Matzav

A proposed agreement by Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter is sparking controversy and concern across Israel, as it could lead to an unprecedented rise in the prices of basic food items like bread and fruit. At the heart of the issue is a plan requiring Israel to shift from importing cheaper European wheat to significantly more expensive American wheat, a move critics warn will burden consumers and disproportionately hurt low-income families.

The backdrop to this controversy is ongoing tariff negotiations between Israel and the United States. President Donald Trump has demanded that Israel eliminate import duties on American fruits and vegetables. In exchange, Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Israeli products if his request is denied. Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Finance Ministry have reportedly signaled agreement, a shift that could have led to lower prices for staples like tomatoes, apples, almonds, and peaches through increased U.S. imports.

However, Agriculture Minister Dichter has taken a markedly different approach, engaging in separate negotiations with U.S. officials. Under Dichter’s plan, Israel would maintain tariffs on sensitive agricultural goods and, in return, commit to sourcing 30% of its wheat imports from the United States.

This plan could hit Israeli consumers with a double financial blow.

Currently, Israel imports mostly European wheat, which is more affordable. Switching to U.S. wheat, as Dichter proposes, would drive up the cost of all bread products—including those under price controls. While the Finance Ministry opposes the proposal on grounds that it will inflate wheat prices, the Agriculture Ministry estimates the increase at a mere 10%.

Beyond bread, the refusal to eliminate tariffs on fruits and vegetables means that prices for these items would remain high—or possibly rise further if the U.S. retaliates with tariffs on Israeli exports.

Critics also point to what they call the “myth of food security.” Despite rhetoric suggesting Israel must protect local wheat production for national resilience, the reality is that more than 90% of Israel’s wheat has always been imported. Locally grown wheat is expensive and inconsistent in quality, making it unsuitable for large-scale bread production.

Still, flour mills in Israel are legally required to purchase one kilogram of Israeli wheat for every ten kilograms of imported wheat, even when there is no practical need for it. This regulation raises bread prices and disproportionately affects the country’s most vulnerable citizens.

Dichter’s new proposal would go a step further by mandating that imported wheat come specifically from the U.S., eliminating the cheaper European option altogether. The result, critics argue, would be an even steeper increase in wheat prices—under the guise of promoting “food security,” which they claim is simply a cover for shielding certain domestic producers from free-market competition.

The final decision now rests with Prime Minister Netanyahu, who must make a ruling by July 9, when negotiations with the U.S. are set to conclude. Will he accept Trump’s original proposal, which would lower food prices, or will he side with Dichter on a deal that may leave Israelis paying more for their fruits and bread?

Whatever the outcome, the decision will have a direct impact on the cost of living for every household in Israel.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Hamas’s internal security division, known as the “deterrence” unit, revealed that it carried out a wave of operations last week that culminated in the execution of 12 individuals. These individuals were accused of working with Israel and participating in various criminal acts.

In an official announcement, Hamas alleged that those executed were involved in providing intelligence to Israel, looting property, and committing violent robberies.

The organization reported that three of the men had been sentenced to death after being convicted of “serious security offenses that endangered the security and stability of society.”

According to the statement, the individuals were associated with the “Abu Marsib crime gang,” an outfit said to be active in Gaza’s central region.

“Our message is clear: there is no room for chaos in the Gaza Strip,” the group declared. “Punishment will continue on the ground as long as necessary. The campaign will persist until the last of the agents and criminals is eliminated.”

Although this security unit has operated for years, incidents involving Hamas’s aggressive purges of suspected collaborators have become more common since the start of the war in October 2023.

Despite the legal requirement that execution orders in Gaza be approved by Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas—who resides in Ramallah and placed a ban on executions years ago—Hamas has routinely ignored that process.

The organization no longer acknowledges Abbas’s authority and has previously insisted that capital punishment in Gaza can proceed without his endorsement.

Many of those put to death by Hamas have been accused of spying for Israel. In September 2022, Hamas executed two Palestinian Arabs found guilty of helping Israel by passing on information that led to the deaths of two individuals.

In May 2023, a military court in Gaza handed down death sentences to several Palestinian Arabs who were convicted of transmitting intelligence to Israel, with the punishments to be carried out by hanging or firing squad.

Later, in December of the same year, Hamas announced the arrest of several Palestinians who were allegedly working with Israel to gather intelligence in Gaza following the group’s October 7 massacre.

{Matzav.com}

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President Trump took to Truth Social on Sunday with a fiery message aimed squarely at Elon Musk, once seen as a powerful political ally. In the post, Trump expressed frustration over Musk’s recent behavior and his decision to form a new political movement in protest of the president’s latest legislative victory.

“I am saddened to watch Elon Musk go completely ‘off the rails,’ essentially becoming a TRAIN WRECK over the past five weeks,” Trump wrote Sunday afternoon.

The president continued his critique, referencing Musk’s new political group and blasting the broader idea of launching alternative parties in the U.S. political landscape.

“He even wants to start a Third Political Party, despite the fact that they have never succeeded in the United States – The System seems not designed for them,” he added. “The one thing Third Parties are good for is the creation of Complete and Total DISRUPTION & CHAOS, and we have enough of that with the Radical Left Democrats, who have lost their confidence and their minds!”

Before issuing his online statement, Trump fielded a question from the press regarding Musk’s newly announced “America Party” during a stop near Air Force One.

“I think it’s ridiculous to start a third party,” Trump said in response to a reporter’s question, adding later: “So he can have fun with it, but I think it’s ridiculous.”

The latest back-and-forth further illustrates the deteriorating relationship between the two influential figures. Musk had just announced his party yesterday, citing his strong opposition to a legislative package pushed by Trump and recently signed into law.

“By a factor of 2 to 1, you want a new political party and you shall have it!,” Musk wrote on X. “Today, the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom.”

Whether Musk will move forward with establishing the party remains unclear. But his announcement reignited tensions between the billionaire and the president, tensions that had only recently calmed after earlier disputes surrounding the same piece of legislation.

Trump has consistently claimed that Musk’s disapproval stems from the bill’s removal of subsidies for electric vehicles — a policy shift that directly impacts Musk’s businesses. He reiterated that point in his Truth Social post.

“It is a Great Bill but, unfortunately for Elon, it eliminates the ridiculous Electric Vehicle (EV) Mandate, which would have forced everyone to buy an Electric Car in a short period of time,” Trump wrote. “I have been strongly opposed to that from the very beginning.”

While the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act included tax credits for electric vehicle purchases, Trump’s newly signed legislation did away with those incentives — a change that has drawn significant attention from both political and industry leaders.

“I have campaigned on this for two years and, quite honestly, when Elon gave me his total and unquestioned Endorsement, I asked him whether or not he knew that I was going to terminate the EV Mandate – It was in every speech I made, and in every conversation I had,” Trump wrote on Sunday. “He said he had no problems with that – I was very surprised!”

In addition to founding the “America Party,” Musk has declared he will pour financial resources into campaigns aimed at unseating Republican lawmakers who supported the legislation. He also pledged to support Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who broke ranks with Trump by voting against the bill.

The tension between the two men has grown noticeably in recent months. Despite Musk’s vocal support for Trump during the last election cycle, disagreements over policy have repeatedly brought their relationship to the brink. After a temporary truce last month, their feud has reignited once more.

Some within the GOP are concerned about the fallout. With next year’s elections looming and the party’s House majority at risk, Musk’s third-party movement and threats to target fellow Republicans could pose a serious distraction.

“One of the most destructive behaviors that we’ve had in cycles where we’ve been unsuccessful in Senate races … are those in which we have expended massive resources in intraparty warfare,” one Republican consultant told The Hill, commenting on Musk’s emerging role in the primary landscape.

{Matzav.com}

Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., joins ‘Sunday Mornings Futures’ to give the latest on the investigation into former President Joe Biden’s health and autopen use as well as his subpoena of former Jill Biden aide Anthony Bernal.

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{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump told reporters on Sunday that negotiations for a potential agreement with Hamas were progressing and expressed optimism that a deal could be finalized within days, leading to the release of additional hostages.

Trump also noted that he intends to raise the topic of a long-term agreement concerning Iran during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu at the White House on Monday. “We’re working on a lot of things with Israel. One of the things is probably a permanent deal with Iran. In other words, they have to give up all of the things that you know so well,” said Trump. He reiterated his view that the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure amounted to “a complete and total obliteration.”

When asked specifically about the possibility of reaching an arrangement with Hamas, the President responded with confidence. “I think we’re close to a deal on Gaza. We could have it this week. I think there’s a good chance we have a deal with Hamas during the coming week, pertaining to quite a few of the hostages.”

Trump emphasized that a significant number of hostages could be released under this upcoming deal. “You know, we’ve gotten a lot of the hostages out, but pertaining to the remaining hostages, quite a few of them will be coming out. We think we’ll have that done this week,” he reiterated.

Earlier on Sunday, before departing for Washington, Netanyahu shared his appreciation for the American leader’s ongoing support. “I will thank President Trump for his strong support of Israel. There has never been such a friend in the White House. This support led to a tremendous victory over our rival, Iran,” he said.

Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s unwavering stance against Iran’s nuclear ambitions and highlighted the broader strategic opportunity in the region. “The commitment is to stand guard and prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. There is an opportunity to broaden the circle of peace. There is an opportunity and an ability to bring a great future for the people of Israel and the Middle East,” he added.

Turning to the conflict in Gaza, the Prime Minister emphasized that Israel’s mission remains unchanged. “There are great achievements and missions that must be accomplished. We freed hostages. There are 20 living hostages and 30 deceased ones left. I am determined to return them all, and for Gaza not to be a threat to Israel.”

He continued by underscoring the importance of eliminating the terrorist threat. “We will not allow the encouragement of hostage taking and murder – that means the elimination of Hamas’s military capabilities. I am committed to all the objectives, and we will achieve them with our soldiers and the correct and bold decisions that we’ve made,” stated the Prime Minister.

Hamas, for its part, announced Friday night that it had responded affirmatively to the latest ceasefire and hostage release proposal, while requesting several “minor amendments.”

However, last night, Netanyahu’s office made clear that the requested revisions were not acceptable to Israel. “The changes that Hamas is seeking to make in the Qatari proposal were conveyed to us last night and are unacceptable to Israel.”

The Prime Minister’s office added that Netanyahu had made a decision based on a fresh assessment of the evolving situation. “In light of an assessment of the situation, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu has directed that the invitation to proximity talks be accepted and that the contacts for the return of our hostages — on the basis of the Qatari proposal that Israel has agreed to — be continued,” the statement added.

According to the statement, Israel’s negotiating team is scheduled to depart for Qatar on Sunday to continue the indirect negotiations.

{Matzav.com}

The Palestinian Authority has issued harsh condemnation of a group of sheikhs who have been quietly working with Israeli officials on a proposal aimed at forging peace and cooperation between Arabs and Israel.

The initiative, which has been kept out of the public eye until now, reportedly includes plans to create a “Hebron Emirate”—an autonomous Arab entity that would live peacefully beside Israel, formally recognize it as the Jewish state, and join the Abraham Accords. The proposal also includes a firm stance against terrorism from both Fatah and Hamas.

Yossi Dagan, the governor of Samaria, disclosed in an interview with the Wall Street Journal that this effort has been underway for over a decade. Dagan said he first met Sheikh Jabari and his father 13 years ago, describing the elder Jabari as a courageous figure and praising the current sheikh for following in his father’s footsteps.

“It is necessary to correct 32 years of terror and corruption of the Palestinian Authority since the Oslo Accords, of those terrorists who were brought here from Tunisia to be murderous and corrupt dictators over Arabs of Judea and Samaria, harming — more than Jews — first of all their own people. These sheikhs are brave and strong leaders, and they are a real answer for the well-being of their residents and an alternative to the path of terror of the Palestinian Authority,” Dagan declared.

The group of sheikhs involved in the plan seeks to establish a new industrial zone that would connect their communities with the Israeli economy. They’ve pledged to guarantee personally that no members of their tribes would take part in terrorist activity. The goal is to implement a governance structure inspired by the business-friendly model of the United Arab Emirates, offering a peaceful and productive alternative to what they describe as the terror-fueled governance of the Palestinian Authority.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The initial phase of indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding a possible ceasefire and the release of hostages concluded late Sunday night in Qatar without any concrete results, according to a Reuters report citing two Palestinian Arab insiders familiar with the talks.

According to these sources, Israel’s representatives lacked the necessary authority to commit to any binding deal with Hamas. “After the first session of indirect negotiations in Doha, the Israeli delegation is not sufficiently authorized and is not authorized to reach an agreement with Hamas, as it has no real powers”, the sources told Reuters.

The discussions followed an announcement by Hamas on Friday evening in which the group said it had responded favorably to the latest ceasefire framework. However, it also noted that it had proposed what it referred to as “minor amendments” to the terms.

Shortly after, on Saturday night, the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made clear that these proposed adjustments would not be accepted. “The changes that Hamas is seeking to make in the Qatari proposal were conveyed to us last night and are unacceptable to Israel,” the statement said.

Nevertheless, Israel still chose to dispatch a delegation to Doha on Sunday to participate in the mediation efforts.

The negotiations also coincided with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s departure for Washington, where he is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump on Monday.

Before boarding his flight, Netanyahu addressed the press, reiterating that Israel would remain steadfast in its war aims. “There are great achievements and missions that must be accomplished. We freed hostages. There are 20 living hostages and 30 deceased ones left. I am determined to return them all, and for Gaza not to be a threat to Israel.”

He continued, emphasizing Israel’s uncompromising stance against Hamas. “We will not allow the encouragement of hostage taking and murder – that means the elimination of Hamas’s military capabilities. I am committed to all the objectives, and we will achieve them with our soldiers and the correct and bold decisions that we’ve made,” stated the Prime Minister.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Explosions shook the Hodeidah region in Yemen late Sunday evening, not long after the IDF issued a warning that the Israeli Air Force had launched strikes aimed at Houthi rebel targets in the area.

Defense Minister Yisroel Katz confirmed the military operation, stating, “As part of Operation ‘Black Flag,’ the IDF has now powerfully struck terrorist targets of the Houthi terror regime in the ports of Hodeidah, Al-Salif, and Ras Issa, the Ras Katib power station, and the ship Galaxy Leader which was hijacked by the Houthis about two years ago and is currently being used for terrorist activities in the Red Sea.”

Katz further warned of severe consequences for those who seek to harm Israel, saying, “As I warned: The fate of Yemen is the same as that of Tehran. Anyone who tries to harm Israel will be harmed, and anyone who raises a hand against Israel will have their hand cut off. The Houthis will continue to pay a heavy price for their actions.”

In a statement released shortly after the strikes, the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit provided more details about the mission: “IAF fighter jets, guided by intelligence from the IDF Intelligence Directorate and the Israeli Navy, struck and destroyed terror infrastructure belonging to the Houthi terrorist regime. Among the targets were the ports of Al Hudaydah, Ras Isa, and Salif.”

“These ports are used by the Houthi terrorist regime to transfer weapons from the Iranian regime, which are employed to carry out terrorist operations against the State of Israel and its allies,” the statement explained.

The IDF clarified the reason for the strike, noting it was a direct reaction to repeated attacks: “The strike was carried out in response to the repeated attacks by the Houthi terrorist regime against the State of Israel, its civilians, and civilian infrastructure, including the launching of UAVs and surface-to-surface missiles toward Israeli territory.”

According to the IDF, the Houthi rebels have been exploiting the sea for terrorist operations. “The Houthi terrorist regime exploits the maritime domain to project force and conduct terrorist activity against passing vessels and global maritime commerce. The targets struck demonstrate the regime’s systematic use of civilian infrastructure for terrorist purposes,” the statement read.

The military also singled out one particularly notable target: “Among the terror targets struck at the port of Ras Isa was the Galaxy Leader, a commercial vessel seized by the Houthi terrorist regime in November 2023. Houthi forces installed a radar system on the ship and have been using it to track vessels in the international maritime arena to facilitate further terrorist activities.”

The strikes also included a facility used by the Houthis to power their military efforts. “Additionally, the Ras Kanatib power plant, which served as a significant electricity supply facility for the Houthi regime’s military operations, was struck. This is another example of how the Houthi regime uses civilian infrastructure.”

Highlighting the broader threat, the IDF underscored Iran’s backing of the Houthis. “The Houthi terrorist regime serves as a central proxy of the Iranian regime and receives funding and weaponry for its operations. It is a partner in Iran’s global terrorist activity. The IDF is determined to continue operating decisively against any threat to the citizens of the State of Israel, wherever required,” the statement concluded.

Before the strikes, IDF Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee had issued a warning urging people to vacate the targeted areas. “An urgent warning to those present in the ports of Hodeidah, Ras Issa, and Al-Salif, and to those in the Hodeidah-Ras Al-Khatib power station, which are under the control of the Houthi terror regime.”

He stressed the importance of taking immediate action to avoid harm: “In the near future, the IDF will carry out strikes in these areas due to military activities taking place there. For your safety, we call on all those present in the designated areas, as well as vessels anchored nearby, to evacuate immediately. Remaining in these areas puts you in danger,” Adraee emphasized.

Earlier Sunday morning, at approximately 2:50 a.m., the IDF announced that a missile had been launched from Yemen toward Israeli territory, prompting air defense systems to engage and attempt an interception.

Just moments after that report, warning sirens were heard in the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea region.

The military confirmed that the incoming missile had been successfully intercepted. Magen David Adom reported that there were no injuries or damages related to the incident.

Again on Tuesday evening, another missile launch from Yemen was detected by Israeli defense forces. Air defense systems acted quickly and neutralized the threat. As a precautionary measure, Israeli airspace was temporarily shut down to flights.

Magen David Adom once more reported no casualties as a result of the incident.

Later, a statement was released by the Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, claiming responsibility for the attack and revealing their targets. “We launched a ballistic missile of the ‘Palestine 2’ type toward Ben Gurion Airport and three additional drones toward sensitive Israeli targets in the areas of Jaffa, Ashkelon, and Eilat,” claimed Saree.

{Matzav.com Israel}

As Guatemalan authorities continue the dismantling of the radical Lev Tahor cult, it has emerged that ten families—comprising approximately 20 children under the age of 18—have already arrived in Israel. While the children are currently under partial care, primarily with one of their biological parents, Israeli officials acknowledge that a full and coordinated response is still lacking.

The Israeli Health Ministry noted that the returning families harbor deep mistrust toward government institutions, which is complicating efforts to provide comprehensive care.

On Sunday, the Knesset’s Aliyah, Absorption and Diaspora Affairs Committee convened its 22nd follow-up meeting, including both open and closed sessions, to discuss Israel’s efforts to extract children from the Lev Tahor cult in Guatemala.

In recent months, Israel has been working with Guatemalan authorities to dismantle the cult. Many of its members have since fled to the United States and Canada, but, as it turns out, a significant number have also made their way to Israel.

Dr. Tamar Rozmarin Ze’ev of the Prime Minister’s Office explained, “We are operating on two fronts…efforts to bring back the minors, and support for those already in Israel and their families. A formal agreement has been signed between the Foreign Ministry and the Jewish Agency to return the children from the cult to Israel. The Welfare Ministry is responsible for overseeing the absorption of the survivors. We are monitoring the services being provided across various government offices, and working to create a full support framework together with all relevant ministries. These services are defined under the legal classification of ‘cult survivors.’”

Ilan Avitan, head of the Welfare Ministry’s unit for children harmed by the Lev Tahor cult, said, “We’ve made significant progress. We’ve assembled a task force that includes representatives from every relevant government agency. Every issue we address requires thorough preparation. At this point, we’ve made contact with all the families currently in Israel. There is one family that has been less cooperative, but they are in contact with their local municipality. We’re drilling down into each family’s specific needs to identify the most suitable framework for every survivor who arrives in the country. All children who have returned are currently with one of their biological parents. As mentioned, ten families, including around 20 children under the age of 18, are already in the country, and all are living with a biological parent.”

Dr. Yuval Reva from the Health Ministry added, “There’s a clear distrust of the system among these families. We’ve created a support structure around them, and we’re working closely with the health funds to share relevant information about the children. Four hospitals are on standby for acute admissions if needed. In the meantime, the children are receiving supportive medical services like dental care. However, the families are still refusing to allow the children to undergo mental health treatment.”

Orit Cohen Amir, representing the families, voiced a pressing concern: “Until now, the Israeli government has not issued any formal document for the families still in Guatemala. We need to actively communicate to the children and families in Guatemala the support they’ll receive once they arrive in Israel. There are competing efforts by various groups to bring them to other countries. There must be a clear and pre-defined system to ensure their rights are upheld, so they don’t end up elsewhere.”

Committee Chairman MK Gilad Kariv concluded the meeting by noting, “It feels like the work with these families is very fragmented at the moment. In terms of an overall strategy, each family needs one point person who is responsible for helping them navigate the bureaucracy and access their rights across government ministries. The next wave of children arriving in Israel will present even greater challenges, as they may not have biological parents in the picture. I’m pleased to see that families are receiving an absorption package from the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, but unfortunately, I don’t see sufficient financial support from the rest of the government.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

By Rabbi AD Motzen, National Director of Government Affairs, Agudath Israel of America

On Friday, I shared the good news about the new national school choice law that will help students across the country.

Many of you had questions about how it works and what are the next steps.

What does it mean?

1. Beginning in 2027, donors in all 50 states can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for contributing to nonprofit scholarship organizations. These nonprofits will then provide K-12 scholarships to eligible students.
2. The maximum contribution amount is $1700 per taxpayer, but there is no overall cap, allowing communities to raise money from any taxpayer across the country .
3. The credit is now permanently in the tax code so the only reason we have to go back to Congress is to make it bigger and better.
4. Most families in our communities will be able to benefit from a scholarship thanks to the generous income threshold which is determined by the family’s place of residence (see here for chart)

To learn more about this exciting opportunity and hear some of the inside story of how we got there, please watch Tuesday’s livestream here.

For a simple summary of the bill please click here. We will be creating an FAQ that will be updated as questions come in.

What’s Next?

Agudah is already working with our regional offices and coalition partners to ensure that each state chooses to participate and that every community will be able to benefit from this new tax credit opportunity. There is more work to be done to ensure that Treasury’s rules will help maximize participation and ease implementation. We will also continue our work to expand school choice on the state and federal levels including making this law bigger and better in the future.

Thank you to those who offered their thoughts and many prayers – this was nothing short of a miracle so the tefilos really helped! We saw the hand of Hashem many times throughout this process and while many people served as His messengers, we are truly grateful to the One above for this great breakthrough for families.

P.S. What else is in the bill?

The nearly 900-page One Big Beautiful Bill Act contains many policies that will affect Americans in different ways and we will be providing more information about some of the highlights of the bill and how they may affect you and your community in the days ahead.

Some of the new tax policies that benefit families with young children include:

• enhanced Child Tax Credit
• increased Child and Dependent Care Credit
• “Trump accounts” of $1000 per child
• doubling of annual withdrawal limits for 529 accounts from $10,000 a year to $20,000
• widening the definition of 529 “qualified expenses”

Additional changes include increased deductions for seniors and a new “above the line” charitable deduction of up to $2,0000 (if married filing jointly) for those who don’t itemize.

Kiryas Yoel, NY — In a continued effort to address the skyrocketing cost of housing, the Satmar Rebbe, Rav Aharon Teitelbaum, announced a new initiative to reduce apartment prices not only within the city of Kiryas Yoel, but also in the surrounding neighborhoods.

The announcement was made during a seudas bris held last Thursday for the Rebbe’s great-grandson, the son of his grandson Rav Chaim Tzvi Ashkenazi. Speaking at the celebration at the Rav Tov Satmar Beis Medrash in Kiryas Yoel, the Rebbe declared that homes built outside the formal city limits—referred to as geliliyos Kiryas Yoel—must now be sold at a maximum price of $250 per square meter, $50 less than the already-capped $300 per meter price for housing within the city itself.

This move is the latest in the Rebbe’s months-long campaign to restore affordability in the growing chassidic enclave. A year ago, he shocked the real estate world by announcing a halt to all building permits within Kiryas Yoel unless the homes would be sold for no more than $300 per square meter—well below the market rate, which had climbed as high as $600 per square meter at the time.

That landmark decision followed a sharp increase in property values in Kiryas Yoel over the past decade. Whereas a square meter of residential space cost approximately $180 just ten years ago, prices had nearly tripled, placing the dream of home ownership out of reach for many families.

In response, the Rebbe convened a special committee of city officials and askanim to explore legal avenues to stem the tide of real estate inflation. Leveraging municipal control over infrastructure approval, the community enacted a new law restricting building permits to developers committed to offering affordable pricing.

Since that regulation was implemented last year, more than 3,000 units have already entered the market under the $300/m² cap. However, because the rule applied only within official city boundaries, developers began flocking to adjacent lands beyond the jurisdiction of the new ordinance. There, high-end projects resumed, and prices continued to soar—prompting the Rebbe to act again.

At the bris, the Rebbe made clear that this loophole would not stand. He announced that in these outer areas as well, including the recently developed Or HaChaim neighborhood—where 1,000 new apartments are planned—homes must now be sold at no more than $250 per square meter.

He urged the public to stand united and not fall into the trap set by those who seek to exploit the housing crisis for profit. “Only through the strength of achdus,” the Rebbe said, “can we succeed in bringing down the prices.”

{Matzav.com}

IDF Chief of Staff LTG Eyal Zamir spent Sunday visiting the Tevez base, home to the Chashmonaim Brigade, where he observed the unit’s training in action. Accompanying him were Major General Nadav Lotan, who leads the Israeli Ground Forces, Major General Dado Bar Kalifa, head of the Manpower Directorate, Colonel A., the brigade’s commander, and several other senior officers.

During the visit, Zamir was given a detailed briefing on the brigade’s training structure, including how it has been customized to meet the needs of the chareidi soldiers serving within its ranks. He was also updated on the brigade’s operational deployment and performance in the Gaza Strip.

Engaging directly with the soldiers, Zamir spoke about the vital contribution they are making to the military and to the nation, especially during a time of immense security challenges.

“You are proof that there is no contradiction between a chareidi lifestyle and serving in the IDF. Anyone who enlists chareidi will remain chareidi,” he told the soldiers.

He went on to express admiration for the brigade’s courage and commitment. “I want to tell you that you are a wonderful group from the people of Israel, from the Jewish people. We operated in Iran, 1,500 kilometers from here. We are operating in Lebanon, we are present in Syria, and we are operating in Gaza against those who tried to destroy us. We are defending ourselves, and to defend ourselves, we truly need the best people and the great spirit that exists in this nation. I believe you embody the spirit of our people, and I want to express my deep appreciation and gratitude for that.”

Zamir emphasized the IDF’s efforts to accommodate religious soldiers, allowing them to maintain their commitment to Torah and mitzvos while proudly serving their country. “We are doing everything to enable you to combine the world of Torah and study with the world of military service. Your integration into the IDF is something you should be proud of. Your families should be proud of it, your community should be proud of it.”

Recognizing the unique role these soldiers are playing, he praised their courage in choosing a path that hasn’t always been easy or conventional. “In this sense, you should see yourselves as pioneers and trailblazers—you are truly leading the way. And I am confident and certain that you will receive recognition for this. I know some of you may be experiencing challenges, perhaps personal ones, but I am confident, and I say this from my own experience, that what matters most in life, and what pays off, is perseverance.”

He concluded his remarks by commending the brigade’s active deployment in Gaza, describing it as a testament to the strength of belief and dedication. “Today, we have Chashmonaim soldiers fighting in the Gaza Strip, doing exceptional work there. I believe this is proof that faith prevails. In that sense, I want to say once again, thank you very much, and deep appreciation for what you’re doing. Be proud of yourselves.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

A political storm has erupted in Israel following a visit by Opposition Leader MK Yair Lapid to the United Arab Emirates, with reports revealing that Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s office made unsuccessful attempts to prevent the trip.

According to a report Sunday on Kan News, Netanyahu’s aides sought to pressure Emirati officials into canceling the diplomatic visit, conveying sharply worded messages to Abu Dhabi. Sources say Netanyahu’s office informed UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed (MBZ) that meeting with Lapid would be considered interference in Israel’s internal politics.

Despite the warnings, Emirati leaders went ahead with the meeting, disregarding the Israeli government’s objections. Lapid’s visit proceeded as scheduled, making him the first senior Israeli politician to visit the UAE—one of the first countries to sign the Abraham Accords—since the war in Gaza began, and notably before Netanyahu himself has made such a visit since the historic normalization agreement was signed.

The failed attempt to block the visit has added to growing tension within Israeli political circles. Notably, while numerous Israeli public figures have received and accepted invitations to the UAE during wartime, Netanyahu remains conspicuously absent from the list of visiting officials. Among those who have traveled to the UAE in recent months are former MK Yair Golan, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer (a close Netanyahu ally), Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, and Shas leader MK Aryeh Deri.

Lapid’s trip is being seen not only as a diplomatic win for the opposition leader but also as a political embarrassment for Netanyahu, whose own delayed visit continues to raise eyebrows in both Israel and the region.

A controversial new bill aimed at taxing foreign donations to left-wing NGOs in Israel will not apply to chareidi organizations, according to a report broadcast Sunday evening on Channel 13.

The legislation, dubbed the “NGO Law,” seeks to impose an 80% tax on donations from abroad received by organizations deemed to be involved in political advocacy—particularly those promoting left-wing agendas. When the bill was first introduced, it sparked concern among chareidi parties, who feared that it could severely impact the many Torah, welfare, and charitable organizations in the chareidi sector that rely heavily on overseas contributions.

However, according to journalist Yoeli Brim, those fears have now been allayed following behind-the-scenes negotiations between the chareidi factions, the Likud party, and MK Simcha Rothman, chairman of the Knesset Constitution Committee. As part of the agreements reached, chareidi organizations will be officially categorized under non-political designations such as “education,” “welfare,” “healthcare,” and “Holocaust remembrance.” These classifications will exempt them from the steep tax outlined in the bill.

On the other hand, the law will target groups labeled as “political,” including women’s rights organizations and advocacy groups focused on democracy and freedom of information, which will still face the 80% tax on donations from foreign entities.

Just two months ago, news of the proposed legislation caused widespread alarm among chareidi lawmakers and activists. The concern was that it would drastically reduce the viability of organizations that fund shiurim, support avreichim, preserve batei knesses, and provide charitable aid—all efforts that depend significantly on financial backing from Jewish communities around the world.

Hundreds of members of the Lakewood, NJ community gathered today outside Lakewood City Hall/Lakewood Police Headquarters in a passionate show of support for R’ Binyomin Kubani, a beloved ben Torah and father who was recently arrested under troubling circumstances, as Matzav.com has reported on extensively.

Chanting in solidarity and reciting Tehillim, the gathered crowd called for justice and transparency, expressing outrage over what is a grave misjudgment by authorities.

The demonstration remained orderly, with community leaders and askanim urging continued advocacy on R’ Binyomin’s behalf.

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{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu has dismissed his spokesperson, Omer Dostri, just as he prepares to travel to Washington for a meeting with President Donald Trump.

Reports of Dostri’s termination first surfaced Saturday from sources close to the prime minister. Later that evening, the Prime Minister’s Office officially confirmed the move, though their version claimed Dostri had chosen to resign. “Informed the prime minister of his intention to end his role and embark on a new path,” the statement read.

Channel 13 reported that Dostri, who had been serving in the position for the past year, had clashed with Sara Netanyahu, the prime minister’s wife, which ultimately contributed to his immediate departure. Another insider told The Times of Israel that Sara Netanyahu’s attitude toward Dostri played a significant part in the decision.

Still, Netanyahu’s office pushed back strongly on that claim in a Sunday statement. “The decision to terminate his employment was made in coordination between the prime minister, his chief of staff, and Dostri,” the statement read. “The media is quick to turn Mrs. Netanyahu into its punching bag whenever it can.”

The Times of Israel also cited sources who said that Dostri’s likely successor, Ziv Agmon, has a particularly close relationship with Sara Netanyahu.

However, associates of Netanyahu told Ynet that the firing stemmed not from family dynamics, but from dissatisfaction with Dostri’s performance. “This was a bad fit,” the sources said. “He didn’t have experience. He had never been in this profession. He was essentially pushed out. He was told this wasn’t working. Two days ago, he was informed he wouldn’t be traveling to Washington. It wasn’t connected to Sara. The prime minister was unsatisfied with him.”

According to Ynet, Agmon—who was born in the United States—is also closely aligned with Tzachi Braverman, Netanyahu’s chief of staff. Channel 12 highlighted Agmon’s close ties to Sara Netanyahu as well.

Other individuals familiar with the situation told Ynet unequivocally: “Dostri was unequivocally fired by Netanyahu,” again insisting that the matter was not related to his dealings with the prime minister’s wife.

Back in February, several Hebrew media outlets reported that Netanyahu had frequently scolded Dostri for his behavior on the job.

One particularly serious lapse occurred in October, during an Israeli military operation against Iran. Dostri shared uncensored photographs of Netanyahu at a military base, breaching IDF censorship rules and inadvertently exposing sensitive details to the press.

Kan, Israel’s public broadcaster, reported that another issue was the criticism Netanyahu received for remaining in Washington during the return of hostages from Gaza, many of whom were found to be in poor condition—an event that reflected poorly on his leadership.

Kan also referenced a communications error during the February ceasefire, when the Prime Minister’s Office issued a statement suggesting that Israel had deemed a proposed hostage list from Hamas “acceptable.” That phrase was later corrected to say Israel had merely “received” the list. “Instead of the writing ‘this list is acceptable to Israel,’ it should have read ‘this list was received by Israel,’” the correction explained, noting that the Hebrew root of both words is identical. “This is a purely factual description that does not reflect any reference by Israel to the issue,” the revised statement continued.

Despite the internal tensions and public missteps, the Prime Minister’s Office offered a gracious farewell in its statement, commending Dostri for his service “during one of the most turbulent and complex years… amid a multi-front war.” The office added that Netanyahu “thanked Dostri for his principled, dedicated, and professional work… in one of the most challenging and complex periods Israel has ever known.”

Dostri, for his part, reflected positively on his experience. According to the PMO, he said he “had the opportunity to see up close how the prime minister makes fateful decisions for Israel and the entire Jewish people,” and expressed his belief that Netanyahu “will continue to steer Israel safely toward a bright future.”

Before serving as Netanyahu’s spokesperson, Dostri earned a doctorate in international relations and worked as a researcher at two right-leaning think tanks—the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security and Israel’s Defense and Security Forum. He also contributed opinion pieces to various Israeli publications.

{Matzav.com}

As Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu prepares to meet with President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday, sources say that Trump intends to push for a definitive plan for managing Gaza once the war against Hamas concludes.

According to a report by Barak Ravid on Channel 12 News, senior officials in the U.S. administration have said that President Trump views a serious discussion on “the day after” as essential for advancing any long-term ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The upcoming meeting is expected to focus heavily on formulating a mutually agreed-upon framework for governing the coastal enclave once Hamas is ousted.

Trump officials want to ensure that Israel and the U.S. are aligned on key issues such as security arrangements, governance, and strategies to prevent Hamas from reestablishing control. The report notes that if a hostage deal and a 60-day ceasefire are reached in the near future, understandings between Trump and Netanyahu on the post-war scenario could serve as the foundation for subsequent negotiations with Hamas.

Initial discussions on the topic have already begun, with Israeli Minister Ron Dermer holding early talks last week with senior White House officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff.

“We want to reach an agreed-upon framework with Netanyahu regarding what happens in Gaza after the war,” said a senior American official.

One indication of Israeli flexibility is a shift in its stance on the expulsion of Hamas leaders. Israel is now willing to settle for the symbolic removal of a few top military commanders, rather than pushing for the mass exile of Hamas leadership. An Israeli source commented wryly, “There aren’t many senior Hamas officials left in Gaza. You don’t need a ship to exile them—just a surfboard will do.”

Another point on the agenda is the disarmament of Hamas. Israel continues to demand the dismantling of the terrorist group’s military wing but has shown openness to discussing amnesty for those militants who surrender their weapons.

The most sensitive and complex issue remains who will control Gaza on the civilian level. Netanyahu is adamantly opposed to any return of Hamas to power and is equally resistant to the involvement of the Palestinian Authority. Instead, he favors handing over governance to Arab states in collaboration with local Palestinian figures unaffiliated with either Hamas or the PA.

However, Arab nations have so far rejected that approach, insisting that the Palestinian Authority play a central role and demanding a clear political horizon for the Palestinian people. The Trump administration’s precise stance on this matter remains undefined.

{Matzav.com Israel}