Matzav

Sen. Michael Testa Proposes Renaming Delaware Bay To ‘The Bay Of New Jersey’ As Inspiration To Trump’s Gulf Of America

A New Jersey state senator is pushing for a bold renaming of the Delaware Bay, proposing that the iconic body of water be officially dubbed “The Bay of New Jersey,” in a move reminiscent of President Donald Trump’s decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”

The legislation, introduced on Thursday by Republican State Senator Michael Testa, would require all state agencies to begin using the term “The Bay of New Jersey” across official platforms, including signage, state publications, websites, and public communications, according to NJ.com. It also mandates that federal authorities be notified of the change.

“I look at the robust fishing industry — commercial fishing industry and recreational industry of the State of New Jersey,” Testa told the outlet. “I think that the fact that we have to call the bay that we fish in the Delaware Bay – they’ve had a claim to that long enough.”

The bay, which plays a crucial role in New Jersey’s economy through tourism, shipping, and fishing, has carried the name “Delaware Bay” since 1610. The designation honors Thomas West, the third Baron De La Warr, who served as governor of the Virginia colony. That history is noted on Delaware’s official government website.

Testa, a longtime backer of President Trump, promoted his renaming effort on social media with a nod to Trump’s campaign slogan, posting, “Make New Jersey Great Again!” on X.

His proposal follows a headline-grabbing move by Trump about six months ago, when he declared the Gulf of Mexico should now be referred to as the “Gulf of America.” That announcement drew both support and satire, including a playful response from Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, who suggested renaming the Long Island Sound.

“While the maps are changing, here’s an idea,” Lamont posted on X, sharing an edited map renaming the waterway the “Connecticut Sound” and tagging New York Governor Kathy Hochul.

In addition to the renaming measure, Testa introduced a second bill this week proposing that New Jersey reclaim a piece of land along the Salem County coastline that had been ceded to Delaware under a decades-old border agreement.

{Matzav.com}

Trump Blasts GOP Senator Thom Tillis As Vote To Advance ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ Stalls In Senate: ‘BIG MISTAKE’

President Donald Trump launched a sharp rebuke of Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina on Saturday night, slamming the Republican lawmaker for opposing his sweeping tax-and-spending proposal, as a crucial procedural vote in the Senate stalled and GOP leadership scrambled to lock down support.

“Looks like Senator Thom Tillis, as usual, wants to tell the Nation that he’s giving them a 68% Tax Increase, as opposed to the Biggest Tax Cut in American History!” Trump wrote on Truth Social, as Senate leaders struggled for hours without concluding a vote to advance the massive bill.

Trump touted the bill’s benefits in his post, writing, “America wants Reduced Taxes, including NO TAX ON TIPS, NO TAX ON OVERTIME, AND NO TAX ON SOCIAL SECURITY, Interest Deductions on Cars, Border Security, a Strong Military, and a Bill which is GREAT for our Farmers, Manufacturers and, Employment, in general.”

He continued by singling out Tillis: “Thom Tillis is making a BIG MISTAKE for America, and the Wonderful People of North Carolina!”

The post came shortly after Tillis officially voted no on the Senate floor, casting a blow to the bill that Trump has urged Republicans in both chambers to fast-track before his self-imposed July 4 deadline.

While the vote remains open and unresolved, two other GOP senators—Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and Rand Paul of Kentucky—have also withheld support during the rare Saturday night session. Still, Trump chose to direct his fury solely at the North Carolina senator.

With a narrow 53-47 majority, Republicans have very little room for defections. Losing more than three votes would tank the bill unless Vice President JD Vance steps in with a tie-breaking vote. Vance arrived on Capitol Hill at approximately 8:30 p.m. and has remained on standby, ready to act if necessary.

Should the bill clear this hurdle, it would head into the debate phase—a potentially lengthy process, as Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer has vowed to demand a full reading of the nearly 1,000-page legislation before any final vote is taken.

Earlier in the day, Trump warned Republicans that a vote against the bill would amount to the “ultimate betrayal.”

The proposed legislation seeks to lock in Trump’s 2017 tax cuts permanently, eliminate federal taxes on tips and overtime pay, significantly boost funding for border enforcement, and repeal clean-energy tax breaks enacted under the Biden administration. To accommodate all its provisions, the bill would require raising the debt ceiling by an estimated $5 trillion.

Tillis had previously signaled his opposition to the current draft, citing concerns over the Medicaid provisions. He has insisted that unless revisions are made to align with what he called a more “commonsense” version from the House, he could not support the package. “We can and must do better than this,” Tillis said in a statement.

In a follow-up Truth Social post, Trump warned that he may back a primary challenger to Tillis in response to his defiance.

“Numerous people have come forward wanting to run in the Primary against ‘Senator Thom’ Tillis,” Trump wrote.

“I will be meeting with them over the coming weeks, looking for someone who will properly represent the Great People of North Carolina and, so importantly, the United States of America. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

{Matzav.com}

Mordechai Keller z”l, 8, Killed in Tragic Car Accident

A terrible tragedy struck the Crown Heights community on Shabbos with the petirah of 8-year-old Mordechai Keller.

Mordechai, a young boy from Crown Heights, lost his life in a devastating car accident that occurred on Eastern Parkway near Albany Avenue on Shabbos afternoon.

According to sources, Mordechai was crossing the street with his sister when he was fatally hit by an SUV. The driver remained at the scene and was not arrested. Police are investigating.

He leaves behind his grieving parents, Avraham and Nechama Dina Keller, and his siblings.

Umacha Hashem dimah me’al kol ponim.

{Matzav.com}

Sta”m Alert: ‘Questionable Tefillin and Mezuzos From Ukraine Still Sold’

The Beis Din of Crown Heights has once again sounded the alarm over Tefillin and Mezuzos written by Yaakov Shlomo Itzkovitz of Zinkov, Ukraine, warning that items written by this sofer, whose work was previously deemed questionable, are still circulating in the marketplace.

In a public letter released Friday, 1 Tammuz 5785, the rabbonim of the Beis Din expressed concern that mezuzos and tefillin written by Mr. Itzkovitz continue to be found in the possession of STaM (Sifrei Torah, Tefillin, and Mezuzos) dealers and magiim (scribal examiners), despite prior warnings. The letter emphasized that those entrusted with maintaining the sanctity of STaM are responsible to ensure that the public does not unknowingly use invalid items, which could result in serious halachic consequences.

To assist the public in identifying potentially problematic items, the Beis Din announced a dedicated weekly time slot for verification. Every Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., individuals may bring mezuzos and tefillin to the Beis Din offices to compare the handwriting with that of Mr. Itzkovitz. Those wishing to bring items must first call the Beis Din during those hours and provide the names of those coming in.

“This is a serious matter,” the letter stated. “We hereby notify the public to urgently act with anyone known or suspected to have mezuzos or tefillin written by this sofer—so that it will be possible to determine whether they are indeed his writing, and whether the items are kosher or invalid, as was stated in the previous letter.”

The letter was signed by Rabbi Avraham Osdoba and Rabbi Yosef Yeshaya Braun, senior members of the Crown Heights Beis Din.

{Matzav.com}

President Trump Sends a Letter to the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Ohel Upon His Yahrtzeit

In a communication honoring the day of Gimmel Tammuz, the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, President Donald J. Trump issued a letter to the Rebbe’s Ohel.

President Trump calls the Rebbe “one of the most dynamic and influential faith leaders in modern history,” and relates how he personally drew strength from Rebbe’s legacy during his visit to the Ohel in Queens, NY last year.

The text of the letter:

Dear Rabbis of Chabad-Lubavitch,

Melania and I are honored to send our greetings on the occasion of the yahrtzeit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory, to the Chabad shluchim and the millions inspired by him across our country and around the world.

As I affirmed in my Proclamation on Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., the Rebbe was one of the most dynamic and influential faith leaders in modern history, helping launch a renaissance of Jewish faith in the dark days following the Holocaust. Among his many achievements, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of his tremendous impact on our country.

As time has worn on, his many blessings have only increased. His teachings were a core inspiration for criminal justice reform, as seen in the First Step Act, and Chabad-Lubavitch rabbis and rebbetzins run a whole host of institutions-whether religious, educational, or social-that have a tremendous impact on American spiritual life.

When I visited the Ohel on the anniversary of the terrible attacks of October 7, I drew strength and inspiration from the Rebbe’s legacy. When Edan Alexander was returned to his loving parents earlier this year, after an unimaginable ordeal in the hands of Hamas, the entire country felt the power of the Ohel and the Rebbe’s enduring example. As is frequently cited in the Talmud, the Rebbe lived by the principle that when you save one life, you save an entire world.

Through great strength, unflinching resolve, and much prayer, I am committed to restoring peace throughout the world-not least in the Middle East, as we witnessed over the past week-and to stamping out anti-Semitic hate wherever it rears its head. In doing this, we will restore our country to its tradition of greatness and usher in a new Golden Age for the entire world. This, I believe, is the Rebbe’s legacy.

Signed,

Donald J. Trump

{Matzav.com}

‘UTTERLY INSANE AND DESTRUCTIVE’: Musk Condemns Latest Senate Bill That Would ‘Destroy Millions of Jobs,’ Raise Taxes On Wind, Solar Projects

Elon Musk, tech billionaire and former DOGE executive, used his 54th birthday to post a scathing critique of the latest version of President Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful bill,” warning that it would cost countless American jobs and jeopardize the country’s strategic interests. His comments were posted to X on Sunday.

“The latest Senate draft bill will destroy millions of jobs in America and cause immense strategic harm to our country! Utterly insane and destructive,” Musk wrote.

This latest criticism follows an earlier falling-out between Musk and Trump over the spending package. Earlier in June, Musk slammed the initial version of the bill, calling it bloated and reckless.

He didn’t hold back at the time, writing on June 3, “massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill [that] is a disgusting abomination.” He added, “Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong. You know it.”

Senate Republicans released the updated bill Friday evening, with the goal of delivering it to the president’s desk by July 4. The revision was introduced by Senator Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., chairman of the Senate Budget Committee.

The latest draft includes a variety of contentious revisions: changes to Medicaid provider taxes, limitations on cost-sharing for food assistance programs, new caps on state and local tax deductions, and a significant rollback of federal support for wind and solar energy initiatives.

Under the new guidelines, only clean energy projects that begin construction before 2028 will qualify for full tax credits, while future projects will be subjected to additional taxes.

Reacting specifically to the renewable energy cuts, Musk accused lawmakers of clinging to outdated industries at the expense of innovation. “Handouts to the past, destruction of the future,” he said in the same post.

His concerns were echoed by the American Clean Power Association (ACP), which warned that the proposed tax changes could cripple the U.S. clean energy sector and lead to higher energy costs for consumers.

“With no warning, the Senate has proposed new language that would increase taxes on domestic energy production,” ACP CEO Jason Grumet wrote. “In what can only be described as ‘midnight dumping,’ the Senate has proposed a punitive tax hike targeting the fastest-growing sectors of our energy industry.”

Grumet went on to caution that these tax measures would “strand hundreds of billions of dollars in current investments, threaten energy security, undermine growth in domestic manufacturing and land hardest on rural communities who would have been the greatest beneficiaries of clean energy investment.”

He urged lawmakers to take a step back and reconsider. “We understand the Senate’s desire to meet the President’s July 4th deadline, but the stakes here are very high,” Grumet stated. “We urge Senate leadership to strike these last-minute tax increases and to take the time to responsibly analyze the impacts of this new tax regime on American businesses and communities.”

Meanwhile, Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., vowed on X that she would help block the bill’s swift passage by forcing a marathon reading session of the nearly 1,000-page text.

“Democrats need to use every second to fight back against the Big Beautiful Bill,” Warren posted.

{43}

Key GOP Senator Defects On Crucial Vote, Imperiling Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ In Narrow Majority

A Senate Republican facing a tough political landscape made it clear he would not back President Donald Trump’s sweeping legislative proposal, citing concerns over significant Medicaid reductions included in the massive bill.

Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina told Fox News Digital that he plans to oppose the bill at the crucial procedural stage needed to begin formal debate and amendment votes, a key step before any final vote can occur.

After stepping out of a closed-door Republican Senate luncheon, Tillis—who faces reelection in 2026—said he maintains good relations with fellow senators, but cannot endorse the bill due to the harmful effects it could have on his home state. “We just have a disagreement,” he said. “And, you know, my colleagues have done the analysis, and they’re comfortable with the impact on their states. I respect their choice. It’s not a good impact in my state, so I’m not going to vote on the motion to proceed.”

Tillis also stated he has no plans to support the bill at later stages either. He’s among a group of Senate Republicans raising alarms over provisions that adjust the Medicaid provider tax rate—changes he believes would hit North Carolina particularly hard.

His defection presents a challenge for Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota, who can only afford to lose three Republican votes. Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin has already pledged to oppose the procedural motion, and Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky is also expected to vote no.

During the lunch, Trump met with Johnson and Senator Rick Scott of Florida, another potential swing vote, in an effort to shore up support for the legislation.

The growing pushback may force Thune to reevaluate the current draft of the bill. Further complicating the effort is Senator Susan Collins of Maine, also up for reelection in 2026, who said she would vote to advance the bill initially, but might oppose its final passage if further revisions aren’t made. “Further changed,” she said, was her condition for full support.

The most recent version of the bill, unveiled just before midnight, includes modifications to delay the controversial Medicaid provider rate adjustment by one year and adds $25 billion for a rural hospital support fund.

While other senators such as Collins and Josh Hawley of Missouri are willing to move the bill forward through the early stages, Tillis remains firm in his objection, arguing that his state would suffer dramatically under the proposed Medicaid adjustments.

In fact, during a closed-door session earlier in the week, Tillis reportedly warned colleagues that North Carolina could see a $40 billion reduction in Medicaid funds if the bill becomes law.

Despite having spoken directly with Trump, Tillis seems steadfast in his stance. He also indicated that he intends to release additional data showing the negative consequences of the bill for North Carolina—data he claims no one in “the administration or in this building” has been able to challenge.

“The president and I have talked, and I just told him that, ‘Look, if this works for the country, that’s great. And if my other colleagues have done extensive research and concluded it’s different in their states, I respect that,’” he said. “We just have a disagreement based on the implementation in our respective states.”

{Matzav.com}

CHUCKY: Schumer To Force Reading Of 1,000-Page GOP Mega Bill, Delaying It By Half A Day

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York informed fellow Democrats on Saturday that he intends to have Senate clerks read aloud the entire 1,000-page Republican-sponsored spending and tax bill once the GOP initiates a procedural vote to move it forward. This maneuver, aimed at slowing down the legislative process, is expected to consume roughly 12 hours and could stall President Trump’s legislative timeline by at least half a day.

According to a Democratic aide with knowledge of the floor strategy discussions, Schumer told members of his caucus to be ready to demand a full reading of the lengthy bill as soon as Republicans begin formal debate.

One of the pressing questions now facing Senate leadership is whether Republicans will press ahead with the reading through the night and into early Sunday, or allow staff to rest before launching into the next phase of the legislative process — a marathon session of amendment votes known as a vote-a-rama.

Republicans had reportedly anticipated that Schumer might use this tactic as a form of protest against the legislation.

Schumer’s move comes as Senate Republicans work against the clock to pass President Trump’s sweeping tax and spending proposal ahead of the July 4 deadline he set. GOP leaders had initially planned to hold a preliminary vote on Saturday afternoon, then proceed with up to 20 hours of debate, followed by a vote-a-rama involving potentially unlimited amendments.

Now, due to Schumer’s intervention, the anticipated start of the vote-a-rama will be delayed.

Meanwhile, it remains uncertain whether Republicans have secured enough votes to advance their version of the bill. With only a slim margin for defections, GOP leaders can afford to lose no more than three votes — and three Republican senators, Rand Paul of Kentucky, Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, have publicly committed to voting against it.

{Matzav.com}

AGAIN: Trump Denounces Netanyahu’s Trial as a ‘Political Witch Hunt’

President Donald Trump once again voiced strong opposition to the ongoing legal proceedings against Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu.

“It is terrible what they are doing in Israel to Bibi Netanyahu. He is a War Hero, and a Prime Minister who did a fabulous job working with the United States to bring Great Success in getting rid of the dangerous Nuclear threat in Iran. Importantly, he is right now in the process of negotiating a Deal with Hamas, which will include getting the Hostages back. How is it possible that the Prime Minister of Israel can be forced to sit in a Courtroom all day long, over NOTHING (Cigars, Bugs Bunny Doll, etc.). It is a POLITICAL WITCH HUNT, very similar to the Witch Hunt that I was forced to endure,” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform.

He went on to argue that the trial is undermining important diplomatic efforts. “This travesty of ‘Justice’ will interfere with both Iran and Hamas negotiations. In other words, it is INSANITY doing what the out-of-control prosecutors are doing to Bibi Netanyahu. The United States of America spends Billions of Dollar a year, far more than on any other Nation, protecting and supporting Israel. We are not going to stand for this,” he added.

Trump ended his message with a call for the trial to be stopped immediately. “We just had a Great Victory with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu at the helm — And this greatly tarnishes our Victory. LET BIBI GO, HE’S GOT A BIG JOB TO DO!”

This is the second time in just a few days that Trump has condemned the trial. On Wednesday, he posted another statement on Truth Social, labeling the legal case a “ridiculous Witch Hunt” and urging either its termination or a full pardon for Netanyahu.

Despite these calls, the Yerushalayim District Court on Friday turned down Netanyahu’s request to suspend testimony in his corruption trial for the upcoming two weeks. The court confirmed that proceedings are scheduled to continue on Monday and Wednesday, although Monday’s session will begin at 11:30 a.m. instead of earlier.

Judge Rivka Friedman-Feldman, issuing the ruling, stated, “the request to postpone the hearing, in its current form, does not present a basis or detailed reasoning that could justify canceling evidentiary hearings.”

After the court’s denial, Netanyahu submitted another appeal, this time including a sealed envelope with his proposed weekly schedule. However, the judges again declined, noting that “The schedule presented does not contain data, details, or exceptional matters that could justify canceling hearings.”

{Matzav.com}

GOOD RIDDANCE: Hamas Leader and Oct. 7 Mastermind Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa Killed In Airstrike, IDF Says

Israeli defense officials announced that one of the founding architects of Hamas’ military operations and a central figure behind the October 7 assault has been killed in a targeted strike.

Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa was eliminated in an Israeli airstrike carried out in the Sabra area of Gaza City, according to a statement released by the Israel Defense Forces.

Al-Issa was one of the last remaining original commanders of Hamas’ armed wing. He played a key role in orchestrating the October 7 onslaught that triggered the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

“Issa led Hamas’ force build-up, training, and planned the October 7 massacre. As Head of Combat Support, he advanced aerial & naval attacks against Israelis,” said an IDF post on X.

“The IDF & [Israel Security Agency] will continue to locate and eliminate all terrorists involved in the October 7 massacre.”

Al-Issa was known to be a vital reservoir of operational knowledge for Hamas. Prior to the October 7 attack, he had held numerous senior posts within the organization, including heading its Training Headquarters.

He played a leading role in reconstructing Hamas’ internal structure following months of Israeli pressure that degraded the group’s capabilities.

In addition, Al-Issa co-founded the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades’ military academy, where he helped train thousands of operatives and shape the hierarchy of Hamas’ military framework, according to the Jerusalem Post.

He entered Gaza in 2005 after spending time in Syria and was reportedly with his wife and grandson when the strike occurred.

Al-Issa’s elimination comes on the heels of another significant blow to Palestinian militant factions. Earlier this week, the IDF said it neutralized Asaad Abu Sharia, the leader of the Mujahideen Brigades — a Palestinian terror faction linked to the abduction and execution of Hamas captives taken on October 7.

Sharia was reportedly killed during a coordinated operation between the Israeli military and the Shin Bet in Gaza City.

Last month, Israeli forces also struck down top Hamas commander Mohammad Sinwar in an aerial assault on a hospital facility in Gaza.

Sinwar had been hiding in tunnel infrastructure beneath the medical center. His body was retrieved from the debris in a dramatic operation captured on video by IDF troops.

{Matzav.com}

INCREDIBLE: Report Says Mossad Operated In Iran For Over A Decade To Map Nuclear Sites

The British newspaper The Times published a report disclosing that Israeli Mossad operatives were active within Iran for more than ten years, conducting covert intelligence work on Iran’s nuclear operations in anticipation of possible future military strikes.

As outlined in the report, Mossad agents began surveilling Iranian nuclear infrastructure back in 2010. Their efforts focused on pinpointing locations where centrifuges were being assembled, specifically at three key sites in Tehran and Isfahan—facilities that later became primary targets in Israel’s Operation Rising Lion. Intelligence officials stated that this surveillance extended far beyond the well-known sites of Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, reaching other, lesser-known components of the Iranian nuclear project.

The report further notes that Mossad operatives delivered detailed intelligence used to carry out strikes on several nuclear-related locations. These included the enrichment plant at Natanz and military installations in Isfahan tied to the SPND, a secretive Iranian defense research entity. The documents also revealed that Israeli operations aimed at facilities used by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps for weapons development, including a site in the Sanjarian area.

According to the classified materials, by the close of 2024, Iran had reached an advanced stage in its nuclear efforts—so advanced, in fact, that it could potentially reach full operational capability within a matter of weeks.

The report draws from internal intelligence files that were obtained by The Times.

{Matzav.com Israel}

STAY HUMBLE: Intelligence Head Tells His Soldiers To Exhibit Humility

Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder, head of Israel’s Military Intelligence Directorate (AMAN), issued a letter to his personnel marking the conclusion of Operation Rising Lion.

“At the end of twelve historic days of combat against Iran, a ceasefire took effect yesterday, though it is too early to assess its stability,” Binder wrote. “Operation Rising Lion fully achieved its objectives, and even exceeded some, focusing on: striking multiple key components of Iran’s nuclear program, damaging the value chain of Iran’s precision missile industry, and preventing the emergence of an existential threat from Iran. These achievements will be discussed at length, and you—the men and women of Military Intelligence—played a central role in them.”

Binder emphasized that despite the operation’s accomplishments, the broader conflict remains far from over. “Alongside this important recognition of our achievements,” he continued, “we in Intelligence must always remember that on the other side stands a determined and extremist enemy, with a deeply rooted and persistent belief-based concept of victory. AMAN will likely continue to be at the forefront of this struggle in the coming years—through early warning, intelligence gathering, situational analysis, and developing means to strike this enemy.”

Reflecting on the contrast between recent success and past failure, he wrote, “It is precisely at such moments of exceptional success that the memory of AMAN’s failure on October 7th resonates. The same organization experienced both failure and success, carried out by individuals who gave their utmost to fulfill their mission. This memory obligates all Intelligence personnel to genuine humility—acknowledging the complexity of the profession and the fragility of our understanding of our various enemies. Those in this field bear a continuous responsibility for skepticism, self-critique, and constant review and improvement—both in times of success and in times of failure.”

Binder noted that Israel now finds itself in an improved, yet still difficult, strategic environment. “Following the operation, Israel faces a better security reality, though one no less complex. Across the various fronts, there remain many operational and intelligence challenges, which AMAN remains committed to addressing with responsibility and reverence. At the forefront remains the effort to achieve the war’s primary goals in the Gaza Strip: the urgent return of our hostages and the defeat of Hamas.”

He praised the dedication and spirit of his team, writing, “Throughout the operation, as in the long months of war that preceded it, I had the great privilege to meet so many of you across the country—commanders and soldiers, in regular service and reserves, in research and collection, in headquarters and operations, in AMAN formations and operational units, shoulder to shoulder with our partners in the IDF and the intelligence community. What unites you all is a deep belief in the justness of our path—extraordinary human strength, initiative, creativity, and a drive to act—that form the foundation of AMAN and the IDF’s achievements in this operation.”

Binder concluded with a call for ongoing engagement and reflection: “These qualities will continue to be necessary as we face the many challenges ahead,” Binder concluded, “and we will approach them alongside a comprehensive review of our actions in this campaign and the battle procedures that preceded it. I expect each of you to take an active and meaningful role in this process. I am proud of you and love you.”

He closed the message with a quote from Mishlei: “Before destruction a man’s heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.”

{Matzav.com}

Khamenei Adviser Details IDF Assassination Attempt: ‘I Made Their Lives Purgatory’

Ali Shamkhani, a senior adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, appeared on Iranian state television to speak publicly about a failed Israeli assassination attempt that left him with serious injuries.

Throughout the broadcast, Shamkhani could be seen using a medical breathing device, which he explained was necessary due to lingering lung issues caused by the attack.

Recalling the incident, Shamkhani described being trapped beneath the wreckage of his home for several hours. “I was mainly injured internally; my ribs were broken,” he said.

“I woke up the moment the projectile hit me. At first, I thought I was trapped under rubble and debris had fallen. I started digging with my legs as much as I could. I did that because of the damage to my lungs, because my rib cage was broken. I saw other internal injuries. I prayed and heard the sound of a car. I took steady breaths.”

Despite the close call, Shamkhani said he harbors no fear of Israel. “I’ve never been afraid, not even for a moment, of the Zionist attack. The Zionists know why they tried to eliminate me — and so do I. I can’t say the reason, but I made their lives purgatory,” he said during the interview.

He also took the opportunity to voice frustration over Iran’s diplomatic efforts with Western powers, alleging that their true goal was never to find common ground. “The negotiations weren’t meant to reach an agreement, but to deceive us. We knew they wanted to create internal conditions to spark protests,” he asserted.

{Matzav.com}

Hadassah Hospital: Israeli Boy Shot With A Live Round, Not Rubber

The Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center released an update on Saturday night regarding the teenage boy who was wounded during a confrontation with Israeli soldiers in the Binyamin area. The hospital stated that the youth is conscious and in stable condition, though he remains in the intensive care unit. He is scheduled to undergo surgery on Sunday. After conducting examinations, doctors determined that the boy was struck by a live round, contradicting earlier reports which claimed he had been hit by a rubber bullet.

In the wake of the incident, the IDF battalion commander who says he was assaulted during the confrontation has offered his account of what transpired. “I have been operating in this area for two decades – and the reality we face is that 90% of our efforts here are spent stopping Hilltop Youth from committing acts of arson,” he stated.

He went on to describe the escalation of tensions with the same group of individuals previously seen setting fires in the Arab village of Al Mughayir, allegedly carrying weapons. “We witnessed them choking a soldier. I was physically attacked, rocks were thrown at one of our vehicles, another vehicle was rammed, and tires were slashed,” he recounted during an interview with Galei Tzahal.

“They told us outright that we wouldn’t leave there alive. Just a day earlier, I was verbally assaulted – they called me a Nazi, cursed at me, and spat in my direction. The Binyamin region means more to me than anything – we show up again and again for reserve duty because we believe in what we’re doing, and now we find ourselves forced to confront these kinds of situations,” he added.

The civilians who were present during the altercation have rejected the commander’s account, insisting that it was actually he who issued a threat to kill them.

{Matzav.com Israel}

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Trump: I Would ‘Absolutely’ Consider Bombing Iran Nuclear Sites Again

ChatGPT said:

At a press briefing held at the White House on Friday, President Donald Trump made it clear that he would be open to launching additional airstrikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities if intelligence pointed to a growing threat.

“Sure, without question, absolutely – it has to be unbelievable,” Trump said in response to a reporter who asked whether he might consider ordering strikes on Iran again if new intelligence raised red flags regarding uranium enrichment activities.

Trump also expressed confidence that Iran was currently incapable of quickly reviving its nuclear ambitions following the damage inflicted by U.S. attacks on its nuclear infrastructure.

When pressed on whether he was concerned about undisclosed nuclear sites possibly still operating within Iran, Trump shrugged off the idea, indicating he believed Iran was in no position to prioritize nuclear ambitions at this stage.

“Can I tell you – they’re exhausted. And Israel’s exhausted too. And I dealt with both of them, and they both wanted it settled – both of them – and we did a great job. But they’re exhausted. The last thing they’re thinking about right now is nuclear. You know what they’re thinking of? They’re thinking about tomorrow, trying to live,” stated Trump.

Trump also claimed that Tehran was eager to enter negotiations with the United States over its nuclear program. His remarks echoed those of Steve Witkoff, the administration’s Middle East envoy, who recently stated that preliminary steps toward dialogue with Iran were already underway.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials have publicly denied any plans to engage in renewed nuclear talks. On Thursday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected reports suggesting otherwise.

“Some speculations about the resumption of negotiations should not be taken seriously,” Araghchi declared, adding, “I would like to state clearly that no agreement, arrangement or conversation has been made to start new negotiations. No plan has been set yet to start negotiations.”

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

Trump: “I Saved Khamenei From A Very Ugly Death”

Donald Trump launched a fierce attack on Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Friday, reacting to Khamenei’s declaration that Iran had triumphed in its conflict with Israel. Using his Truth Social platform, Trump accused Khamenei of fabricating a narrative of victory and disclosed that he had been exploring lifting sanctions on Iran—an effort he abandoned in light of the Ayatollah’s remarks.

“Why would the so-called ‘Supreme Leader,’ Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, of the war torn Country of Iran, say so blatantly and foolishly that he won the War with Israel, when he knows his statement is a lie, it is not so,” Trump wrote.

Trump didn’t hold back, expressing outrage over what he saw as a complete distortion of the facts. He reminded followers that Iran had suffered massive devastation and suggested he personally intervened to stop Israel or the U.S. from killing Khamenei. “As a man of great faith, he is not supposed to lie. His Country was decimated, his three evil Nuclear Sites were OBLITERATED, and I knew EXACTLY where he was sheltered, and would not let Israel, or the U.S. Armed Forces, by far the Greatest and Most Powerful in the World, terminate his life. I SAVED HIM FROM A VERY UGLY AND IGNOMINIOUS DEATH, and he does not have to say, ‘THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP!'”

He went on to reveal that he had instructed Israel to abort what he described as a massive military operation targeting the Iranian capital. “In fact, in the final act of the War, I demanded that Israel bring back a very large group of planes, which were heading directly to Tehran, looking for a big day, perhaps the final knockout! Tremendous damage would have ensued, and many Iranians would have been killed. It was going to be the biggest attack of the War, by far.”

Trump then turned to his diplomatic efforts in the conflict’s aftermath. He noted that he had been making headway toward easing sanctions to help Iran recover—but the Ayatollah’s inflammatory rhetoric caused him to reverse course. “During the last few days, I was working on the possible removal of sanctions, and other things, which would have given a much better chance to Iran at a full, fast, and complete recovery – The sanctions are BITING! But no, instead I get hit with a statement of anger, hatred, and disgust, and immediately dropped all work on sanction relief, and more.”

In closing, Trump painted a bleak picture of Iran’s condition and warned of further deterioration unless its leaders embraced a different approach. “Iran has to get back into the World Order flow, or things will only get worse for them. They are always so angry, hostile, and unhappy, and look at what it has gotten them – A burned out, blown up Country, with no future, a decimated Military, a horrible Economy, and DEATH all around them. They have no hope, and it will only get worse! I wish the leadership of Iran would realize that you often get more with HONEY than you do with VINEGAR. PEACE!!!”

{Matzav.com}

Trump Abruptly Ends Trade Talks With Canada Over Digital Services Tax: ‘Direct And Blatant Attack On Our Country’

President Trump delivered an unexpected blow to trade relations with Canada on Friday, declaring that he would be halting all negotiations in response to Canada’s decision to implement a tax targeting American tech giants.

“We have just been informed that Canada … has just announced that they are putting a Digital Services Tax on our American Technology Companies, which is a direct and blatant attack on our Country,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

He accused Canada of mimicking policies from across the Atlantic: “They are obviously copying the European Union, which has done the same thing, and is currently under discussion with us, also. Based on this egregious Tax, we are hereby terminating ALL discussions on Trade with Canada, effective immediately.”

Trump also warned that economic repercussions were on the way. “We will let Canada know the Tariff that they will be paying to do business with the United States of America within the next seven day period. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

The Canadian government has committed to instituting a 3% tax on digital revenues earned by large-scale platforms such as Facebook and Google. The proposed levy would be retroactively applied to earnings going back to 2022 and would only affect companies that generate over $14.6 million annually.

It remains unclear how Trump’s order will immediately impact existing trade structures, since the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) continues to govern the overall commercial relationship between the two nations.

Still, the announcement rippled through financial markets, prompting a decline in tech-related stocks on Wall Street. However, despite the dip, broader indices remained on track for a positive weekly close.

Trump has previously warned the European Union of facing a steep 50% tariff in retaliation for its own digital tax plans, though he postponed enforcement until July 9 to allow room for dialogue.

{Matzav.com}

Amy Coney Barrett Rips Ketanji Brown Jackson Over Dissent In Birthright Citizenship Case: ‘As Brutal As I’ve Ever Seen’

Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett delivered a striking and sharply worded dismissal of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s dissent in a major case on birthright citizenship, surprising many who closely follow the court’s inner dynamics. In the ruling, which curtailed the ability of lower courts to issue sweeping injunctions, Barrett offered a blunt critique of Jackson’s reasoning.

“We will not dwell on Justice Jackson’s argument, which is at odds with more than two centuries’ worth of precedent, not to mention the Constitution itself,” Barrett wrote, forcefully rejecting the basis of Jackson’s stance. “We observe only this: Justice Jackson decries an imperial Executive while embracing an imperial Judiciary.”

Barrett, who wrote the majority opinion in the decision seen as a significant win for President Trump, limited the authority of federal district courts to halt presidential actions with universal injunctions—a judicial practice that has become increasingly common in recent years.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor authored the primary dissenting opinion on behalf of the liberal justices, joined by Jackson. However, Jackson also issued her own dissent, expanding on the concerns she felt were being overlooked by the court’s conservative majority.

Jackson’s separate opinion focused less on statutory interpretation and more on what she described as dangerous consequences of the ruling. “It is not difficult to predict how this all ends. Eventually, executive power will become completely uncontainable, and our beloved constitutional Republic will be no more,” she warned in stark language.

Elsewhere, Jackson argued that the case wasn’t just about technicalities but raised core questions about checks and balances: “Quite unlike a rule-of-kings governing system, in a rule of law regime, nearly ‘[e]very act of government may be challenged by an appeal to law,’” she wrote. “At the very least, I lament that the majority is so caught up in minutiae of the Government’s self-serving, finger-pointing arguments that it misses the plot.”

She further dismissed legal debates surrounding the Judiciary Act of 1789 as obfuscating the essential issue. “Legalese” is how she referred to it, adding that it “obscures a far more basic question of enormous legal and practical significance: May a federal court in the United States of America order the Executive to follow the law?”

Barrett responded with a tone that verged on sarcastic: “Because analyzing the governing statute involves boring ‘legalese,’ [Jackson] seeks to answer ‘a far more basic question of enormous practical significance: May a federal court in the United States of America order the Executive to follow the law?’”

She continued: “In other words, it is unnecessary to consider whether Congress has constrained the Judiciary; what matters is how the Judiciary may constrain the Executive. Justice Jackson would do well to heed her own admonition: ‘[E]veryone, from the President on down, is bound by law.’ That goes for judges too.”

Though Barrett acknowledged that Sotomayor stayed within the boundaries of traditional legal reasoning, she had far less patience for Jackson’s approach. “While Justice Sotomayor focuses her dissent on conventional legal terrain, like the Judiciary Act of 1789 and our cases on equity,” Barrett noted, Jackson veered off in a completely different direction. Barrett described her colleague’s argument as “a startling line of attack that is tethered neither to these sources nor, frankly, to any doctrine whatsoever.”

Barrett was especially critical of Jackson’s dismissal of legal limitations on judicial power. “Waving away attention to the limits on judicial power as a ‘mind-numbingly technical query’ … she offers a vision of the judicial role that would make even the most ardent defender of judicial supremacy blush,” she wrote.

Adding to the tension, Jackson did not close her opinion with the customary “I dissent” or “Respectfully, I dissent,” an omission that court observers interpreted as a sign of deep discontent.

“It’s not something that we see every day,” Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said in an interview with The Post, referring to Barrett’s unusually direct criticism. Bird noted, however, that Barrett’s comments remained focused on legal arguments rather than descending into personal attacks.

Reactions on social media were swift and intense. “Holy …, this is about as brutal as I’ve ever seen SCOTUS be on one of their own,” attorney Kostas Moros posted on X, quoting Barrett’s “imperial Judiciary” line. “Translated: ‘you are so stupid that you aren’t even worth responding to.’”

Others suggested Barrett’s harsh tone might reflect growing frustration within the court. “The FACT that six Justices were OK with signing onto an opinion where Justice Barrett took a personal shot at Justice Jackson is a VERY STRONG indication that Jackson has alienated her colleagues and there is a growing lack of respect for her work,” wrote X user Shipwreckedcrew, who identifies as a former federal prosecutor.

He added that Jackson’s dissent likely followed heated exchanges behind the scenes. “Justices circulate Memos among with their legal views on certain cases in order to bring others around to their thinking. Given what she has written in her dissent, imagine the memos that Jackson must have sent around in this case.”

The legal backdrop to the dispute involved three lower courts that had blocked President Trump’s January 20 executive order, which aimed to redefine birthright citizenship. Those courts determined the order likely violated constitutional protections under the 14th Amendment, which grants citizenship to all individuals born on U.S. soil.

The Supreme Court’s decision did not take a position on the constitutionality of Trump’s executive order itself. Instead, it focused solely on the scope of judicial authority to issue nationwide injunctions.

{Matzav.com}

Trump Needles Iran’s Ayatollah and Threatens More Strikes: ‘Tell The Truth, You Got Beat To H—’

President Trump on Friday urged Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to be honest about his country’s defeat, stating that he was thoroughly overpowered by both the United States and Israel. He also issued a stern warning that if Iran resumes uranium enrichment at troubling levels, American forces would respond with further military action.
“I said, ‘Look, you’re a man of great faith, a man who is highly respected in his country, you have to tell the truth. You got beat to h—,’” Trump told reporters, ridiculing the supreme leader’s assertion of victory in the recent confrontation.

Trump, speaking during an unusual visit to the White House press briefing room, emphasized that Iran’s leadership had far more pressing concerns at the moment than nuclear ambitions.
“The last thing they’re thinking about is nuclear weapons right now,” the president added.

When asked whether he would authorize another strike against Iran if the nuclear threat escalated again, Trump responded with complete certainty, leaving no room for ambiguity.
He said he would “without question, absolutely” consider bombing Iran again if it enriches uranium to an extent that concerns him.

Khamenei, however, had insisted in a Thursday statement that Iran had emerged “victorious” from the twelve-day conflict, even though Israeli forces had seized aerial dominance and American bombers had devastated three of Iran’s nuclear facilities.

“The Islamic Republic was victorious and, in retaliation, delivered a hand slap to America’s face,” Khamenei claimed on X, referring to a symbolic launch of 14 rockets at a US base in Qatar Monday.

All of the missiles were intercepted, thanks in part to early warning from Tehran. A cease-fire deal was reached just a few hours after the launch.

{Matzav.com}

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