Matzav

In a Sunday op-ed published by the Jerusalem Post, MK Yair Lapid, leader of the opposition, offered a firm endorsement of Israel’s recent military response against Iran, arguing that it was both warranted and essential.

Lapid issued a stark warning about Iran’s intentions, stating that the regime “could advance its nuclear program and work to build an arsenal of nuclear weapons,” while continuing to “fund and support terror organizations that do everything they can to murder Jews in Israel and abroad.” He further cautioned that Iran “could target Israelis abroad, including mass casualty terror attacks,” and attempt to “normalize … the idea that it is legitimate to attempt to destroy Israel and wipe out the Jewish people.”

He stressed that the Iranian threat is far from theoretical, noting that “Iran stands behind Hamas and Hezbollah, behind the massacre on October 7, and behind the attack on the Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires and further attacks from Bulgaria to Mumbai, from Kenya to Thailand.” Lapid pointed out that the regime has made its intentions abundantly clear: it has “repeatedly said, without hesitation and without shame, that its ultimate goal is the destruction of the State of Israel.”

Drawing a sharp distinction between the two nations, Lapid said: “And to avoid any doubt, Israel isn’t interested in destroying Iran. We have no historical or territorial conflict with the Iranian people. We have no demands of one another except for one: The Iranian regime wants us to die, and we refuse.”

While often critical of Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu, Lapid stood behind the decision to strike Iran and the urgency behind it. “The whole country is united in this moment, when faced with an enemy sworn to our destruction, nothing will divide us,” he wrote. He ended with a firm message on the stakes: “We went to war for the only reason that justifies war – we had no choice. A nuclear Iran would have been an existential threat to the State of Israel. Iran cannot be a nuclear state. Not now. Not ever.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu said in an interview with Fox News on Sunday that Israel’s recent air assault on Iran, carried out under Operation Rising Lion, was launched to prevent what he described as a looming nuclear catastrophe.

According to Netanyahu, Israel’s decision to act was based on intelligence indicating that Iran was only a few months away from building its first nuclear weapon.

“We had to act,” Netanyahu declared. “It was the 12th hour, and we did act. To save ourselves but also … to protect the world from this incendiary regime.”

He explained that Israeli intelligence, which was also shared with the United States, revealed a covert Iranian program focused on weaponizing uranium. “The intel we got and we shared with the United States was absolutely clear: That they were working in a secret plan to weaponize the uranium, they were marching very quickly, they would achieve a test device and possibly an initial device within months, and certainly less than a year,” he said.

“That is something that we couldn’t possibly accept,” Netanyahu continued. “We will not have a second Holocaust, a nuclear Holocaust. We already had one, in the previous century – the Jewish state is not going to have the Holocaust committed on the Jewish people. It’s not going to happen.”

Netanyahu further stated that intelligence assessments indicated Iran had already accumulated enough enriched uranium to produce nine nuclear bombs. “All they had to do was weaponize them. We stopped that,” he told Fox News.

When Fox News anchor Bret Baier asked whether Israel’s operation aimed to bring about regime change in Iran, Netanyahu responded, “It could certainly be the result, because the Iran regime is very weak.”

He elaborated by condemning the ruling clerics in Tehran, saying, “80% of the people would throw these theological thugs out. They shoot women because their hair is uncovered. They shoot students. They just suck the oxygen out from these brave and gifted people, the Iranian people. The decision to act, to rise up this time, is the decision of the Iranian people.”

The Israeli leader expressed confidence that the military strikes had dealt a serious blow to Iran’s capabilities. “I think we’ve set them back quite a bit. They were very surprised,” Netanyahu told Fox News.

{Matzav.com}

In an unexpected development, the mashgiach, Rav Don Segal, has departed for the United States to join a critical fundraising mission on behalf of Keren Olam HaTorah.

The mashgiach will be joining forces with Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch and Rav Dovid Cohen, to raise vital support for the Torah world during this time of unprecedented need.

The Mashgiach’s arrival is all the more remarkable given his recent stay in Switzerland, where he has been recuperating. His decision to embark on this journey underscores the urgency of the cause and his unwavering dedication to the needs of the Olam HaTorah.

With flights from Eretz Yisroel disrupted due to the ongoing conflict, the mashgiach has gone to great lengths to travel to the United States, determined to stand alongside his fellow gedolim in this critical campaign.

{Matzav.com}

According to Iran International, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was moved to a secure underground facility in northeastern Tehran just hours after Israel launched airstrikes on Friday.

The report, which cites two well-placed sources within Iran, states that Khamenei is currently accompanied by his entire family in a shelter located in the Lavizan district.

The same bunker had reportedly been used by Khamenei during earlier crises, including Iran’s missile attacks on Israel in April and October of 2024.

The news outlet also quotes a diplomatic source from the region who said that Israel deliberately chose not to target Khamenei on the first night of its military operation. According to the source, the decision was made in hopes of giving Iran’s leader one last opportunity to fully abandon his nuclear enrichment efforts.

{Matzav.com}

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In a stirring drasha, Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Slabodka, delivered powerful divrei chizuk last night to a packed audience in Chicago as part of his ongoing visit to the United States.

Speaking with his trademark clarity, Rav Hirsch stressed that everyone must remember that everything that occurs always, and now during the current war, is orchestrated by Hakadosh Boruch Hu.

Rav Hirsch spoke about the current tzarah facing Klal Yisroel, referencing the threats in Eretz Yisroel and beyond.

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO BELOW:

{Matzav.com}

In a rare national address on Sunday evening, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir spoke directly to the people of Israel as the nation pushes deeper into a high-stakes confrontation with Iran.

“Fellow Israelis, we are now entering the third day of Operation Rising Lion—an operation of historic scale and consequence,” he began. “This campaign is our response to a threat that has been maturing for years—an existential danger deliberately cultivated by Iran with one clear goal: our destruction. We are executing a carefully structured and adaptive plan.”

Zamir described the most recent phase of the operation as a significant milestone. “Over the last day, we successfully carved out an aerial corridor leading into Tehran and launched targeted strikes. Our pilots are operating far beyond Israeli airspace, reaching hundreds of kilometers into enemy territory to dismantle a wide range of Iranian military assets with surgical precision. At the same time, we are identifying and eliminating the launch sites targeting our cities.”

He went on to recount the operation’s opening moves. “We struck first, with surprise and strategy. Our initial attack disrupted Iran’s senior military leadership. This was not just symbolic—it was a calculated blow meant to alter the balance. Our operations are growing in force, and the goal is simple: long-term security for the people of Israel.”

Acknowledging the hardships, Zamir was clear-eyed. “We knew this path would come at a cost. But delaying action would have meant even greater peril. We are doing everything possible—using our most advanced systems and tactics—to protect lives, though we must be honest: there is no such thing as total safety.”

He urged the public to adhere strictly to official safety protocols. “There have been casualties from missile attacks early in the campaign. My heart is with those who lost loved ones and those who are injured. Please, follow the Home Front Command’s instructions exactly. These directives save lives. We all share this responsibility.”

Zamir extended his gratitude to those serving the home front and in uniform. “I want to commend the Home Front Command and our entire security apparatus for their tireless work under pressure. And let me be clear: anyone who dares to strike at Israel will face consequences—no matter where they are.”

Turning to the broader regional landscape, Zamir noted that Israel is contending with threats on multiple fronts. “Even as we target Iran’s regime, we are maintaining defensive operations in Gaza and elsewhere. Across every battlefield, our soldiers are showing remarkable courage and commitment.”

He paused to remember a fallen soldier. “Yesterday, we lost a brave warrior—Reservist Staff Sergeant Noam Shemesh from the Kfir Brigade, who died in action in Gaza. To his family, I extend our deepest condolences. His sacrifice will not be forgotten. We press forward, focused and resolute.”

Concluding with a message of hope and fortitude, Zamir invoked Israel’s national spirit. “In times of crisis, the Israeli people have always stood strong and united. That moment is now. We are a people that values life, and in defense of that life, we are willing to face hard choices. This campaign continues—with purpose, solidarity, resolve, and belief in the righteousness of our mission. Our actions define us. As the pasuk says: ‘Like a lion, the people rise.’”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu discusses why Israel carried out their strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, intel shared with the United States and more on ‘Special Report.’

WATCH:

President Trump issued a stark warning on Sunday that the United States might become directly entangled in the conflict between Israel and Iran if the hostilities do not de-escalate soon.

Although Trump expressed hope that Israel and Iran would eventually “make a deal” to bring an end to the heavy exchanges of missile fire that began Friday, he made it clear that the U.S. could be drawn into the fight if diplomacy fails to yield results.

“We’re not involved in it. It’s possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved,” Trump told ABC News.

Trump also floated the possibility of Russian President Vladimir Putin playing a role in negotiating peace, citing the Kremlin’s diplomatic ties with both sides of the conflict.

“He is ready. He called me about it. We had a long talk about it. We talked about this more than his situation,” Trump said, alluding to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. “This is something I believe is going to get resolved.”

Even though Trump maintained that the United States has not taken part in the military operations, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi insisted on Sunday that Washington is complicit, alleging U.S. coordination with Israeli strikes.

“We have received messages from the US through various channels over the past two days stating that the US had no involvement and will have no involvement in this attack,” he said. “As I said, we don’t believe the US’s claim.”

Amid growing tension and intensifying military activity, the U.S. State Department announced that it had authorized certain American personnel and their families to leave Israel voluntarily, citing safety concerns.

“US citizens who wish to depart should not delay in taking advantage of commercial transportation options,” the State Department said in an advisory. The notice also stated that a shelter-in-place directive for the U.S. Embassy remains in effect until further notice.

{Matzav.com}

According to a report from Reuters on Sunday, which cited two U.S. officials, President Donald Trump recently rejected an Israeli request to carry out a strike targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

“Have the Iranians killed an American yet? No. Until they do, we’re not even talking about going after the political leadership,” a senior official in the U.S. administration told Reuters.

Barak Ravid of Axios confirmed the Reuters report, citing a U.S. official who explained: “Since the operation commenced, the Israelis had an opportunity to kill the Supreme Leader. We communicated to the Israelis that President Trump is opposed to that. The Iranians haven’t killed an American, and discussion of killing political leaders should not be on the table.”

In response to the report, Israeli National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi refuted the claims during an interview with Keren Marciano on Channel 12. He called it “fake news from the land of fake news. We did not request it, and we are not requesting it. The Americans make decisions based on their own interests.”

Hanegbi went on to say, “There is no immunity for political leaders. The initial decision was not to target the political leadership. At present, that is not the decision — but everything can change within 60 seconds.”

A senior Israeli official told the Wall Street Journal over the weekend that Israel is not ruling out Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a possible target as it ramps up airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

The official clarified that Israel’s focus goes beyond attacking nuclear facilities, saying that its mission includes striking at Iran’s political and military leadership. He noted that Israeli forces have already killed nine top scientists involved in Iran’s uranium enrichment program, in addition to eliminating several high-ranking Iranian generals.

On Sunday night, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu spoke publicly about Israel’s recent military campaign targeting Iran, emphasizing what he referred to as major accomplishments.

“Our incredible pilots are now flying above the skies of burning Tehran,” Netanyahu said. “We are determined to complete the mission of removing the dual threat.”

Netanyahu also appealed for internal solidarity amid the crisis. “Four of our citizens were killed in Tamra. I heard people cheering, and I am disgusted by it. Missiles do not distinguish between Jews and Arabs. They target us all. The enemy wants to destroy every one of us — and we are fighting this battle together.”

During an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu discussed the reasoning behind the timing of the Israeli military response. “We launched the attack now because we were facing an immediate and existential dual threat. First, Iran was close to using its enriched uranium to produce nuclear weapons, with a clear and explicit intention to destroy us. Second, they were racing to expand their ballistic missile arsenal.”

He said Iran was quickly increasing its missile production capacity. “In three years, that would mean 10,000 ballistic missiles, each weighing a ton and capable of reaching our cities at Mach 6 speeds — as we saw today. In six years, it would have grown to 20,000 missiles. No country can withstand that, certainly not a country the size of Israel. We had no choice but to act, not only to defend ourselves but to protect the world from this dangerous regime. The most dangerous regime in the world must not possess the most dangerous weapons.”

Netanyahu announced that Israel had succeeded in eliminating the intelligence chief of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, along with his second-in-command. “We chose to act, because we had to. We saw enough enriched uranium for nine nuclear bombs. All they needed to do was weaponize it. We stopped it through targeted strikes. We’re hitting their nuclear sites. We took out their chief nuclear scientist, just like we wouldn’t have left Hitler’s scientists untouched. Would you? Of course not. We also targeted their senior command, and I can now confirm that just moments ago, we eliminated their intelligence chief and his deputy in Tehran.”

He further claimed that the Iranian regime is suppressing the true scale of the destruction it has suffered. “Mass evacuations are happening in Iran right now, but you’re not hearing about it — because they’re hiding it.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Air raid sirens rang out on Sunday across broad sections of Israel, including the north, center, Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and the Arava region, after the Israel Defense Forces detected missile launches originating from Iran.

In response, the Israeli Air Force launched operations aimed at intercepting the incoming missiles and targeting the launch sources as needed to neutralize the danger.

One missile reportedly struck near Haifa. Emergency medical teams from Magen David Adom treated seven individuals in the area: a woman sustained moderate injuries, three people suffered minor wounds, and three others were treated for trauma-related shock.

According to the IDF, search and rescue personnel were dispatched to multiple sites throughout the country in response to reports of missile impacts.

This marked the second missile attack by Iran on Israel since midday. After the initial launch, the IDF reported that the majority of the projectiles had been intercepted and that there were no confirmed impacts at that time.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The public was informed on Sunday that the remains of Warrant Officer Aviv Atzili were retrieved from Gaza last week, along with those of Yair Yaakov.

Atzili served as a member of the emergency response unit in Nir Oz and confronted the terrorists who infiltrated Israel on October 7, 2023. He lost his life in the fighting, and his body was taken by Islamic Jihad operatives from the kibbutz. He was 49 years old when he was killed.

His wife, Liat, had been kidnapped from their home in Nir Oz by Hamas operatives and was later freed through a hostage release agreement.

Liat learned of her husband’s death two days after she was brought home. The couple had three children—ages 18, 20, and 22. On the day of the attack, their youngest daughter, Aya, was away serving her national service in Kibbutz Samar. The two older children, Ofri and Neta, were present at Nir Oz during the attack but survived.

Israeli forces from the 188th Brigade uncovered the tunnel shaft in Khan Yunis during their operation, spotting evidence suggesting it was used to hold hostages. Elite soldiers from the Yahalom Unit were brought in, descended into the tunnel, and discovered the two bodies.

As of now, 53 individuals remain held in Gaza; authorities estimate that 20 are still alive, while 33 are believed to have died.

In a public statement, the Hostages Families Forum shared its sorrow: “extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Aviv Atzili during this difficult time, following the announcement of his return home. His return serves as a stark reminder of the obligation to bring back all 53 remaining hostages—a duty that remains as urgent today as ever and must remain our constant priority. We ask that the family’s request for privacy be respected and that they not be approached directly.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Amidst the current conflict with Iran, the Boyaner Rebbe delivered heartfelt words of chizuk to his chassidim in a recorded message sent out on Motzoei Shabbos.

The Rebbe, addressing the severity of the current situation, urged his chassidim to remain calm and to help create an atmosphere of serenity in their homes, especially for the sake of their children.

In the audio recording, the Rebbe can be heard saying: “A gut voch. May it be a good week, a week of salvation for all Jews. ‘B’motzaei yom menucha, amtzei l’amecha revacha, shelach Tishbi l’ne’enacha, v’nas yagoin va’anacha.’ Jews are living through an ‘eis tzarah hi l’Yaakov,’ but we have bitachon that from it will come salvation.”

He continued by calling on his chassidim to strengthen themselves spiritually: “Yisrael nosha baHashem teshuas olamim. We must do our part. Each person must increase in what they can — improve their bein adam lachaveiro and bein adam laMakom through teshuvah, good deeds, limud Torah, tzedakah, and chesed. This is how we can bring more merit for Klal Yisrael, wherever they are.”

Turning to practical advice, the Rebbe emphasized the importance of projecting faith and strength within the home: “We must calm the children, instill in them emunah and bitachon in Hashem. ‘He’emanti ki adaber’ — we must speak words of faith. Hashem will help us merit the great salvation: ‘Yisrael nosha baHashem teshuas olamim,’ with the coming of the goel tzedek, speedily in our days, Amen.”

The rebbe then concluded by singing the niggun, “Chizku ve’yaametz levavchem.”

LISTEN:

{Matzav.com Israel}

IDF Spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin addressed the press on the latest developments in Operation Rising Lion, focusing on the continued wave of Israeli airstrikes across Iranian territory.

During his briefing, Defrin outlined key targets hit by the Israeli Air Force in Tehran overnight. Among the sites struck were locations critical to Iran’s military infrastructure, including storage facilities for fuel, a plant involved in centrifuge manufacturing, and a facility tied to chemical research.

“We are not stopping attacking for a moment,” Defrin said. “We have attacked more than 80 targets across Iran since last night. The Air Force’s attacks are focused on damaging nuclear facilities. We attacked the Iranian regime’s nuclear headquarters, we attacked development and research sites for the production of raw materials and laboratories for the development of nuclear weapons, we attacked fuel depots that assist Iranian military industries.”

Defrin emphasized the importance of following safety protocols during emergencies. “We have seen clear evidence in recent days that those who remained in protected areas during the Iranian attacks were not harmed,” said Defrin. He further stated, “In recent days, the behavior of the public is further proof that the Home Front Command’s directives save lives.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

The United Kingdom has issued a directive strongly discouraging its citizens from traveling to Israel or areas under the Palestinian Authority due to the intensifying hostilities between Israel and Iran.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said, “The UK now advises against all travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. My message to British nationals there is clear – your safety remains our top priority. Follow our travel advice for the latest updates.”

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) echoed that position, announcing, “FCDO now advises against all travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. British nationals should continue to follow the advice of local authorities.”

The government cited the recent wave of Iranian missile and drone strikes on Israel as a key factor in the decision. “Iran has launched multiple rounds of missile and drone attacks against Israel. On 13 June a nationwide state of emergency was declared in Israel. This followed Israeli strikes against nuclear and military facilities in Iran. Israeli airspace remains closed,” the advisory noted.

Additionally, UK citizens were warned that traveling to the region under current conditions could invalidate their travel insurance, leaving them without coverage in the event of an emergency.

{Matzav.com}

As Israel’s airspace stays shut due to security threats stemming from the ongoing conflict with Iran, the country’s major airlines — El Al, Arkia, Israir, and Air Haifa — have extended their suspension of all flights, with cancellations now continuing through at least June 17.

El Al announced Sunday that it has grounded all its scheduled flights, including those of its budget carrier Sun d’Or, until Tuesday. The airline also specified that routes to and from numerous international cities — such as Berlin, Barcelona, Warsaw, Munich, Lisbon, Tokyo, Venice, Thessaloniki, and Moscow — will remain on hold through June 23.

“We understand the distress and uncertainty this situation is causing our passengers, both those stranded abroad and those with disrupted travel plans,” the airline said in a statement. El Al pledged to resume regular service and launch rescue flights from nearby hubs once clearance is granted by security and aviation officials.

El Al emphasized that rescue flight bookings will be made available exclusively through a special link on its website. The company also noted that its call centers are in emergency mode and handling only urgent customer needs.

Arkia released a similar announcement, stating that all flights scheduled through June 17 are canceled. The airline said it is operating in close cooperation with aviation authorities and the IDF’s Home Front Command.

For passengers who made bookings by June 12 for travel between June 15 and June 30, Arkia is offering flight credit valid for two years. Travelers who purchased full vacation packages will be reimbursed for the flight component, though hotel fees may still apply unless waived by the hotel.

Israir confirmed that all of its flights — including those to Eilat — have been canceled through June 16. The airline is offering credit to passengers who booked by June 13 for flights originally scheduled through June 30. No new reservations are being accepted for departures through June 16.

Due to limited operations, Israir’s customer support is only available via WhatsApp between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. local time.

{Matzav.com Israel}

President Donald Trump expressed confidence on Sunday that Israel and Iran will ultimately come to an agreement, despite the recent eruption of hostilities between the two nations following a wave of Israeli preemptive attacks on Tehran.

Reflecting on his previous international diplomatic efforts, Trump lamented that he often receives little acknowledgment for his role in brokering peace around the globe. He pointed to several examples of past success where his administration had mediated between adversaries.

“Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal, just like I got India and Pakistan to make, in that case by using TRADE with the United States to bring reason, cohesion, and sanity into the talks with two excellent leaders who were able to quickly make a decision and STOP!” Trump wrote on Truth Social Sunday.

Tensions between Israel and Iran remain high. At the same time Trump posted his message, Iranian officials accused Israel of being behind five car bomb explosions that rocked Tehran earlier that day.

Last week, Israel launched a series of coordinated strikes inside Iran, aiming at nuclear-related infrastructure. The attacks killed senior military leaders and eliminated several top scientists tied to the regime’s nuclear program.

Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu said the strikes were “just the beginning,” while Iranian leadership has vowed a severe and forceful response.

Trump referenced additional examples from his presidency, asserting that his influence had halted several long-running regional disputes. “During my first term, Serbia and Kosovo were going at it hot and heavy, as they have for many decades, and this long time conflict was ready to break out into WAR. I stopped it (Biden has hurt the longer term prospects with some very stupid decisions, but I will fix it, again!),” Trump further claimed.

He also cited his involvement in defusing tensions in Northeast Africa. “Another case is Egypt and Ethiopia, and their fight over a massive dam that is having an effect on the magnificent Nile River. There is peace, at least for now, because of my intervention, and it will stay that way!” he went on.

Trump concluded his remarks with optimism about a future breakthrough in the Middle East. “Likewise, we will have PEACE, soon, between Israel and Iran! Many calls and meetings now taking place. I do a lot, and never get credit for anything, but that’s OK, the PEOPLE understand. MAKE THE MIDDLE EAST GREAT AGAIN!”

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu paid a visit to the scene in Bat Yam where an Iranian missile strike led to the deaths of six civilians, the disappearance of three others, and left many more injured.

Walking through the devastation, Netanyahu was briefed by emergency responders still searching through the wreckage for possible survivors.

“I am here in Bat Yam with Home Front Command and rescue forces. On behalf of the entire people of Israel, I express sorrow over the loss of life that occurred here. Our hearts are with the families. It is necessary and vital to follow the instructions of the Home Front Command, because those who listened and stayed in protected areas were saved. Those who did not—unfortunately, were harmed,” the Prime Minister stated.

Addressing the broader implications of the attack, Netanyahu emphasized the stakes of the current confrontation. “We are here because we are in an existential battle, one that every citizen of Israel now understands. Think about what would happen if Iran had nuclear weapons to drop on Israeli cities.

“Think about what would happen if Iran had 20,000 such missiles. Not one—20,000. This is an existential threat to Israel. That is why we have launched a war of rescue against a dual annihilation threat, and we are doing so with strength. Our soldiers, our pilots, are above the skies of Iran. Iran will pay a very heavy price for the murder of civilians, women, and children—a deliberate act. We will achieve our objective and deal them a powerful blow. They will feel the weight of our response. Until then, and during this war, I ask you, citizens of Israel, to follow the Home Front Command’s instructions. It will save your lives.

‘And you shall greatly guard your souls’—guard your soul, guard your body, guard your life—and together, with God’s help, we will prevail. We are on the path to victory,” Netanyahu said.

President Isaac Herzog also arrived at the site along with his wife, Michal Herzog. Speaking to the press, Herzog reflected on the human toll of the attack.

In his remarks, President Herzog said: “Civilians of all ages, all backgrounds—Jews and Muslims, young and old, veteran Israelis and new immigrants, Holocaust survivors and toddlers, were unfortunately, and so sadly, killed by a horrendous Iranian attack against our cities.

“Iran has decided that they are attacking civilians, no matter where, and no matter what. And we, of course, will continue to defend ourselves.

“Our aim is to change the reality in the Middle East. It cannot be that the empire of evil will continue to attack and attack, send its proxies and its terror, its missiles, and of course, develop nuclear capability, which is the most dangerous capability for humanity. So we are defending not only Israel, but the Middle East, humanity itself, world peace, and I call upon the leaders of the G7 who will convene tomorrow in Canada: They should all be with us, because if you want to get the nukes out, better work together, with us, and make sure that Iran does not reach its capability—and that our region can move to peace and dialogue and coexistence and rapprochement.“

The missile strike claimed six lives: three women aged approximately 60, 80, and 50; a teenage boy around 18; and two children—a boy of about 10 and a girl roughly 8 years old. Officials from the Home Front Command confirmed that the missile was a direct hit and carried a payload weighing several hundred kilograms.

The structure that was struck had fortified rooms (mamad) on every level as well as a communal underground shelter. Those who took shelter inside these protected areas survived unharmed. The fatalities occurred outside those safe zones. Authorities estimate that cleanup and recovery at the site will require at least another full day.

Meanwhile, rescue teams continue combing through the debris in search of the three individuals still unaccounted for. Four other missing people were located alive at a local hospital after intensive efforts.

Bat Yam Mayor Tzvika Brot shared a grim description of the aftermath. “Even before most of the rescue forces arrived, the road here was littered with metal,” he said from the site. “Dust covered all the vehicles and people were lying in the street—scenes reminiscent of the Twin Towers disaster.”

He further noted, “Right now, 61 buildings have been damaged, of which six or seven will likely have to be demolished—and that number may rise to double digits. It’s quite unprecedented to have to demolish this many buildings from a single strike. Unfortunately, the evacuation is still not complete. We expect the number to rise. We know there are still people trapped, and we hope there aren’t many.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Israel’s strikes against Iran were a “calculated and necessary action” that was “carried out in response to an escalating existential threat,” Danny Danon, Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, told reporters in New York at the global body’s headquarters.

The Islamic Republic has a long history of funding and training terror proxies across the Middle East, but the direct threat from the regime “took a dramatic turn,” Danon said. “Iran advanced significantly toward nuclear weapons capabilities.”

Danon pointed to a secret program, which Israeli intelligence uncovered, that showed dangerous Iranian progress toward a nuclear bomb. It also revealed plans for a surprise attack on Israel in coordination with Iran’s proxies, with an invasion “from all sides, with thousands of terrorists and thousands of projectiles” going beyond an Oct. 7-style attack and incorporating “a nuclear strike,” the envoy said.

Israel “could not, and would not, wait for that moment to arrive,” he said.

He noted “an absence of meaningful international consequences” to Iran’s “repeated violations” and its “continued deception” amid a recent International Atomic Energy Agency report showing that Tehran’s nuclear program was outside the parameters of its international commitments. The report also showed that Iran obscures the details of its nuclear program.

Danon chided António Guterres, the U.N. secretary-general, who issued a statement earlier on Friday expressing “concern” over Israel’s operation.

“I must ask: Where was the secretary-general when Iran spent years arming itself while vowing to wipe Israel off the map?” Danon said. “Where was his voice when Iran rained hundreds of missiles and drones on our civilians?”

At Iran’s request, the U.N. Security Council is slated to meet at 3 p.m. in New York on Friday—first in an open setting and then behind closed doors to discuss Israel’s operation and its aftermath.

“We will not sit quietly while our people are targeted,” Danon said. “Not again. Not ever. Empty words will not stop Iran. Israel will.” JNS

{Matzav.com}