Matzav

House Speaker Mike Johnson issued a stark warning on Sunday, cautioning that a Democratic takeover of the House in 2026 could lead to an immediate push to impeach President Donald Trump. Johnson shared his concerns during an appearance on ABC’s This Week, emphasizing that preserving a Republican majority is essential for advancing Trump’s agenda, according to a report from Breitbart.

“If the Democrats took over control of the House, I guarantee you that they would try to impeach President Trump in the first week of that new Congress in January ’27,” Johnson stated. “And that would be a disaster for the country, for our public policy, for the economy, and everything else.”

During the interview, host Jonathan Karl brought up Elon Musk’s recent political commentary and his reported openness to backing primary challenges against sitting Republicans. Johnson pivoted to defend both the GOP and Trump, portraying their platform as one aligned with Musk’s broader economic goals.

“I think Elon knows, at the end of the day, the reason he got involved to help President Trump win and to help Republicans win the majority in the House and the Senate is because he understands that our policies are better for human flourishing, they’re better for the U.S. economy, they’re better for everything that he’s involved in with his innovation and job creation and entrepreneurship,” Johnson said.

He continued, “The other team’s policies are not good for those things. And he knows that at the end of the day.”

Johnson concluded by reinforcing the urgency of maintaining Republican control through the next election cycle. “And I think when the emotion settles down, I think he’ll recognize we have no choice. We have to hold the House majority in the 2026 mid-term election, and we will because we’ve got to allow President Trump four full years, not just two,” he added.

These remarks come as tensions between Trump and Musk have reportedly cooled following a recent dispute that played out online. Two sources within the White House, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Politico that both Trump and Musk are now seeking to deescalate after the dustup, which began when Musk floated the idea of impeachment. Trump had allegedly threatened to pull federal contracts from Musk’s companies in response.

“He’s stopped posting, but that doesn’t mean he’s happy,” one official remarked regarding Trump’s silence on Truth Social regarding Musk.

Another White House insider commented, “The future of their relationship is totally uncertain.” Both officials indicated that while neither side wants to escalate the disagreement further, the personal rapport between the two remains tense.

Although the public quarrel has quieted, the political implications continue to build as both figures navigate a high-stakes election cycle and strained political alliances.

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A new directive from President Donald Trump went into force early Monday, instituting one of the most far-reaching travel restrictions in recent memory. Citizens from 12 nations are now barred from entering the United States, in what many see as a reintroduction of a highly controversial policy from Trump’s first term.

The administration framed the policy as a necessary national security measure, referencing a recent violent incident in Colorado as a key factor in the decision. The attack involved an assailant who had overstayed his visa—an event the White House cited to justify tighter controls on immigration and foreign entry.

Trump explained the rationale for the new order last week, pointing to the Colorado assault on Jewish demonstrators showing support for hostages held in Gaza. “That attack,” he said, “underscored the extreme dangers posed to our country by the entry of foreign nationals who are not properly vetted” or who overstay their visas.

The president’s executive action halts travel from Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Sudan, Myanmar, Haiti, Eritrea, Congo-Brazzaville, Chad, and Equatorial Guinea.

Additional restrictions were issued for citizens of several more nations, including Burundi, Turkmenistan, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Venezuela. Nationals from these countries may still be eligible for certain work visas, but access to the U.S. will be heavily limited.

Trump’s order does make exceptions for diplomats and for international athletes participating in events like the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

The administration emphasized that the list could be expanded. “As threats emerge around the world,” Trump warned, new countries may be added to the ban.

The move drew strong international criticism. United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk issued a warning, stating that “the broad and sweeping nature of the new travel ban raises concerns from the perspective of international law.”

Domestic political backlash was swift. Lawmakers from the Democratic Party condemned the policy, calling it discriminatory and legally questionable. “I know the pain that Trump’s cruel and xenophobic travel bans inflict because my family has felt it firsthand,” said Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari, who is of Iranian descent. “We will fight this ban with everything we have.”

The administration’s justification for the new restrictions was tied to the case of Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an Egyptian national identified as the attacker in the Colorado case. According to U.S. officials, Soliman entered the country on a tourist visa but failed to leave when it expired. He later sought asylum in 2022. During the incident, Soliman allegedly used homemade incendiary devices, including a flamethrower and Molotov cocktails, injuring 15 people—one critically. The FBI classified the attack as an act of terrorism.

Notably, Egypt was not included in the list of banned countries.

Trump’s order claims that governments like those of Afghanistan, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen are unable to adequately issue or verify passports due to weak or nonexistent central authorities. Iran was named in the order as a “state sponsor of terrorism.”

For the remaining countries listed, the justification focused on what the administration described as a statistically high risk of visa overstays.

The restrictions are expected to affect refugee admissions, immigration patterns, and U.S. foreign relations in significant ways, even as debate intensifies over the legality and morality of the sweeping measure.

{Matzav.com}

Kamala Harris issued a statement condemning the federal deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles, calling it a “dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos,” while notably omitting any criticism of the violent riots that erupted in response to immigration enforcement operations.

Harris, who unsuccessfully sought the Democratic nomination for president in 2024, remained silent for more than a day after demonstrators attacked U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempting to carry out lawful arrests.

“Los Angeles is my home,” Harris wrote in a post on X. “And like so many Americans, I am appalled at what we are witnessing on the streets of our city. Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos. In addition to the recent ICE raids in Southern California and across our nation, it is part of the Trump Administration’s cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.”

Her remarks came a full day after Trump signed a memorandum authorizing 2,000 National Guard troops to be sent to the city in order to contain the ongoing violence.

Continuing her criticism, Harris argued that the White House’s decisions had little to do with security and everything to do with inciting fear. “Actions are not about public safety,” she said, “but about stoking fear.”

“Fear of a community demanding dignity and due process,” she added. “Protest is a powerful tool — essential in the fight for justice. And as the LAPD, Mayor, and Governor have noted, demonstrations in defense of our immigrant neighbors have been overwhelmingly peaceful.”

Harris’s claim that the protests have been “overwhelmingly peaceful” stands in contrast to widely circulated footage showing protesters hurling rocks at Border Patrol vehicles, setting fires, and defacing federal buildings with graffiti.

Other prominent Democrats have joined her in condemning Trump’s move. California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass both spoke out against the federalization of the National Guard troops to control the situation.

As reported by Breitbart News Senior Editor-at-Large Joel Pollak, Bass characterized the deployment as a “chaotic escalation.” In her statement, Bass said, “The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real – it’s felt in our communities and within our families and it puts our neighborhoods at risk. This is the last thing that our city needs, and I urge protestors to remain peaceful.”

Governor Newsom likewise denounced the move, calling it “purposefully inflammatory” and warning that it would “only escalate tensions.”

In a scene that transformed the heart of a major sports arena into a palace of Torah, thousands converged on the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on Sunday night for the fourth Adirei HaTorah maamad, a majestic show of support for the yungeleit of Bais Medrash Govoah in Lakewood, NJ.

From cities and towns across the tri-state area, busloads and cars of attendees arrived with one shared purpose: to proclaim the honor and centrality of limud haTorah and to pay tribute to those who dedicate their lives to it. The event marked the continuation of an extraordinary movement launched four years ago to uphold and strengthen the pillars of Torah learning through financial support of Lakewood’s kollel yungeleit.

The arena’s doors opened at 4:30 p.m., but this was no ordinary evening at Wells Fargo. Gone were the sports banners and celebrity endorsements. In their place were powerful declarations of kavod haTorah, with mottos and visuals emphasizing the preciousness of those who carry the spiritual burdens of Klal Yisroel. As guests entered, they were offered refreshments, while inside the arena they were met with a magnificent sight: a vast, majestic dais constructed for the hundreds of roshei yeshiva, rabbonim, and roshei chaburah in attendance.

The air was charged with anticipation and uplifted by sweet sounds of music. Keyboardist Meir Adler, flown in from Eretz Yisroel, was joined by singers Yanky Daskal, Zanvil Weinberger, and Hershy Weinberger, accompanied by the Shira and Yingerlach Choirs. Their stirring melodies provided the evening with an atmosphere of joy and reverence.

Mincha was led by Rabbi Eliezer Berl, father of Chaim Zelig Aryeh Berl z”l, one of the three bochurim recently niftar in a tragic accident.

Following Mincha, Tehillim was recited for acheinu Bnei Yisroel by Rav Chaim Ginsburg, senior rosh chaburah at Bais Medrash Govoah.

The event’s seating reflected its values. The coveted floor-level seats were not available for purchase; they were designated exclusively for veteran yungeleit of Bais Medrash Govoah, underscoring the evening’s central theme.

As the roshei yeshiva entered the arena, accompanying the esteemed guest from Eretz Yisroel, Rav Ezriel Auerbach, the crowd rose in a unified, thunderous display of kavod haTorah.

Rav Nochum Binder, who served as the evening’s emcee, opened the program by reflecting on the journey of the Adirei HaTorah campaign. In just four years, the initiative has raised tens of millions of dollars, sustaining the heartbeat of Torah in Lakewood.

The rosh yeshiva, Rav Aryeh Malkiel Kotler, was then introduced to heartfelt singing of “Yomim al yemei melech tosif.”

Following Rav Kotler’s remarks, several niggunim, including Rav Boruch Ber Leibowitz’s Kol Dodi Dofeik, were sung. As the singers sang, a video depicting Bais Medrash Govoah and its yungeleit was shown.

A moving video followed, with archival footage featuring gedolim including Rav Elya Svei, Rav Chaim Leib Epstein, Rav Shmuel Berenbaum, Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky, and Rav Mordechai Gifter.

During the next medley, singer Naftali Kempeh joined the other singers for his own composition, “Baavur Avoseinu.”

The special guest from Eretz Yisroel, Rav Ezriel Auerbach, was then introduced, and the crowd erupted in song.

Following Rav Auerbach’s drasha came perhaps the highlight of the evening, a special appearance by the zekan roshei hayeshivos, Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky. The crowd responded with unfiltered reverence, dancing and singing for many minutes.

A poignant video segment followed, commemorating two outstanding yungeleit who were niftar in the past year, Rav Boruch Ber Ziemba and Rav Chaim Lipschutz. The roshei yeshiva shared heartfelt words about these dedicated bnei Torah, painting a picture of lives steeped in Torah and kedusha.

A Siyum Hashas on Talmud Bavli and Talmud Yerushalmi, learned b’iyun by the yungeleit of Bais Medrash Govoah, was made, with the Hadran  recited by Rav Yisroel Neuman, rosh yeshiva of Bais Medrash Govoah. After Rav Neuman recited the Hadran, the Kaddish for the siyum was then recited by a son of Rav Boruch Ber Ziemba.

With the answer of the final amein and a cry of “Mazel tov!” the crowd erupted with pure joy and simchas haTorah. Singer Shloime Daskal joined the musical ensemble for the celebratory medley.

Rav Uren Reich, rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Ohr Zechariah, then delivered a magnificent and masterfully delivered keynote drasha that crystallized the evening’s message, paying tribute to the yungeleit of Klal Yisroel, who are its crown and future, and recognizing the machzikei Torah, as well as the heroic wives of the yungeleit, who continue to support their limud haTorah.

After an uplifting Meron-themed medley, the thousands joined together in Kabbolas Ohl Malchus Shomayim, led by Rav Yeruchom Olshin, rosh yeshiva of Bais Medrash Govoah.

A brief final round of singing and dancing followed—shortened due to the late hour—and then Maariv was led by Rav Avrohom Lipschutz, mashgiach of Telshe Yeshiva in Chicago.

As the crowd began to file out, music still echoing through the cavernous arena, the prevailing feeling was unmistakable: this was not just an event, but a statement, a declaration of loyalty to Torah, a celebration of those who live by it, and a promise that the fire of limud haTorah will continue to burn brightly.

The Adirei HaTorah maamad had once again fulfilled its mission, with splendor, emotion, and a resounding reminder that the lomdei Torah remain the crown jewels of our people.

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{Matzav.com}

In a disturbing outburst that shocked viewers across Israel, former Member of Knesset and senior Yediot Acharonot journalist Miki Rosenthal made an inflammatory and violent remark on live television, targeting chareidi Jews who offer free tefillin to children.

The incident occurred Sunday evening during a panel discussion on Channel 13’s program War Zone. During the segment, host Baruch Kara presented a video circulating online, an ad from a charitable organization distributing tefillin free of charge to boys, specifically those from bereaved families.

Kara sarcastically criticized the ad, commenting with a smirk that he’d like to meet the scriptwriter, whose work, he claimed, was “not exactly seamless.”

Rosenthal, a panelist on the show and former Knesset member from the Labor Party, responded with a deeply offensive and violent comment that has since sparked a wave of backlash: “I would strangle him with tefillin.”

Despite immediate pushback from other panelists, Rosenthal doubled down on his statement, even physically demonstrating the act of strangling as he repeated the disturbing remark once again.

Fellow panelists, including journalist Uri Mashav, strongly objected to Rosenthal’s rhetoric. Even host Baruch Kara distanced himself, stating, “You went too far with that expression. The ad should be taken more humorously.”

The shocking comment has ignited outrage on social media and in the broader Jewish community, particularly among religious circles.

As of this writing, Rosenthal has not issued an apology.

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Israeli Defense Minister Yisroel Katz has instructed the Israeli military to show detained pro-Palestinian activists a graphic film documenting the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7, 2023. According to a statement from his office, the decision is intended to confront the activists with the brutal reality of the terror group they sought to support by challenging Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza.

The 43-minute film, compiled by the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, contains unedited, extremely graphic footage of the massacre. Many of the scenes were captured by the attackers themselves via body cameras and include images of civilians being murdered and their bodies desecrated.

“It’s appropriate that Greta the antisemite and her Hamas-supporting friends should see exactly who is the terror group Hamas that they support and act on behalf of, what atrocious acts they carried out on women, the elderly and kids, and who Israel is fighting for its defense against,” Katz said in the statement, referring to Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, the most prominent of the twelve individuals on board the vessel intercepted by the IDF.

Katz has instructed that the activists be shown the video upon their arrival in Ashdod, the port to which their ship is currently being towed after being seized near the Gaza coastline.

He commended the IDF soldiers involved in the operation for executing the takeover efficiently. Prior to the boarding, video footage showed that the activists intended to stage a nonviolent protest rather than resist physically.

The film, titled Bearing Witness, has been presented in closed viewings to journalists and opinion leaders around the world as part of Israel’s ongoing effort to raise awareness of Hamas’s crimes. While many have responded with shock and support, the graphic nature of the footage has stirred debate over its use.

In a related development, Israel’s Foreign Ministry released a photo of Greta Thunberg wearing her well-known frog hat, smiling as she accepts a sandwich from an Israeli soldier. The ministry noted that the activist is “safe and in good spirits.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

During an appearance on CNN’s Newsroom on Sunday, Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA) lashed out at President Donald Trump over his decision to deploy National Guard forces to Los Angeles, denouncing him in harsh terms.

Waters expressed strong disapproval of the federal move, questioning the purpose of having armed troops present during protests. “They will end up being used. I don’t know why we have guns. What are those guns for? Are they to shoot protesters? I mean, there’s no reason to be here with the National Guard. The President of the United States is a cruel, dishonorable human being who would just as soon they shoot somebody down. But I don’t want that to happen. I want the elected officials to do everything that we can to dissuade them.”

CNN correspondent Kyung Lah underscored the tension on the ground in Los Angeles, pointing to the volatile atmosphere following the arrest of illegal immigrants by ICE on Friday and the subsequent military deployment. “Here’s the concern. It’s the cauldron that has been created today by the deployment of the National Guard, by how people are feeling about these ICE arrests that occurred on Friday, what that clash could mean today here on the streets of Los Angeles.”

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{Matzav.com}

Democrats have now coalesced around a common narrative to explain the escalating unrest in Los Angeles: that Trump is to blame. They point fingers at his decision to arrest illegal immigrants, deploy the California National Guard, and take steps to enforce federal laws that have long been on the books.

Notably absent from the conversation is any admission of fault by California’s elected officials, nearly all of whom are Democrats. None have voiced support for the police under siege, nor have they taken responsibility for the destruction of public property or the attacks on law enforcement.

Governor Gavin Newsom has largely taken to social media throughout the weekend, using the platform to lash out at Trump. He has also spent time arguing with users online over whether viral footage of police cruisers in flames comes from the current anti-ICE protests or from the 2020 Black Lives Matter riots — both of which occurred while he held office.

In an appearance on MSNBC — the only channel where such claims go unchallenged — Newsom insisted that Trump “manufactured” the entire crisis.

This blame-shifting approach is nothing new for Democrats in California. Back in 2016, when a mob in San Jose assaulted Trump supporters following a campaign rally, the city’s Democratic mayor also faulted Trump for the violence, rather than those who carried it out.

Whether this strategy is convincing the public remains to be seen, but party leaders appear determined to stay on message.

{Matzav.com}

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In the early hours of Monday, Israeli naval forces from the elite Shayetet 13 unit boarded and took control of the vessel “Madleen,” a boat operated by pro-Palestinian activists attempting to challenge Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza. The interception occurred without any physical resistance, and all those on board were detained peacefully. The vessel is currently being escorted to Ashdod.

The activists — a group that includes notable figures such as Greta Thunberg, actor Liam Cunningham, and European Parliament member Rima Hassan — were part of a publicized mission that Israeli officials dismissed as a political stunt. “The ‘selfie yacht’ of the ‘celebrities’ is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries,” stated the Foreign Ministry.

According to the Ministry, the aid on board was minimal and symbolic, and the operation was designed primarily for media attention. “While Greta [Thunberg] and others attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicity — and which included less than a single truckload of aid — more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks, and in addition, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza,” the Ministry emphasized.

Israeli authorities stressed that legitimate humanitarian efforts are regularly coordinated and effective, in contrast to unauthorized efforts like the “Madleen” voyage. “There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip — they do not involve Instagram selfies. The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the ‘celebrities’ will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels,” the Ministry noted.

As the operation unfolded, Israeli officials released a video showing the activists being given food and water following their detention. “All the passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over,” read an update from the Foreign Ministry.

Prior to the Navy’s intervention, the activists had reported signs of distress, including a warning alarm sounding on board and alleged interference by drones. The flotilla’s Telegram account posted: “An alarm was sounded on deck, and life jackets are ready in case of an attempted takeover of the ship.” A short while later, another message read: “The vessel that approached us has left. All eyes on deck, all eyes on Gaza.” The group later admitted the alarm was false.

The activists further alleged that drones had encircled their ship and released a white irritant, but Israeli officials dismissed the entire mission as illegal and misleading. “The maritime zone off the coast of Gaza is closed to unauthorized vessels under a legal naval blockade, consistent with international law,” the Foreign Ministry reiterated. “The yacht is claiming that it is delivering humanitarian aid. In fact, it is a media gimmick for publicity (which includes less than a single truckload of aid) — a ‘selfie yacht’.”

They went on to explain that real assistance is being provided daily through sanctioned channels. “Humanitarian aid is delivered regularly and effectively via different channels and routes, and is transferred through established distribution mechanisms. Over the past two weeks, more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza.”

The Ministry also highlighted the risk posed by unauthorized sea travel toward Gaza, noting the area’s volatile security conditions. “The Gaza maritime zone remains an active conflict area, and Hamas has previously exploited sea routes for terrorist attacks, including the October 7th massacre. Unauthorized attempts to breach the blockade are dangerous, unlawful, and undermine ongoing humanitarian efforts,” it said. “We call on all actors to act responsibly and to channel humanitarian aid through legitimate, coordinated mechanisms, not through provocation.”

At an earlier stage, the Israeli Navy had used civilian communication channels to contact the “Madleen” and instructed the vessel to alter its course. “The Israeli Navy is currently communicating with the ‘selfie yacht’. Using an international civilian communication system, the Israeli Navy has instructed the ‘selfie yacht’ to change its course due to its approach toward a restricted area,” the Ministry disclosed.

Defense Minister Israel Katz had ordered a firm stance on the flotilla. He directed the military to block the vessel from entering Gaza waters and authorized “any operational measures deemed necessary.” “The State of Israel will not allow anyone to violate the maritime blockade on Gaza, which exists primarily to prevent the transfer of weapons to Hamas — a murderous terrorist organization that holds our hostages and commits war crimes,” Katz declared.

He added, “I have instructed the IDF to ensure that the ‘Madleen’ flotilla does not reach Gaza. To the antisemitic Greta and her Hamas-propaganda-spreading friends, I say this clearly: you’d better turn back — you will not reach Gaza. Israel will act against any attempt to break the blockade or support terrorist organizations — by sea, air, or land.”

In anticipation of the flotilla’s approach, Israel’s defense forces conducted simulations to prepare for potential confrontations at sea. Navy personnel were briefed on protocols: if the ship’s operators agreed to reverse course, they would be allowed to depart; if not, Shayetet 13 was to board the vessel and redirect it to Ashdod.

{Matzav.com}

Just a few miles from the Gaza border, the city of Sderot has opened a new center devoted exclusively to commemorating the atrocities committed during the Hamas-led massacre on October 7.

The memorial, established by the ISRAEL-is organization in cooperation with Sderot’s municipal government, was created to serve as a permanent reminder of that horrific day and to preserve firsthand accounts from those who survived the attack.

Built in a location that itself was a target of the brutal assault, the center immerses visitors in the tragic events through a powerful guided experience. The tour features recorded testimonies captured as the events unfolded, a viewing platform facing Gaza, and a virtual reality segment that tells the stories of five survivors in vivid, personal detail.

This endeavor is part of the Tell to Survive project, which was designed to allow people — both from within Israel and from around the world — to engage directly with the narratives of the victims and survivors. The exhibition integrates cutting-edge media, including interactive elements and audio storytelling, to ensure a visceral connection to the events of that day.

The program is overseen by Stephen Smith, a documentary filmmaker renowned for his work chronicling the testimonies of Holocaust survivors. His focus has now shifted to preserving the experiences of those who endured the trauma of October 7.

Founded in 2017, ISRAEL-is is a nonprofit group dedicated to grassroots advocacy on behalf of Israel. The organization collaborates with the IDF, Israeli universities, and international communities, aiming to present Israel’s story in a candid, educational, and impactful manner to audiences around the globe.

{Matzav.com}

American officials are currently weighing the possibility of cutting their backing for UNIFIL, the United Nations peacekeeping mission stationed in southern Lebanon, in an effort to reduce the financial burden associated with maintaining the force, Yisroel Hayom reported on Sunday night. Later in the day, American sources confirmed to The Times of Israel that this potential move is under serious discussion.

If the United States does decide to withdraw its support from UNIFIL, Israel is expected to support the decision, Yisroel Hayom noted. This support stems both from Israel’s interest in standing with the administration of President Donald Trump and from its military’s current working relationship with the Lebanese army, which has improved since the ceasefire that took effect last November.

The report explained that the presence of the Lebanese Armed Forces in the south of the country has shown tangible success in limiting Hezbollah’s ability to regroup and rearm. Because of this, many of UNIFIL’s roles are now considered unnecessary or overlapping with the Lebanese military’s efforts.

Sources familiar with the discussions told The Times of Israel that Washington has not yet reached a final decision. However, the administration is pushing for serious changes within UNIFIL. If these reforms are not forthcoming, pulling support remains a real possibility.

Since UNIFIL operates under a UN Security Council mandate that must be renewed yearly, the U.S. could effectively end the mission by vetoing the upcoming renewal resolution, which is expected to be presented in August.

UNIFIL has had a presence in southern Lebanon since 1978, originally set up to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli forces following a military conflict between the two countries. Its scope significantly widened after the 2006 Second Lebanon War.

After the 2006 war, the Security Council passed Resolution 1701, which expanded UNIFIL’s authority and allowed peacekeepers to deploy along the Israeli border. Their mission included assisting the Lebanese military in asserting control over the southern region of the country, something it had not done in decades.

Resolution 1701 also demanded a full end to hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah and called for Hezbollah’s disarmament. Since then, the UN has extended UNIFIL’s mandate on a yearly basis, though critics continue to question how effective the force has actually been in achieving its objectives.

After more than a year of fighting with Hezbollah—punctuated by intense conflict over a two-month span—a ceasefire was established. In the aftermath, the Lebanese army deployed to southern Lebanon to implement the terms outlined in Resolution 1701.

The resolution stipulates that Hezbollah must move its forces to the north of the Litani River, a distance of roughly 30 kilometers from the Israeli border, and must dismantle any military positions in southern Lebanon.

Speaking to The Wall Street Journal last month, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam claimed that his government had already fulfilled 80 percent of its goals when it came to disarming Hezbollah and other militias operating in the south.

Despite this, the IDF has continued its campaign of precise attacks targeting Hezbollah figures and infrastructure, citing ongoing violations of the ceasefire. According to IDF data, more than 180 members of Hezbollah have been eliminated in the process.

{Matzav.com}

Shas party leader Rav Aryeh Deri paid a visit on Sunday to the Or Chaviv shul in Yerushalayim, just hours after a devastating blaze that investigators say was deliberately set.

He was joined by the Rishon LeTzion, Rav Yitzchak Yosef, and together they surveyed the damage alongside senior members of the police and the Shin Bet.

“There is no greater hate crime than this. To come and burn a shul – this is an unforgivable act,” Rav Deri said, clearly shaken. “We saw the burned seforim, and it’s a great miracle that the Aron Kodesh and Sifrei Torah were spared. It breaks the heart.”

According to Rav Deri, the police and Shin Bet told him they’re closing in on the perpetrators and are hopeful that arrests will be made within a short time. But more than the technical side, he spoke about the spiritual and societal breakdown reflected in such an act. “Beyond the investigation, there is a clear message: enough with the hatred, enough with the incitement. Look where this kind of discourse leads. It’s not just about debates in television studios—ultimately, there are extremists who act on these messages and commit terrible crimes.”

He stressed how close the tragedy came to being even worse. “We could have come here today to find no shul and no Sifrei Torah, God forbid. It’s a great miracle the firefighters arrived quickly and managed to extinguish the fire.”

Calling for national introspection and an end to the toxic climate that allows such violence to take root, Rav Deri said: “Words can kill. Imagine if such an event had occurred in France or any other country—we would be outraged. We must not accept this kind of reality in the State of Israel.”

Security forces are continuing to investigate the attack and are reportedly pursuing several leads.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee head Yuli Edelstein has indicated he would be open to removing a proposed penalty in the current conscription bill that would strip property tax discounts from members of the ultra-Orthodox community who avoid military service—so long as other punitive measures in the legislation remain intact, according to a Channel 12 report.

The remaining sanctions expected to stay in the draft law include eliminating subsidized public transportation for draft evaders, rescinding tax breaks for employed women married to them, excluding them from eligibility in the national housing lottery, and cutting off access to government-funded daycare and academic tuition assistance. Additionally, the bill aims to block those who refuse to serve until age 29 from acquiring driver’s licenses or leaving the country, and subjects them to possible arrest.

Edelstein has consistently vowed that any legislation his committee passes will impose penalties on those who avoid the draft. That stance has sparked sharp backlash from ultra-Orthodox parties, who have warned that they might dismantle the coalition government in response.

A representative from Degel HaTorah, a faction within the United Torah Judaism alliance, told Channel 12 News: “As of now, everything is up in the air. We want clear agreements.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Activists aboard the ship “Madleen,” currently en route to the Gaza coastline in an effort to challenge Israel’s naval blockade, reported early Monday that a security alert was triggered on board. However, they later clarified that the alarm was ultimately a false one.

According to a message shared in the flotilla’s Telegram channel, “An alarm was sounded on deck, and life jackets are ready in case of an attempted takeover of the ship.” A follow-up message soon after stated, “The vessel that approached us has left. All eyes on deck, all eyes on Gaza.”

Responding to the situation, Israel’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement reiterating the legal status of the blockade. “The maritime zone off the coast of Gaza is closed to unauthorized vessels under a legal naval blockade, consistent with international law,” the statement read.

The Ministry dismissed the flotilla’s stated mission as disingenuous. “The yacht is claiming that it is delivering humanitarian aid. In fact, it is a media gimmick for publicity (which includes less than a single truckload of aid) – a ‘selfie yacht’.”

The statement emphasized that aid efforts are already in place and functioning effectively. “Humanitarian aid is delivered regularly and effectively via different channels and routes, and is transferred through established distribution mechanisms. Over the past two weeks, more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza,” the Ministry asserted.

Citing security risks, the Ministry warned of the potential danger the flotilla presents. “The Gaza maritime zone remains an active conflict area, and Hamas has previously exploited sea routes for terrorist attacks, including the October 7th massacre. Unauthorized attempts to breach the blockade are dangerous, unlawful, and undermine ongoing humanitarian efforts,” it stated.

Officials concluded with a call for responsibility. “We call on all actors to act responsibly and to channel humanitarian aid through legitimate, coordinated mechanisms, not through provocation.”

The “Madleen” flotilla includes a number of well-known progressive figures. Among them are environmental activist Greta Thunberg, actor Liam Cunningham of “Game of Thrones” fame, and Rima Hassan, a member of the European Parliament from France.

Defense Minister Israel Katz has directed the IDF to block the ship’s progress using all necessary force. He stressed that the vessel must not be permitted to arrive in Gaza.

“The State of Israel will not allow anyone to violate the maritime blockade on Gaza, which exists primarily to prevent the transfer of weapons to Hamas—a murderous terrorist organization that holds our hostages and commits war crimes,” Katz said.

“I have instructed the IDF to ensure that the ‘Madleen’ flotilla does not reach Gaza. To the antisemitic Greta and her Hamas-propaganda-spreading friends, I say this clearly: you’d better turn back—you will not reach Gaza. Israel will act against any attempt to break the blockade or support terrorist organizations—by sea, air, or land.”

In anticipation of the flotilla’s approach, the Israeli Navy has held drills simulating an interception. As the vessel nears Israeli waters, naval teams plan to make contact with those on board and notify them of their unauthorized entry.

Sailors have been instructed that if the crew agrees to retreat, they will be allowed to do so peacefully. Should they refuse, the elite Shayetet 13 commandos will board the vessel and escort it to the port city of Ashdod.

{Matzav.com}

Negotiations over a potential hostage deal between Israel and Hamas have stalled again, according to two individuals with direct knowledge of the talks. Their comments follow recent signals of cautious hope from mediators, who believed Hamas might be softening its stance toward the proposal brought forward by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff.

During a meeting in Washington last week with families of hostages, Witkoff expressed confidence that a significant breakthrough could be achieved ahead of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, which began on Friday, a person present at the meeting reported. Yet even if that optimism had translated into an agreement, further indirect talks would have been required to iron out remaining issues, including the scope and timeline of Israel’s proposed military pullback.

An Arab official involved in the mediation effort said that Hamas is refusing to proceed unless the proposal includes more explicit guarantees that Israel will not resume military operations if a permanent ceasefire is not finalized within the 60-day timeframe outlined in Witkoff’s plan for a truce and phased hostage release.

Witkoff’s proposal currently allows Israel to restart military action if negotiations on a permanent truce fail after two months. The U.S. envoy has reportedly pushed mediators to pressure Hamas to accept this flexibility, promising that Washington would ensure the transition from temporary to permanent ceasefire once a deal is underway, the Arab official explained.

But Hamas remains skeptical, citing Israel’s decision to resume combat operations in March despite prior agreements that included a commitment to negotiate a permanent ceasefire following a truce in January, the Arab official continued.

The same official criticized the U.S. for deferring too much to Israel’s refusal to agree to an initial temporary ceasefire, arguing that American officials should apply more forceful pressure on the Israeli government to adjust its position.

“If Israel agreed to a permanent ceasefire, [it] could get all of the hostages back at once,” the Arab official said. “Instead [it’s] trying to fight until the last Hamas fighter, and this will never end.”

When asked whether Hamas should also face increased pressure, the official maintained that mediators have been actively engaging the group, which has already indicated willingness to accept a temporary arrangement. However, he acknowledged that the language Hamas is demanding would effectively turn any temporary truce into a long-term one by making it difficult for Israel to resume fighting.

Despite the impasse, a second person familiar with the situation confirmed that mediators are still trying to persuade Hamas to revise its response to Witkoff’s plan, which the envoy dismissed as “unacceptable” when first received late last month.

Witkoff has continued to call on Hamas to accept the framework he proposed, so the parties can begin proximity talks to resolve final disagreements.

If Hamas shows sufficient signs of movement toward compromise, Witkoff might travel to the region to help seal the agreement, the second source said. However, mediators are reluctant to green-light the trip unless they believe the chances of concluding a deal are strong.

{Matzav.com}

As tensions intensify over the draft law crisis threatening to fracture Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s sixth government, new efforts are underway to prevent the withdrawal of chareidi parties from the coalition. In a high-stakes meeting Thursday between Netanyahu, Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chairman MK Yoel “Yuli” Edelstein, and former minister Ariel Attias, no resolution was reached.

But now, according to sources close to the Prime Minister, a compromise proposal has been floated to delay the implementation of controversial sanctions against Torah learners by several months. This delay would come after the passage of the draft law and is intended to ease the mounting pressure on coalition partners.

Initially, Netanyahu’s office downplayed the threats by chareidi factions to quit the government, but once it became clear that the ultimatum was real and imminent, last-ditch efforts were launched to keep the chareidi parties in the coalition at least through the end of the Knesset’s summer session.

Despite these attempts, Thursday’s hours-long meeting reportedly ended without agreement, despite a late-night statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office implying progress.

As reported extensively here, Edelstein remains firm on his stance. Sources close to him reiterated on this Sunday evening, “The sanctions will take effect from the first minute. Even from a technical standpoint, there is no other possibility.”

Meanwhile, chareidi political insiders have grown weary of Netanyahu’s repeated promises. Askanim remarked, “If by Wednesday there is no finalized, mutually agreed draft law, we will vote to dissolve the Knesset. Enough with the endless talk of ‘significant progress.’”

Particular attention is being paid to United Torah Judaism. While Minister Yitzchok Goldknopf is reportedly set to resign imminently following directives from the Gerrer Rebbe, Netanyahu’s main efforts are currently aimed at retaining the support of the other UTJ faction, Degel HaTorah.

Within Shas, as well as Degel HaTorah, there currently appears to be no immediate interest in quitting the coalition. However, there is growing consensus that if the draft law doesn’t pass or at least show tangible movement, remaining in the government may be pointless.

Channel 12 reported tonight that in addition to the sanctions first revealed earlier here on Matzav.com, the Finance Ministry is holding a broader set of financial penalties that could be imposed on the olam haTorah without requiring additional legislation. These include the cancellation of mortgage subsidies, cuts to after-school program discounts, removal of reduced fares for public transportation, and elimination of discounts on municipal property tax and National Insurance payments.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The nosi of the Great Rabbinical Court, Rishon L’Tzion Rav Dovid Yosef, issued a forceful rebuttal on Sunday evening following allegations raised earlier by Rav Kalman Ber regarding political interference in the appointment of dayanim. Rav Yosef firmly rejected the claims of improper influence and emphasized his personal responsibility for all judicial appointments.

“If someone feels threatened, let them say so,” declared Rav Yosef in a public statement. “I am the President of the Great Rabbinical Court and I personally take full responsibility for every appointment. No unworthy dayan will be appointed to the Great Rabbinical Court … I guarantee that. I am familiar with the rulings of every candidate, and I have thoroughly studied the character of each one. These are individuals of outstanding caliber.”

The controversy erupted earlier in the day after recordings were released in which Rav Kalman Ber claimed that appointments to the Great Rabbinical Court had been made under political pressure, and even threats, allegedly from Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich. In response, new recordings emerged of Rav Yosef speaking at a judicial appointments committee meeting, where he categorically dismissed the accusations.

During his remarks, Rav Yosef detailed the seven candidates he supports for promotion, praising their qualifications, scholarship, and judicial records:

• Rav Avraham Shalosh, Raavad of Haifa – “A brilliant young talmid chacham, appointed temporarily purely on merit.”

• Rav Dovid Berdugo, dayan in Yerushalayim – “28 years of judicial experience, with unique contributions to halachic rulings.”

• Rav Tzvi Yehuda Ben Yaakov – “Among the most senior dayanim, already served a temporary term on the Supreme Rabbinical Court.”

• Rav Shneur Pardes, Raavad of Netanya – “A powerhouse in Torah, known for his precise rulings that have stood up on appeal.”

• Rav Meir Freiman, Av Beis Din of Yerushalayim – “I met him only recently, but he has proven to be one of the most outstanding dayanim.”

• Rav Yigal Lerer – “A veteran in the system, whose Torah greatness is exceptional.”

• Rav Moshe Amsalem – “A true reformer in the dayanus world. His judgment is particularly impressive.”

In addition, MK Penina Tamano-Shata, who was mentioned in the leaked recordings as someone who allegedly faced political threats, also dismissed the claims. “There were no threats. If someone feels threatened, they should speak up,” she said.

Regarding Rav Kalman Ber’s assertion that the Dati Leumi community was not consulted during the process, officials involved in the rabbinic appointments deal stressed that the moves were coordinated with leading rabbinic figures. Among them were Rav Yaakov Shapiro, Rosh Yeshiva of Mercaz HaRav and a senior figure in the religious Zionist Torah world, as well as numerous other prominent rabbanim and dayanim.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Aura, a real estate development firm, confirmed to Arutz Sheva–Israel National News that human remains were extracted from one of its construction sites in Yehud, located in central Israel. The company emphasized that the removal was conducted in strict accordance with halacha (Jewish law) and under the guidance of an Orthodox rabbi with expertise in these matters.

This acknowledgment followed a decision by the Israel Antiquities Authority to file a complaint with the police and freeze construction activities. The suspension came after unauthorized individuals entered the site during the night, removed human remains, and took archaeological artifacts—an act considered a serious breach of Israeli law.

The Antiquities Authority reported that those involved were acting on behalf of Aura. It expressed deep concern over the incident, declaring, “The Antiquities Authority sees this incident with great severity. Antiquities are the heritage of us all.”

The disputed project is part of a major redevelopment initiative in Yehud involving the demolition of ten aging buildings and the planned construction of 444 new residential units. For weeks, radical chareidi demonstrators have protested at the site, alleging the presence of Jewish graves beneath the area designated for development.

In response to the Antiquities Authority’s actions, Aura rejected the legality of the stop-work order, calling it an unjustified concession to extremists. The company insisted it had complied fully with the terms set by the authority and pointed out that the bones discovered did not meet the legal criteria to be defined as antiquities, thereby rendering the order invalid in their view.

Aura further claimed that the halt in construction has inflicted significant financial losses and accused the Antiquities Authority of failing to honor its commitments. The company warned that if the construction ban is not lifted, it will consider taking legal measures.

The company confirmed that human remains were found at the site, explaining, “Since the remains were not removed, and in order to avoid further delays to the construction and to ensure the respectful handling of the remains in accordance with halacha, our company engaged a recognized Orthodox rabbi and a professional experienced in this field, including with the ZAKA organization. Indeed, on Friday and Saturday night, work began to remove the remains, with coordination as required with the Chevra Kadisha to ensure burial in a recognized cemetery according to halachic law. It should be noted that our company even purchased burial plots for this purpose. All actions were carried out according to the professional guidance of the rabbi and the expert present on site.”

Tensions escalated further late Thursday night when dozens of chareidi rioters stormed the homes of Aura’s senior executives in Tel Aviv. They vandalized property, hurled bags of excrement, and physically assaulted members of CEO Yaakov Atrakchi’s family. The deputy CEO’s home was also targeted with similar acts of destruction.

Aura denounced these attacks as “a dangerous escalation” and revealed that only a week earlier, the graves of Atrakchi’s parents had been desecrated. The company also criticized law enforcement, claiming the police had received prior warnings about the planned assaults but failed to intervene.

{Matzav.com Israel}