Matzav

At a joint press briefing in Jerusalem on Tuesday with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar addressed the recent killing of two senior Iranian figures, presenting the strikes as part of a broader effort to counter regional threats posed by Tehran.

“Last night, the IDF took out Commander of the Basij Gholamreza Soleimani, and his deputy and Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani,” Sa’ar said.

He continued by asserting that their removal also benefits Iranian civilians, pointing to their roles in suppressing dissent. “the Iranians are also safer without them,” he said.

Brilliant speech by @gidonsaar – take a listen.

“He had a $10 million price on his head in the US, we did it for free any how” – referencing Ali Larijani

The part where he turns to the Estonian Minister and says:

“We still haven’t seen anything from Mojtaba, wouldn’t you… pic.twitter.com/0e7QgnYr46

— Kosher (@koshercockney) March 17, 2026

Expanding on their records, Sa’ar described both men as key enforcers of internal repression. “The Basij, under Soleimani’s command, was responsible for the brutal repression of the Iranian people seeking their freedom. Soleimani was under US and EU sanctions for his role in repressing Iranians. Larijani was also under US sanctions, for the same reason, with a 10 million dollar prize on his head. We did it for free, anyhow. Our actions are weakening its repression mechanism. The regime can only be toppled by the Iranian people. Yet without external help, the Iranian people can’t liberate themselves,” Sa’ar said.

Sa’ar characterized Iran as a central destabilizing force worldwide. He referred to the regime as “the number one source of regional and global instability,” and accused it of exporting “extremism, terror and bloodshed” since 1979.

He further outlined Iran’s network of allied militant groups across the Middle East. According to Sa’ar, Tehran has established “a proxy network of terror states across the region,” including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and the Houthis in Yemen.

Discussing recent violence, Sa’ar claimed the regime intentionally targets civilians. He pointed to specific incidents, stating that it “deliberately attacks civilian populations,” including what he described as a strike near a major Christian site in Jerusalem. “Yesterday, it hit by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City of Jerusalem,” he said, adding that he spoke with the Patriarch to express solidarity.

He also cited attacks affecting both Muslim and Jewish communities, referencing “a Mosque on Ramadan” in the village of Zarzir and “a synagogue in Beit Shemesh, killing 9 Jews.”

Turning to Iran’s military capabilities, Sa’ar said ongoing efforts by Israel and the United States are aimed at dismantling key components of Iran’s strategic arsenal. “Israel and the United States are taking out Iran’s nuclear program,” he said, along with its missile infrastructure and broader military production capacity.

He emphasized that these threats extend beyond Israel. “These don’t just threaten Israel, but also other countries in the Middle East and Europe,” he said, adding that such operations would “directly impact European security for the better.”

Sa’ar also warned about disruptions to global shipping routes, attributing them to Iranian-backed forces. He described the situation as “modern piracy,” stating, “The Houthis… crippled the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea,” and added, “Now, the Iranian regime is blocking international shipping and the flow of energy through the Strait of Hormuz.”

He cautioned that if left unchecked, these tactics could spread to other parts of the world.

{Matzav.com}

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a recent interview with Israeli outlet i24NEWS that Russia is providing Iran with drone technology, as tensions rise following Iranian warnings that Ukraine has become a “legitimate target” due to its support for Israel.

Addressing the threats from Tehran, Zelensky made clear that such messages do not intimidate him or his country.

“We are not afraid of such messages; we have been living with messages like this every day for the past four years,” the president said.

During the interview, Zelensky also discussed the evolution of Iranian drone capabilities, arguing that the weapons being used today are significantly different from those deployed earlier in the war.

“It is impossible to compare the ‘Shahed’ from the beginning of the war to the ‘Shahed’ of today. In 99% of cases, the ‘Shahed’ has been used against Ukrainian civilians,” he said, adding that he is “certain” Russia is supplying Iran with Shahed-type drones.

Zelensky pointed to physical evidence, saying that components recovered from a drone strike in the Middle East indicate Russian involvement in their production.

“We saw several components from one of the ‘Shahed’ drones that struck a country in the Middle East. These were Russian components, so we know the Iranians did not manufacture it,” he said.

In recent days, Iran escalated its rhetoric, warning Ukraine that it has become a legitimate military target because of assistance it has provided to Israel.

Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, wrote on X that Ukraine’s actions have placed it directly in the conflict.

“By providing support to the Israeli regime through drones, the collapsing Ukraine is effectively involved in the war. According to Article 51 of the UN Charter, this has made its entire territory a legitimate target for Iran.”

The warning followed comments earlier in the week from Zelensky, who confirmed that Ukraine had sent interceptor drones, along with teams of experts and operators, to Jordan in order to help defend U.S. bases in the country.

Separately, reports indicated that Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu has sought to arrange a conversation with Zelensky regarding potential cooperation between Israel and Ukraine in countering Iranian drone threats.

{Matzav.com}

Three individuals turned themselves in to authorities following a brutal daytime attack outside a San Jose restaurant that left two Israeli-American men injured and sparked widespread concern within the community.

Police identified the suspects as Ramon Akoyans, 18, Roma Akoyans, 20, and Bruneil Chamaki, 32. All three surrendered to the San Jose Police Department on Monday, about a week after the alleged assault took place outside Augustine, located in the Santana Row area.

The incident, which occurred in broad daylight and is being investigated as a possible hate crime, was captured on video and quickly spread online. Footage aired by KTVU shows three individuals dressed in black shirts repeatedly striking a person lying on the ground.

“The victims alleged that the suspects used antisemitic language during the altercation,” police said last week.

According to accounts shared by community leaders, the victims were attacked without warning. “While they were waiting for their table, three people came up to them out of nowhere and knocked one of the victims out cold and then three of them jumped on top of the other victim,” Jewish Silicon Valley CEO Daniel Klein told KTVU. Both of the victims are Israeli-American men, and one was reportedly knocked unconscious during the attack.

Authorities acknowledged the public reaction and emphasized their commitment to a careful investigation. “We recognize the community’s concern about this incident and appreciate the patience shown as investigators worked methodically to ensure the case was handled thoroughly and correctly,” the San Jose PD wrote on X. “Those responsible for this violent crime will be held accountable.”

The investigation is ongoing, with San Jose police continuing to coordinate with the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office as the case proceeds.

{Matzav.com}

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The IDF announced Tuesday that Israeli forces carried out a targeted airstrike near Tehran a day earlier, killing Ali Larijani, a top Iranian national security official who had effectively assumed leadership of the regime’s operations. According to the IDF, the mission was executed by the Israeli Air Force based on detailed intelligence and specialized operational coordination.

Larijani had long been regarded as one of the most experienced and influential figures within Iran’s leadership and maintained a close working relationship with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei over many years.

After Khamenei’s elimination, Larijani emerged as the central authority within the regime, taking charge of its military and strategic efforts against Israel and other countries in the region.

In his capacity, Larijani was responsible for overseeing Iran’s national security apparatus, including coordinating its global activities and maintaining ties with allied elements within the broader regional network.

During the latest wave of unrest inside Iran, Larijani played a leading role in enforcing the regime’s crackdown, directing harsh suppression efforts and personally supervising a deadly campaign against demonstrators.

The IDF stated that his killing is part of a broader campaign that has already resulted in the deaths of numerous high-ranking Iranian officials during Operation Roaring Lion, dealing another significant setback to Tehran’s ability to plan and execute hostile actions against Israel.

He was also deeply involved in shaping Iran’s national security direction, including direct participation in key strategic matters such as the country’s nuclear program.

Following widespread reports of his death, a message appeared on Larijani’s official Telegram account claiming that a statement would soon be released. Shortly afterward, the account posted a handwritten note prepared for a naval funeral, but made no mention of the assassination reports and offered no confirmation that he remains alive.

{Matzav.com}

After a missile fragment struck Rechov Yerushalayim in Bnei Brak, thousands of residents rushed to the scene, creating a massive crowd that quickly became the most striking aspect of the incident. Beyond the physical damage, the overwhelming number of onlookers—far greater than usual—drew widespread attention.

Photos from the area showed clear destruction, but in a city known for its distinct character, it was the surge of curious residents that stood out most. While such gatherings are not uncommon in Bnei Brak, many said this time the scale appeared to break previous records.

To understand the phenomenon, local personalities described reactions that ranged from humor to discomfort. Some noted that the behavior reflects a deeply rooted cultural pattern within the city.

Despite the jokes, observers stressed that Bnei Brak is a city that consistently provokes strong reactions. Its intensity, constant movement, and unpredictability shape how residents respond to unfolding events.

On the ground, however, emergency responders described a far more difficult reality. The sheer volume of people created major obstacles for rescue and medical teams attempting to operate effectively.

Efi Feldman, head of the United Hatzalah branch in Bnei Brak, said the situation quickly became unmanageable as crowds poured into the area.

“When there are no schools or structured frameworks, the situation spirals out of control. Everyone who is outside ends up heading in the same direction. As time passed, the streets became so crowded that we had to use barriers to create controlled zones for medical and emotional care.”

He explained that although the number of injured was relatively small, the emotional toll was severe, particularly for families who lost their homes in an instant.

“Thank God there were only a small number of injuries, but entire families lost their homes in a single moment and had to pack up their lives into bags. When thousands of people are standing around watching you at your most vulnerable moment—it is extremely difficult.”

Feldman urged the public to act with greater responsibility in the future, emphasizing both safety and basic human dignity.

“Beyond the fact that staying in a protected area saves lives, I ask people to think about mutual respect. When someone sees a family being evacuated to a hospital or taken from their destroyed home to temporary housing and just stands there watching—it is a lack of respect. Everyone needs to ask themselves what matters more: their curiosity or ‘love your fellow as yourself.’”

Others pointed to a deeper cultural explanation for the phenomenon. Chilik Rosenberg, who leads guided tours of Bnei Brak for secular visitors, said the answer lies in the community’s intense appreciation for life.

“People in Bnei Brak truly love life. Not everyone in the world experiences life with that kind of intensity. Every event excites them, and they immediately come to experience it fully.”

He added that visitors are often surprised by the city’s nonstop energy, even late at night.

“Secular visitors are surprised to discover that Bnei Brak is the real city that never stops. At midnight, the city is still full and alive. Today, unlike in the past, Tel Aviv is no longer a nonstop city—it’s quiet at night.”

Rosenberg concluded that being a Bnei Brak resident reflects a lifestyle rooted in Torah, vitality, and a deep sense of belonging.

“It means living at the center of things, in a stronghold of identity. It gives children a sense of rootedness and connection.”

{Matzav.com}

A key Knesset committee on Monday approved moving forward with legislation that would strengthen the authority of the Chief Rabbinate over the Kosel area, advancing the proposal to the Constitution, Law and Justice Committee in preparation for its first reading in the Knesset plenum.

The committee that will now handle the bill is headed by MK Simcha Rothman of the Religious Zionism party, who has often worked closely with the chareidi parties on matters relating to religion and state.

The legislation, introduced by MK Avi Maoz of the Noam party, had already passed its initial stage last month. It seeks to address a recent High Court ruling that directed the government to proceed with plans to upgrade the separate area near the Kosel designated for non-Orthodox prayer.

Those plans trace back to an arrangement from roughly a decade ago, during the tenure of then-Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu, which proposed the creation of a formalized space for pluralistic prayer at the site. That arrangement has remained largely stalled.

Under the current proposal, final authority over all sections of the Kosel, including the adjacent plaza used by non-Orthodox groups, would be placed in the hands of the two chief rabbis of Israel. The bill would also define any conduct at the site that runs contrary to their directives as a “desecration” of a holy place.

As written, the legislation stipulates that such a violation could carry a penalty of up to seven years in prison.

MK Maoz welcomed the bill’s progress, stating that it brings closer the goal of limiting the involvement of the High Court in matters relating to the Kosel. He said the move would return oversight of the site “to its natural and proper place, the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and will safeguard the sanctity of the remnant of our Holy Temple.”

The advancement of the bill, of course, prompted sharp criticism from leaders of Reform and other non-Orthodox movements, who argued that the legislation marginalizes large segments of world Jewry.

The radical, trouble-making group Women of the Wall, which advocates for expanded prayer rights at the site, also voiced strong opposition. “You have to rub your eyes in disbelief,” the organization said in a statement.

The bill had previously passed its preliminary reading in the Knesset by a vote of 56–47.

{Matzav.com}

North Korean ruler Kim Jong-un issued a stark warning over the weekend, declaring that the United States and South Korea would soon grasp the “destructive power of tactical nuclear weapon” [sic] following a major rocket test, according to state-run media.

Official outlets in Pyongyang released images from the launch, showing Kim observing the exercise alongside his young daughter, Ju-ae, who is believed to be around 12 years old. In recent months, Kim has repeatedly brought her to high-profile events, including a recent visit to a weapons facility. Intelligence officials in South Korea have assessed that she is being positioned as a future leader of the regime, where the ruling family is treated with near-religious reverence.

While the photographs highlighted the presence of Kim’s daughter, the written report from the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) focused instead on the weaponry involved and the purpose of the test.

“The drill involved twelve 600mm-calibre ultra-precision multiple rocket launchers and two artillery companies,” KCNA explained, noting that the launch occurred on Saturday. Another government-controlled publication, Rodong Sinmun, reported that the rockets struck a target island in the East Sea (Sea of Japan) with what it described as “100 percent” accuracy. Kim indicated that the system is capable of delivering nuclear warheads.

“He said that the drill would expose the forces hostile to the DPRK, the enemies within the 420-km [about 260 miles] striking range, to uneasiness,” KCNA paraphrased Kim as saying, “making a signaling wave stronger than the aimed, and give them a deep understanding of the destructive power of tactical nuclear weapon.”

Kim characterized the weapon used in the test as both highly lethal and technologically advanced, calling it among the most sophisticated systems of its kind globally. He also signaled that similar exercises would continue on a regular basis.

“As I have already stated, our powerful attacking capability is, in effect, for defending ourselves,” Kim was quoted as saying. “It is because the most powerful attacking capability precisely means a reliable defense capability. It is, in the true sense of the word, a means of deterring war.”

He further warned that American and South Korean military facilities located within the system’s range would be unable to withstand such strikes. Analysts in South Korea echoed those concerns, pointing to the potential threat posed by the weapon system.

“It openly signals that major U.S. military air bases in South Korea, including those in Pyeongtaek, Osan, and Gunsan, fall within the strike range,” researcher Hong Min told the newspaper. “It also showcases North Korea’s ability to conduct ‘tactical nuclear saturation’ strikes to counter the combined air power of South Korea and the United States.”

Observers believe the latest demonstration is partially tied to broader global tensions, particularly the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, which began on February 28 when President Donald Trump announced Operation Epic Fury. That campaign has resulted in the deaths of numerous senior Iranian figures, including “supreme leader” Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and has significantly weakened Iran’s military posture. Although North Koreans are barred from accessing independent news sources, state media has covered developments in Iran, a longtime ally of Pyongyang, and recently issued a statement recognizing Mojtaba Khamenei as the new “supreme leader.”

“Regarding the recent official announcement that the Iranian Assembly of Experts has elected a new leader of the Islamic Revolution, we respect the right and choice of the Iranian people to elect their Supreme Leader,” the Foreign Ministry said.

Though Kim did not explicitly reference Iran during the rocket launch, he stressed the importance of convincing adversaries that any attack on North Korea would carry an unacceptable cost.

At the same time, there are indications of possible diplomatic movement. President Donald Trump reportedly reached out to South Korean officials last week, expressing interest in renewing dialogue with Kim. The two leaders previously met multiple times, including historic encounters that marked the first visit by a sitting American president to North Korea. After the conclusion of Trump’s term, Kim even sent a message of support following an assassination attempt against Trump in 2024.

South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, who met with Trump at the White House on Friday, said the topic of North Korea featured prominently in their discussions.

“I maintain a good relationship with Kim Jong-un. I am curious whether the chairman wants to engage in dialogue with the U.S. or with me,” Kim Min-seok said that Trump told him during the meeting, which reportedly included in-depth discussions on North Korea.

The prime minister said he encouraged continued engagement, emphasizing the value of maintaining open lines of communication.

“I maintain a good relationship with Kim Jong-un. I am curious whether the chairman wants to engage in dialogue with the U.S. or with me,” Kim Min-seok said that Trump told him during the meeting, which reportedly included in-depth discussions on North Korea.

He added that South Korea’s leadership views Trump as uniquely positioned to advance peace efforts on the peninsula.

“the only leader and peacemaker who can resolve the Korean Peninsula issue is President Trump.”

Trump’s interest in diplomacy comes as he weighs a potential visit to China in the coming weeks. Reports have suggested a possible trip to Beijing between March 31 and April 2, though Chinese officials have not confirmed any such plans. On Sunday, Trump indicated that the visit could be postponed, citing frustration over China’s lack of action in addressing Iran’s threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent later downplayed those concerns, saying any change in schedule would not be tied to geopolitical demands.

“if the meetings are delayed, it wouldn’t be delayed because the president demanded that China police the Strait of Hormuz.”

“If the meeting, for some reason, is rescheduled, it would be rescheduled because of logistics,” he added.

China’s Foreign Ministry did not directly respond to Trump’s remarks during its regular briefing on Monday. However, officials addressed questions about whether Secretary of State Marco Rubio—who is under Chinese sanctions—would be permitted to join the trip.

“The sanctions target Mr. Rubio’s words and deeds when he served as a U.S. senator concerning China,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said, indicating that Beijing would not prevent Rubio from entering the country.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump on Monday pushed back against suggestions that the United States should begin looking for a way to de-escalate its ongoing confrontation with Iran, dismissing remarks made by adviser David Sacks urging a strategic withdrawal.

Sacks, a venture capitalist who advises Trump on matters related to artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency, raised the idea during an appearance on the “All-In” podcast late last week, roughly two weeks after the fighting began.

“We should try to find the off-ramp,” he said, adding, “This is a good time to declare victory and get out.”

He cautioned that continuing the conflict could spiral into dangerous territory, warning of “frightening scenarios,” including the possibility of Israel “contemplating using a nuclear weapon,” which he described as “truly catastrophic.”

Although Israel has never officially confirmed possessing nuclear weapons, it is broadly assumed to have such capabilities.

Trump was questioned about Sacks’ comments during a press briefing following a meeting with the board of the Trump-Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The exchange was broadcast live on Newsmax and its streaming platform, Newsmax2.

“No, he hasn’t. Israel wouldn’t do that. Israel would never do that,” Trump said.

He went on to acknowledge that some believe the U.S. could disengage after dealing a significant blow to Iran’s capabilities, describing that viewpoint as one of several approaches under consideration.

“There’s a theory. You pounded them to hell, and you could just leave now, and it’ll take 10 years for them to build back, not nearly what they have right now. And I guess that’s another theory,” he continued.

Still, Trump made clear that his goal is a more decisive outcome—one that would prevent future administrations from having to revisit the issue.

“But we want to have it ended so that another president doesn’t have … look, for 47 years, no president was willing to do what I’m doing, and they should have done it a long time ago. It would have been a lot easier. There’s no president that wanted to do it,” Trump said.

He added that previous leaders were aware of the situation but chose not to act, recounting a private conversation with one former president who expressed regret.

“And yet every president knew. I’ve spoken to a certain president who I like, actually — a past president, former president. He said, ‘I wish I did it, I wish I did it.’ But they didn’t do it. I’m doing it.”

Trump declined to reveal the identity of that individual, explaining his reasoning with a final remark.

“I can’t tell you that. I don’t want to embarrass him. It would be very bad for his career, even though he’s got no career left.”

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump stated on Monday that the United States could, at a moment’s notice, eliminate Iran’s primary oil export infrastructure on Kharg Island, emphasizing that such a move would require only “just one simple word.”

The remarks followed a U.S. strike late Friday targeting Iranian military assets on the small island, located roughly 15 miles off Iran’s northern coast in the Persian Gulf.

Speaking after a meeting of the Trump-Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board, Trump explained that while American forces inflicted widespread destruction, they intentionally avoided damaging the island’s oil facilities, leaving them intact for potential use by a future regime.

“As you know, we attacked Kharg Island and knocked it … literally destroyed everything on the island except for the area where the oil is,” Trump said in remarks that aired live on Newsmax and the free Newsmax2 streaming platform. “I call it the pipes. We left the pipes.

“We didn’t want to do that, but we will do that. We can do that on five minutes’ notice; it will be over. But for purposes of someday rebuilding that country, I guess we did the right thing. But it may not stay that way. Just one simple word, and the pipes will be gone, too. But it will take a long time to rebuild that.”

Industry analysts note that any direct strike on Kharg Island’s oil infrastructure would effectively shut down a vast portion of Iran’s crude exports, cutting off a major revenue stream. The island is capable of handling approximately seven million barrels of oil per day and serves as a central export hub, particularly for shipments heading to countries like China.

Kharg Island has played a pivotal role in Iran’s oil operations for decades. Its development began in the early 1950s, when pipelines first connected mainland oil fields—starting with the Gachsaran field—to the island, establishing it as a key export terminal.

Further expansion followed, with storage facilities constructed beginning in 1956 and a major pipeline completed in 1959. By 1960, a deep-water terminal was operational, enabling large oil tankers to load crude directly offshore.

During the height of Iran’s oil expansion in the 1960s and 1970s, Kharg Island underwent significant upgrades through cooperation between the U.S.-based Amoco and the National Iranian Oil Company. By the early 1970s, it had grown into the country’s largest oil export terminal and one of the most significant offshore facilities worldwide.

Although Iranian officials have warned of severe retaliation if their oil infrastructure is attacked, Trump dismissed those threats, asserting that Tehran does not currently possess the capability to follow through.

He further claimed that since the launch of Operation Epic Fury on February 28, Iran’s offensive actions have dropped sharply, with ballistic missile activity reduced by 90% and drone operations down by 95%.

Trump also addressed ongoing efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global energy supplies, noting that U.S. operations are progressing as planned after the destruction of most Iranian mine-laying vessels.

According to Trump, American forces have eliminated more than 30 such ships in recent days, effectively dismantling Iran’s ability to deploy naval mines. While acknowledging that Iran could attempt to use alternative vessels, he cautioned that doing so would carry severe consequences.

“If they do it, it’s a form of suicide,” Trump said, adding he is pressing European and other Western nations to send peacekeeping forces into the region to ensure the shipping lane remains clear.

{Matzav.com}

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By Rabbi Berach Steinfeld

Bnei Yisroel were redeemed from Mitzrayim on Pesach. The Ramban, in his psicha for Chumash Shemos, says that galus will not end until Bnei Yisroel return to their place and to the “maalos” of their avos (forefathers.) When Bnei Yisroel left Mitzrayim, they left the house of slavery, but they were still considered in galus because they were in the midbar and not in their own land. When they arrived at Har Sinai and made the mishkon, they reached the maaleh of the avos. Only through the defeat of the yetzer hora will they reach true “cheirus.” This is the milchama that is brought down in Chovos Halevavos in Shaar Yichud Hamaaseh, Perek Heh. He recounts a story of a chassid who met an army returning from winning a war on the battlefront. The army had conquered a tough enemy and gained spoils of the war. The chassid told them, “You just returned from winning the small war. Now you need to prepare yourself to win the big war, which is the milchama of the yetzer hora.” We will be zoche to Eretz Yisroel only when we beat the yetzer hora. It is important for us to realize that it is not “kochi ve’otzem yadi” that provides for our success. Eretz Yisroel is called the land of Israel not because it is a name of a place, but rather because of the people living there. Klal Yisroel are mashpia on the place and not that the place is mashpia on Klal Yisroel. We mentioned before that part of redemption is that Klal Yisroel needs to reach the “maaleh” of the “avos.” To help us understand this we will explain why Avrohom Avinu was called Avrohom “Ha’ivri.” The Midrash Rabba explains that the reason he was called Ivri was because the whole world was on one side, and he was on the other side. Avrohom Avinu was the only person who believed in Hashem during his time. His belief did not waver even though he was alone in that belief. This is what true “emuna” is all about. We see similar language used when Yona responded to the question about who he was. He answered by saying, “Ivri anochi.” We must realize that strengthening our emunah in Hashem is the work that needs to be done during the month of Nissan to arrive at true cheirus. Reb Yehuda would say the ten makkos in the code “detzach adash be’achav” to help remember them because the makkos are so integral to our emunah. The ten makkos correspond to the ten maamoros with which Hashem created the world. They also correspond to the Aseres Hadibros, the foundation of our faith. The makkos were set in place to counteract Pharaoh’s proclamation of “li yeori vaani asisini”(the river is mine I created it.) We need to constantly remember that everything is provided byHashem and from Hashem. May we be zocheh to the true cheirus by the coming of Moshiach speedily in our days!

President Donald Trump offered an unusual public assessment of French President Emmanuel Macron, saying he would rate the French leader “an 8 out of 10” while discussing relations with European allies.

Trump made the remarks while speaking about his interactions with Macron and cooperation with European leaders, offering a mix of praise and humor as he evaluated the French president’s performance.

“Yeah, I have spoken to him,” Trump said. “He’s been, on a scale of 0-10, I’d say he’s been an 8.”

Trump added that while Macron had done well overall, he was not perfect, joking that perfection was not expected given the challenges of leading France.

“Not perfect — but it’s France. We don’t expect perfect,” Trump said.

The remarks came as Trump discussed ongoing diplomatic engagement with European leaders and coordination with allies on international issues. Trump has maintained a sometimes complicated relationship with Macron, alternating between praise and criticism during various international disputes.

{Matzav.com}

A striking exchange between a yeshiva bochur and the tzaddik Rav Dov Kook of Tverya about the proper approach to limud haTorah has emerged.

Last week, a bochur from Yeshivas Shaarei Shmuos visited Rav Kook and asked him to write a dedication and bracha in the sefer Shaar HaYichud VehaEmunah. Rav Kook responded that now that the young man is 20 years old, the sefer is appropriate for him, adding that for younger bochurim it is not yet suitable.

At that point, Rav Kook unexpectedly asked the bochur a question: Did he know how one becomes a true lamdan in Torah?

Rav Kook immediately answered his own question with a piece of advice. He warned the bochur not to overanalyze the concept of “methods of learning.”

“It is forbidden to think about this in a literal way,” Rav Kook said. “Because someone who thinks about it in a literal way becomes very confused. You must simply learn normally. What you understand, you understand. Learn in the straightforward way, and that is all.”

Rav Kook continued explaining why he discourages discussions about formal “approaches” or “systems” of learning.

“It damages a person very much when people talk about ‘methods of learning,’” he said. “And if there is anything that could truly be called a ‘method of learning,’ it is only Shaar HaYichud VehaEmunah. That is learning in the fullest sense. There is no greater lomdus than this. What is explained there is extremely subtle, the finest of the fine. It is the ultimate peak.”

Later in the conversation, Rav Kook also spoke about the bochur’s rosh yeshiva, Rav Aryeh Shapira, praising the clarity of his teaching.

“Your rosh yeshiva, Reb Aryeh Shapira, has the quality that he speaks straight and clearly, with joy and without deviating to the side,” Rav Kook said. “He speaks in a healthy way — the healthiest way. I have seen this myself. He is very thoughtful. He was here several times. I heard him and saw that he is very clear. He is not simple. He is also the son of great people — his grandfather and his father.”

Shaar HaYichud VehaEmunah is the second section of the sefer Tanya, written by the Alter Rebbe, Rav Shneur Zalman of Liadi. In this section, the Alter Rebbe elaborates on the teaching of the Baal Shem Tov that belief in the unity of Hashem does not merely mean that there is no other higher power besides Him.

Rather, the teaching explains that Hashem is the only true reality, and nothing exists independently of Him — the concept expressed in the phrase Ein Od Milvado. Everything that appears to exist separately is not truly independent existence. The continued existence of creation depends at every moment on the divine word that sustains it; without that constant divine life-force, all creation would immediately revert to absolute nothingness, just as it was before the world was created.

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Security forces on Monday removed a large Iranian missile that had fallen in the cemetery area of Tzfas, near the Arizal’s Mikvah, one of the city’s well-known sites visited by many people throughout the year. Despite the powerful impact and the sensitive location of the strike, the incident ended without injuries.

Authorities initially responded amid concerns that hazardous materials might be involved. The Environmental Protection Ministry said that emergency teams from Fire and Rescue Services were dispatched after reports of interceptor debris and a possible hazardous-materials incident.

Following extensive testing at the scene, officials determined that the situation did not involve dangerous materials. Instead, the fire that had broken out was caused by remnants of jet fuel still contained inside the missile. The ministry said it would continue monitoring the situation and stressed the importance of following Home Front Command instructions.

At the same time, Fire and Rescue officials in the Northern District reported that firefighters from the Galil-Golan station were handling several locations where missile fragments had landed in open areas around Tzfas. Additional monitoring teams conducted further inspections and confirmed that no environmental danger remained.

After the examinations were completed, residents who had initially been instructed to remain indoors were informed that they could safely return to their normal routines. Tzfas municipal spokesman Tamir Engel said all inspections had concluded and that there was no danger to the public.

The missile was transferred to security authorities for further handling, while city officials said emergency forces remain prepared for any additional developments.

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A prominent kashrus expert has issued a sharp warning against efforts by the Tzohar rabbinical organization to establish an independent kashrus certification system in Israel, arguing that such a move could undermine the existing national framework.

Speaking Monday night in an interview with Avi Mimran on the program Hamehadura Hamerkazit, Rav Yochanan Reichman strongly criticized Tzohar’s petition to Israel’s High Court of Justice seeking permission to issue kashrus certificates without the approval of the Chief Rabbinate. According to Rav Reichman, the very act of asking the court to serve as an independent regulator raises serious concerns. “The very appeal to the High Court to act as its own regulator raises questions and red flags,” he said, adding that even the strictest badatz organizations operate in coordination with the Rabbinate.

Rav Reichman argued that attempts to create an alternative kashrus structure built on halachic leniencies are fundamentally flawed. “To base kashrus on bedieved, on shaas hadechak, on heterim—that is not how you run a system. No one begins with Plan B,” he said. As an illustration, he recounted a story about the renowned Yerushalmi tzaddik Rav Dovid Baharan, who once wept when he was forced to rely on a halachic bedieved ruling.

According to Rav Reichman, a proper kashrus system must be established from the outset on the highest lechatchila standards, with leniencies used only in rare and pressing situations.

During the interview, the discussion compared the national kashrus framework to other state institutions such as the military and the healthcare system. Rav Reichman warned that dismantling the centralized structure could lead to chaos. “Tomorrow everyone will set up his own army, his own hospital. That would be destruction,” he said. “You would be taking an institution that has stood for years with the backing of the gedolei Yisroel and destroying it.”

He pointed to the Military Rabbinate as an example of a successful state-run religious institution and questioned why Tzohar was not pursuing cooperation with the Chief Rabbinate in the same way other private kashrus bodies do.

Toward the end of the conversation, Rav Reichman addressed Tzohar chairman Rav Dovid Stav personally, saying that while he knows him and recognizes his positive character, he is surprised by the direction the organization has taken professionally.

“I say to Tzohar: be like everyone else. Don’t try to damage the kashrus of Am Yisroel,” Reichman said.

Host Avi Mimran concluded the discussion by noting that the issue will now move to deliberations in both the High Court and the Knesset, where it will be decided whether the Chief Rabbinate’s authority over kashrus certification will remain intact or whether the system will open to broader competition.

Religious and political leaders are closely watching the developments, as a ruling by the High Court could significantly reshape the kashrus landscape for restaurants and food establishments across Israel. Supporters of the initiative argue it could lower prices and improve service, while critics like Rav Reichman warn it could weaken the halachic integrity of the country’s established kashrus system.

{Matzav.com}

A public dispute between Rov Yosef Chaim Ohev Tzion and radio host Menachem Toker over women’s shaitelach took an unexpected turn Monday when the rov joined Toker live on the air, turning what had been a controversy into a cordial on-air reconciliation.

Rov Ohev Tzion, a prominent speaker at the Moussaieff Shul, appeared on Toker’s program Zman Avir after recently criticizing the host over remarks related to women’s wigs. The conversation, arranged by the show’s editor Kobi Segal, quickly developed into a warm and respectful exchange.

The rov emphasized that he had no intention of insulting Toker personally. “People tried to inflame the situation. We do not want to hurt any Jew. We know the good things you do,” he said. Toker immediately responded with respect, saying, “I forgive in advance. Who am I to speak about the rov?”

Much of the discussion focused on the controversy surrounding wigs that had sparked the original criticism. Rov Ohev Tzion explained that his concern was with how wigs are sometimes presented in magazines. “I was shocked to see a certain picture of wigs that were displayed in a very inappropriate way,” he said.

He also referred to the ruling of Rav Ovadia Yosef, who strongly opposed the wearing of wigs. Rov Ohev Tzion added that even authorities who permitted wigs did not have today’s modern styles in mind. “If they were living in our times, they would certainly forbid the wigs of today,” he said. He concluded by stressing that a mother’s modesty is an important key to raising righteous children.

Toward the end of the broadcast, the rov shared several segulos connected with the upcoming month of Nissan. Among them was an unusual suggestion for preventing migraines. “A person who gets a haircut on Wednesday, which is the eve of Rosh Chodesh Nissan, will not have headaches for the entire year,” he said.

He also encouraged people to daven for parnassah on Rosh Chodesh Nissan. “This is the time to ask for parnassah. The Ribbono Shel Olam renews the entire creation,” he said. Rov Ohev Tzion added that giving Kimcha D’Pischa charity before Pesach serves as protection from serious misfortune.

The conversation concluded on a positive note, with Toker thanking the rov for joining the program and expressing hope that he would appear again in the future. Rov Ohev Tzion, who lives in Ramat Shlomo and delivers shiurim on Tuesdays and Thursdays, ended by offering Toker a bracha: “Continue doing good for the Jewish people.”

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IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin delivered a public briefing Monday night updating the nation on developments in the ongoing war against Iran and its regional proxies. During the address, Defrin revealed that Israeli forces had struck key strategic targets in Tehran and announced that more than 100,000 reservists have been mobilized for the expanding ground maneuver in southern Lebanon. He also shared a moving story about a chareidi mother from Bnei Brak whose actions helped save her children during a missile strike.

Defrin reported that the Israeli Air Force destroyed a strategic naval headquarters belonging to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the heart of Tehran, along with a facility used to develop satellite attack capabilities. “The Iranian regime used this headquarters to turn the maritime arena into a theater of terror,” the spokesman said, adding that the satellite development center posed a threat to Israeli and international space assets.

At the same time, the IDF is intensifying its operations along the northern border. Defrin confirmed that forces from the 91st Division have begun ground activity at key locations in southern Lebanon as part of efforts to strengthen protection for communities in northern Israel. Addressing reports about troop levels, he disclosed that an unprecedented number of reservists have been called up. “We currently have more than 100,000 reservists… IDF soldiers will stand as a barrier between every threat and the residents of the north,” he said.

He added that the 146th Division has now joined the campaign and that the maneuver is concentrating on areas around Metula, Margaliot, and Manara in order to prevent direct rocket fire at Israeli homes.

A particularly emotional moment in the briefing came when Defrin described a recent visit to the Kass family on Rechov Yerushalayim in Bnei Brak, whose home was struck by an Iranian cluster missile. “The mother was playing with her six children in the living room, and Yehuda, the two-week-old baby, was in her arms. The responsible behavior of this brave mother simply saved their lives,” Defrin said.

The spokesman condemned Iran’s use of cluster munitions, describing them as a violation of the laws of war, and warned that Iran is attempting to spread fear through propaganda and misinformation. “They are trying to spread terror and fear. The Israeli public is not listening to those threats,” he said.

In other sectors, Defrin noted that IDF forces continue counterterrorism operations in Judea and Samaria, where more than 250 terror suspects have been arrested over the past two weeks. Israeli forces are also continuing deep strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Gaza.

He also addressed a difficult incident involving the deaths of four members of a Palestinian family in the village of Tamun during an undercover operation. “Every harm to innocent people turns the stomach. The IDF does not act with the intention of harming civilians,” Defrin said, adding that the case is under thorough investigation by both military authorities and the Justice Ministry’s police oversight unit.

Defrin concluded by noting that the campaign has dealt heavy blows to Iran’s military capabilities. According to the IDF, approximately 70 percent of Iran’s launch capabilities have been neutralized and about 80 percent of its air defense systems destroyed.

“Our goal is to remove the threats against Israel for the long term,” Defrin said. “We still have many targets, and we are continuing according to our operational plans.”

{Matzav.com}