Matzav

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced on Monday evening that the recent difficulties surrounding visa approvals for American Evangelical Christians visiting Israel have been successfully addressed.

“After meetings with the Minister of the Interior and with the help of [Prime Minister Netanyahu], I’m happy to report that the issue concerning visas for American Evangelical organizations has been fully resolved,” Huckabee posted on X.

According to Huckabee, the root of the issue was a procedural shift that took place at the start of the year. For many years, Christian organizations had been granted visas under a consistent and reliable system. However, that system changed in January, creating logistical and financial headaches. “Starting in January, a change in the manner which visas for Christian organizations had been processed for decades led to serious challenges bureaucratically and financially for the groups,” he explained. Upon assuming his role as Ambassador, Huckabee noted the delays, additional expenses, and paperwork hurdles that had begun to plague these groups. “After a meeting with the Minister of Interior, we thought the problem was settled, but organizations continued to have issues. I informed the Prime Minister’s Office of the problem and pointed out how detrimental it was to the relationship of the State of Israel with the American evangelical community,” he said.

He clarified that the Christian groups were not requesting privileged treatment, but rather a restoration of the efficient procedures they had long relied upon. “The Christian organizations did not at any time ask for different or special treatment, but merely a return to what has been an efficient and satisfactory process for many years,” Huckabee said. He credited Attorney Calev Myers, who represents roughly 150 Christian organizations operating in Israel, for playing a pivotal role in articulating the concerns and facilitating dialogue. “Attorney Calev Myers, an Israeli attorney who represents some 150 Christian groups in Israel, was instrumental in outlining the request and the Prime Minister’s Office was supportive and involved in the resolution along with the Minister of the Interior.”

“I am delighted to report that the issue has been resolved to everyone’s satisfaction and the strong support that Israel enjoys from American Evangelicals will continue,” Ambassador Huckabee said in a statement. He also emphasized that the Interior Minister likely hadn’t been fully aware of how the visa policy had shifted, but personally ensured the restoration of the original system. “I’m convinced the Interior Minister was not fully aware of the change being imposed and I’m grateful he has personally intervened to completely restore the long-standing process,” added Huckabee.

“American Christians are some of Israel’s strongest supporters, and the resolution of this issue among friends is a welcome outcome,” said Huckabee.

{Matzav.com}

It has been cleared for publication that Sgt. Amit Cohen, Hashem yikom damo, a 19-year-old soldier from Cholon serving in the 13th Battalion of the Golani Brigade, was killed in combat in the southern Gaza Strip. He is the 894th Israeli soldier to fall in the ongoing Iron Swords War.

During the same battle in which Sgt. Cohen was killed, a fellow combat officer from the same battalion sustained serious injuries. He was evacuated to a hospital for medical treatment, and his family has been notified.

Earlier today, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi convened a special situational assessment meeting at the Glilot base, attended by all senior officers from the rank of brigadier general and above. The forum discussed various aspects of the ongoing military operations in Gaza.

In the past 24 hours, IDF ground forces launched a maneuver into the Deir al-Balah area in central Gaza—a significant move, as it marks the first ground incursion into that sector since the war began nearly 21 months ago. Until now, the army had refrained from entering the central refugee camp region due to concerns that hostages were being held there.

{Matzav.com Israel}

He truly lived up to the name “Sleepy Joe,” according to Hunter Biden’s latest claims.

In a newly released interview on Monday, Hunter Biden alleged that his father’s widely criticized showing during last year’s debate with Donald Trump was influenced in part by the use of the sleep aid Ambien — though there is no official documentation confirming the elder Biden was ever prescribed the medication.

“I know exactly what happened in that debate,” Hunter, 55, told YouTuber Andrew Callaghan in the video, which came out on the anniversary of President Biden ending his re-election campaign prematurely.

“He flew around the world. He’s 81 years old. He’s tired. They give him Ambien to be able to sleep and he gets up on the stage and looks like a deer in the headlights.”

Despite that claim, no official report supports it. President Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, released a summary of the president’s medical status following his physical on February 28, 2024. That list included six different prescriptions — none of which was Ambien.

Additionally, a short review conducted by The NY Post of Biden’s publicly disclosed medical history turned up no evidence of any Ambien prescription.

Hunter did not clarify how long his father may have been taking the sleep medication before the June debate. It was during that face-off with Trump that Biden’s confused and sluggish demeanor triggered a political firestorm within his own party, ultimately pushing him to abandon his bid for another term.

Leading up to that debate, Biden had just returned from a demanding trip overseas. He was in Italy for a G7 summit from June 13-15, shortly after attending D-Day commemorations in France. By June 20, he was secluded at Camp David preparing for the June 27 debate.

Hunter also dismissed the idea that a meaningful number of Democrats turned on his father after the poor debate performance.

“The people who came out against him were nobody, except … Speaker Emeritus [Nancy] Pelosi [D-Calif.] did not give a full-throated endorsement,” he said.

“The entirety of the progressive side of the Democratic Party said Joe Biden has got more of our agenda accomplished in four years than any president in history.”

Hunter recounted how, in the days that followed, his father was under immense pressure to prove he still had the stamina and sharpness needed to take on Trump in the general election.

“He gets over the hump, he goes and does the [ABC News anchor George] Stephanopoulos [interview]. Everybody goes, ‘OK, that’s not enough, we got to see him give a press conference,’” Hunter said, referencing Biden’s July 12 press conference where he mistakenly called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky “Vladimir,” confusing him with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Just five days later, Biden’s effort to stabilize his campaign took another hit when the White House disclosed that he had tested positive for COVID-19.

“He woke up in the morning and he had a severe case of COVID, and the pictures of him getting on and off the plane were just devastating, and then the vultures descended,” Hunter said.

Reflecting on the aftermath, Hunter described what he believes was a calculated push to force his father out of the race.

“What I felt happened is that he was given a choice … They said, ‘We are going to blow up the party if you don’t drop out. We’re going to protest this all the way up for the next month, all the way up to the convention,’” he said.

“So Joe Biden, I think, did the most selfless thing that I know of any politician in the history of this …. country. He stepped aside to save the party.”

{Matzav.com}

New York City’s sanctuary city approach and the leadership of Mayor Eric Adams are at the center of sharp criticism following a violent attack on a federal officer. U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem laid blame on city officials after an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent was shot in the face over the weekend.

“There’s absolutely zero reason that someone who is scum of the earth like this should be running loose on the streets of New York City,” Noem declared during a press briefing Monday, following a hospital visit to the wounded officer.

She emphasized that the blame lies with city leadership. “Make no mistake, this officer is in the hospital today, fighting for his life, because of the policies of the mayor of the city and the City Council and the people that were in charge of keeping the public safe refused to do so.”

According to the New York Post, 21-year-old Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez, a Dominican national, along with another undocumented individual, is accused of ambushing the federal agent and his companion in Fort Washington Park on Motzoei Shabbos. Nunez has an extensive arrest history in the city.

Reacting to the incident, President Trump posted on Truth Social: “Crime in American Cities started to significantly rise when they went to cashless bail. The worst criminals are flooding our streets and endangering even our great law enforcement officers. It is a complete disaster, and must be ended, immediately!”

Records show Nunez had been taken into custody at least four times prior to this incident, but was released each time without bail, a result of city regulations established by Democrat leadership, including Adams.

Adams, who secured his position as mayor running as a Democrat, is now campaigning as an independent due to legal challenges that include bribery allegations and other charges.

He also stirred tensions with the Biden administration after expressing frustration over the federal relocation of illegal migrants to New York, warning that the city couldn’t sustain the influx and that it would “destroy” the city.

Reflecting on the state of the city, Noem remarked during her press conference, “When I look at what Mayor Adams has done to New York City, it breaks my heart to see the families that have suffered because of his policies.”

Noem also stated that Nunez entered the U.S. unlawfully in April 2023 and was subsequently relocated to New York.

“I want to remind you that this individual had been arrested four different times before this act happened on Saturday night — arrested and released again and again and again,” she said.

Noem added, “What did we think was going to happen from policies like that? When you take a dangerous individual and you allow them to never face any consequences for the acts that they’re perpetuating against the public. Then you end up in a situation that could have been prevented.”

{Matzav.com}

Health insurance premiums under the Affordable Care Act are expected to rise significantly in 2026, as major insurers seek steep increases across multiple states.

As reported by The Wall Street Journal, insurers are proposing substantial hikes for Obamacare plan premiums. Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Illinois has requested a 27% increase, while its counterpart in Texas wants to raise prices by 21%. In states like Georgia, Rhode Island, and Washington, the largest ACA plans are proposing hikes of over 20%.

Insurance companies attribute the proposed rate spikes to two primary factors: the escalating cost of medical care and the rollback of federal subsidies that previously helped lower premiums for enrollees. Around 24 million Americans currently rely on ACA health plans for coverage.

Clare Forry, a 40-year-old resident of Arlington Heights, Illinois, told the Journal that if her monthly Blue Cross & Blue Shield premium rises from roughly $590 to over $700, it would be “pretty hard to grasp.” “That’s some people’s mortgage payments,” she remarked, expressing her concern as a retail-industry manager.

The subsidies that were enacted in 2021 to help reduce the cost of ACA premiums are set to end in December. Once they expire, many individuals who currently benefit from these subsidies will be hit with sharply higher monthly insurance payments.

Cynthia Cox, a vice president at the health policy group KFF, explained to the Journal that many consumers are “going to be hit with this double whammy” of losing financial support while also being charged more for their coverage.

KFF reviewed premium hike proposals from leading ACA insurers in 17 states plus Washington, D.C., and found that the median requested increase is about 15% — the largest projected jump since 2018.

Insurance providers say that the increased costs are due to expectations of higher medical expenses among enrollees.

An Elevance spokesperson pointed the Journal to comments made by company leaders during an earnings call, where they noted a rise in ER visits, growing reliance on mental health services, and higher drug prices as reasons for the anticipated cost increases.

A representative for Health Care Service Corporation emphasized that pricing is based on projected medical needs and said that the organization remains committed to “market stability and sustainable access to comprehensive coverage for our members.” The spokesperson added that the actual premium increases would differ depending on a member’s location, plan, and other variables.

Some insurers are also pointing to tariffs as another factor that could drive up the cost of medical products and pharmaceuticals.

In addition to shrinking subsidies, upcoming federal rules tightening eligibility requirements for sign-ups may reduce the number of people enrolling in ACA plans — a shift that could further inflate premiums.

Insurers and actuaries explain that as enrollment declines, the pool of remaining participants tends to be sicker and more likely to generate higher medical claims, thereby raising average costs for the system.

{Matzav.com}

Two members of the IDF were taken into custody and questioned by Belgian authorities after a complaint was submitted by the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF), an organization known for targeting Israeli soldiers with legal action, the Foreign Ministry confirmed Monday. The development followed a statement released by HRF.

According to the HRF, the two soldiers had been attending the Tomorrowland music festival when allegations surfaced accusing them of committing war crimes.

Although they were briefly detained, the two soldiers were released not long after the investigation began. Israeli diplomatic officials, including the IDF and the Foreign Ministry, remain in touch with the pair.

The complaint was jointly filed by the Hind Rajab Foundation and the Global Legal Action Network (GLAN).

HRF claimed the soldiers had been displaying the emblem of the IDF’s Givati Brigade — a unit which, according to the organization, has been “involved in the systematic destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza and in carrying out mass atrocities against the Palestinian population.”

Despite the controversy, the general atmosphere at the Tomorrowland festival was described as welcoming to Israelis. Israeli attendees were seen proudly displaying their national flags, chatting with Palestinians wearing keffiyehs, and even posing for photos alongside Iranians.

However, the display of the Givati Brigade flag by the two soldiers appears to have crossed a line, catching the attention of individuals who then escalated the matter.

With its headquarters in Brussels, HRF benefits from operating within the very country where the arrest took place, granting it easier access to legal resources and influence within the Belgian system.

“For the first time in Europe, Israeli suspects linked to crimes in Gaza have been subjected to formal arrest and questioning,” HRF claimed.

“This development is a significant step forward,” HRF stated, as it “signals that Belgium has recognized its jurisdiction under international law and is treating the allegation with the seriousness they deserve.”

“And to states watching around the world: universal jurisdiction is not just a principle — it is an obligation,” the statement continued.

“The Hind Rajab Foundation and GLAN welcome this breakthrough with determination and humility. We will continue to support the ongoing proceedings and call on Belgian authorities to pursue the investigation fully and independently. Justice must not stop here — and we are committed to seeing it through,” they concluded.

Photos from the Tomorrowland festival in Boom, Belgium, showed Israelis and Iranians side by side, each proudly waving their national flags.

{Matzav.com}

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has emerged as the top fundraiser in the House of Representatives this year, securing a total of $15.4 million in campaign contributions, according to new disclosures filed with the Federal Election Commission, the New York Post reported over the weekend.

Of that total, $4.3 million came from New York donors, with the majority of her campaign funds arriving from supporters in other parts of the country.

An analysis of her spending patterns revealed that Ocasio-Cortez is channeling $3.6 million into advertisements on Facebook and Instagram, most of which are not aimed at a New York audience.

“It’s not unusual that a candidate, especially someone like AOC, would buy media outside of their home district – but not any politician can do it,” explained Steve Caplan, a political ad strategist at the University of Southern California. “It’s something that is fairly typical of high profile, national level politicians, and she is certainly that.”

Caplan also noted that these fundraising and ad trends are “quite likely,” to be laying the groundwork for a larger political move, either on a state or national level, “most likely in 2028.”

Campaign manager Oliver Hidalgo-Wohlleben posted on X that during the second quarter, “AOC raised $5.8m from over 161,000 individual donors and an average donation of just $17.”

A significant portion of her most generous supporters reside in California, Massachusetts, and Maine, with dozens contributing the legal maximum of $3,500. As per the Post, just 12% of those top-tier donors are located in New York.

Jacob Neiheisel, who teaches political communication at the University of Buffalo, remarked, “she is trading on her national profile to go where the dollars are. It’s become incredibly easy to pull dollars from all across the country… And there’s a lot of money in southern California.”

{Matzav.com}

Ramsey Solutions founder and CEO Dave Ramsey gives tips and advice to those looking to build a business on ‘Varney & Co.’

WATCH:

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., discusses the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars on ‘Sunday Night in America.’

WATCH:

Tensions within the Democratic Party continued to rise this week as Representative Adam Smith (D-WA) made it clear that Zohran Mamdani, a far-left New York City mayoral candidate, does not represent the broader party’s values.

Mamdani, whose views on property ownership and Israel have drawn criticism, has gained momentum in his mayoral campaign. With that rise in visibility, more centrist Democrats have grown increasingly concerned. Appearing on Fox News Sunday, Rep. Smith worked to put space between Mamdani and the rest of the party’s leadership.

“Look, the mayor of New York has never, never, ever been the leader of the Democratic Party,” Smith said when asked about Mamdani.

He dismissed the idea that Mamdani’s ideas reflect the party’s direction, attributing his rise instead to the Democratic Party’s wide-ranging ideological spectrum.

“Mamdani isn’t speaking for our party, any more than I’m speaking for our party. It’s a big tent. It’s a big coalition,” he said, later shifting focus to President Donald Trump’s immigration efforts and rhetoric.

“He says he has secured the border. He’s spending all this money now on going around and terrorizing communities with high-profile ICE raids, which are not effective, which has turned people against him on immigration,” Smith said.

Smith urged Democrats to stick to the party’s broader principles and not allow figures like Mamdani to dominate the conversation.

“We, Democrats, have a message, and we have a message to deliver. And I’ll tell you this. The mayor of New York, no matter who he is, is not going to be the leader of our party. And we still need to stay focused on those issues,” he said.

Mamdani’s refusal to speak out against inflammatory rhetoric has also alienated Jewish members of Congress. His unwillingness to denounce the phrase “globalize the intifada,” and his refusal to recognize Israel as a Jewish state, has been met with strong pushback.

“To not be willing to condemn the term ‘globalize the intifada,’ it just demonstrates his callous disregard for antisemitism, terrorist activity,” said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL).

She continued by distancing herself entirely from Mamdani.

“Anyone that I care about couldn’t possibly distance themselves from him more,” Wasserman Schultz added. “It’s really terribly disturbing and potentially dangerous.”

Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL) echoed that concern, criticizing Mamdani’s framing of the slogan as benign.

“Mamdani is either ignoring or gaslighting the public,” he said, “when he said ‘globalize the intifada’ is ‘a peaceful call.’”

Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) added his voice to the growing list of Democrats expressing dismay.

“I think he’s wrong on all those things,” said Moskowitz. “If he can’t tell people ‘globalizing the intifada’ — if he can’t say that that’s antisemitic, then obviously he’s going to continue to add to the problem, not deflate it.”

{Matzav.com}

In a surprising moment during a Knesset session today, MK Moshe Gafni, head of the Degel HaTorah faction, took his seat at the chairman’s spot in the Finance Committee, despite having formally resigned from the role last week due to tensions over the draft law.

Gafni’s unexpected action caught MK Naor Shiri of Yesh Atid off guard. Upon walking into the meeting, Shiri expressed visible astonishment at seeing Gafni in the chair. Gafni clarified the situation, saying, “Temporary, I’m just filling in,” and explained: “The acting chairman is Ofir Katz. Today, Yinon [Azoulay] is filling in for him. He stepped out and asked me to sit in. So I’m the stand-in for the stand-in when the acting chairman is absent.”

Gafni continued to explain his reasoning for being there at all: “Honestly, I didn’t even need to come. But I care that the compensation payments [the topic under discussion] get paid. We’ve been holding discussions on this economic relief bill, and I want to see it through. That’s all. Yinon will return and resume leading.”

Later during the meeting, after MK Yinon Azoulay resumed his duties as acting chairman and Gafni had moved to a regular seat, Gafni was lightly scolded by Azoulay for chatting during the proceedings.

Adding a light-hearted moment to the session, MK Vladimir Beliak of Yesh Atid joked, “I tried to add Gafni to the opposition’s WhatsApp group, but he doesn’t have WhatsApp, so we’re stuck for now.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Dear Matzav Inbox,

I don’t know when it happened, but somewhere along the way, we stopped saying “thank you.” We stopped acknowledging each other. We stopped being mentchen.

If I slow down and let you turn ahead of me in traffic, is it really so hard to lift a hand in thanks? A simple wave?

If I hold the door for you at the grocery store while juggling two toddlers and a shopping cart, can’t you at least mutter a thank you?

If I give a meshulach a donation, even a dollar, is a nod of gratitude too much to ask?

What’s going on?

I’m not expecting parades or awards. Just basic human decency. Basic middos. The kind that should be second nature.

If my child bends down to pick up your child’s yarmulke when it falls on the floor, thank him.
If I make room on the bench at shul so you and your son can sit, acknowledge it.
If I let you go ahead of me in line because you “just have one item,” don’t act like it’s your right.
If the rebbi sends home a beautiful weekly newsletter with divrei Torah, tell him you appreciate it.
If the gabbai quietly rearranges the shul to fit everyone in on a packed Shabbos morning, thank him.
If a bus driver pulls up a few steps closer so you don’t have to drag your stroller, thank him.
If a teenager gives up his seat on the bus for your mother, thank him.
If your neighbor brings in your packages when it’s raining, say something.
If the woman at the bakery lets you cut the line because your baby is screaming, don’t just take the challah and walk away.
If someone picks up your child’s lost glove and hands it to you with a smile, don’t just grab it and walk off.
If your friend texts you a reminder about carpool, respond with appreciation.
If your child’s teacher answers your 10 p.m. email, acknowledge it.
If the lady in the supermarket aisle helps you reach the top shelf, don’t act like she works there.
If your neighbor doesn’t say a word when you park too close to their driveway (again), say thank you.
If someone in the shul parking lot waits so you can back out safely, wave.
If the kollel yungerman behind you in line doesn’t say a word when your kids knock into him for the tenth time, nod in his direction and apologize.
If your friend’s child holds the elevator for you, don’t ignore it.
If your chavrusa reschedules because your schedule changed last minute, thank him.

And if someone smiles at you just to be nice, smile back.

We live in a world of chesed, and yet the simplest acts of derech eretz are slipping through our fingers. It’s not just rude. It’s ugly. It’s exhausting. And frankly, it’s not who we are supposed to be.

I’m fed up. I’m tired of being invisible when I extend a kindness. I’m tired of seeing people treat decency like a favor instead of a basic requirement.

Let’s do better. Let’s raise our kids better. Let’s model better. It takes one second to say thank you. And it changes everything.

Signed,
A Yid Who Still Believes in Derech Eretz

To submit a letter to appear on Matzav.com, email MatzavInbox@gmail.com

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{Matzav.com}

In the wake of Israel’s State Prosecutor’s decision not to appeal a court ruling easing his house arrest conditions, Eli Feldstein, the former military spokesperson for Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, paid a visit this morning to Rav Dovid Abuchatzeira in Nahariya for a bracha and personal guidance.

The visit came shortly after the Tel Aviv District Court ruled to relax Feldstein’s house arrest terms, allowing him to leave his home during the day and remain under restriction only at night.

Sources informed Matzav.com that Feldstein and his family have maintained close contact with Rav Abuchatzeira throughout this difficult period, often seeking his advice and support. During today’s meeting, the Rav told him warmly, “I daven for you all the time.”

Feldstein is the key defendant in the classified documents leak case connected to Germany’s Bild newspaper during Israel’s Iron Swords War. He is also a suspect in the unfolding “Qatargate” affair. Until now, he had been under full house arrest for an extended period.

On Sunday, the prosecution announced it would not petition the Supreme Court to overturn the District Court’s ruling, effectively allowing Feldstein significantly more daytime freedom while his legal proceedings continue.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The Chernobyler Rebbe, who is currently in Poland on a journey together with major benefactors of the chassidus, visited the kever of his illustrious ancestor, Rav Shlomo of Karlin hy”d, in the Ukrainian town of Ludmir, this past Thursday night, on the day of his yahrtzeit, 22 Tammuz.

The Rebbe, leading a group of Chassidim who had contributed generously toward the journey and its causes, first participated in the historic Hachnasas Sefer Torah that took place in Ludmir on the night of the hillula.

Following that event, the Rebbe affixed mezuzos at the entrance to the newly constructed Rebbe’s hall, where he later held a tish in honor of the yahrtzeit, joined by a large crowd of Chassidim.

The Rebbe then made his way to the kever of his grandfather, Rav Aharon of Karlin. Upon arriving near the ohel, the Rebbe unexpectedly paused outside and did not step inside.

Explaining his decision to the crowd, the Rebbe said that tzaddikim kadmonim—earlier generations of tzaddikim—were filled with fear and awe at the thought of entering the ohel of the holy one whose yahrtzeit they were marking. “I, too,” he said, “am afraid to go in.” He chose instead to remain just outside the structure.

Those gathered followed the Rebbe’s lead, surrounding the entrance as they poured out heartfelt Tehillim.

{Matzav.com Israel}

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As the ongoing war drags on across multiple fronts, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi has made the decision to begin gradually releasing reservists from active combat zones over the coming months. This move, which affects operational areas including Gaza, Lebanon, and Yehuda and Shomron, is intended to reduce the mounting burden on Israel’s reserve army, which has been showing increasing signs of strain.

Military correspondent Doron Kadosh reported on Galei Tzahal this morning that due to the prolonged nature of the war and the heavy reliance on reserve forces since the start of 2025, Halevi has approved a phased drawdown of approximately 30% of reserve troops currently deployed on the front lines. This will take place gradually, assuming no unexpected developments such as a renewed confrontation with Iran or a large-scale escalation in Gaza.

In the Gaza Strip, the reduction will be especially significant. Many reservists currently engaged in fighting will be discharged in the coming weeks, with only one reserve brigade expected to replace them—marking a substantial scaling back of reserve presence in the area.

In Yehuda and Shomron, which has until now been held almost entirely by reserve units, the situation is also set to change. Regular army units will now be deployed in place of the reserves, shifting the region’s security back to the standing army.

Along the northern borders with Lebanon and Syria, there will also be a modest reduction of reserve forces. Here too, regular units will be brought in to replace some of the reservists, though on a smaller scale compared to other sectors.

Senior officials familiar with the matter explained that the decision stems from a growing need to ease the pressure on reservists, who have been operating under intense conditions. Many of the reserve brigades, originally expected to serve for 70-day rotations in 2025, have been serving for 100 days or even longer.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Overnight reports from Syria indicate that Israeli aircraft and drones carried out a wave of airstrikes in the region of As-Suwayda in southern Syria, an area currently engulfed in unrest and fighting.

According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, “Israeli planes and UAVs conducted a series of airstrikes overnight in the western countryside of As-Suwayda, in southern Syria.”

In addition, local sources claim that “Israeli helicopters flew over As-Suwayda and provided aid to residents,” amidst reports that local security forces had withdrawn from the area. The pro-Iranian Sabrin News outlet reported that six helicopters landed in As-Suwayda carrying ammunition and military supplies for Druze factions active in the region.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hadath television channel reported that a prisoner release operation is imminent, involving women and children who were “taken captive” during the recent clashes in As-Suwayda province. The network cited a security official, Ahmad al-Dalti, who stated that “the release of families held by factions in As-Suwayda will take place in the coming hours,” adding that “their safe return is guaranteed as part of the state’s commitment to protect all its citizens and preserve national unity.”

This comes on the heels of previous reports that the death toll in the week-long fighting in the Druze mountain region had risen to at least 1,120, the vast majority of whom were Druze residents of the As-Suwayda province killed in the ongoing violence.

As of now, Syrian army units have reportedly been deployed at the eastern entrance to the city in an effort to prevent armed Bedouin tribal fighters from advancing further into the area. Reports also indicate that relative calm has been restored in recent hours, while a humanitarian aid convoy from the Red Cross has been making its way into the city. As-Suwayda has suffered severe damage, including to its main hospital.

{Matzav.com Israel}

A high-ranking figure within Hamas’s internal security apparatus has announced that the terror group maintains a “blacklist” of Gaza residents suspected of cooperating with Israel. This list reportedly includes businessmen, organized crime affiliates, and others deemed criminal by Hamas.

The official warned that these alleged collaborators would soon be prosecuted and face capital punishment. Hamas is expected to publicize the names of those under investigation at a time it finds strategically advantageous.
“If they do not return to their people and seek to atone for their crimes, we will have no choice but to publish the list,” the official stated.

He also claimed that some of the individuals being pursued had sought protection from Israel, thereby hindering Hamas’s attempts to control the internal situation in Gaza. Still, he insisted, “justice will be served with them, and it will come by the sword.”

Meanwhile, according to a report from the Shehab news agency, which is affiliated with Palestinian Arab sources, the Revolutionary Court operated by the Gaza Ministry of Interior’s Military Court has issued a directive to Yasser Abu Shabak, a militia commander in Rafah, demanding that he present himself for prosecution.

Despite the fact that Palestinian law requires approval from Palestinian Authority (PA) chairman Mahmoud Abbas before any executions are carried out, Hamas has continued to conduct executions in Gaza without his authorization. Abbas, who resides in Ramallah, imposed a freeze on executions years ago.

Hamas no longer acknowledges Abbas’s authority, and its leadership has openly asserted that death sentences in Gaza do not require his endorsement.

The majority of executions carried out by Hamas have been aimed at individuals accused of spying for Israel. In September 2022, two Palestinian Arabs were executed by Hamas after being found guilty of relaying intelligence to Israel that allegedly led to the deaths of two individuals.

In May 2023, several Palestinians in Gaza were sentenced to death—by both hanging and firing squad—after a military tribunal convicted them of supplying intelligence to Israel.

Later that year, in December, Hamas claimed it had detained a cell of Palestinian Arabs who had worked with Israel to gather intelligence inside the Gaza Strip shortly after the group’s October 7 massacre.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Inside the ultra-secure Rakafot Wing at Ayalon Prison, one of the most tightly guarded units run by the Israel Prisons Service (IPS), a group of Israel’s most dangerous security prisoners is being held under maximum supervision. These inmates include high-ranking terrorists from both Hamas and Hezbollah.

Established nearly a year ago, this specialized wing houses senior members of Hamas’ elite Nukhba and naval commando forces, along with fighters from Hezbollah’s Radwan Force who were apprehended by the IDF in cross-border operations in Lebanon.

A detailed report from Kan Reshet Bet offered a rare window into the inner workings of this facility. The wing, built like a concrete bunker, is equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance systems that monitor every movement inside the cells.

“This is where the toughest inmates are held, those who committed the most serious offenses,” said the wing commander. “Most belong to Hamas’ Nukhba unit. Operationally, it’s classified as a tactical wing—the first of its kind in the IPS and currently undergoing a pilot phase. Every staff member here operates under an alias and uses an operational ID tag.”

The prison staff assigned to this wing receives intensive training, particularly in developing emotional strength and resilience, so they can handle the unique pressures of the job. “Every day presents a new challenge or dilemma that we must solve,” the commander added.

Life inside the Rakafot Wing is intentionally spartan. According to prison authorities, the conditions meet only the most basic requirements under international law. Inmates are confined to their cells 24/7, with only one hour a day spent in a fortified outdoor space where faint daylight slips through narrow slits.

All necessary engagements—whether it’s meeting with attorneys, receiving medical care, or attending legal hearings—take place entirely within the secure perimeter of the wing. Prisoners are not allowed to converse with one another or with the guards.

“We’ve provided mental preparation for all our personnel. When professional or psychological support is needed, it’s available. We’re constantly accompanied by experts, and we’re fully prepared to meet any challenge,” the commander concluded.

{Matzav.com Israel}

[COMMUNICATED]

By Mordy Berkowitz 

I had no business getting behind that wheel. Don’t make my mistake.

Three years ago, I was just your average nearly-21-year-old bochur from Lakewood, New Jersey. I had friends, plans, and a future ahead of me. But in one moment, everything changed. I made a decision that can never be undone — I got behind the wheel after drinking alcohol. That choice ended someone’s life, permanently injured another person, and launched a brutal legal battle that turned my entire world upside down. Suddenly, my life became consumed by courtrooms, lawyers, and the overwhelming weight of consequences I never imagined facing.

It was Friday, July 22, 2022. I was at a to’ameha with a few friends — drinking, laughing, and enjoying the moment. A little before Shabbos, I decided to head over to a friend’s house to spend Shabbos. I jumped behind the wheel and started speeding, rushing to get there in time. I was driving down the winding curves of South Lake Drive when, in an instant, everything changed — I was in a head-on collision.

My car flipped on impact and landed upside down. I was trapped inside, disoriented and unable to move, with smoke filling the vehicle and flames beginning to spread. Lying there, helpless, it felt like the end — I didn’t think I was going to survive. Then a stranger pulled over, ran toward the wreck, and pulled me out just moments before the car exploded. The fact that I walked away from that crash with only minor injuries is nothing short of a miracle.

After I was released from the hospital, reality started to hit. A close family friend stepped in, hired a lawyer, and advised us that the next step I would have to take was turn myself in at the Ocean County Jail. Walking through those doors was a moment heavy beyond words, stepping into a place I never imagined I’d be. I spent five long, painful weeks behind bars.

That period of time was a constant waking nightmare. I was thankfully able to be in touch with seven contacts through the jail phone, and that was my lifeline. My friends and family kept me afloat, with chizuk and conversations around the clock. I didn’t speak to any of the other individuals in jail with me; they were very, very bad people, and having any conversation with any of them was not something I wanted to do.

Finally, after those five weeks, I was released on house arrest, where I’ve been confined ever since.

Being on house arrest means I’m home all day. It means I’m missing all family simchahs, all outings with friends — everything. For the first year, I wasn’t even allowed to go to shul. Now, baruch Hashem, I can go out for minyanim — at set times only — and it’s been a huge saving grace.

Ihave now gone before the judge and pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide. This means I’m awaiting sentencing, facing five to ten years in state prison. I am 23 years old now. Under the No Early Release Act, I won’t be eligible for parole until I’ve served at least 85 percent of my sentence. It’s a painful reality — to know I’ll be spending years behind bars, separated from everything and everyone I know.

The reason I’m sharing this now is because I’ve seen — and continue to hear about — far too many people making the same mistake I did: attending simchahs, parlor meetings, to’amehas, and other events, having a few drinks, and then casually getting behind the wheel. They say they feel “fine.” They genuinely believe they’re okay to drive. Too many people think they’re invincible behind the wheel, convinced that “it won’t happen to me.” I thought the same thing.

But the truth is, it only takes one time. You don’t realize how easy it is to cross the line — until you already have. One poor decision can destroy a family and your future in a matter of seconds. That quiet confidence is where the real danger lies. It’s what turns an ordinary night into a tragedy — one drive that ends with flashing lights, twisted metal, and a life forever lost.

And from that moment on, nothing is ever the same — for the family who will never see their loved one again, for the friends left grieving, and for everyone whose world was shattered in an instant. The pain doesn’t fade. The hole left behind never truly heals.

Please take my story as a life lesson. Set a clear, no-exceptions boundary for yourself. If you’re going to any event where you know you’ll be drinking, even just a little, decide in advance that you’re not driving afterward — not even once. Call a car service, arrange a ride, stay over, do whatever it takes. Be the one with the courage to say, “I feel fine, but I’m not risking it.”

I cannot get a second chance to undo this tragedy, so please: Take your first chance seriously.

Think ahead. Plan smart. Stick to your decision, because no simchah, no shortcut, no moment of feeling “okay” is worth a lifetime of regret.

And it’s not just about your own decisions. You have a responsibility to your friends, too. If you see someone about to drive after drinking — even if he insists he’s fine — step in, say something, take his keys, or call a ride. Stopping him might feel uncomfortable in the moment, but living with the regret of staying silent is far worse. True friendship means protecting each other, even from ourselves.

The next choice is yours. You can be the reason someone lives — or the reason they don’t.

Choose wisely.

 

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 1070)