Matzav

As Shabbos approaches—this year coinciding with Erev Tishah B’Av—many maggidei shiur have sought clarity regarding the halachic permissibility of delivering their regular Daf Yomi and Avos Ubanim programs during this time.

In response to these inquiries, Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein, renowned posek, rov of Ramat Elchonon and member of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, issued a p’sak permitting the continuation of both Daf Yomi shiurim and Avos Ubanim programs this Shabbos afternoon, despite it being the eve of Tish B’Av.

The ruling, publicized on the Siach Yitzchok hotline by Rav Zilberstein’s grandson, Rav Chaim Malin, addresses a nuanced halachic dilemma. On Tishah B’Av, one may only study specific sections of Torah that pertain to the churban and aveilus. Consequently, on years when Erev Tishah B’Av does not fall on Shabbos, the Daf Yomi cycle is typically paused, and the missing daf is learned after the fast to maintain the schedule. However, when Erev Tishah B’Av falls on Shabbos, as it does this year, questions arise as to whether regular learning may proceed after midday.

Rav Zilberstein noted that the Rama (Orach Chaim 553:2) writes that on Erev Tishah B’Av, from chatzos (midday) onward, one should refrain from learning regular Torah topics, and instead focus solely on areas permitted on the fast day itself. This is because Torah brings joy to the heart, which is inconsistent with the mood of mourning. Accordingly, Pirkei Avos is not learned on such a Shabbos.

Nevertheless, the Mishnah Berurah (ibid., s.k. 8) brings the view of later Acharonim who hold that this stringency may be excessive, especially since it leads to widespread bittul Torah. The Mishnah Berurah therefore rules that one who wishes to be lenient should not be objected to.

Rav Zilberstein further pointed out that this was indeed the practice in the Radin Yeshiva, under the guidance of the Chofetz Chaim, who permitted learning after chatzos on Erev Tishah B’Av even when it fell on Shabbos. At the same time, he acknowledged that the Chazon Ish was stringent and ruled that even on Shabbos, one should only study topics permitted on Tishah B’Av.

In rendering his decision, Rav Zilberstein emphasized the practical consequences: canceling the Daf Yomi shiur would result in bittul Torah for a large group of people, many of whom would not learn anything at that time. Additionally, arranging an alternative topic aligned with the spirit of Tishah B’Av would likely not appeal to most of the participants. Therefore, he ruled that one may rely on the lenient opinion cited in the Mishnah Berurah and proceed with the Daf Yomi shiur as usual.

Rav Zilberstein also noted that this approach aligns with the position of his late father-in-law, Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv zt”l, who held that while public displays of learning that contradict the Rama’s ruling should be avoided, if canceling the shiur would lead to bittul Torah, the shiur may be held as usual.

The ruling also extended to the popular Avos Ubanim programs. According to the p’sak, since each father learns individually with his son, this format is not considered a public gathering of Torah study. Moreover, it is difficult to expect young children to engage only in the sections of Torah permitted on Tishah B’Av. As such, failing to hold Avos Ubanim would likely result in complete loss of Torah study for the children that afternoon.

As for the option of postponing the learning until after the fast, Rav Zilberstein ruled that this is not a justification to nullify Torah study now. “Bittul Torah,” he said, “remains an issue even today.”

{Matzav.com}

The New York Post reports that Jack Smith is now under formal investigation by the Office of Special Counsel, marking the first official inquiry into his conduct.

Smith had been tapped by the Justice Department to lead two high-profile criminal cases involving President Donald Trump—one focused on classified documents and another on Trump’s role in the events of January 6, 2021, and whether they constituted an effort to overturn the election. Both cases ultimately ended in dismissal.

According to a message obtained by the Post, the Hatch Act Unit—which is responsible for ensuring that federal employees do not engage in political activity in violation of the law—is now examining Smith’s conduct. The email was authored by Charles Baldis, a senior attorney with the Office of Special Counsel.

“I appreciate the Office of Special Counsel taking this seriously and launching an investigation into Jack Smith’s conduct. No one is above the law.”

Senator Tom Cotton, who heads the Senate Intelligence Committee, welcomed the move, claiming that Smith’s motivations were political in nature and intended to damage President Trump’s campaign. “Jack Smith’s actions were clearly driven to hurt President Trump’s election, and Smith should be held fully accountable,” Cotton told the Post.

The probe was initiated after Cotton sent a letter to the Office of Special Counsel earlier in the week, accusing Smith of using his authority to deliberately sabotage Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.

Smith, who had been appointed to his position by Attorney General Merrick Garland during the Biden administration, stepped down in January after Trump returned to the White House.

Republican critics of Smith have long argued that the charges brought against Trump were less about the law and more about politics, aimed at damaging his chances in the upcoming election.

In his letter, Cotton laid out his case that Smith had crossed legal and ethical lines. “Jack Smith’s legal actions were nothing more than a tool for the Biden and Harris campaigns. This isn’t just unethical, it is very likely illegal campaign activity from a public office,” Cotton wrote.

“Many of Smith’s legal actions seem to have no rationale except for an attempt to affect the 2024 election results – actions that would violate federal law.”

Cotton further accused Smith of manipulating the legal timeline to clash with key political milestones, such as the Iowa caucuses, in order to undermine Trump’s campaign.

“These actions were not standard, necessary, or justified,” he said. “They were the actions of a political actor masquerading as a public official.”

As of now, Smith has not issued any public comment in response to Cotton’s accusations. While in office, Smith consistently stated that his investigations were based on legal merits and were not swayed by political agendas.

{Matzav.com}

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee appeared on Salem Radio for a conversation with American commentator Scott Jennings ahead of his upcoming mission to Gaza, where he will be examining the humanitarian conditions on the ground.

Huckabee explained that President Trump had personally requested the visit so he could receive accurate and direct information about the situation. “The president wants us to go see firsthand and report back to him directly,” Huckabee said. The delegation is expected to tour food distribution centers and other areas that have been identified as suffering from severe shortages.

Calling out skewed media narratives, Huckabee expressed frustration over how the crisis in Gaza has been reported. “There has been so much misinformation,” he said, criticizing outlets like the New York Times for painting what he believes is a misleading picture. “We see a very different picture of what’s taking place in Gaza than most people who are reporting on it from the New York Times or other entities.”

Huckabee stressed that President Trump’s position on Hamas has not wavered and quoted him directly: “The fastest way to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is for Hamas to surrender and release the hostages.”

When the discussion turned to the prospects of hostage recovery, Huckabee noted that it’s essential to clearly identify those responsible. He also took aim at European leaders, accusing them of posturing rather than offering meaningful aid. “Not any of those countries that are whining about it have lifted a finger or have sent a box of food to Gaza,” he said.

Huckabee described Hamas’ underground operations and alleged that financial aid intended for the public was funneled into terror activity instead. “The tunnel system under Gaza is larger than the London underground,” he said, adding that billions in assistance were misappropriated by Hamas to construct that network.

In response to criticism that the United States and Israel haven’t done enough to ease suffering in Gaza, Huckabee pointed to the efforts of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which President Trump created. He claimed the foundation had distributed over 100 million meals and rejected media reports of violence at aid locations. He labeled such reports as falsehoods, blaming major news agencies for amplifying what he said were Hamas-generated lies.

Huckabee went on to accuse various media platforms of intentionally misrepresenting events. He cited examples of misleading headlines and recycled photos used to distort the truth. “That’s the kind of misinformation and outright disinformation that we’re having to deal with every single day,” he said.

Addressing the issue of Hamas commandeering aid shipments, Huckabee was unequivocal. “They absolutely are,” he said, asserting that many residents reported it was the first time they’d received food without being forced to pay. He credited the GHF with bypassing Hamas and delivering directly to those in need.

He also touched on the larger narrative of hostility toward Israel, attributing much of the world’s criticism to spiritual animosity rather than politics. “It’s a combination of antisemitism. There is a real hatred toward the Jewish people and toward Israel. I believe it’s a spiritual problem. I know a lot of people think it’s geopolitical. I don’t believe that,” Huckabee said. “If you’re really angry at God and you worship the creation instead of the creator, if you believe that climate change is the greatest real danger facing humanity and not the evil of selfishness and murder and mutilating children… it would be natural that you would probably direct a lot of your animosity and hatred toward the people that have been representing God for 3,800 years on this planet.”

Continuing on that theme, Huckabee discussed how resentment toward Israel often stems from both historical prejudice and envy. “The God of the Jewish faith—and that’s also the faith upon which every Christian builds his or her faith. There are certain levels of jealousy. The Israelis have built an extraordinary economy and life and world in a tiny sliver of land… And then there’s just this historic blood libel that ‘let’s blame the Jews for everything.’ One of the missions that I feel I have is to be able to stand and let people know that the story needs to be told correctly and honestly. Most of what they have heard about Israel specifically and the Jews in general it’s just simply not true.”

Addressing international diplomacy, Huckabee criticized efforts by some European nations to recognize a Palestinian state, describing such initiatives as dangerously naïve. “They had one. It was called Gaza. How did that work out?” he remarked.

Huckabee concluded his remarks by defending President Trump’s approach to the crisis, taking aim at both international and domestic critics. “President Trump has been consistent,” Huckabee stated, emphasizing once again that the key to resolving the crisis lies in Hamas surrendering and freeing the hostages.

{Matzav.com}

A federal jury in Miami has determined that Tesla shares partial responsibility for a deadly crash involving its Autopilot system, which killed a young woman and seriously injured her boyfriend in 2019. The jury awarded $200 million in punitive damages, in addition to compensatory damages, to the victims and their families.

According to CNBC, Tesla—led by Elon Musk—was found partly liable in a personal injury lawsuit stemming from a fatal crash that took place in Florida. This marks the first time Tesla has faced a federal jury in court over claims tied to the safety of its Autopilot driver assistance system.

The plaintiffs’ legal team had sought a total of $345 million in damages, which included $109 million for compensatory losses and $236 million in punitive penalties. The jury concluded that Tesla was one-third responsible for the crash, ultimately deciding to award $200 million in punitive damages, in addition to the compensatory amount.

The case revolves around a 2019 collision in Key Largo involving a Tesla Model S operated by George McGee. At the time, the vehicle was engaged in Tesla’s Enhanced Autopilot, a semi-autonomous feature meant to assist with driving tasks.

Testimony revealed that McGee dropped his phone while behind the wheel and tried to retrieve it, under the assumption that Autopilot would automatically slow or stop the car if it detected an obstacle. Instead, the vehicle sped through an intersection at more than 60 miles per hour and struck a parked car, hitting the couple standing beside it.

The impact killed 22-year-old Naibel Benavides, whose body was discovered roughly 75 feet from the crash site. Her boyfriend, Dillon Angulo, survived but sustained a traumatic brain injury, multiple fractures, and lasting psychological trauma. The plaintiffs—Benavides’ relatives and Angulo—sought compensation for their medical bills, emotional suffering, wrongful death, and punitive relief.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs contended that Tesla’s driver assistance technology contained serious flaws and that the company failed to adequately restrict the system’s use to appropriate environments. They also accused Tesla and Musk of misleading marketing practices, asserting that the company exaggerated the system’s safety and reliability, which led users to place too much trust in it.

Tesla’s defense team pushed back, arguing that McGee was solely to blame due to his reckless behavior and that the company had issued clear warnings and guidance on how to safely use Autopilot. They insisted that Tesla’s intention has always been to improve driver safety and warned that punishing the company could discourage technological advancement.

Breitbart News had previously reported on expert testimony presented during the trial, in which concerns were raised about the design and oversight of Tesla’s Autopilot system.

“According to Cummings, Tesla’s owner’s manual, which contains crucial warnings about the Autopilot system’s functionality, is not easily accessible to drivers. She also pointed out that Tesla had been grappling with drivers ignoring computer-generated warnings prior to the crash. Cummings noted that the company had not implemented geo-fencing, a technology already in use by other car manufacturers to prevent drivers from activating driver-assistance features on roads unsuitable for such systems.

“When asked by Brett Schreiber, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, about Tesla’s decision not to use geo-fencing in 2019, Cummings responded, ‘I believe they were using that as a way to sell more cars.’ Cummings, who previously served as a senior adviser at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is expected to face questioning from Tesla’s lawyers when she returns to the witness stand.”

{Matzav.com}

Two separate blackouts this week caused major disruptions across seven subway lines, bringing signal systems to a halt and sparking frustration from commuters, Governor Kathy Hochul, and the MTA.

The electrical failures, which took place at the West 4th Street station in Greenwich Village, occurred on both Wednesday and Thursday, amid extreme weather that included sweltering heat and torrential rain that led to flooding in parts of the transit system.

“For decades, the people who were in a position to do something about it failed to make the important upgrades,” Hochul stated during a Friday press conference held alongside MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber.

In remarks made Thursday, the governor said she had instructed the MTA “to undergo a full review of this week’s issues to prevent similar outages in the future.”

“We’re going to have $4 billion to upgrade aging power systems like the one at West 4th,” Hochul said, referencing the MTA’s 2025-2029 Capital Plan, which totals $68.4 billion and was included in the state’s financial framework.

Lieber pointed out that the city’s transit infrastructure is far past its prime and in desperate need of modernization.

“We’re talking about a 100-year-old electrical infrastructure—cloth-covered wires that are from our great grandparents’ era, and we just can’t live with that anymore,” he explained.

He added that the MTA is continuing to investigate the root of the failures. “We had a tough week. The riders experienced it. And we have to do better.”

{Matzav.com}

IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir visited the Gaza Strip on Friday for a comprehensive operational review. He was joined by Major General Yaniv Asor, who leads the Southern Command, along with Brigadier General Sagiv Dahan, head of the 162nd Division, and the commanders of the 401st Brigade, Givati Brigade, and Nahal Brigade, as well as other high-ranking military personnel.

During the tour, Zamir engaged in detailed discussions with field officers regarding the division’s recent successes and their strategy moving forward within the Gaza theater.

“I estimate that in the coming days we will know whether we can reach a partial deal for the release of our hostages. If not, the combat will continue without rest,” said Zamir.

He commended the troops on their recent operations under the banner of Operation “Gideon’s Chariots,” emphasizing their overwhelming battlefield performance and ability to neutralize terrorist networks. “As part of Operation ‘Gideon’s Chariots,’ you have achieved impressive and unprecedented accomplishments. Wherever you operated, you defeated the enemy and systematically struck terrorist infrastructure, both above and below ground,” he added.

Zamir noted that although the conflict is still ongoing, its direction would be adapted to align with evolving strategic goals. He stressed that the troops’ achievements give the IDF valuable room to maneuver. “The war continues, and we will adapt it to the changing reality according to our interests – the achievements you have made provide us with operational flexibility. We will persist and adapt, prepare properly, and act to maximize our advantages, reduce operational vulnerabilities and wear, and place Hamas under increasing pressure,” continued the Chief of Staff.

He further explained that operational methods will continue to evolve in response to changing battlefield dynamics. He credited recent advances in clearing key terrain in Gaza with creating new military opportunities, including improved protection for Israeli communities and a more sustained offensive push. “We will evolve and adjust our methods of operation. Thanks to the clearing of dominating terrain lines in the Gaza Strip, we have created a security area that enables operational opportunities, including strong defense of our communities and the ability to maintain a continuous offensive effort.”

Zamir outlined a targeted campaign rooted in intelligence, firepower precision, and calculated maneuvering that would keep Hamas on the defensive until Israel’s military objectives are fully accomplished. He also emphasized the importance of keeping soldiers fresh and avoiding strategic missteps. “An offensive effort based on intelligence, precise firepower, and shaping maneuver operations will systematically strike Hamas until the war’s objectives are achieved. We will reduce the fatigue of our troops and avoid falling into Hamas’ traps.”

Addressing recent international criticism, Zamir dismissed claims of deliberate starvation in Gaza as part of a slanderous disinformation effort aimed at undermining the IDF’s ethical standing. “The current campaign of false accusations of intentional starvation is a deliberate, timed, and deceitful attempt to accuse the IDF, a moral army, of war crimes. The ones responsible for the killing and suffering of the residents in the Gaza Strip is Hamas. IDF soldiers and commanders act with integrity and morality, in accordance with the IDF’s values and international law,” concluded Zamir.

{Matzav.com}

President Trump announced on Friday that he had directed two nuclear submarines to move closer to Russian waters in reaction to what he described as “highly provocative statements” made by a top Russian official.

Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council and a former president of the country, recently addressed Trump on X with a pointed warning: “each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war.”

“I have ordered two Nuclear Submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions, just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that,” Trump stated on Truth Social. He did not indicate the precise location of the submarines.

“Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences, I hope this will not be one of those instances,” he added in his post.

The Pentagon declined to provide further details, referring all inquiries to the White House. A spokesperson for the White House also refused to comment on the matter when approached.

Trump had earlier warned Russia that it could face secondary sanctions if it failed to end its military campaign in Ukraine by August 8.

In his response, Medvedev declared that Trump “should remember two things,” adding that “Russia isn’t Israel or even Iran” and that “each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country.”

“Don’t go down the Sleepy Joe road!” Medvedev mocked in the same post.

Known for his confrontational rhetoric, Medvedev often takes a far more combative tone in public than Russian President Vladimir Putin, especially when addressing the United States.

Medvedev held the Russian presidency from 2008 to 2012 and was broadly perceived as serving under Putin’s influence, as Putin had reached the constitutional limit on consecutive terms at the time.

Although Putin has yet to publicly address Trump’s warnings of sanctions, Medvedev has repeatedly taken to X to denounce the pressure campaign directly.

“Trump issued a theatrical ultimatum to the Kremlin. The world shuddered, expecting the consequences. Belligerent Europe was disappointed. Russia didn’t care,” Medvedev posted on July 15.

Medvedev, now 59, became even more confrontational during President Joe Biden’s tenure, asserting in November 2024 that if the U.S. were to deliver nuclear weapons to Ukraine, Russia would then be justified in launching a nuclear counterstrike.

He also took aim at Trump’s military directives regarding Iran’s nuclear program, writing in a June 22 post: “at this rate, Trump can forget about the Nobel Peace Prize — not even with how rigged it has become. What a way to kick things off, Mr. President. Congratulations!”

{Matzav.com}

In a moving moment on the sidelines of the major gathering in Maale HaChamisha protesting the draft decree, two towering Torah personalities—long-lost friends from their youth—were reunited after 80 years. Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein, one of the premier poskim of our time, and Rav Yaakov Meir Schechter, revered mashpia and ziknei Breslov, embraced warmly and exchanged brachos.

The event, held Wednesday night at the Sequoia Hall in Maale HaChamisha near Yerushalayim, drew leading gedolei Yisroel and admorim. Rav Zilberstein, rov of Ramat Elchonon and a member of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah of Degel HaTorah, attended alongside Rav Yaakov Meir Schechter, one of the most respected elder figures in the Breslover community. The two were seated near each other and delivered impassioned addresses during the gathering.

Though separated by three years—Rav Schechter is 94, and Rav Zilberstein is 91—the two were once chaveirim in the same class at Yeshiva LeTze’irim Slonim in Yerushalayim, under the leadership of the Netivos Shalom, the previous Slonimer Rebbe, whose yahrtzeit is today.

The Slonimer Rebbe had founded the yeshiva by handpicking the most outstanding boys from Talmudei Torah across the city. Among them were Rav Schechter, Rav Zilberstein—who at the time learned at Etz Chaim—and others who would go on to become leaders in Klal Yisroel, including Rav Moshe Halberstam zt”l and Rav Naftali Tzvi Halberstam zt”l, later the Bobover Rebbe.

The friendship between Rav Schechter and Rav Zilberstein was already exceptional in their youth, marked by a shared passion for Torah and a sense of destiny that set them apart. They learned together intensely, their bond cemented by their devotion to Torah from an early age.

But life took each down different paths, and the two would not meet again for eight decades.

When Rav Zilberstein heard that his childhood friend Rav Schechter would be attending the gathering, he was deeply emotional. He remarked that he wished he had a new fruit so he could recite a Shehecheyanu in honor of the momentous occasion. He noted that despite it being the Nine Days, the Mishnah Berurah rules that one may say Shehecheyanu if the moment is a fleeting mitzvah opportunity—mitzvah overes—which he felt this reunion certainly was.

Rav Schechter, for his part, also became emotional when he learned that Rav Zilberstein would be present. Riding to the event, he shared with his grandchildren and close attendants how deeply moved he was to finally be reunited with his dear friend.

Toward the end of the event, the two gedolim approached one another at the side of the hall. With warmth and visible emotion, they clasped hands and exchanged heartfelt words. The crowd looked on in awe.

Suddenly, Rav Zilberstein raised his voice and recited Shehecheyanu aloud: “Baruch Atah Hashem Elokeinu Melech ha’olam, shehechiyanu, v’kiyimanu, v’higiyanu la’zman hazeh,” his voice trembling. The room answered with a collective and tearful “Amen.”.

Before parting, the two wished one another long life, strength, and continued leadership in good health.

Later that evening, Rav Schechter, still stirred by the encounter, asked his grandson to call Rav Zilberstein so they could speak once more. Reaching him while Rav Zilberstein was en route home, the two gedolim spoke again—this time by phone—for several minutes.

During their conversation, Rav Zilberstein remarked, “Ashreichem, Rav Yaakov Meir, that you have merited to lead such a distinguished kehillah in Klal Yisroel.”

Rav Schechter then invited Rav Zilberstein to visit his community in person to deliver words of chizuk to the avreichim and bnei hayeshivos.

{Matzav.com}

Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy to the Middle East, shared that he was on the ground in Gaza for five hours today, working to get a direct view of the realities there and to engage with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

In a message posted to social media, Witkoff explained, “The purpose of the visit was to give US President Donald Trump a clear understanding of the humanitarian situation and help craft a plan to deliver food and medical aid to the people of Gaza.”

{Matzav.com}

According to a report by the Telegraph, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee removed a post on social media after making a controversial claim that Palestinians in Gaza “love Trump.” The statement followed his visit to a humanitarian aid distribution center operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation earlier in the day.

In his now-deleted tweet, Huckabee reportedly said that locals have nicknamed one of the last standing six-story buildings in Rafah “Trump tower,” a reference he claimed reflected admiration.

“They love @realDonaldTrump & believe he is helping,” Huckabee wrote, as cited by the Telegraph.

{Matzav.com}

A new video surfaced this Friday afternoon showing that Hamas is still holding Eviatar David, providing long-awaited proof that he is alive after nearly two years in captivity.

The footage, which was shared by Hamas terrorists, will not be made public in whole or in part without the explicit consent of Eviatar’s family, in accordance with the wishes of the families of the hostages.

Eviatar, 25, a resident of Kfar Saba, was abducted from the Nova music festival in Re’im along with his childhood friend Guy (Gilboa) Dalal. They had been attending the event with two others, Idan Haramati and Ron Sarfaty, both of whom were tragically killed. On the morning of the massacre, Eviatar called his mother and told her rockets were being fired. That was the last contact she had with him. Later that day, Hamas posted a video to Telegram showing Eviatar lying on the ground, visibly terrified as a flashlight was shone in his face.

A gifted musician, Eviatar plays both classical and acoustic guitar. He is the middle child of Galia and Avishai, with an older brother, Eli, 26, and a younger sister, Ye’ela, 18.

Back in February, when a hostage deal was underway, Hamas released another clip featuring both Eviatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal. The two were taken to the location where three other captives—Omar Wenkert, Omar Shem Tov, and Eliya Cohen—were freed, but they themselves were not released, only forced to witness the proceedings.

{Matzav.com}

A man who once boasted about his involvement in orchestrating the 9/11 terror attacks alongside Osama bin Laden may walk free from a British prison facility within days, even though authorities have labeled him a threat to public safety.

Haroon Aswat, who played a key role in establishing an al-Qaeda training base in the United States, is nearing the end of his psychiatric treatment at a secure mental health institution in the UK and is poised for release, according to The Sun.

His impending freedom has caused widespread outrage due to a loophole in the UK’s Mental Health Act that allows him to be released without a comprehensive risk evaluation.

“This despicable man was behind one of the most deadly attacks in modern history. He should never experience freedom again,” said Robert Jenrick, the country’s shadow justice secretary.

Aswat, who has long been linked to bin Laden, was handed a 20-year prison sentence by a US court in 2015 after admitting he tried to launch an al-Qaeda training site in Oregon.

During his incarceration in the United States, he allegedly claimed a role in planning both the September 11 attacks, which took thousands of lives in New York, and the 2005 bombings in the UK that killed 52 people.

“In March 2017 the defendant stated, ‘if you think I am a terrorist, I don’t shy away from my responsibility’ and also stated he was a mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks and a 2005 terrorist attack in the UK,” the court papers stated.

In 2022, he was returned to the UK following a prison visit by a psychiatrist from Britain.

Even though counterterrorism authorities in the UK evaluated Aswat and warned that he still poses a danger, a judge has ruled that his release under mental health provisions could happen in the “relatively near future.”

Once released, Aswat will only be required to follow a notification order, obligating him to report his home address and inform law enforcement about any planned travel.

President Donald Trump is urging the Federal Reserve board to intervene directly if Chair Jerome Powell refuses to take immediate action to slash interest rates.

“Jerome ‘Too Late’ Powell, a stubborn MORON, must substantially lower interest rates, NOW. IF HE CONTINUES TO REFUSE, THE BOARD SHOULD ASSUME CONTROL, AND DO WHAT EVERYONE KNOWS HAS TO BE DONE!” Trump declared in a fiery post on Truth Social.

The Federal Reserve opted to keep interest rates unchanged on Wednesday, and Powell’s remarks following the announcement dampened expectations of a rate cut in September. That decision triggered sharp criticism from Trump, who has long advocated for a rapid and significant reduction in borrowing costs.

The central bank’s decision came with a rare 9-2 vote, revealing an unusual split among the policymakers. It marked the first time in over three decades that two governors dissented in a vote by the traditionally unified Fed.

All seven members of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors are appointed by the president and require Senate confirmation.

Trump has made no secret of his disdain for Powell’s approach to monetary policy, hurling insults like “numbskull” and openly saying that his removal “cannot come fast enough.” His frustration with Powell dates back to 2018—despite having nominated him—when Trump criticized the Fed’s interest rate increases as “crazy” and “loco,” and even suggested he might fire the Fed chair.

{Matzav.com}

Kamala Harris sat down with Stephen Colbert for her first interview since the election, where she voiced her frustration with the current state of American politics and hinted that her days of seeking elected office may be behind her. The vice president, who was defeated in a landslide by President Donald Trump, said the political system itself has become dysfunctional.

During the interview with Colbert — whose tenure as host of “The Late Show” is coming to a close — Harris was asked whether, after bowing out of the 2026 California governor’s race, she might have her sights set on another political role.

“No … it’s perhaps more basic than that,” Harris said in response.

Explaining her position, she continued, “Recently I made the decision that I just, for now, I don’t want to go back in the system. I think it’s broken.”

Despite having run a campaign that brought in over a billion dollars, Harris fell short in every battleground state, lost the Electoral College, and was defeated in the popular vote by Trump last fall.

Reflecting on the experience and the state of the country, she remarked, “I always believed that as fragile as our democracy is, our systems would be strong enough to defend our most fundamental principles. And I think, right now, that they’re not as strong as they need to be. And I just don’t want to, for now — I don’t want to go back in the system.”

Instead, Harris said she’s hoping to connect with Americans in a different way. “I want to travel the country. I want to listen to people. I want to talk with people. And I don’t want it to be transactional, where I’m asking for their vote.”

Colbert, who had supported the Biden-Harris ticket and hosted a campaign fundraiser for President Biden before he exited the race, seemed taken aback by Harris’ desire to step away from politics.

“It’s harrowing,” he commented after hearing her bleak take on the political landscape.

Looking surprised, Colbert followed up, saying, “I’m hearing you don’t want to be a part of the fight anymore.”

Harris quickly pushed back. “Oh, absolutely not. I’m always going to be part of the fight.”

Her latest appearance on “The Late Show” — her eighth time on the program — coincides with the upcoming launch of her new book, 107 Days, which she called a “behind-the-scene sharing of what it means to run for president.”

While she acknowledged that her campaign against Trump was “very intense,” Harris confessed that pursuing the presidency was never her lifelong goal.

“There are some people who are born or grow up believing, ‘I’m going to be president. I want to be president’ — that wasn’t me,” she said.

Colbert also asked about the period after Biden’s widely criticized debate performance in June 2024, and whether she had been encouraged to step up and take his place.

“There were some who did,” Harris admitted. “But I — listen, it was, it was Joe’s decision, and he made that decision.”

Later in the conversation, Colbert tried to get her to name who she sees as the current figurehead of the Democratic Party, but Harris declined to single anyone out.

“There are lots of leaders,” she said. “I’m not going to go through names, because then I’m going to leave somebody out, and then I’m going to hear about it.”

Asked how long it took her to start watching the news again after Trump’s victory, Harris replied without hesitation: “Months.”

“I’m just not into self-mutilation,” she said.

A close confidant of President Joe Biden told congressional investigators that he stood to receive as much as $8 million if Biden had secured re-election in 2024, according to a source who spoke with Fox News Digital.

Michael Donilon, who held the role of senior advisor throughout Biden’s presidency, has a professional relationship with Biden that stretches back more than four decades, beginning in 1981 when Biden served as a U.S. senator from Delaware.

Donilon recently testified behind closed doors as part of the House Oversight Committee’s investigation into whether members of Biden’s inner circle concealed signs of cognitive decline and whether presidential actions were authorized using an autopen without Biden’s direct input.

When questioned, Donilon said he had no knowledge of the autopen’s use and could not recall ever hearing about it, according to the Fox News Digital source.

In addition to his White House position, Donilon was Biden’s chief strategist for both the 2020 and 2024 campaigns. He reportedly disclosed to investigators that he was paid $4 million for his role in the 2024 campaign. That figure was previously revealed in the book Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again, authored by Axios reporter Alex Thompson and CNN host Jake Tapper.

Had Biden gone on to win the 2024 election, Donilon allegedly would have received an additional $4 million, bringing his potential total compensation to $8 million.

Biden eventually exited the 2024 race following a disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump in June, which triggered intense calls from Democratic leaders for him to step aside.

Donilon reportedly told committee members he “believes the punditry and Democrats in Congress overreacted after Joe Biden’s disastrous debate,” according to the same source. He further contended that Biden’s communication abilities “got stronger” during his presidency.

The source also noted that Donilon acknowledged Biden’s diminished physical presence and verbal slips, stating: “During his interview, Mr. Donilon admitted that Joe Biden’s presence wasn’t as commanding, and he could stumble over more words. Mr. Donilon stated he was frustrated and knew it was difficult to get past the visuals of President Biden that people were seeing.”

In his prepared remarks, obtained by Fox News Digital, Donilon highlighted his long-standing relationship with Biden and cited the administration’s successes—such as navigating the COVID-19 crisis, driving job recovery, and passing key legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act.

“I was with President Joe Biden from his first day in office to the last day. What I saw, day in and day out, was a leader who was deeply engaged and in command on critical issues, both at home and abroad,” Donilon said in his opening statement.

“Every President ages over the four years of a presidency and President Biden did as well, but he also continued to grow stronger and wiser as a leader as a result of being tested by some of the most difficult challenges any President has ever faced.

“I thought that experience was enormously valuable for the nation. I believed that President Biden was the best person to lead the country on the day he took the oath of office and I continued to believe that was true every day he served as President.”

Donilon is now the eighth former Biden administration official to testify before the Oversight Committee, which is being led by Chairman James Comer of Kentucky.

Separately, a person familiar with the Biden team’s perspective described the Republican-led investigation as “dangerous” and “an attempt to smear and embarrass.”

“And their hope is for just one tiny inconsistency between witnesses to appear so that Trump’s DOJ prosecute his political opponents and continue his campaign of revenge,” the source added.

{Matzav.com}

Hadas Loewenstern, whose husband Rav Elisha Hy”d was killed in battle in Gaza during Operation Iron Swords, has become engaged to Hod Reichert, whose wife Chagit passed away at the end of November, just ten days after delivering a baby girl via cesarean section.

“We got engaged,” Loewenstern wrote on her WhatsApp status. She noted that the couple had intended to announce their engagement after Tishah B’Av, but the news became public earlier than planned.

“The work of the righteous is done by others,” she added. “The truth is we had planned to share the news on Motzaei Tishah B’Av, but thanks to all your love… your hearts ran ahead of us. So, okay, let the chaos begin.”

In an earlier interview, Loewenstern described her decision to move forward after her husband’s death. “Many people tell me, ‘Stop being so strong.’ They struggle with the fact that I smile, that I wear makeup, that I keep going. And I tell them these aren’t my own strengths—they come from leaning on Am Yisrael.”

She continued, “There’s another factor. The terrorists in the tunnels have cell reception. They see us. And I really believe Sinwar doesn’t deserve to see me broken.”

Hod Reichert lost his wife when her health suddenly deteriorated during a complicated late-term pregnancy. Chagit passed away at the age of 37, leaving behind four daughters.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Authorities in Virginia have made public surveillance footage capturing the alleged abduction of a toddler by a 26-year-old man inside a local mall.

Fairfax County Police say the incident took place around 11:45 a.m. on July 18, when a young girl wandered away from the indoor play area at the Fair Oaks Shopping Center in Fair Oaks, Virginia. At that point, she was allegedly seized by 26-year-old Andres Caceres Jaldin, according to FOX 5.

The child’s parents quickly located Jaldin on the mall’s second floor and successfully retrieved their daughter.

WATCH:

Police say Jaldin fled the shopping center but was taken into custody shortly afterward at the Extended Stay hotel located in Chantilly, Virginia. Investigators say he had also stolen a vehicle from an auto repair shop prior to the alleged kidnapping.

In the video released by police, Jaldin is seen approaching the toddler, lifting her up, and walking away from the scene.

Jaldin now faces charges of abduction of a minor and grand larceny.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that he was taken into custody while leaving his hotel room.

Jaldin is currently being held without bail at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center.

{Matzav.com}

Starbucks is preparing to phase out its pick-up only café model by 2026, according to CEO Brian Niccol, who shared the news during a recent earnings call.

Explaining the motivation for the shift, Niccol said the company is aiming to bring back “that moment of connection between a barista and their customer.”

“We found this format to be overly transactional and lacking the warmth and human connection that defines our brand,” Niccol said on the call Tuesday, July 29. “We have a strong digital offering and believe we can deliver the same level of convenience through our community coffeehouses with a superior mobile order and pay experience.”

The pick-up only stores, which launched in 2019, were introduced as a way to cater to the growing demand for quick service, as CNBC previously reported. These locations were designed specifically for mobile app orders.

Niccol noted that the company intends to shutter between 80 and 90 of these pick-up locations for good.

As of now, Starbucks lists 97 pick-up cafés across 24 states, including three in Massachusetts.

{Matzav.com}

On Thursday broadcast of MSNBC’s Morning Joe, host Joe Scarborough made a bold claim regarding immigration, stating, “the Southern border is as secure as it’s been in 60 years.”

Scarborough directed a question to John Lemire, asking him to weigh in on how the Biden administration is managing the immigration narrative. He noted, “So, John Lemire, talk about how the White House is balancing this. You have, in one instance, a Southern border, which Donald Trump promised he would secure. You wouldn’t have the number of migrants crossing every day that you had during the Biden administration. That certainly is the case. I mean, the Southern border is as secure as it’s been in 60 years.”

He went on to highlight the contrast between administrations. “On the other side of that, Joe Biden was able to deport a larger number of people who came here illegally because there were so many, so many more near the Southern border. Now, that’s not the case.” Scarborough added that the Trump administration is now in a position where, although they benefit from a relatively calm border, they are resorting to less favorable tactics. “So you have the Trump administration on one hand, wanting to be able to celebrate basically, for the most part, a quiet Southern border. But to keep up with the numbers of Biden, to keep up with the numbers of Obama, they’re having to go into neighborhoods. They’re having to do things that they know are not politically positive for them and also or just are brutish, and turn off a lot of voters, aren’t they? Because I keep hearing that they’re looking forward to the possibility of an immigration compromise on the Hill. Where are they right now, though, on that?”

Lemire responded by referencing a recent exchange with a high-ranking Biden official, explaining, “Yeah, a senior White House official and I had a very similar conversation earlier this week about this very issue. This official sort of categorizes the administration as being victims of their own success.”

{Matzav.com}

In an interview broadcast Thursday evening on NBC News, President Donald Trump weighed in on the unfolding crisis in Gaza.

He spoke about the upcoming visit planned for Friday by his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, who are scheduled to travel to Gaza to assess conditions on the ground.

“We want to make sure people get fed,” Trump said, expressing interest in hearing the findings Witkoff and Huckabee would bring back after their trip.

When asked if he believes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can effectively oversee the distribution of American aid in Gaza, Trump responded, “he’s certainly a competent person,” though he acknowledged ongoing worries about Hamas intercepting supplies.

“Good management will stop that. Hopefully, the Israelis will provide that,” he told NBC News, underscoring the importance of strong oversight.

Earlier in the day, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Witkoff and Huckabee would be entering Gaza to get a firsthand view of the situation and to work out a new framework for delivering humanitarian assistance.

“I know the topic of Israel is on everyone’s mind. I have an update from Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, who I got off the phone with this morning. Special Envoy Witkoff and Ambassador Huckabee had a very productive meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu and other officials today in Israel on the topic of delivering much-needed food and aid to Gaza,” Leavitt told reporters during her press briefing.

“President Trump is a humanitarian with a big heart, and that’s why he sent Special Envoy Witkoff to the region in an effort to save lives and end this crisis. Tomorrow, Special Envoy Witkoff and Ambassador Huckabee will be traveling into Gaza to inspect the current distribution sites and secure a plan to deliver more food and meet with local Gazans to hear first-hand about this dire situation on the ground. The Special Envoy and the Ambassador will brief the President immediately after their visit to approve a final plan for food and aid distribution into the region, and we will provide more details for all of you once that plan is approved and agreed on by the President of the United States,” she continued.

Later in the day, when asked to comment on Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene’s suggestion that the events in Gaza amount to genocide, Trump shared his concerns.

“Oh, it’s terrible what’s occurring there, yeah. It’s a terrible thing. People are very hungry. You know, the United States gave $60 million for food. And it’s a shame because nobody, you know, I don’t see the results of it, and we gave it to people that in theory are watching over it fairly closely. We wanted Israel to watch over it. But part of the problem is Hamas is taking the money and they’re taking the food,” Trump said.

“But we gave $60 million a couple of weeks ago. Nobody said anything about it. Nobody said thank you. But I didn’t need to thank you. I just wanted the people to get fed. And we’re helping out financially with that situation,” he added.