving solution” to maintain domestic and international legitimacy. The diplomat appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump as the one figure who could bring a end to the violence. Trump, speaking ahead of the G7 summit in Canada, urged both Iran and Israel to seek a ceasefire but also noted that some conflicts “must be fought out” before peace is possible. “Mr. Trump may be the only person who can end this quickly and peacefully,” the diplomat said. “He understands that the continuation of this conflict is not in the interest of Iran, the U.S., or even Israel.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

A senior Iranian diplomat has revealed that Iran’s military and political leadership are willing to abandon uranium enrichment in order to preserve the regime, amid growing fears that the ongoing war with Israel could spell the end of the ayatollah’s regime. Speaking to IranWire on condition of anonymity, the diplomat—who previously served in the Islamic Republic’s intelligence services—said bluntly: “The real priority of the Supreme Leader and our government is survival. The ongoing cycle of attacks and counterattacks between Israel and Iran will inevitably weaken our military, security forces, economy, public morale, and ultimately, the government.” He warned that if the conflict continues, the Iranian army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) would “inevitably lose control of the situation,” adding, “We do not want to repeat Saddam Hussein’s mistake. We are ready to negotiate.” Dozens of explosions were reported across Tehran over the weekend, with columns of smoke rising from central and outlying neighborhoods, including Valiasr Street, Tehran Pars, and Niavaran. Residents described hearing loud blasts near prominent landmarks such as Ferdowsi Square, Palestine Square, and the Chitgar district. When asked whether Iran’s long-standing use of proxy groups and pursuit of nuclear capabilities justified Israel’s aggressive response, the diplomat repeated the government’s standard line that the nuclear program is peaceful. But he acknowledged a shift in tone: “Whatever happened in the past — whatever actions our government took — we live in a new reality now. The priority is to save the system and prevent the destruction of our country.” The diplomat added that any move toward abandoning uranium enrichment would require a “face-saving solution” to maintain domestic and international legitimacy. The diplomat appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump as the one figure who could bring a end to the violence. Trump, speaking ahead of the G7 summit in Canada, urged both Iran and Israel to seek a ceasefire but also noted that some conflicts “must be fought out” before peace is possible. “Mr. Trump may be the only person who can end this quickly and peacefully,” the diplomat said. “He understands that the continuation of this conflict is not in the interest of Iran, the U.S., or even Israel.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Veteran military correspondent Yoav Zitun of Ynet, in what appears to reflect the thinking of top IDF officials, posted a message on X laying out the current reality of Israel’s confrontation with Iran and the strategic considerations that must guide its next steps. Zitun made clear: “Last night, after deliberation, it was permitted to publish – Israel does not have the capability to destroy Iran’s nuclear facilities.”

According to Zitun, Israel’s political leadership launched the current campaign with realistic expectations, but the public must understand the broader vision: “The political echelon knew this and set out with a reasonable conception, but one that the public must be aware of: a ‘package’ that includes striking nuclear facilities, dismantling Iranian air defenses in a way that allows Israeli fighter jets to circle over Tehran as if they were over Jabaliya, reducing the ballistic missile threat, eliminating Iran’s security leadership and a credible threat to also behead the regime leaders and ayatollahs alongside possible strikes on national infrastructure like oil reserves – might be sufficient.”

The goal of this extensive military pressure, according to Zitun, is not total victory but to create leverage. “Sufficient for what? To return Iran to negotiations from a position of weakness that will force it to sign an agreement without expiration dates and with teeth – and if not, then at least to delay the nuclear project by several years.”

Achieving complete destruction of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, Zitun noted, is only feasible under two difficult conditions. “Destroying Iran’s nuclear program is indeed militarily possible, under two conditions: American participation in the attack with the massive bunker-buster bombs that only the US has and only it can use, which obviously depends on Trump’s decision – or a long ‘peeling’ operation by air force aircraft of the nuclear facilities’ defenses.”

The second option would mean entering a drawn-out battle with Iran, something Israeli defense officials are already preparing for. “The second option could lead to a scenario that the IDF leadership began discussing and preparing for yesterday: a long war of attrition with Iran, lasting months, perhaps beyond that; dripping missiles and drones, intermittent siege on Ben Gurion Airport, disruption (between interference and paralysis) of the economy and education system, and more.”

Zitun emphasized that despite the IDF’s strong performance in the initial strike, strategic planning must include a clear political goal. “Therefore, alongside the euphoria from the powerful opening blow and the justification for the move that senior IDF officials share – a closure mechanism must be demanded, the political deed or at least demand striving toward it. Iran has always excelled in multi-generational patience – lowering the flames and years of attrition with time-stretching are a victory for it.”

He added that Iran’s full arsenal has not yet been brought to bear, with even deadlier weaponry still on the table. “Iran has many hundreds more missiles of the type that created destruction sites here in recent days with warheads of 200–500 kg explosives, but according to various sources, including experts in the field – Iran has not yet used the Khamenei which carries between one to two tons of explosive material in its warhead and with 20% more blast effect than the missiles fired so far; Iran’s cruise missiles, which are difficult to detect in good time, have also not yet been launched 8.”

Even with a high-functioning air force and strong intelligence services, there are still hard limitations. “This multi-stage move, successful as it may be, also has force limitations, even for the large and strong air force and for military intelligence and the Mossad. In the end, the number of aircraft is an existing given against 5000–10000 relevant targets spread across Iran. And the prices will be several times heavier than war with Hamas. Therefore, the political ending is a necessity that there is no choice but to demand and expect, before the next casualties, and within the foreseeable future.”

Zitun ended with a blunt reflection on the strategic dilemma: “Why Iran would agree to any deal if it has so many cards to play and is at such a strategic advantage will remain forever a great mystery.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Israel responded to the deadly Iranian missile attack on Israeli civilians on Monday morning by announcing that the war is moving to a new phase. According to a Yisrael Hayom report, the IDF is expected to soon announce an evacuation order for residents of neighborhoods in Tehran ahead of extensive airstrikes by the Air Force that will lead to the collapse of buildings—similar to what was done in the past in Beirut, Lebanon. The goal is to stop Iranian attacks on Israeli population centers. Israel sees this as a real threat and is directing its response deep into civilian areas in Tehran—as part of moving the war to the enemy’s territory itself. Defense Minister Yisrael Katz stated on Monday morning, “Tehran’s boastful dictator has become a cowardly murderer, deliberately firing at Israeli civilians to deter the IDF operatoins crippling his military capabilities. The residents of Tehran will pay the price soon.” (YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)

Israel responded to the deadly Iranian missile attack on Israeli civilians on Monday morning by announcing that the war is moving to a new phase. According to a Yisrael Hayom report, the IDF is expected to soon announce an evacuation order for residents of neighborhoods in Tehran ahead of extensive airstrikes by the Air Force that will lead to the collapse of buildings—similar to what was done in the past in Beirut, Lebanon. The goal is to stop Iranian attacks on Israeli population centers. Israel sees this as a real threat and is directing its response deep into civilian areas in Tehran—as part of moving the war to the enemy’s territory itself. Defense Minister Yisrael Katz stated on Monday morning, “Tehran’s boastful dictator has become a cowardly murderer, deliberately firing at Israeli civilians to deter the IDF operatoins crippling his military capabilities. The residents of Tehran will pay the price soon.” (YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)

In a dramatic and carefully coordinated extraction, the Stoliner Rebbe has returned to Israel following a whirlwind trip to Ukraine, marking him as the first admor successfully evacuated amid the current international travel crisis.

The rebbe had departed Israel early Thursday morning on a private jet to visit the kever of the Beis Aharon of Karlin, located in the town of Malyniv, Ukraine. After arriving in Poland and crossing the border into Ukraine, the rebbe visited the kever and held a tish there in honor of the occasion.

On Thursday night, the rebbe set out on his return journey, traveling first to Warsaw and then flying to Larnaca, Cyprus, where he spent Shabbos together with his seven children. They were hosted at the villa of philanthropist Lev Leviev. A few well-resourced chassidim, who were also stranded in Larnaca, arranged all Shabbos provisions and meals for the rebbe and his family.

On Sunday, the rebbe boarded a private jet from Larnaca to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Upon landing, he was provided with Egyptian security detail and escorted to the Taba border crossing near Eilat. From there, he entered Israel and began the journey to his residence in Givat Ze’ev.

Sources indicate that the operation to bring the rebbe home spanned multiple countries and involved extensive logistical planning. The rebbe , determined to return to Eretz Yisroel, has now safely arrived.

Meanwhile, many Stoliner chassidim remain stranded in Larnaca, as well as in Italy and other locations. Some are reportedly en route to Israel aboard a luxury yacht.

The Stoliner Rebbe is the first gadol to successfully return to Israel since the escalation of the regional conflict disrupted global travel. Others remain abroad, including:

• Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, currently in the U.S.
• Rav Dovid Cohne, currently in the U.S.
• Rav Don Segal, in Switzerland, heading to the U.S.

• The Gerrer Rebbe, currently in the U.S.

• Rav Yitzchak Yosef, who traveled from Rome to the U.S.

• Rav Ezriel Auerbach, now in London

• Rav Meir Isamar Rosenbaum, mashpia from Derech Emunah, who remained in Kerestir for Shabbos and will return to the U.S.

• The Admor of Stropkov, still in Italy

• The Admor of Ozherov

{Matzav.com Israel}

Millions of Americans are seeing their credit scores suffer now that the U.S. government has resumed referring missed student loan payments for debt collection. After 90 days of non-payment, student loan servicers report delinquent, or past-due, accounts to major credit bureaus, which use the information to recalculate the borrower’s score. Falling behind on loan payments therefore can affect an individual’s credit rating as severely as filing for personal bankruptcy. A lower credit score makes it harder or more expensive to obtain car loans, mortgages, credit cards, auto insurance and other financial services at a time when inflation, high interest rates, and layoffs have strained the resources of some consumers. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported that in the first three months of 2025, 2.2 million student loan recipients saw their scores drop by 100 points, and an additional 1 million had drops of 150 points or more. Declines that steep may mean the difference between a manageable credit card interest rate and an unmanageable one, or approval or rejection of an application to rent an apartment. The U.S. Department of Education paused federal student loan payments in March 2020, offering borrowers relief during the economic chaos of the coronavirus pandemic. Though payments technically resumed in 2023, the Biden administration provided a one-year grace period that ended in October 2024. Last month, the Trump administration restarted the collection process for outstanding student loans, with plans to seize wages and tax refunds if the loans continue to go unpaid. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, about 1 in 4 people with student loan accounts were more than 90 days behind on payments at the end of March. Kat Hanchon, 33, who works in marketing and higher education in Detroit, was one of them. Hanchon said her score dropped by 57 points as a result of her loans falling delinquent this year. That put her score below 600, or subprime. When Hanchon received her statement from her loan servicer, her expected monthly payments were higher than before the pandemic-era pause, even though she had enrolled in a repayment plan that takes a borrower’s full financial situation into account. “They said I now have to pay $358 per month,” she said. “I’m not going to be able to pay that. … But I’m not unusual in the world we’re living in right now.” Hanchon said she’s had to prioritize paying medical expenses — for a dental crown, a root canal, and an endoscopy — before she’ll be able to consider putting money toward the loans. While her housing situation is secure for the moment, she worries about the annual percentage rate for her credit cards fluctuating. Lenders, landlords, credit card companies, employers and utility companies all look to consumers’ credit scores to gauge the likelihood of borrowers being able to make regular payments. A higher score typically results in lower interest rates and more favorable loan terms, while a lower score makes it harder to access credit. The Education Department has said borrowers should receive bills from lenders three weeks before any payments are due, but some people have reported that they have not been notified. Wait times for calls with loan servicers have been high, and layoffs at the Department of Education have also likely contributed to delayed […]

Millions of Americans are seeing their credit scores suffer now that the U.S. government has resumed referring missed student loan payments for debt collection. After 90 days of non-payment, student loan servicers report delinquent, or past-due, accounts to major credit bureaus, which use the information to recalculate the borrower’s score. Falling behind on loan payments therefore can affect an individual’s credit rating as severely as filing for personal bankruptcy. A lower credit score makes it harder or more expensive to obtain car loans, mortgages, credit cards, auto insurance and other financial services at a time when inflation, high interest rates, and layoffs have strained the resources of some consumers. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported that in the first three months of 2025, 2.2 million student loan recipients saw their scores drop by 100 points, and an additional 1 million had drops of 150 points or more. Declines that steep may mean the difference between a manageable credit card interest rate and an unmanageable one, or approval or rejection of an application to rent an apartment. The U.S. Department of Education paused federal student loan payments in March 2020, offering borrowers relief during the economic chaos of the coronavirus pandemic. Though payments technically resumed in 2023, the Biden administration provided a one-year grace period that ended in October 2024. Last month, the Trump administration restarted the collection process for outstanding student loans, with plans to seize wages and tax refunds if the loans continue to go unpaid. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, about 1 in 4 people with student loan accounts were more than 90 days behind on payments at the end of March. Kat Hanchon, 33, who works in marketing and higher education in Detroit, was one of them. Hanchon said her score dropped by 57 points as a result of her loans falling delinquent this year. That put her score below 600, or subprime. When Hanchon received her statement from her loan servicer, her expected monthly payments were higher than before the pandemic-era pause, even though she had enrolled in a repayment plan that takes a borrower’s full financial situation into account. “They said I now have to pay $358 per month,” she said. “I’m not going to be able to pay that. … But I’m not unusual in the world we’re living in right now.” Hanchon said she’s had to prioritize paying medical expenses — for a dental crown, a root canal, and an endoscopy — before she’ll be able to consider putting money toward the loans. While her housing situation is secure for the moment, she worries about the annual percentage rate for her credit cards fluctuating. Lenders, landlords, credit card companies, employers and utility companies all look to consumers’ credit scores to gauge the likelihood of borrowers being able to make regular payments. A higher score typically results in lower interest rates and more favorable loan terms, while a lower score makes it harder to access credit. The Education Department has said borrowers should receive bills from lenders three weeks before any payments are due, but some people have reported that they have not been notified. Wait times for calls with loan servicers have been high, and layoffs at the Department of Education have also likely contributed to delayed […]

In a televised interview aired on Iranian state media, Mohsen Rezaei, a high-ranking general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and a member of Iran’s National Security Council, claimed that “Pakistan has told us that if Israel uses nuclear missiles, we will also attack it with nuclear weapons.”

Pakistan has expressed strong solidarity with Iran following Israeli airstrikes, voicing a firm call for Muslim unity. However, despite its vocal backing, Islamabad has issued no public endorsement of nuclear retaliation as described by Rezaei. He further stated that Iran possesses undisclosed methods and strategic assets that have yet to be revealed to the world.

In a separate statement to Pakistan’s National Assembly on June 14, Defense Minister Khwaja Asif urged Muslim nations to join together in opposition to Israel. “Israel has targeted Iran, Yemen, and Palestine. If Muslim nations don’t unite now, each will face the same fate,” he declared.

Asif pushed for Muslim-majority states that maintain diplomatic relations with Israel to sever those ties and called on the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to assemble urgently and craft a coordinated response.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s alliance with Iran, Asif made clear that Islamabad remains firmly in Tehran’s corner. “We stand behind Iran and will support them at every international forum to protect their interest,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin gave a brief update to the media on Monday following the heavy barrage early in the morning that left eight people dead and hundreds injured. “We are succeeding in thwarting large parts of the Iranian fire,” Defrin said. “Tonight, 65 missiles and dozens of drones were fired—most of them were intercepted by our defense systems.” Nonetheless, he acknowledged the night’s tragic toll. “This is the face of the Iranian terror regime,” Defrin said. “They are firing at population centers.” Defrin emphasized that “we are succeeding in thwarting most launches” and added that every such event is thoroughly investigated: “The instructions save lives, and we receive evidence of this time and time again.” He added, “We’ve achieved complete air superiority in the skies of Tehran—capabilities that we had in Gaza, Lebanon, and Yehuda and Shomron, we now have in Iran.” Defrin confirmed that the IDF eliminated the head of the Revolutionary Guards intelligence organization and his deputy and the head of the Quds Force intelligence organization and his deputy. He added that the Air Force completed several waves of attacks overnight, striking about 100 military targets in Isfahan, in central Iran. Approximately 50 fighter jets and aircraft identified and attacked missile storage sites, surface-to-surface missile launchers that were ready to be launched towards Israel, and command centers where launching teams were preparing to fire towards Israel. In these attacks, more than 20 missiles were destroyed simultaneously, minutes before they were launched towards the Israeli home front. In one of the attacks, a launching team was identified during attempts to launch surface-to-surface missiles towards Israel. The Air Force eliminated the launching team in real-time and the missiles were destroyed. The IDF attacked 20 Iranian army and Quds Force command centers, which were deliberately hidden in high-rise buildings, along with extensive attacks throughout Iran on Sunday evening. “We destroyed a third of the Iranian regime’s missile launchers, which caused them to only be able to launch half of the missiles they planned,” he said. “Everything adds up to a deep and broad blow to the Iranian threat.” (YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)

The resignation of Israeli Housing Minister Yitzchok Goldknopf officially took effect this morning, 48 hours after he submitted his letter of resignation, in accordance with Israeli law (excluding Shabbos from the count). Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has announced that Minister Chaim Katz will temporarily assume the role, despite Katz currently being stranded in the United States and unable to return to Israel due to the war with Iran.

Goldknopf, head of the United Torah Judaism party, resigned on Thursday morning following dramatic political developments the previous night. His resignation came under the directive of the Gerrer Rebbe, who objected to the recent understandings reached between other chareidi parties and MK Yuli Edelstein regarding the stalled draft law.

Though there was speculation that Deputy Minister Uri Maklev or MK Yisrael Eichler might be tapped to replace Goldknopf, Netanyahu ultimately chose Minister of Tourism Chaim Katz to serve as interim housing minister, likely due to wartime urgency. Katz has previously filled in for other ministers who resigned and later returned to office.

Katz is currently in New York and, like thousands of Israelis stuck abroad since the outbreak of Operation KeLavi, is unable to return.

Goldknopf submitted a formal letter to Netanyahu stating that the government’s repeated failure to fulfill its promise to pass a new draft law left him no choice but to resign. In his letter, he wrote: “Since entering office, I’ve done everything in my power to promote quality and dignified housing for all citizens of Israel, especially for the chareidi community. Unfortunately, in light of the agreements reached and the promises made regarding the draft law—and the fact that the law has not progressed—I cannot continue to bear responsibility and remain in this position.”

He referred to the coalition understandings signed on December 28, 2022, in which the government pledged to pass a consensus draft bill by the end of the Knesset’s summer session in 2023, or at the latest, by the approval of the 2024 budget. Goldknopf noted that these promises were broken multiple times, even after a draft law had been prepared in coordination with the Defense Ministry.

He also accused the government of deliberately stalling efforts to move forward on the issue despite persistent appeals from nearly all chareidi factions and direct conversations with the prime minister, defense minister, and other officials.

“This behavior undermines the foundation of the coalition agreements and erodes the trust of the chareidi public,” he wrote.

While Goldknopf has stepped down from the cabinet, he has not resigned from the Knesset. Under the Norwegian Law, he now returns as a full member of the Knesset, forcing MK Eliyahu Baruchi of Degel HaTorah to vacate his seat.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency said Monday that there is a possibility of both radiological and chemical contamination within Iran’s main nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz following Israeli strikes, although radiation levels outside the complex are presently normal. The radiation poses a significant danger if uranium is inhaled or ingested, International Atomic Energy Agency Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi said. The risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory protection devices while inside the facilities, Grossi said. “The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no external radiological impact to the population or the environment from this event,” he said. Grossi was addressing an urgent session of the IAEA’s board in Vienna that was convened at the request of Russia to discuss Israeli attacks against Iranian nuclear facilities. He said that there apparently was no additional damage at Natanz and the Isfahan nuclear research site since Saturday. He said that the main concern inside the Natanz facility is the chemical toxicity of a gas called uranium hexafluoride, which is the result of fluorine mixed with the uranium during enrichment. It’s extremely volatile, will quickly corrode, can burn the skin and is especially deadly if inhaled, experts say. “Amid theses challenging and complex circumstances, it is crucial that the IAEA receives timely and regular technical information about the facilities and their respective sites,” Grossi said. Without information, the U.N. agency “cannot accurately assess the radiological conditions and potential impacts on the population and the environment and cannot provide the necessary assistance.” Grossi said that U.N. inspectors would remain present in Iran and inspect the nuclear facilities “as soon as safety conditions allow.” He warned that “military escalation threatens lives, increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon.” Venezuela delivered a joint statement at the special board meeting on behalf of a group of states, among them Iran and Russia, condemning Israel’s attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, diplomats said on the condition of anonymity to discuss the closed-door meeting. Satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press show extensive damage at Iran’s main nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz. The images captured Saturday by Planet Labs PBC show multiple buildings damaged or destroyed. The structures hit include buildings identified by experts as supplying power to the facility. Grossi told the U.N. Security Council on Friday that the above-ground section of the Natanz facility was destroyed. The main centrifuge facility underground didn’t appear to be hit, but the loss of power could have damaged infrastructure there, he said. Israel also struck a nuclear research facility in Isfahan. The IAEA said that four critical buildings were damaged, including an uranium-conversion facility, but there was no sign of increased radiation at Natanz or Isfahan. Grossi also told the IAEA board of governors on Monday that no damage has been seen at the site of the Fordo enrichment site, which is buried under a mountain and protected by anti-aircraft batteries. Fordo appears designed to withstand airstrikes. Grossi also said that the Bushehr nuclear power plant, Iran’s only commercial nuclear power plant, hasn’t been targeted or affected […]

The head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency said Monday that there is a possibility of both radiological and chemical contamination within Iran’s main nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz following Israeli strikes, although radiation levels outside the complex are presently normal. The radiation poses a significant danger if uranium is inhaled or ingested, International Atomic Energy Agency Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi said. The risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory protection devices while inside the facilities, Grossi said. “The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no external radiological impact to the population or the environment from this event,” he said. Grossi was addressing an urgent session of the IAEA’s board in Vienna that was convened at the request of Russia to discuss Israeli attacks against Iranian nuclear facilities. He said that there apparently was no additional damage at Natanz and the Isfahan nuclear research site since Saturday. He said that the main concern inside the Natanz facility is the chemical toxicity of a gas called uranium hexafluoride, which is the result of fluorine mixed with the uranium during enrichment. It’s extremely volatile, will quickly corrode, can burn the skin and is especially deadly if inhaled, experts say. “Amid theses challenging and complex circumstances, it is crucial that the IAEA receives timely and regular technical information about the facilities and their respective sites,” Grossi said. Without information, the U.N. agency “cannot accurately assess the radiological conditions and potential impacts on the population and the environment and cannot provide the necessary assistance.” Grossi said that U.N. inspectors would remain present in Iran and inspect the nuclear facilities “as soon as safety conditions allow.” He warned that “military escalation threatens lives, increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon.” Venezuela delivered a joint statement at the special board meeting on behalf of a group of states, among them Iran and Russia, condemning Israel’s attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, diplomats said on the condition of anonymity to discuss the closed-door meeting. Satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press show extensive damage at Iran’s main nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz. The images captured Saturday by Planet Labs PBC show multiple buildings damaged or destroyed. The structures hit include buildings identified by experts as supplying power to the facility. Grossi told the U.N. Security Council on Friday that the above-ground section of the Natanz facility was destroyed. The main centrifuge facility underground didn’t appear to be hit, but the loss of power could have damaged infrastructure there, he said. Israel also struck a nuclear research facility in Isfahan. The IAEA said that four critical buildings were damaged, including an uranium-conversion facility, but there was no sign of increased radiation at Natanz or Isfahan. Grossi also told the IAEA board of governors on Monday that no damage has been seen at the site of the Fordo enrichment site, which is buried under a mountain and protected by anti-aircraft batteries. Fordo appears designed to withstand airstrikes. Grossi also said that the Bushehr nuclear power plant, Iran’s only commercial nuclear power plant, hasn’t been targeted or affected […]

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Just before 4:00 a.m. on Monday, a wave of missile fire from Iran hit central Israel, resulting in the deaths of three people.

Magen David Adom medics responded to multiple scenes across central Israel, transporting 67 people to various hospitals. Among the injured were a 30-year-old woman in critical condition, six individuals in moderate condition, and dozens more suffering from either minor wounds or emotional trauma.

In the north, around Haifa, two people sustained minor injuries at separate impact locations. Rescue crews are working to access three individuals believed to be trapped beneath debris.

According to a statement from Israel Fire and Rescue Services, two tall residential buildings in the greater Tel Aviv area were directly hit by Iranian missiles. Eight emergency units were dispatched to these scenes to assist those trapped under the wreckage.

Efforts to locate additional victims are ongoing at all known strike zones. Concurrently, Israeli defense systems intercepted drones near Eilat and Rosh Hanikra, preventing further damage.

The Home Front Command has now updated its safety instructions, allowing residents in some regions to leave their shelters. Emergency teams continue to operate at various locations where missiles landed.

“You are urged to continue following the instructions of the Home Front Command and all official updates issued to you.”

The Israel Defense Forces reminded citizens not to share videos or photos of impact sites. “The enemy monitors this footage to improve its impact capabilities. Be responsible – Do not share locations online!”

Earlier, the IDF confirmed that it had launched attacks on Iranian missile-launching infrastructure inside central Iran.

On Sunday night, a separate missile landed in Haifa between two buildings, leaving one woman moderately hurt and six others with minor injuries. Additionally, two people were lightly injured in a strike on a moshav in the Lachish area.

{Matzav.com Israel}

President Trump pushed back against recent remarks by Tucker Carlson, who accused him of betraying the America First doctrine by siding with Israel during its military actions targeting Iran.

Carlson, typically a staunch Trump supporter, criticized Israel’s offensive, suggesting that the United States had a role in it. He wrote that the country was “complicit in the act of war” and added, “politicians purporting to be America First can’t now credibly turn around and say they had nothing to do with it.”

Trump responded by emphasizing that he was the originator of the America First platform and therefore determines what the phrase truly means.

“Well, considering that I’m the one that developed ‘America First,’ and considering that the term wasn’t used until I came along, I think I’m the one that decides that,” Trump told The Atlantic when asked for his reaction.

He also addressed the broader debate around diplomacy and security, saying: “For those people who say they want peace—you can’t have peace if Iran has a nuclear weapon. So for all of those wonderful people who don’t want to do anything about Iran having a nuclear weapon—that’s not peace.”

Earlier on, Trump had indicated his reluctance about Israel launching any military operation against Iran. Before the assault took place, he told reporters that “I don’t want them going in because I think it [an attack] would blow” the ongoing nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran.

After Israel executed a series of attacks that targeted Iranian nuclear sites, eliminated key scientists, and killed top commanders, Secretary of State Marco Rubio made clear in a public statement that, “We are not involved in strikes against Iran.”

Following the strikes, Trump posted on Truth Social to remind Iran of the 60-day deadline he had set for reaching a new nuclear agreement and encouraged the regime to reengage in talks.

Carlson, who has long spoken out against interventionist foreign policy, reaffirmed his opposition to any involvement with Iran and blamed the U.S. for enabling Israel’s strike through military aid.

“While the American military may not have physically perpetrated the assault, years of funding and sending weapons to Israel, which Donald Trump just bragged about on Truth Social, undeniably place the U.S. at the center of last night’s events,” Carlson said in a newsletter he released afterward.

He continued his critique by saying, “Washington knew these attacks would happen. They aided Israel in carrying them out. Politicians purporting to be America First can’t now credibly turn around and say they had nothing to do with it.”

Meanwhile, the U.S. has assisted Israel in defending itself from Iranian retaliation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that the strikes were “just the beginning.”

Iran’s top leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, responded with a stark warning of his own: “Life will be dark for them.”

“They started it. They started a war.”

Israel’s offensive came at a moment when Iran was already weakened. Its regional allies and proxies had suffered extensive losses: the Assad regime collapsed in Syria, a major Israeli cyberattack took out senior Hezbollah figures, and much of Hamas’s command was eliminated in the recent Gaza war.

Talks that were planned between the U.S. and Iran regarding the nuclear issue—originally scheduled to take place in Oman—were scrapped after the Israeli strikes.

Trump has reiterated that America played no direct role in the attack on Iran, but at the same time, he warned Tehran of the consequences should they target the United States.

“The U.S. had nothing to do with the attack on Iran, tonight,” Trump wrote on Truth Social shortly after midnight on Sunday.

“If we are attacked in any way, shape or form by Iran, the full strength and might of the U.S. Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before. However, we can easily get a deal done between Iran and Israel, and end this bloody conflict!!!”

{Matzav.com}

A select group of seven senior officials from Israel’s National Security Cabinet met regularly over the past year to plan the military operation against Iran that was launched on Friday, according to a source who requested anonymity, the Jerusalem Post reports.

This inner circle included Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yisroel Katz, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Shas leader MK Arye Deri.

These seven officials were the only members of the government who were briefed in advance about the pending assault prior to the full cabinet convening late Thursday. Internally referred to as the “small ministers’ forum,” the group functioned similarly to the limited war cabinet that was established during the early stages of the current conflict, the source explained.

In addition to these cabinet members, a few other figures in Israel’s political leadership were informed about the strike shortly before it was carried out. These included MK Yuli Edelstein, who chairs the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, and opposition leader MK Yair Lapid.

Due to the extreme sensitivity surrounding the timing of the operation, several reports indicated that ministers were told to remain in place for several hours after granting final approval to the attack late Thursday night, waiting until the operation officially commenced. During the meeting, cabinet members were required to sign confidentiality agreements.

Netanyahu had initially authorized the operation as far back as November, and it was originally slated to be executed in late April. However, it was postponed due to “a number of reasons,” Netanyahu later said.

Speaking to Channel 12 on Sunday night, National Security Council chief Tzachi Hanegbi added that many commercial flights left Israel ahead of the operation’s launch to minimize the risk of civilian airliners being affected by potential Iranian counterstrikes.

{Matzav.com Israel}