Matzav

President Donald Trump issued a strong reaction Friday following Israel’s strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, saying the Iranian regime had failed to finalize a deal despite repeated opportunities.

Posting on his Truth Social account, Trump wrote, “I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal. I told them, in the strongest of words, to ‘just do it,’ but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done. I told them it would be much worse than anything they know, anticipated, or were told, that the United States makes the best and most lethal military equipment anywhere in the World, BY FAR, and that Israel has a lot of it, with much more to come – And they know how to use it.”

Referring to the impact of Israel’s military operation, Trump added, “Certain Iranian hardliner’s spoke bravely, but they didn’t know what was about to happen. They are all DEAD now, and it will only get worse! There has already been great death and destruction, but there is still time to make this slaughter, with the next already planned attacks being even more brutal, come to an end.”

He urged Tehran to act quickly, warning of the consequences if they delay further: “Iran must make a deal, before there is nothing left, and save what was once known as the Iranian Empire. No more death, no more destruction, JUST DO IT, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE. God Bless You All!”

In an interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier on Thursday evening, Trump said he had been informed ahead of time about Israel’s strike, adding that while he had advance knowledge, the United States did not participate in the attack.

The President went on to say he still hoped negotiations with Iran could resume. “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see. There are several people in leadership that will not be coming back,” he said.

When asked how the U.S. would respond to a potential Iranian retaliation, Trump stated clearly, “We will defend Israel if necessary.”

On Truth Social, Trump doubled down on his call for diplomacy, reiterating his administration’s stance on resolving the nuclear issue through talks.

“We remain committed to a Diplomatic Resolution to the Iran Nuclear Issue! My entire Administration has been directed to negotiate with Iran. They could be a Great Country, but they first must completely give up hopes of obtaining a Nuclear Weapon. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” his post declared.

{Matzav.com}

The IDF confirmed Friday afternoon that it had carried out a strike on Iran’s Natanz nuclear complex earlier that morning, claiming the mission destroyed several subterranean levels of the site. Among the targets hit was the main hall housing a significant concentration of uranium-enriching centrifuges.

Reports also indicated that a second wave of strikes targeted the same site later that day, intensifying Israel’s offensive against Iran’s nuclear program.

According to the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, Natanz is the most critical facility in Iran for enriching uranium. Unlike smaller installations, Natanz is capable of refining uranium to the high levels needed for nuclear weapons, not just for peaceful purposes.

The military said Natanz has been “operating for years to achieve nuclear weapons and contains the necessary infrastructure for military-grade enrichment.”

The initial strikes reportedly penetrated the underground portions of the site, specifically targeting a multi-level section used for enrichment processes. That area contains centrifuge halls, electrical systems, and other operational structures.

The Israel Air Force was also able to destroy “vital infrastructure” that the military described as essential to the facility’s ongoing nuclear development efforts and its overall ability to operate.

Natanz has seen previous incidents of sabotage. In July 2020, significant damage was inflicted on one of its nuclear buildings, and in April 2021, another strike reportedly affected underground systems and power grids. Iran has pointed the finger at the Mossad for those incidents.

It remains uncertain how the latest damage compares to those earlier attacks, though the impact from Friday’s operation appears to have been even more extensive.

While the IDF is believed to have the means to inflict damage at the heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site, no military sources have confirmed any operation there as of now.

Since the U.S. deployed the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb — also known as the “Mother of All Bombs” — in Afghanistan in 2017, it’s been clear that America maintains advanced bunker-busting capabilities far beyond what Israel currently possesses. This includes the ability to potentially reach deep underground facilities like Fordow.

What remains unclear is the extent to which Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile or advanced centrifuges were affected by the Israeli assault. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has acknowledged that significant quantities of both are housed at Fordow and other scattered locations.

There were also unverified reports of explosions at Fordow and Isfahan. These blasts may have originated from within the facilities, as Iran’s nuclear infrastructure has been subject to internal sabotage in the past.

{Matzav.com Israel}

In an exclusive phone interview last night with Fox News anchor Bret Baier, President Donald Trump confirmed that he was informed ahead of Israel’s airstrikes on Iran, adding that the United States was not involved militarily in the operation but remains vigilant amid fears of Iranian retaliation.

Matzav.com reviewed the interview and shares some highlights:

“There were no surprises,” President Trump told Baier, making clear that while his administration was aware of the strikes before they began, the U.S. played no direct role. “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see. There are several people in leadership that will not be coming back.”

The pointed remark about “several people in leadership” was widely understood to reference senior Iranian officials who were reportedly killed in the strikes carried out by Israel earlier in the evening.

President Trump said that he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu multiple times over the past few days. According to U.S. administration sources, the Trump team also reached out to at least one key ally in the Middle East to notify them that the strikes were imminent and to reiterate that America was not involved in the operation.

While emphasizing a desire to deescalate the situation and resume diplomatic efforts, President Trump made it clear that the U.S. is prepared to respond forcefully if necessary.

“We’re watching to see if there is retaliation,” he said, noting that U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) is currently on high alert. “The U.S. will defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates.”

In recent weeks, U.S. officials confirmed, the Iron Dome missile defense system has been replenished with additional interceptors, a move that now appears prescient in light of mounting tensions.

Despite confirming that several high-ranking Iranian officials were killed in the Israeli operation, administration officials reiterated that the U.S. military was not involved in any capacity. Still, it was made clear that the Trump administration was fully aware of Israel’s intentions and had coordinated diplomatic messaging with allies in advance.

President Trump closed the conversation by repeating his central message: “I hope they get back to the negotiating table.”

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning to Israel on Friday, promising it would suffer a “bitter and painful” outcome following a major Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. In an immediate counter-move, Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israel.

Israeli authorities informed the public early Friday that more than 100 drones had been fired from Iran and were en route to Israeli territory, cautioning citizens to remain near bomb shelters as the drones were expected to take hours to arrive.

Roughly three hours after the alert, the IDF Home Front Command canceled its directive to stay near shelters. No sirens were activated across the country, as Israeli defense systems successfully intercepted the drones before they entered Israeli airspace.

Later in the day, the IDF stated it had “control over the situation,” though it stopped short of confirming the total destruction of all incoming drones. In the meantime, safety restrictions remained in place, including school closures, work disruptions, and bans on public gatherings.

Khamenei, speaking through Iran’s official IRNA news agency, accused Israel of “opening its wicked and blood-stained hand to a crime in our beloved country, revealing its malicious nature more than ever by striking residential centers.”

This statement followed reports that Israel’s strikes had eliminated several high-ranking Iranian military officials, including the armed forces’ chief of staff, key commanders in the Revolutionary Guards, and top scientists in the country’s nuclear program.

“With this crime, the Zionist regime has set itself up for a bitter and painful fate and it will definitely receive it,” Khamenei declared.

In response, Tehran emphasized its intention to push forward with its nuclear and missile initiatives, framing Israel’s actions as validation of Iran’s military ambitions.

“One should not speak to such a predatory regime except in the language of power,” the Iranian government said. “The world now better understands Iran’s insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology, and missile power.”

Speaking to Fox News anchor Bret Baier on Friday, President Donald Trump confirmed that he had been briefed in advance about the Israeli military operation, which reportedly involved 200 Israeli fighter jets.

Trump was quoted as saying that Iran “cannot have a nuclear bomb,” according to Baier.

The U.S. government clarified on Friday that it had no role in the Israeli strike and issued a warning to Iran not to retaliate against American interests or personnel.

Nevertheless, Iranian officials insisted that the U.S. bore responsibility, claiming that the scale and complexity of Israel’s action indicated that it “cannot have been carried out without the coordination and permission of the United States.”

Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesperson for the Iranian armed forces, told state television that both Israel and the United States would face serious repercussions, stating they would “pay a heavy price” for the attacks.

{Matzav.com}

Two gedolei Torah are being forced to remain overseas for Shabbos after their flights were diverted Friday morning due to the sudden closure of Israeli airspace. The disruption followed Israel’s major strike on Iranian nuclear targets overnight and fears of imminent retaliation, which prompted a broad shutdown of all air travel at Ben Gurion Airport.

Former Chief Rabbi Rav Yitzchok Yosef, returning from a chizuk mission in Canada, had been en route to Eretz Yisroel when his flight was redirected mid-air. He landed in Rome, Italy, and will be spending Shabbos there.

Rav Ezriel Auerbach, prominent posek and rov in Bayit Vegan, was also aboard a return flight to Israel after participating in the massive Adirei HaTorah event this past Sunday at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. His plane was rerouted to Larnaca, Cyprus, where he, too, is expected to remain through Shabbos.

The abrupt closure of Israeli airspace early Friday was implemented as part of emergency defense precautions following the IDF’s preemptive strike on Iranian nuclear infrastructure. With expectations of a potential Iranian response, Israeli authorities opted to divert all inbound civilian aircraft.

The Torah world continues to respond to the developments with heightened tefillah and hisorerus.

{Matzav.com}

In the wake of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, the Keren Olam HaTorah has announced the postponement of its highly anticipated United States fundraising campaign.

The decision comes amid mounting security concerns, the closure of Israeli airspace, and uncertainty surrounding regional stability following Israel’s major strike on Iranian nuclear infrastructure.

The campaign, which was set to feature prominent Roshei Yeshiva and gedolei Yisroel from Eretz Yisroel, had planned events in four major Torah centers across America. The itinerary included gatherings in Baltimore and Los Angeles on Sunday, June 15, Chicago on Monday, June 16, and a massive event in Lakewood on Wednesday, June 18.

These events, which were to serve as a rallying cry for global support of the Olam HaTorah in Eretz Yisroel, have now been postponed until further notice.

{Matzav.com}

The IDF issued an official statement shortly after launching airstrikes on Iran, describing the campaign as a “preemptive strike” against an immediate and mounting danger.

According to top Israeli defense officials, Iran’s nuclear program had progressed to a stage that posed a direct existential risk. The regime in Tehran, which has long declared its intention to destroy Israel, was, in their eyes, on the verge of crossing an irreversible threshold. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir addressed the nation, explaining that the situation had “reached the point of no return.”

David Horovitz, writing for the Times of Israel, explains the background of Israel’s attack.

The International Atomic Energy Agency had already flagged Iran’s rapidly accelerating uranium enrichment activity. In a recorded video message released as the operation was underway, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu stated that Iran possessed enough enriched uranium to manufacture nine nuclear warheads.

Netanyahu further emphasized that Iran is already equipped with missiles capable of reaching any location within Israel’s borders. Even more troubling, he said, is that Iran has taken “unprecedented steps toward weaponization” — the final stage of constructing a functional nuclear bomb.

Israeli defense officials suspect that the situation may be even worse than what is publicly acknowledged. Intelligence assessments suggest the actual amount of enriched uranium could exceed what the UN agency has reported, and that Iran has been engaging in advanced testing linked to weapon development.

The primary goal of the Israeli offensive is to deliver a serious blow to Iran’s nuclear ambitions by targeting both vital infrastructure and critical personnel. The timing, security officials say, is crucial — before Iran completes the restoration of defense systems damaged in Israel’s limited strike last October, and while intelligence on Iran’s nuclear operations is especially accurate and actionable.

Although Netanyahu touched on the aspiration that the Iranian people might one day be freed from the regime’s grip, Israeli leadership made it clear that the current military action is not aimed at instigating regime change. The sole objective, they stressed, is to halt Iran’s progress toward acquiring nuclear weapons. There was no assertion that Israel could eliminate every component of the program.

The Israeli prime minister also raised alarm over Iran’s rapidly expanding arsenal of ballistic missiles. He noted that Tehran plans to produce tens of thousands of these weapons, which—independent of the nuclear threat—could overwhelm Israel’s defenses and pose a severe threat to national survival.

“We can’t leave these threats for the next generation,” Netanyahu said. “Because if we don’t act now, there will not be another generation.”

Zamir echoed that urgency. He described the operation as “an immediate operational necessity,” and called it “an imperative… to remove the strategic threat and ensure our future.”

Both Netanyahu and Zamir cautioned that difficult times may lie ahead. They warned of potential large-scale Iranian missile attacks that could far surpass the limited drone and rocket barrages seen during two earlier rounds of conflict last year.

Netanyahu also thanked President Donald Trump for his “steadfast stance,” despite the fact that Trump had publicly called on Israel just days earlier to delay the strike and allow diplomatic efforts more time to play out.

At this point, the exact level of coordination between Israel and the United States remains somewhat unclear. Israel did inform the Trump administration in advance, but there is no indication that the U.S. played an active role in the military operation. Analysts have noted that American military involvement would likely have resulted in an even more extensive and damaging attack.

Nevertheless, Israeli security officials remain confident that the U.S. will stand with Israel if the situation intensifies and further support becomes necessary.

{Matzav.com}

In a dramatic late-night briefing, IDF Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Daniel Hagari confirmed that Israel struck and destroyed key elements of Iran’s air defense infrastructure and eliminated top figures within the Islamic Republic’s military leadership. The unprecedented announcement followed the launch of Operation Im KeLavi, Israel’s largest military strike against Iran to date.

“Tonight, under the direction of the political echelon, we launched Operation Im KeLavi,” Brig. Gen. Hagari declared. “In a coordinated and precise strike deep in enemy territory, our air force attacked military and nuclear-related targets throughout various regions of Iran. These attacks are still ongoing.”

According to Hagari, the mission was executed by 200 fighter jets, which deployed over 330 munitions on more than 100 targets across Iran.

Among those killed in the strikes, he said, were the Iranian Chief of Staff, Gen. Mohammad Bagheri; Revolutionary Guard Commander Hossein Salami; and Emergency War Room Chief Gen. Gholam Ali Rashid. “Other senior commanders were also eliminated. We will release further details as permitted.”

One of the most significant aspects of the operation, Hagari added, was the successful targeting of Iranian air defense systems. “We attacked and severely damaged the regime’s air defense arrays,” he said. “This was the optimal timing to act, based on our ongoing intelligence monitoring and the growing existential threat posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions.”

In a major revelation, Hagari disclosed that Israeli intelligence had recently uncovered a secret Iranian nuclear weapons program. “Senior Iranian nuclear scientists have been conducting covert experiments to advance all components necessary to build a nuclear bomb. This is unequivocal proof that the regime is racing toward nuclear armament in the near term.”

He outlined what he called the threefold threat posed by the Iranian regime:

1. Nuclear advancement: “Iran is rapidly progressing toward nuclear weapons capabilities.”

2. Ballistic missiles: “Iran currently possesses thousands of ballistic missiles, and plans to double or triple that number. This alone constitutes an existential danger.”

3. Regional proxy warfare: “Iran continues to fund, arm, and direct its proxies across the Middle East—including Hezbollah and Hamas—toward Israel’s destruction.”

The strike, Hagari said, was a direct response to what intelligence has revealed as a coordinated plan by Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and other axis groups to launch widespread, targeted fire at Israel, with the ultimate goal of a full-scale ground invasion from multiple borders.

“Our operation is designed to neutralize that threat,” he said. “We’ve prepared for this mission for a long time. In recent months, unprecedented steps were taken to enable the Israeli Air Force to strike from extraordinary distances. This operation was made possible by advanced intelligence breakthroughs that penetrated deep into enemy territory.”

He added that the IDF Chief of Staff is now commanding the operation in real time, along with the heads of Operations, Military Intelligence, and the Air Force. Israel remains on high alert.

“In the past few hours, Iran has launched over 100 UAVs toward Israeli territory,” Hagari reported. “All defense systems are fully active and working to intercept any threat. This is not a routine event—it is unlike anything we have experienced before.”

Addressing the Israeli public, he warned: “Difficult hours are ahead. We must remain resilient and patient. This is a test of our national endurance. Stay close to protected spaces. These instructions save lives.”

Responding to media questions, Hagari confirmed the early activation of air raid sirens nationwide even before Iran launched its counterattack. “This is a different kind of incident,” he explained. “We needed to condition the public and ensure preparedness.”

On the question of whether Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei is a target, Hagari stated: “The individuals we have targeted so far are at the heart of Iran’s military leadership. I won’t elaborate further for now.”

He declined to provide specifics on whether Israeli forces have successfully destroyed large portions of Iran’s ballistic missile stockpiles or nuclear sites, saying only that additional updates will be provided as confirmed.

In closing, Hagari reaffirmed the gravity of the moment: “We are united in purpose. I will continue to keep you updated. Listen to Home Front Command instructions. This is a different kind of event, and following the guidelines is critical—it saves lives.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

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Just one day before Israel launched its dramatic military operation against Iranian nuclear targets, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu made a quiet, symbolic visit to the Kosel, where he inserted a handwritten note into the ancient stones bearing the words:
“עם כלביא יקום וכארי יתנשא”
“He shall rise like a lion and lift himself up like a king of beasts.”

The posuk is found in Parshas Balak (Bamidbar 23:24)

Less than 24 hours later, Israel unveiled the name of its coordinated assault on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure: Operation Rising Lion — עם כלביא.

Israeli officials confirmed that the posuk served as the inspiration for the name of the operation.

In the aforementioned posuk, Bilam foretold that the Bnei Yisroel would begin its conquest of the Land of Eretz Yisroel and, like a young lion matruing to full strength, grow ever more powerful. It would not finish its work until it conquered and plundered all the Canaanite kings. [See more in ArtScroll’s Stone Chumash, page 868-869.]

The operation, which targeted key nuclear sites and Iranian military assets, was described by the IDF as a “preemptive strike” against an imminent existential threat.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Following the series of precision strikes on Iranian nuclear installations, the Israel Defense Forces released a statement accusing Tehran of secretly pursuing a full-fledged nuclear weapons program.

“Iran has been secretly advancing a plan for the technological advancement of all parts of the development of a nuclear weapon,” the IDF stated, offering justification for the recent military action.

The Times of Israel’s Emanuel Fabian reports that the military explained that over the past several months, Israeli intelligence had collected a growing body of evidence indicating that Iran was rapidly nearing a critical threshold. “In recent months, accumulated intelligence information has provided evidence that the Iranian regime is approaching the point of no return,” the statement read.

According to the IDF, Iran has been simultaneously enriching large quantities of uranium and dispersing that activity across multiple fortified underground locations, making detection and disruption more difficult. “The convergence of the Iranian regime’s efforts to produce thousands of kilograms of enriched uranium, alongside decentralized and fortified enrichment compounds in underground facilities, enables the Iranian regime to enrich uranium to military-grade levels, enabling the regime to obtain a nuclear weapon within a short period of time,” the military said.

As part of the clandestine effort, senior Iranian scientists have allegedly been working to develop each critical piece of a nuclear arsenal in secret. “In the framework of this plan, senior nuclear scientists in Iran have been working to secretly develop all components needed for developing a nuclear weapon,” the IDF revealed.

The pace of these efforts, Israeli officials say, has surged recently, bringing Iran alarmingly close to a functional nuclear bomb. “In recent months, this program has accelerated significantly, bringing the regime significantly closer to obtaining a nuclear weapon. This is clear evidence that the Iranian regime is operating to obtain a nuclear weapon,” the military said.

Concluding its statement, the IDF underscored what it views as a national imperative. “The State of Israel has been left with no choice. The IDF has the obligation to act in defense of the civilians of Israel and will continue to do so,” it declared.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Chaim V’Chessed is providing essential updates on how the developing conflict with Iran is impacting schools, travel, and government services in Israel.

Following the beginning of Israel’s attack on Iran, Chaim V’Chessed shared with Matzav.com what you need to know in the immediate future:

• Schools Closed: All schools across Israel are closed today, Friday, June 13.
• Airspace Shut Down: Israeli airspace has been closed, and all flights have been canceled until further notice. Flights en route to Israel are being rerouted to alternate destinations.
• Travel Disruptions Expected: Travelers should anticipate continued disruptions for several days. Reports indicate that El Al planes on the ground in Israel are currently being flown out to other countries for safety. This would seem to indicate that the disruption to flights may be lengthy.
• Government Offices: While government offices are always closed on Fridays, sources tell Chaim V’Chessed that many offices are expected to experience disruptions at the start of next week.

This is a developing situation. Chaim V’Chessed will keep us posted with timely updates on schools, travel, government services and other issues relating to daily life in Israel during these challenging times.

{Matzav.com Israel}

In the wake of a powerful military offensive by Israel targeting key Iranian figures, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning, promising retribution against Israel for what he described as a grave act of aggression.

“The Zionist regime must expect severe punishment,” Khamenei declared in his response to the strikes. He continued, “The strong hand of the armed forces of the Islamic Republic will not relent. In the enemy’s attacks, several commanders and scientists were killed. Their successors and colleagues will immediately continue carrying out their missions, God willing.”

He concluded with a dire prophecy for Israel’s future: “Through this crime, the Zionist regime has sentenced itself to a bitter and cruel fate — and it will undoubtedly receive it.”

State-controlled media in Iran announced early Friday that Israeli forces had successfully eliminated Hossein Salami, the Commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps, in a targeted strike.

“He was killed in a strike by the Zionist regime,” the Tasnim news agency reported.

Additional accounts circulating from Iranian sources claim that Fereydoon Abbasi, who previously led Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization and had narrowly survived an assassination attempt 15 years ago, was also killed in the attack. Abbasi had long been associated with Iran’s nuclear efforts and was believed to be a high-priority target for Israel.

Reports also suggest that Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, who serves as the president of Islamic Azad University, was among those killed in the coordinated strikes.

Simultaneously, the Nour News agency reported that Ali Shamkhani—a top advisor to Khamenei and a former secretary of the Supreme National Security Council—was critically injured during what appears to have been a separate assassination attempt. His current condition remains uncertain.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli military strikes carried out early Friday reportedly resulted in the death of one of Iran’s most senior military leaders, according to Iranian state media.

Tasnim, a semi-official Iranian news agency, announced that “He was killed in a strike by the Zionist regime,” referring to Major General Hossein Salami, commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps.

Although unverified, multiple sources claimed that Fereydoon Abbasi, a nuclear scientist and former chief of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, was also among the dead. Abbasi had previously survived an Israeli-attributed assassination attempt over a decade ago.

Further reports indicated that Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, who serves as president of the Islamic Azad University, was also killed in the attacks, according to Iranian sources.

In addition to those reportedly killed, Nour News, an Iranian media outlet with links to Iran’s security establishment, stated that Ali Shamkhani, a key advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the ex-head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was gravely injured in an assassination attempt.

Despite the barrage of attacks, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was confirmed alive. Citing sources via Reuters, the report noted that Khamenei is actively monitoring developments and receiving briefings on the military campaign.

An Iranian official speaking to The New York Times revealed that the Shahid Moghaddam neighborhood in Tehran, a well-known area that houses top military brass, had been struck by Israeli forces. The attack allegedly leveled three buildings in the complex.

From the Israeli side, a senior official acknowledged that, in addition to a heavy aerial campaign led by the Israel Air Force, Mossad had also executed a range of clandestine missions within Iran’s borders. These operations specifically targeted Iran’s missile development programs and air defense systems.

The Iranian military command responded to the offensive with harsh warnings. A spokesperson for Iran’s General Staff stated: “The Zionist enemy and the United States will pay a very heavy price. Iran will respond harshly against the Zionist regime. The Zionist attack on civilian areas has been confirmed, and our response will be certain. Iran is at 100% military readiness, and the enemy will suffer a painful blow.”

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio released a statement after the launch of Israel’s Operation Rising Lion.

“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region. Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense,” he said.

Rubio emphasized Washington’s focus on ensuring the safety of its personnel and the importance of deterrence. “President Trump and the Administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners. Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel,” added Rubio.

{Matzav.com}

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement in response to Israel’s launch of Operation Rising Lion, a military offensive aimed at Iranian targets.

“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region. Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense,” he said.

Rubio emphasized that the Trump administration had acted decisively to safeguard American troops and was maintaining constant coordination with allies in the area. “President Trump and the Administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners. Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel,” added Rubio.

A flight carrying Rav Ezriel Auerbach, renowned posek and rov in Bayit Vegan, Yerushalayim, was diverted from its original destination at Ben Gurion Airport Friday morning, following the sudden closure of Israeli airspace due to Israel’s attack on Iran and expected retaliation.

The plane, which had departed from New York’s JFK Airport, was scheduled to land in Tel Aviv but was instead rerouted mid-air, reportedly heading toward Cyprus.

Israeli authorities ordered the shutdown of national airspace amid heightened regional tensions, prompting the diversion.

Rav Auerbach was returning to Eretz Yisroel after attending the Adirei HaTorah event this past Sunday in Well Fargo Center, which brought together tens of thousands in support of the lomdei Torah of Bais Medrash Govoah.

Live flight tracking data shows Rav Auerbach’s aircraft diverting over the Mediterranean, west of Lebanon, away from the Israeli coast and Ben Gurion Airport. Several other planes are shown in a holding pattern or rerouting in response to the restricted airspace.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Thank you for relying on Matzav.com for your daily news and now, with Israel’s attack on Iran, for our comprehensive war coverage.

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{Matzav.com}

Israel has launched a major military action against Iran, designed to disable the Iranian nuclear threat. Iranian retaliation is expected. Rachmana litzlan!

As we all understand, these are extraordinary times. Let us gather together in our batei knesios, batei medrashos, and homes to pour out our hearts in fervent tefila to the Shomer Yisroel that He protect the yoshvei Eretz Yisroel and all of Klal Yisroel from the evil designs of our enemies.

And, as the footsteps of Moshiach get louder and louder, let us recall our mandate to be metzapim lyshua, yearning for the ultimate redemption, may the Go’el Tzedek arrive speedily in our days!

{Matzav.com}

Israel’s recent preemptive military operation against Iran has drawn a swift and deeply divided response from lawmakers in Washington, with staunch backing from leading Republicans and some centrist Democrats, while others, particularly from the Democratic side of the aisle, voiced concerns that the move could escalate into a regional conflict and derail diplomatic efforts.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) was unequivocal in his position: “Israel IS right—and has a right—to defend itself!” His sentiments were echoed by Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), who declared, “Israel has an unquestionable right to defend itself” and added that he is “proud to stand with Israel.”

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) framed Iran’s nuclear defiance as a threat to American interests and an existential danger to Israel. “Tonight Israel is taking action to defend itself, and we stand with Israel. Our prayers are with them and all American personnel in the region.”

From across the aisle, Rep. John Fetterman (D-PA) took an unusually hawkish stance, supporting the military action: “Our commitment to Israel must be absolute.” He added, “Keep wiping out Iranian leadership and the nuclear personnel. We must provide whatever is necessary — military, intelligence, weaponry — to fully back Israel in striking Iran.”

Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) also stood behind Israel, pushing back against critics who framed Israel as the aggressor. “Israel is not the aggressor. It is defending itself against an existential threat that long predates the present preemptive strike. The true aggressor is the Islamic Republic and its empire of terror — an empire stained with the blood of innocent Israelis.”

Republican lawmakers largely praised Israel’s decision. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) posted shortly after news of the operation broke: “Game on. Pray for Israel.” His colleague, Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR), chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, stated bluntly, “Proud to stand with Israel.” Cotton later added, “We back Israel to the hilt, all the way,” warning, “if the ayatollahs harm a single American, that will be the end of the ayatollahs.”

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who previously served as the administration’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, voiced her backing: “The U.S. stands strongly with our ally and partner Israel.” She continued, “May God Bless Israel & the brave IAF [Israeli Air Force] soldiers as they protect their national security and the world’s safety. I know President Trump’s top priority is protecting the American people, our brave U.S. service members, and our national security by ensuring the full dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear program to ensure they can never develop a nuclear weapon.”

Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) urged unity in support of both U.S. personnel and Israel. “I ask every American to join me in praying for the safety of U.S. personnel in the Middle East and the safety and success of Israel as it takes action against a leading state sponsor of terrorism and our shared enemy, Iran.”

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) underscored Iran’s long-standing hostility toward Israel and their recent violations of nuclear agreements. “Today, Israel has determined that it must take decisive action to defend the Israeli people,” he said. “The United States Senate stands ready to work with President Trump and with our allies in Israel to restore peace in the region and, first and foremost, to defend the American people from Iranian aggression, especially our troops and civilians serving overseas. Iran should heavily consider the consequences before considering any action against Americans in the region.”

Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), who leads the House Middle East subcommittee, shared insights from his recent visit to the region. “Having just visited the region two weeks ago, I support Israel’s decision to preemptively strike Iran and dismantle its nuclear program,” he said. “Iran cannot have nuclear weapons — a position the US and our allies have held for decades. Peace through strength.”

Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH) justified the Israeli action by citing Iran’s violation of international nuclear agreements. “Israel is justifiably defending itself and its people,” he stated. “Diplomacy has been given every opportunity, but the Iranian regime refuses to give up their nuclear ambitions. There will be peace when Iran no longer has a nuclear program, a civil one sure, and their terror armies dismantled.”

Sen. Jim Risch (R-ID), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, lent his full support: “We stand with Israel tonight and pray for the safety of its people and the success of this unilateral, defensive action.” He added, “I am also praying for the brave U.S. service members in the Middle East who keep America safe — Iran would be foolish to attack the United States.”

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) also made his stance clear: “I fully stand with the people of Israel and support her right to defend herself against Iran’s nuclear and terror programs.”

Yet not all lawmakers were on board. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), the ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, called the military operation “a reckless escalation that risks igniting regional violence.” He warned, “These strikes threaten not only the lives of innocent civilians but the stability of the entire Middle East and the safety of American citizens and forces.” Reed urged both Iran and Israel to step back and asked the Trump administration to pursue “diplomatic de-escalation before this crisis spirals further out of control.”

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) echoed those concerns and accused Israel of deliberately sabotaging ongoing nuclear negotiations with Tehran. He added, “we have no obligation to follow Israel into a war we did not ask for and will make us less safe.”

Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX), chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, strongly criticized the Israeli government’s move. “Netanyahu’s reckless strike risks provoking a wider war and pulling in the United States,” he said. “Trump must oppose Netanyahu’s escalation and pursue a diplomatic path to deal with Iran’s nuclear program.”

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) shared her discomfort, stating, “I don’t agree often with the Trump administration, but I think here it’s important to say we need more negotiation, we need deescalation. We need to get to a deal.” She called the strikes “deeply disturbing.”

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) tried to balance support for Israel’s defense with a call for caution: “If Israel’s strikes set back Iran’s nuclear program, we’ll all be safer,” she said, while emphasizing the importance of safeguarding American lives and aiding Israel’s security efforts.

Rep. Rick Crawford (R-AR), who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, clarified that the U.S. was not behind the strikes, and emphasized the danger of nuclear weapons in Iranian hands. “I will say I regret that we have come to this breaking point. However, under no circumstance can Iran get its hands on a nuclear weapon,” he said. “A nuclear Iran would only embolden our adversaries and not only pose an undeniable threat to Israel, but also the United States and our Arab allies.”

Crawford added, “Iran pushed the world to this point through its blatant, relentless destabilizing behavior. Israel and others in the region have every right to take the actions needed to defend themselves. I commend the Trump Administration for its tireless efforts to bring peace and stability to the region. I am hopeful a remedy is reached sooner rather than later to stabilize this situation before the stakes get any higher.”

Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH), aligned with the non-interventionist bloc, voiced disapproval of the growing momentum for war. “I’m sad to say but some members of Congress and US Senators seem giddy about the prospects of a bigger war,” Davidson remarked, adding an emoji of a frowning, bandaged face.

Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ) warned that the strikes may have been aimed at sabotaging U.S. diplomacy with Iran. “Iran should know that any targeting of U.S. forces and personnel stationed across the Middle East in retaliation for Israel’s actions would be a grave mistake. I urge the Trump administration to ensure that the protection of our personnel is our top priority,” he said. Kim added, “Conflict should always be a last resort, especially when diplomacy is ongoing. This decision by [Israeli Prime Minister] Netanyahu to go against American efforts and go alone in strikes puts American and Israeli lives on the line. We should do everything we can to stop this moment from spiraling into a wider conflict and bring parties back to the table to ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon.”

Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) took direct aim at Iran’s defiance, saying the regime “had given President Trump the middle finger” on efforts to dismantle its nuclear capabilities. “Israel is acting to defend themselves, and we should stand with them.”

{Matzav.com}