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In the aftermath of the mass shooting in Midtown that left four dead, including an NYPD officer, Zohran Mamdani, the socialist candidate for mayor, publicly distanced himself from his once-promoted “defund the police” position.

“I am not running to defund the police,” Mamdani stated at a highly anticipated press conference, held just hours after he paid a condolence visit to the family of slain officer Didarul Islam.

Upon arriving back in New York from an ill-timed trip to Uganda, Mamdani headed straight to the Bronx to meet with Islam’s bereaved relatives.

Back in June, Mamdani had already tweeted that he wouldn’t pursue defunding the NYPD if elected. Yet despite that public shift, many within law enforcement circles remained doubtful of his sincerity, while political analysts said his shift was a practical necessity given the political climate.

“People are fools to believe he will help the city,” one police insider remarked. “A wolf in sheep’s clothing.”

Lee Miringoff, who leads the Marist Institute for Public Opinion, said Mamdani’s disavowal of the “defund” rhetoric was critical to the viability of his campaign.

“He didn’t want ‘defund the police’ to define his candidacy. It’s a necessary move for him,” Miringoff explained in comments to The Post.

The tragedy that struck Monday at a high-rise on Park Avenue, where gunman Shane Tamura opened fire, killing officer Islam and three others before taking his own life, presented the first significant leadership challenge for Mamdani.

Unfortunately for him, he was abroad at the time, celebrating his recent marriage.

Mayor Eric Adams and Andrew Cuomo, both of whom are running independently and trail Mamdani in the polls, responded publicly about an hour after the incident, as did Republican contender Curtis Sliwa.

Later that evening, Adams visited Islam’s loved ones at the hospital, and the following day, both he and Governor Kathy Hochul participated in a roll call tribute to the fallen officer at the 47th Precinct.

In contrast, Mamdani initially issued a tweet 45 minutes after his political rivals, referring to the officer as still “in critical condition,” despite confirmed reports that Islam had already died.

The next morning, Mamdani followed up with a more personal message honoring Islam’s immigrant roots and his journey as a Bangladeshi police officer. But the delayed response and his previous record on policing drew sharp criticism, especially for his call to abolish the NYPD’s Strategic Response Group.

Upon returning to New York on Wednesday, Mamdani made a quiet visit to the Bronx to meet with Islam’s family in private. He brought a large bouquet of flowers and refrained from answering media questions before or after the meeting, though he was seen embracing a grieving family member.

Later, he appeared at a press conference alongside Shamsul Haque, a co-founder of the Bangladeshi American Police Association and retired NYPD lieutenant, as well as the brother of Aland Etienne, one of the civilians killed in the Park Avenue shooting.

Asked whether he still intended to eliminate the NYPD’s SRG, which had responded to Monday’s attack, Mamdani nodded in affirmation.

He maintained that the SRG has historically been misused during protest responses and has contributed to violations of civil liberties. He argued the unit should be replaced with a different type of emergency task force.

“There is a need to ensure that every act we take is one that is actually delivering public safety,” he said. “And what we see right now, especially with regards to how we respond to protests, is not in line.”

Mamdani also sought to clarify that his controversial anti-police tweets from years past do not represent the stance of his current campaign, which acknowledges the importance of law enforcement while advocating for social services to take the lead in specific crisis calls.

He reiterated that roles such as handling mental health emergencies and domestic disturbances should be taken on by trained social workers instead of police officers.

“My statements in 2020 were made amidst a frustration that many New Yorkers held at the murder of George Floyd,” he said.

Some of his past tweets included statements like “Queer liberation means defund the police,” “Defund the Haram Police,” and the declaration that “defunding the police” is “a feminist issue.”

In the same year, Mamdani also tweeted: “We don’t need an investigation to know that the NYPD is racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety.”

He also posted on August 6, 2020: “White supremacy has many faces, from the police & prison systems in America to occupation & apartheid in Palestine.”

Ross Wallenstein, a Democratic strategist with Wall to Wall Communications, dismissed the notion that Mamdani has genuinely shifted his views since the peak of the George Floyd demonstrations.

“His latest tweet calling to disband the NYPD unit that responded to this week’s horrific shooting was in December. It wasn’t from 2020,” Wallenstein said. “New Yorkers won’t be fooled by this in November.”

While Mamdani repeatedly tried to steer the conversation back to Officer Islam and the other victims, he also took aim at Cuomo, accusing him of using the tragedy for political advantage.

“It is beyond me that politicians are looking to use these days to score such cynical political points, on the very day that I held the father of Officer Islam in my arms and he could not utter a single word,” he said.

“For the former governor to spend an entire day speaking almost exclusively about me and barely about the New Yorkers who have been killed is indicative of the very politics New Yorkers want to leave in the past.”

Cuomo, Mamdani, and Adams are all expected to be present at Officer Islam’s funeral on Thursday.

David Paterson, another past New York governor, praised Mamdani for reversing his stance on police funding.

“I take Mamdani at his word. I’m just astounded it took a horrific shooting strategy to reconsider his position,” Paterson said.

Gregory Floyd, who leads Teamsters Local 237 and represents NYPD school safety personnel and NYCHA security officers, said Mamdani’s new message comes too late to be credible.

“To come out and say it now because it’s unpopular, it’s too late now,” Floyd said. Floyd is Black.

Ken Frydman, a Democratic consultant and longtime advisor to police unions, said Mamdani’s messaging remains contradictory.

“Defund the NYPD or not defund the NYPD?” he quipped. “There isn’t a cop I know who trusts this guy.”

{Matzav.com}

In a revealing interview with Yishai Cohen of Kikar HaShabbat, MK Uri Maklev, chairman of the United Torah Judaism faction, leveled serious accusations at ousted Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chairman MK Yuli Edelstein. According to Maklev, Edelstein deliberately worked to ensure the chareidim would fail to meet the draft targets outlined in the new law.

Maklev, who led months of negotiations over the draft legislation alongside former minister Ariel Attias, recalled repeated meetings with Edelstein in hopes of reaching a mutually agreed-upon version of the bill. However, in what Maklev described as a shocking turn, Edelstein ultimately presented a law that ran counter to all previous agreements—prompting United Torah Judaism to withdraw from the government within hours.

Describing the moment of betrayal, Maklev recounted, “After just a minute or two of reading the first few pages, someone said, ‘This is unbelievable. There’s no point in continuing. This page alone says it all.’ We saw changes and surprises….things that were never supposed to be in the bill. It was very surprising.”

When asked directly why he reneged on the understandings, Edelstein reportedly told Maklev and his colleagues, “It was right before the Iran strike. I thought it was crazy to topple the government.” Maklev said Edelstein openly admitted that he had reversed course.

Maklev went further, accusing Edelstein of intentionally manipulating the definitions in the law to undermine chareidi compliance: “I showed him that they were doing everything to make sure we wouldn’t meet the targets. For example, who qualifies as chareidi? He narrowed the definition specifically so that we wouldn’t be able to reach the numbers.”

Maklev rejected the idea that the chareidi negotiators were simply misled: “There were several of us in that negotiation. One person could be naïve, but not four. But then again—what’s the alternative if there’s no law at all?”

He also addressed Edelstein’s removal from his committee post. “People say the Prime Minister lied to us. He gave us dates—based on what? Edelstein told him. Edelstein wasn’t born into the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. He was also our representative. That’s the partnership—we expect you to represent the coalition. He told the Prime Minister deadlines in our presence and privately. We didn’t call for his removal. That came from within Likud.”

As for the chances of passing a new draft law under current conditions, Maklev said, “We were instructed to make the attempt. We’re not focusing on the odds—we just have to try. There’s definitely a possibility.”

Maklev pushed back on claims that the chareidim had already agreed to specific targets—10,000 recruits over two years, and 50% of each draft class within four years. “No one can say we agreed to that,” he said. “We demanded to see a full version of the law in that same meeting. We agreed to move forward and review the new clauses, but we do not agree to anything unless it’s written out.”

Meanwhile, the IDF is reportedly preparing to begin a wave of arrests next week targeting yeshiva students labeled as deserters, a development that has deeply concerned chareidi leadership. Asked to comment, Maklev said, “I’m not worthy to address this. This isn’t my role. These are matters for the gedolei haTorah, who send us as emissaries. It’s no secret that roshei yeshiva are guided by the gedolim, and I’m not instructed to speak about this.”

Maklev concluded by addressing internal tensions within United Torah Judaism, particularly Degel HaTorah’s demand that a Chassidishe MK resign to make way for Yitzchok Pindrus. “There has been no progress yet. Our demand remains. There is an agreement, and agreements must be honored. There’s been an exchange of letters as well. Our demand to uphold the agreement is still in place.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

A storm is brewing in the world of religious Zionist yeshivos tichoniyot, following the unexpected decision by Rav Baruch Chait, rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Maarava. The yeshiva’s leadership barred its students from attending Machaneh Bnei Torah, a summer camp intended to strengthen bnei yeshiva. The move was met with sharp criticism from parents, faculty, and especially students — some of whom are calling on the yeshiva to “look inward” rather than blame the camp for spiritual decline.

Rabbi Chait’s stance made headlines earlier this week after Matzav.com revealed the discontent boiling among Maarava parents and faculty members. In response to the uproar, Rabbi Chait issued a letter doubling down on his decision, stating that the camp fosters behaviors inappropriate for his yeshiva’s standards.

In his letter, Rabbi Chait explained: “Maarava is a regular yeshiva with clear values and standards, enshrined in our handbook — strict adherence to derech eretz and conduct befitting bnei Torah, including zero tolerance for smoking, alcohol, and unfiltered media. While we appreciate Machaneh Bnei Torah and its work for a certain demographic, unfortunately, the generational decline has widened the gap between Maarava and other yeshivos tichoniyot.”

He added, “We are aware that some of our students who attended the camp last year returned having picked up smoking and other behaviors incompatible with our yeshiva’s values. As a result, we were forced to suspend several boys. For the sake of preserving the atmosphere and educational environment our yeshiva stands for, we advise parents not to allow their sons to participate.”

However, a contrasting voice emerged from Yerushalayim, as Rav Meshulam Zusha Brandwein, rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Chedvas HaTorah, issued his own letter. He offered unwavering support for Machaneh Bnei Torah, framing the camp as a vital component of his students’ spiritual development.

Rabbi Brandwein wrote, “The image of our revered rosh yeshiva, the late Rav Baruch Mordechai Ezrachi zt”l, stands before us as a model of greatness. His rich Torah legacy guides us throughout the year. We participate in Machaneh Bnei Torah out of deep appreciation for this great Torah project, founded with authentic connection to the yeshiva world and the mesorah of olam haTorah.”

He continued, “We discussed the camp often with our late rosh yeshiva, who recognized its power to raise a generation of talmidei chachamim. Experience has proven that those who come in strong Torah learners leave even more elevated. Our students excelled there — in their Torah knowledge, halacha proficiency, and overall conduct.”

Rav Brandwein concluded: “As you head to camp, we trust you will continue your path of excellence — in learning, yiras Shamayim, dignified dress and refined behavior, reflecting the deep education you receive within our yeshiva’s walls. Carry the banner of our yeshiva with pride and return with renewed strength for the coming zman Elul.”

Following the wide circulation of the controversy, several talmidim from various yeshivos tichoniyot who participated in the camp were spoken to.

A student from Yeshivas Nishmas HaTorah in Yerushalayim, led by Rabbi Eliezer Steinberger, remarked: “I don’t know what changed suddenly. Last year we had a big group at the camp and not one of us came back smoking. Maybe there are isolated cases, but saying that the camp breaks boys spiritually is an injustice — to the students and to the camp itself.”

Another bochur added, “There has to be something else going on. This can’t just be about cigarettes. Last year, we came back uplifted — spiritually invigorated in ways we hadn’t experienced before. I have many friends in Maarava who went last year, and not one of them came back a smoker or a drunk.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Rabbi Paysach Krohn shares his story of surviving a terrifying stroke and the faith that carried him through. Elchanan Danino speaks about his son, Ori, who was killed in Gaza while running back to save his friends. Koby L., a hero devoted to rescuing Jewish women and children from Arab villages, gives a rare look into the world of pidyon shvuyim. And Shai Graucher reflects on the deep pain of losing his father, Dedi, and the strength it took to carry on.

EXPERIENCE THE FILM OF THE YEAR.

4 INCREDIBLE STORIES OF JEWISH RESILIENCE.

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In a rare and heartfelt address, the Belzer Rebbe delivered a live broadcast to thousands of women from his chassidus, offering stirring guidance on the importance of shalom, ahavas Yisroel, and using words to uplift others. The Rebbe emphasized that offering a kind word is not limited to friends or neighbors, but applies even within the home, including between husband and wife.

The event was part of the “Sa’atzumos” gathering, an initiative aimed at strengthening the spiritual resolve of Belzer women. The Rebbe, known for his usually reserved public appearances, spoke clearly and at length, touching on matters close to the heart of every Yid.

He opened his remarks with a passionate plea: “These are days when we must dedicate our thoughts entirely to increasing peace among Jews—something that surely brings the geulah closer. I have not come to deliver harsh mussar, but rather a few words of Torah that speak to the soul and will, b’ezras Hashem, help us merit to greet Moshiach Tzidkeinu soon.”

Quoting the well-known Medrash about Dama ben Nesinah, a non-Jew lauded by Chazal for his exemplary kibbud av, the Rebbe spent several minutes elaborating on the mitzvah of honoring parents, drawing from the story’s depth to highlight its relevance today.

The Rebbe then shifted to speak about the challenges of the current generation: “We live in a time when people are burdened with worries. There’s confusion. Everyone carries their own set of troubles—some worry about their children, or about relatives who aren’t where they should be. Some need to hear divrei Torah, others need comfort and mussar. Then there are those facing struggles in health—physical or emotional—and in livelihood. Many are walking around with pain, and if only someone would say a kind word to them, it would lift their spirits.”

He continued: “Why am I saying all this? Ahavas chinam doesn’t only mean refraining from lashon hara. It means saying something positive to others—words of encouragement and support. Sometimes, it’s not even about saying anything. Just listening to someone, showing that you empathize with their pain—that alone is powerful. A kind word isn’t only for one woman to say to another. It’s between husband and wife, between a mother and her children, and among all people. Just like we’re forbidden to speak negatively, we are obligated to speak words that uplift and inspire.”

The Rebbe concluded with a practical and powerful message: “Just as we must guard our mouths from harmful speech, we must use them to bring joy to others. You don’t have to be older, or a mechanech or a guide. If you know someone—say something kind. That alone is enough to make a tremendous impact.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

In a powerful and unprecedented gathering held this evening at the Sequoia Halls in Maaleh HaChamisha, Gedolei Yisroel from across the spectrum of the Torah world came together to deliver a unified and unwavering message in response to growing governmental pressure on the Olam HaTorah.

The historic asifah was led by leading roshei yeshiva and poskim, including Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman, Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein, Rav Chaim Feinstein, Rav Moshe Tzadkah, Rav Bentzion Mutzafi, and many more, as well as the admorim of Gur, Vizhnitz, Sanz, Seret Vizhnitz, Biala, Modzitz, and many others from across Eretz Yisroel.

The event began with heartfelt recitation of Tehillim and the Yud-Gimmel Middos Harachamim, led by Rav Elimelech Biderman, who participated despite his usual reluctance to attend public gatherings.

Serving as the evening’s baal tefillah was Rav Yitzchok Meir Sternbuch, r”m in Yeshivas Mir. Rav Pinchas Friedman then read aloud a special letter sent to the gathering by the Belzer Rebbe, who urged bnei yeshivos and avreichim to redouble their commitment to Torah learning. Messages from Rav Moshe Sternbuch and the admorim of Boyan, Slonim, and Vizhnitz were also read. In a handwritten addition, Rav Sternbuch stated unequivocally: “According to halacha, it is forbidden to go to the army.”

Powerful speeches followed from Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman, Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein, Rav Chaim Feinstein, the Sanzer Rebbe, Rav Moshe Tzadkah, and Rav Bentzion Mutzafi.

Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman declared: “It is impossible that someone goes into the army and comes out the same person. This is truly a gezeiras shmad. Anyone who enters loses his spiritual identity. We must be moser nefesh for this. Every Torah educator must instill this, so that we may be able to say, ‘Our hands did not spill this blood.’”

The Sanz Rebbe said, “Their entire goal is to uproot Torah and yiras Shamayim from Klal Yisroel. They want to destroy us, literally. We must be prepared to give up our lives in practice. On this issue, there is no debate. Anyone who observes Torah and mitzvos must stand united, ready to be moser nefesh against the decree of the draft.”

Following the speeches, the official decisions of the gathering were read aloud:

1. No Targets, No Quotas
“The Torah community represents the very foundation of our nation, the pride and glory of our people. We declare and warn: Al tig’u b’meshichai—do not dare harm a single ben Torah. Any reduction in Torah scholars poses a great danger to all who dwell in this land, especially in times of war. On the contrary, we urge all our brethren to return to their roots and strengthen the Torah ranks. No individual or institution has the authority to set quotas, targets, or limits on Torah learning.”

2. No Fear of Sanctions
“Let it be stated clearly: No sanctions, decrees, punishments, or arrests will sway us in the slightest. We do not live by their rules but by the will of the Creator. Throughout history, our ancestors withstood torture and persecution, clinging ever more tightly to Hashem. We will continue in their path eternally. Zos haTorah lo tehei muchlefes—this Torah will never be changed.”

3. Beware the Trap
“We see the ongoing attempts to lure bochurim and avreichim into the army through deceptive promises and so-called ‘chareidi tracks.’ Their aim is to ensnare the best of our youth. We call upon all parents and educators: it is your sacred duty to guard the precious souls entrusted to you. Warn them repeatedly not to fall into this dangerous trap, which threatens the future of the entire Olam HaTorah.”

4. Army = Spiritual Danger
“The foundation of the Torah community is complete separation from secular life and its ideologies. The army is built on rejection of ol Malchus Shamayim. Whoever enters such a framework places himself, his descendants, and future generations in spiritual peril. We have witnessed the tragic outcomes—young men who joined the army became mechallelei Shabbos, abandoned Torah, and scorned all that is holy. Every ben Torah must stand firm and resist.”

5. Call to Tefillah
“To the faithful of Hashem: pour out your hearts before Him, for the power of Yaakov lies in his voice. Designate time for increased tefillah, whether individually, in groups, or in public atzeres tefillah. Cry out to the One Above that these evil decrees be nullified and that the shevet resha not rest upon the lot of the righteous.”

A special Yom Tefillah has been declared for Erev Rosh Chodesh Elul, with a call for all work to cease that day (except in cases where employment obligations cannot be avoided). Males aged 15 and up are urged to fast for half the day, or give tzedakah if fasting is not possible, to arouse mercy from Heaven and bring about the nullification of these harsh decrees.

6. Charge to Rabbonim and Mechanchim
“From this place, we call upon roshei yeshiva, educators, roshei kollel, and all those who influence others: fulfill your responsibility and instill in your talmidim and avreichim an awareness of the immense privilege they have—to dwell in Hashem’s house and immerse in His Torah. May they draw strength from this realization and stand proud in their identity, even amid fear and pressure. In times of trial, may they hold strong and not falter.”

The public was also advised that in any question or moment of distress, they should turn to designated representatives who will be announced in the coming days in every beis medrash.

The rabbonim, together with askanim, will continue to evaluate every possible path forward. All options remain on the table, and the public is urged to follow the directives that will be communicated shortly.

The declaration concluded with heartfelt prayers that the Olam HaTorah should flourish, all decrees be annulled, and all those who have strayed be returned to the path of truth.

Photos by Shuki Lehrer:

{Matzav.com Israel}

In an unusual scene last night, Chairman of Shas MK Aryeh Deri made a surprise visit to the Shaar HaMelech yeshiva in the Givat Shaul neighborhood of Yerushalayim, where he delivered an in-depth shiur and engaged in animated discussion in learning with some of the yeshiva’s most elite bochurim.

Shaar HaMelech, considered a flagship institution for young men from bnei yeshivos families among the broader Sephardic community in Yerushalayim, welcomed Deri with great warmth. The visit came as the summer zman draws to a close, bringing added excitement to the already energized bais medrash. 

Deri delved into complex sugyos from Maseches Kiddushin, analyzing intricate aspects of the Gemara together with the bochurim for over an hour. His deep familiarity with the material and enthusiastic give-and-take surprised many.

Greeting Deri at the yeshiva were the roshei yeshiva and faculty, including Rosh Yeshiva Rav Aharon Cohen, Mashgiach Rav Baruch Gindi, Ram Rav Eliyahu Avraham, and the rest of the hanhalah.

Also in attendance was Rav Dovid Avraham, president of the Mifalot HaChinuch network across Eretz Yisroel, under whose auspices the yeshiva operates.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Workers have discovered a wasp nest in South Carolina exceeding 10 times the radiation level allowed by the federal government. Employees at the Savannah River Site were conducting regular radiation tests when they found the nest on a post by a storage facility for liquid nuclear waste. The nest was promptly sprayed with insect killer and disposed of, though no wasps were found. Curiously, the area around the nest was not contaminated, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Energy.

The department speculates that the nest was contaminated by historical materials, rather than a recent breach.

Though the incident occurred on July 3, the report wasn’t filed until the end of the month. The site was constructed in the 1950s to produce materials, including plutonium and tritium, for nuclear weapons during the Cold War. Eight of the 51 underground tanks have been closed, the Associated Press reports. Now, the site is used to produce fuel for nuclear plants. Read more.

{Matzav.com}

Israel has delivered a definitive reply to a recent document submitted by Hamas, making it unequivocally clear that the government refuses to trade captured terrorists who are still alive for the remains of deceased hostages.

According to two sources quoted by The Jerusalem Post, Hamas has told international mediators it will not return to negotiations with Israel until there is a noticeable improvement in humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

During a closed-door cabinet meeting on Monday, Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu discussed the possibility of partially annexing the Gaza Strip if ongoing negotiations to free the hostages fall through. An Israeli source confirmed the discussion to The Jerusalem Post the following day.

Defense Minister Yisroel Katz delivered a firm warning on Wednesday: “Israel is making extraordinary efforts to secure the release of the hostages, while applying heavy pressure on Hamas in Gaza. If Hamas does not soon announce the release of the hostages, it will pay a very heavy price.”

Meanwhile, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, dispatched by President Donald Trump, is slated to land in Israel on Thursday. His mission includes pushing forward efforts to secure a hostage deal and evaluating the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.

Witkoff’s visit comes amid growing warnings from Israeli authorities that, without meaningful developments in the next several days regarding hostage negotiations, they may be compelled to escalate military operations.

A report from Ynet indicates that Witkoff is particularly concerned that political figures such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich could jeopardize the agreement due to internal political maneuvering targeting Netanyahu. This apprehension is reportedly shared by U.S. officials.

The report further notes that Witkoff is expected to attempt direct meetings with both ministers, hoping to persuade them to support the negotiation efforts at this crucial moment.

Sources with knowledge of the internal workings of Hamas and other terror groups told Asharq Al-Awsat, a publication based in London, that mediators are actively trying to initiate a new round of talks between the parties.

“The goal is to reach an agreement on the points still in dispute, as many of the issues were already resolved in the previous round of negotiations,” sources stated. They added that the focus of the next phase would be Israel’s answer to the latest proposals Hamas submitted through the mediators.

The Hostage Families Forum has urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to make a public commitment to accept a broad agreement. Their appeal came after Netanyahu sent a video message to the families via Brigadier General (Res.) Gal Hirsch, who serves as the Coordinator for the Hostages and the Missing Persons, according to a report by KAN.

“We will continue to act responsibly, as we always have, and we will continue to strive for the return of our hostages and the defeat of Hamas,” said a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office. “This is the only way to ensure peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

The New York Times has revised a recent story about hunger in Gaza to clarify that a child featured in the article, Mohammed Zakaria al-Mutawaq, who appeared on the front page, has an underlying medical condition that affects his physical appearance.

“We have since learned new information, including from the hospital that treated [Mutawaq] and his medical records, and have updated our story to add context about his pre-existing health problems.”

The update followed a request by the Israeli Consulate General in New York after a widely circulated image of Mutawaq and his brother gained attention online. Israeli media, quoting officials, reported that the consulate informed the Times of Mutawaq’s medical background.

“It’s unfortunate that the international media repeatedly falls for Hamas propaganda. First they publish, then they verify, if at all,” stated Israeli Consul General in New York Ofir Akunis.

“The [NYT’s] correction is just the beginning. We will continue to fight for the truth and expose Hamas’s propaganda of horrors by every possible means.”

The Israeli government also released another image of Mutawaq, placing him alongside his brother and mother, to demonstrate how his medical condition has influenced his appearance.

“BBC, CNN, Daily Express, and The New York Times spread a misleading story using a picture of a sick, disabled child to promote a narrative of mass starvation in Gaza, playing into the hands of Hamas’s propaganda war,” Israel charged.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry stated that Mutawaq has cerebral palsy in addition to other genetic ailments. It criticized global media outlets for allegedly using his image “to promote a narrative of mass starvation in Gaza, playing into the hands of Hamas’ propaganda war.”

“Without proper disclosure. Without medical context. Without journalistic ethics,” the ministry said.

Some international reports also included the claim that Mutawaq’s father was killed while searching for food.

However, independent reporter David Collier cast doubt on that version of events, alleging that the father died in a targeted strike on ‘al Qassabeeb’ street in Jabaliya. The Jerusalem Post noted that it could not independently corroborate Collier’s account.

Collier pointed to a video distributed by Hamas that shows militants attacking Israeli forces on that same street during the week of the father’s reported death.

“This is what ‘al Qassabeeb’ street in Jabaliya looked like that week… the same street that Mohammed’s father was apparently out ‘looking for food,’” he wrote.

{Matzav.com}

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Vinay Prasad, who recently took on the role of the FDA’s leading vaccine official and chief scientific officer, has stepped down from his position after less than three months, according to a report by The Hill on Wednesday.

His resignation follows a growing wave of criticism from conservative commentators and a heated dispute with a pharmaceutical company regarding a gene therapy developed for boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

“Dr. Prasad did not want to be a distraction to the great work of the FDA in the Trump administration and has decided to return to California and spend more time with his family,” a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Human Services stated. “We thank him for his service and the many important reforms he was able to achieve in his time at FDA.”

The department declined to provide further details regarding the reasoning behind Prasad’s departure or who would take his place.

Among his critics was conservative firebrand Laura Loomer, who denounced Prasad in recent commentary, labeling him as a “saboteur” and a “Trojan horse” threatening the goals of the “Make America Healthy Again” platform.

On her website, she alleged: “Far from being the reformist ally the Trump administration expected he may be, Prasad’s liberal ideology, outspoken anti-Trump rhetoric, and deliberate actions to obstruct the president’s deregulatory agenda make him a dangerous misfit in this critical position.”

Rick Santorum, a Republican and former senator from Pennsylvania, echoed this criticism on X, stating Prasad was “destroying @POTUS legacy for helping patients.”

In May, Prasad was appointed to lead the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, taking over from Peter Marks. Marks had stepped down in March after reported tensions with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., according to The Hill.

Recently, Prasad’s unit at the FDA has been at odds with Sarepta Therapeutics over its gene therapy designed for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The agency halted both distribution and ongoing trials of the drug following the deaths of two individuals who had been treated with it.

Before joining the FDA, Prasad had publicly voiced skepticism about the agency’s original decision to authorize the treatment. Despite a lack of compelling proof that the therapy could halt or reverse the disease, the administration had granted fast-tracked approval for Elevidys two years ago. In doing so, Peter Marks had bypassed the judgment of multiple internal review groups that had advised against moving forward.

Earlier this week, the FDA partially backtracked, lifting its suspension of the therapy for patients who still retain the ability to walk.

{Matzav.com}

For the first time since the conflict between Israel and Iran, officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) are expected to travel to Iran next week, a source with knowledge of the plan has confirmed, the Jerusalem Post reports.

A team of technical specialists from the IAEA is set to begin discussions with Iranian counterparts with the objective of reinstating monitoring access to Iran’s nuclear facilities.

The aim of the discussions is to pave the way for a possible meeting between IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi and top Iranian leadership.

Inspectors are hoping to inspect the nuclear installations that were damaged during the 12-day conflict. However, Iranian authorities have thus far refused to authorize access to those particular sites.

Recent satellite photos indicate that some activity has resumed at the affected nuclear locations. Nonetheless, multiple sources believe that the work underway is not extensive and does not appear to involve moving enriched uranium from the bombed areas.

Shortly after the fighting ended, IAEA personnel who had been stationed in Iran left the country, citing fears for their personal safety.

Last Friday, deputy foreign ministers from France, Germany, and the United Kingdom—all signatories to the original nuclear accord—held talks with senior Iranian representatives in a bid to rekindle efforts toward a new agreement.

According to Western diplomatic sources who spoke to The Jerusalem Post, the European envoys left disheartened. “The Iranians insist on continuing uranium enrichment in any new agreement. There is little room for progress as long as this demand remains,” said the diplomats.

Following the discussions, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi remarked that he had condemned the European position on the recent conflict and also brought up the issue of reactivating sanctions. “It was agreed that consultations on this matter will continued,” he added.

European nations have made clear that if Iran does not agree to revised nuclear terms by October, they will trigger the snapback sanctions clause via the United Nations Security Council. This clause, part of the original nuclear deal, will no longer be valid after mid-October.

In the meantime, Western diplomats have told the Post that the United States is not taking any initiative to persuade Iran to return to negotiations.

“If the Iranians want to hold talks, they know where to find us,” US President Trump stated.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei reiterated this week that Iran would consider resuming indirect dialogue with the United States if it served the nation’s interests, though he confirmed that there are currently no plans for a sixth round of nuclear talks with Washington.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Israel has delivered a stark ultimatum to Hamas: unless progress is made on a hostage agreement within the coming days, Israel will respond with harsh retaliatory actions.

According to Kan News, a top Israeli source revealed that one possible course of action is for Israel to officially absorb the security buffer zone established by the IDF along the Gaza border. The report indicated that this message has been conveyed to the mediators involved in the negotiations.

Following the conclusion of Operation Gideon’s Chariots, which ended without achieving any progress on the release of hostages, Israel’s security leadership is evaluating a range of tough new strategies. These include taking control of land, imposing martial law, and initiating a complete lockdown of key areas inside Gaza.

Military officials stated that Hamas’s ongoing refusal to accept a deal has left Israel with no choice but to escalate its actions, even as international voices call for an end to the conflict and accuse Israel of causing humanitarian suffering. “Despite the heavy international pressure to end the war and despite the images coming out of Gaza and the false ‘starvation’ campaign, Hamas’s refusal to proceed with a deal obliges Israel to take disproportionate steps,” said officials.

Israel remains hopeful that significant movement will occur at the negotiating table before these severe responses become necessary.

{Matzav.com}

[COMMUNICATED]

In memory of Sholom, whose 3rd yahrzeit is this month on the 12th of Tammuz.

The call came two years after we said goodbye to Sholom. I was standing in my kitchen when Rabbi Zvi Boyarsky asked if we would share our son’s story for something bigger than our grief – a movement that could prevent other families from walking the impossible path we’ve been forced to travel.

I held the phone thinking of my son Sholom, thinking how impossible it felt to share the pain – I could hardly sit with it myself, let alone distill the grief, the loss, the experience into something shareable… And then I thought of other mothers, how maybe sharing our experience of losing Sholom in a hot car death can help prevent others from walking that impossible path. We are all collectively in a swirling epidemic of chaos and multi tasking and hustle culture – we need change, we need to wake up. We need to slow down. We need to be more present. And awareness of this issue is the beginning.

This month marks three years since that merciless Florida morning on the 12th of Tammuz when our world shattered in ways I never imagined possible. But from our deepest pain, something extraordinary is emerging: the 59 Seconds for Sholom campaign – a global movement that could save countless lives with actions that take less than one sacred minute.

My husband Menachem and I have learned something tragic in the wake of our story: hot car deaths are not rare occurrences we read about in distant news stories. They’re happening right here in our communities – in the US, in Israel, across our kehillos. Just recently, we connected with another Jewish mother who lost her 2-year-old daughter in a similar accident. A recent Times of Israel article details just how often these tragedies are taking place. The ripple effects of such tragedies extend far beyond the immediate family, shaking entire communities and all of klal Yisrael.

These accidents can happen to anyone—loving, attentive parents who simply had a change in routine, were sleep-deprived, or experienced a momentary lapse that every parent can relate to.

The Solution: Clever Elly and the Power of Community

At the heart of this campaign is a simple yet potentially life-saving device called Clever Elly. This small gadget plugs into your car, charges your phone, and provides an audio reminder to check the back seat every time you turn off the engine. The custom-ordered devices for this campaign feature voices from Jewish singers, friendly children’s voices, and other safety messages specifically designed to resonate with our community.

The campaign is actively seeking 100 Sholom Leaders from diverse communities before the official launch. These leaders will serve as the backbone of this life-saving effort, helping to raise awareness and distribute Clever Elly devices within their circles.

This is not just about technology – it’s about creating a network of people who care enough to take action.

We all know and believe that saving one life is like saving an entire world. The Sholom Challenge embodies this principle, asking each of us to take small actions – things that take less than 59 seconds – that could literally save lives and bring more sholom (peace) into the world.

How to Get Involved

If you’re moved by this cause at all and feeling pulled to participate, we are looking for people to act as Sholom Leaders, and help us distribute Clever Elly devices to as many people as possible. We need people to help us reach schools, communities, Shuls, and neighborhoods – and get Clever Elly into every family car.

The commitment is simple but profound: use your influence, your networks, your voice to help prevent other families from experiencing this unthinkable loss.

May we merit techiyas hameisim, and the coming of Moshiach now, when the whole world will be filled with true and everlasting Sholom.

Until that day comes, we have the opportunity – and the obligation – to bring more safety, more protection, and more peace into our world, one family at a time.

To learn more about becoming a Sholom Leader or to see the campaign video, visit www.59seconds.org

To read more about Sholom’s story and important safety information, see the recent article in Ami Magazine about the Tauber family.

SOME SAFETY TIPS THAT SEEM OBVIOUS BUT ACTUALLY SAVE LIVES:

1. Create a Backseat Habit
Place your shoe, phone, or bag in the back seat every time you drive with a child.

2. Always Lock Your Car
Prevent children from climbing in unnoticed when parked at home or elsewhere.

3. Never Leave a Child in the Car
Not for a minute, not under any circumstances. Even with cracked windows, car temperatures rise dangerously fast.

4. Exercise Extra Caution with Routine Changes
Disruptions to normal schedules increase forgetfulness. Park with presence.

5. Use Technology as a Backup
Activate your vehicle’s “Check Rear Seat” feature or use a device like Clever Elly for audio reminders

New York City’s transit system is postponing a scheduled fare and toll hike until January, coinciding with the phase-out of the MetroCard and full adoption of its newer tap-to-pay OMNY system.

Officials at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) said the revised implementation date for the increases is January 4, rather than sometime before the end of 2025. More information is expected to be shared at the agency’s monthly board meeting on Wednesday.

The decision comes after some riders expressed concerns that the OMNY system may be charging them more than expected. OMNY allows passengers to tap in using a smartphone, bank card, or dedicated OMNY card. The MTA maintains that all users are only billed for the rides they actually take. Currently, over three-quarters of riders are already using OMNY.

The MTA has long planned to raise fares and tolls in both 2025 and 2027 to produce a 4% bump in revenues, but had not previously laid out specifics. Under the new proposal, the base fare for subways and buses would rise by 10 cents to $3, though riders would pay no more than $36 for unlimited rides in a seven-day span. Commuter rail weekly and monthly passes are expected to rise by 4.4%, while bridge and tunnel tolls would climb by 7.5%.

According to Jai Patel, the MTA’s co-chief financial officer—who will become the agency’s sole CFO starting August 1—the planned fare adjustments help offset operating costs and support the MTA’s model of gradual, predictable increases every two years, rather than infrequent, steep hikes.

“Expenses grow at inflation and so do our revenues,” Patel said in a phone call. “So in order for us not to have large deficits, it is financially a smart thing for us to continue to do,” she said about raising fares and tolls.

Handling around six million rides each weekday, the MTA is the country’s largest public transportation network. It plays a vital role in the local economy, connecting people to jobs, schools, healthcare, and entertainment. The agency is still working to rebuild ridership following pandemic-era declines, crack down on fare evasion, increase dependability, and improve safety as reports of assaults remain high.

To gather feedback, the MTA will launch a public hearing process so riders can weigh in. A final vote on the fare and toll changes is expected this fall.

Changes are also coming for commuter rail users. The traditional round-trip ticket will be replaced by a new day pass, valid until 4 a.m. the day after purchase. Digital tickets will now auto-activate upon buying and will expire after four hours. Paper tickets will also be valid for just four hours.

Patel is scheduled to present an updated long-term financial outlook at Wednesday’s meeting, which outlines projected annual budgets. The MTA is still expecting deficits in 2027 and 2028, though those gaps have shrunk. Patel now forecasts a $345 million shortfall in 2027 and a $354 million gap in 2028—a combined $198 million less than what had been projected a year ago. However, she noted the deficit could reach $428 million by 2029.

{Matzav.com}