Matzav

A mobile device smuggled out of North Korea has uncovered just how far the regime is going to monitor and manipulate its citizens’ behavior through technology.

At first glance, the smartphone appeared entirely ordinary. But according to a BBC investigation, it contained software that issued alerts when South Korean slang was used, and would automatically change references to “South Korea” to say “puppet state.”

Additionally, the phone was programmed to silently capture a screenshot every five minutes. These images were hidden in a folder the user couldn’t see or access — presumably for review by North Korean officials.

In one striking example, when the user typed “oppa,” a term used affectionately for older brothers and also boyfriends in South Korean vernacular, the phone immediately corrected it to “comrade,” in line with the regime’s ideological messaging.

A pop-up would then appear, informing the user that “oppa” should only be used when referring to an actual older sibling, the BBC reported.

These unsettling features were brought to light after the Seoul-based outlet Daily NK succeeded in smuggling the device out of North Korea late last year, exposing a chilling use of surveillance technology in everyday life.

This phone is just the latest indication of North Korea’s tightening grip on information and technology under Kim Jong Un’s leadership, signaling a new front in the regime’s propaganda machine.

“Smartphones are now part and parcel of the way North Korea tries to indoctrinate people,” said Martyn Williams, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington, D.C., and a leading analyst on North Korean digital strategy, in an interview with the BBC.

He warned that North Korea is “starting to gain the upper hand” in the battle over controlling the flow of information.

Further steps were taken last year when the government criminalized the use of South Korean-style speech and slang. Speaking with a South Korean accent is now a punishable offense.

Across the country, groups of young regime loyalists known as “youth crackdown squads” roam the streets, ensuring citizens—particularly the youth—adhere to the government’s standards.

Kang Gyuri, a 24-year-old defector now living in South Korea, recalled to the BBC how she was frequently stopped by these squads for mimicking South Korean fashion and hairstyles before escaping her homeland by boat in 2023.

She said the patrols would also seize her phone and comb through her messages, scanning for any forbidden language or references to South Korean culture.

North Korea’s escalating surveillance is seen as a response to continued efforts from the South to pierce the information blackout. These efforts aim to expose North Koreans to the stark differences in freedoms and lifestyles across the border.

Though the North bans all foreign media, a handful of South Korean broadcasts still manage to break through by transmitting on radio frequencies during the night.

Every month, thousands of USB drives and memory cards loaded with South Korean TV shows and K-pop music are smuggled into North Korea. They’re often hidden in fruit crates and other inconspicuous shipments.

Much of this underground information campaign is bankrolled by the United States. But according to critics, recent cuts in funding by President Trump could tilt the balance in Kim’s favor.

“The reason for this control is that so much of the mythology around the Kim family is made up. A lot of what they tell people is lies,” said Martyn Williams.

For individuals like Kang, those banned broadcasts and dramas served as the first glimpse of life beyond North Korea’s borders — and awakened a hunger for freedom she didn’t know she had.

“I felt so suffocated, and I suddenly had an urge to leave,” she said.

“I used to think it was normal that the state restricted us so much. I thought other countries lived with this control. But then I realized it was only in North Korea,” she said.

{Matzav.com}

They each raise thousands of talmidim in Torah and mussar, each in his own way. Ahead of Zman Matan Toraseinu 5785, B’chadrei Chareidim’s Moshe Weisberg offered a special profile in Hebrew of the noble family known as the Kaplans, headed by the elder mashgiach Rav Naftali and his sons, the roshei yeshiva of the “Old” and “New” Kaplan yeshivas. Matzav.com offers a synopsis of Weisberg’s fascinating report.

The Kaplans: Torah Nobility by Merit

Known throughout the Torah world is the Kaplan family, at its head is the elder tzaddik, Rav Naftali Kaplan, known as the “elder mashgiach of our generation.” His sons — Rav Chaim Yitzchok (mashgiach of Yeshivas Chevron), Rav Nissan (rosh yeshiva of Daas Aharon, known as “Kaplan HaChadasha”), and Rav Avraham (rosh yeshiva of Netiv HaDaas in Ramot, widely referred to as “Yeshivas Kaplan”) — each lead yeshivos that are pillars of Torah and mussar.

Together, these four giants extend their reach across the broad spectrum of the Litvishe Torah world. From intense mussar to deep Torah learning, from more conservative student bodies to those with modern influences, almost every Torah family can envision a place for their children under the guidance of the Kaplan dynasty.

Rav Naftali also has several sons-in-law who serve as marbitzei Torah in major yeshivos, forming additional links in the family chain. But for the purpose of this Yom Tov feature, we focus on the sons, those who carry the prestigious Kaplan name.

The Mashgiach, Rav Naftali Kaplan

The gaon and tzaddik, Rav Naftali Kaplan, the elder of the mashgichim, was born in Chicago over ninety years ago, and he is considered today the most senior mashgiach of our generation.

He acquired most of his Torah under the guidance of Rav Dovid Kronglass, the mashgiach of Yeshivas Ner Yisrael in Baltimore, from whom he absorbed the foundational principles of mussar.

When he immigrated to Eretz Yisrael at a relatively advanced age, he was already a married man and was known as a talmid chacham with an exceptionally refined ethical sensitivity. He formed a deep bond with Rav Shlomo Wolbe, with whom he studied extensively in the field of mussar. The two became close companions, united in their mission to bring the world of mussar to the talmidim of Eretz Yisrael.

With mutual encouragement, they jointly established the first batei mussar in Eretz Yisrael. Rav Naftali described the effort to establish mussar in the Land as an outright war. There were times when Rav Shlomo felt discouraged, believing that mussar was a withered tree that bore no fruit, especially compared to the flourishing world of lomdus and Talmud study. In those moments, Rav Naftali would summon great strength and determination. As he himself later testified, he would “go out to battle” — and eventually merited to see great success in that very campaign.

Later, he was invited by Rav Baruch Weisbecker to serve as mashgiach of Yeshivas Beis Mattisyahu, and subsequently held similar positions at Yeshivas Beis Shmuel alongside the rosh yeshiva, Rav Yitzchok Ehrenfeld. After many years, he was appointed mashgiach at Yeshivas Chevron in Geula. Throughout his years of service — a role he viewed as a full-fledged vocation — he established kolelim devoted to the study of mussar, aimed at strengthening avodas hamiddos among young Torah scholars. Yet he never neglected his work in the yeshiva, constantly analyzing how to enhance the ethical development of his talmidim, especially in areas he believed required a comprehensive, systemic boost. In this he was considered a true expert.

“In the Mussar kollelim, they studied mussar seriously, with great depth, and with lips aflame — just as the baalei mussar of past generations instructed,” recalls a long-time student.

“Rav Naftali functioned like a rosh kollel of kollelim — a sort of president and guide. He appointed a unique rosh kollel to each one, who would set the learning path and oversee the program. There were at least three such kollelim.”

He instituted systems of vaadim, exams on mussar seforim, weekly summaries, and various tools to motivate the avreichim to study mussar in a deep and consistent way. In order to sustain the high scholarship amounts these kolelim offered, major philanthropists from both Israel and abroad stepped in.

“Rav Naftali has talmidim from earlier years who went on to succeed in business and still view him as their primary rebbi,” a confidant notes.

“They don’t make a move without consulting him, and they cover a significant portion of his mussar programs.”

Among the key donors behind Rav Naftali’s vast network of spiritual initiatives — which has since been carried forward by his sons — is the American magnate R’ Avraham Yitzchok Bodner, known for his support of leading baalei mussar in our generation. He is also close to the mashgiach, Rav Don Segal, and other spiritual mentors. Another major supporter is the philanthropist R’ Dan Gertler, who over the years has generously contributed massive sums toward Rav Naftali’s spiritual endeavors.

A fascinating aspect of Rav Naftali’s persona is his ability to connect not only with Torah-observant individuals, but even with those whose religious levels are far from ideal. Among his followers overseas are traditional Jews who nevertheless feel deeply connected to him.

“This is an extraordinary phenomenon, unparalleled in the world of mashgichim,” says one observer.

“People usually picture a mashgiach as someone with a long beard and a stern face. But when you see the warmth and radiance of Rav Naftali’s expression, you’re exposed to an entirely new world. That’s what draws so many to him.”

Over a decade ago, Rav Naftali suffered a severe infection and hovered between life and death. Ultimately, the heavenly tzaddikim prevailed over the angels, and he returned to life with what seemed like renewed strength from higher realms.

Rav Naftali currently serves as mashgiach of the Kaplan yeshivos. His sons affectionately refer to him before talmidim as “Zaide,” reminiscent of the title given to the Alter of Slabodka or Novardok. This title is particularly fitting, as his wife is the granddaughter of the Alter of Novardok.

Today, Rav Naftali channels most of his energy into his sons’ yeshivos. In the early years, he fully funded Rav Avraham’s Yeshivas Nesiv HaDaas, bearing the financial burden alone. For Rav Nissan’s yeshiva — the newer one — he insisted his son carry the financial responsibilities himself, so as not to burden his father, who had only recently recovered from illness.

In fact, it was after Rav Naftali’s recovery that the new yeshiva was founded. Upon awakening from his critical illness, he told those around him that he felt HaKadosh Baruch Hu had returned his soul to him so that he could add more soldiers to the ranks of Torah and mussar. This prophetic aspiration aligned with Rav Nissan’s own dream of establishing a new Torah empire. Together, they joined forces and implemented the model that had already proven so successful in Rav Avraham’s leadership.

It is a heartwarming sight to witness Rav Naftali — the Zeide — entering the beis midrash of one of the yeshivos he oversees with a thick binder in hand. Inside the carefully organized pages are the names of every student, meticulously recorded with notes on their spiritual progress. Despite his advanced age, he does not suffice with giving shmuessen. He closely tracks the individual growth of his talmidim, a move virtually unheard of among elder mashgichim.

In addition to his brilliance in mussar, talmidim repeatedly emphasize another dimension:

“His Talmudic brilliance is equal to his mussar genius — and vice versa,” says one.

“He is deeply respected by his talmidim not only as a mussar authority but as a Torah giant. That’s why his revolution succeeded. You can’t lead this kind of transformation unless your talmidim see you as a gaon in Torah as much as in mussar. I don’t know if that’s his secret — or maybe it’s his self-sacrifice. Probably both.”

Even in recent years, despite his weakness, Rav Naftali traveled to the United States due to the financial struggles of his yeshiva.

Rav Chaim Yitzchok Kaplan

Mashgiach of Yeshivas Chevron – Givat Mordechai | Rosh Mesivta at Yeshivas Pachad Yitzchok

Rav Chaim Yitzchok Kaplan is widely regarded as one of the leading baalei mussar of our generation.

“You don’t need to hear him speak or attend a shmuess,” says one talmid.
“It’s enough just to see him — his very appearance exudes yiras Shamayim.”

At Yeshivas Chevron, they say that even a mere glance from him can awaken a sense of ruchniyus in one’s heart.

After years in which Torah analysis took center stage—sometimes at the expense of mussar and character development—Rav Chaim Yitzchok succeeded in restoring mussar to its rightful place at the forefront of the Chevron yeshiva. He rebranded mussar discourses as being no less important than Talmudic lectures, both in ceremony and in intrinsic value.

He was born in 1959. As a youth, he learned in Yeshivas Tiferes Tzvi, which was like a feeder school for Chevron. He merited to study under Rav Dovid Kronglass, mashgiach of Ner Yisrael in Baltimore, and later learned in Yeshivas Rabbeinu Chaim Berlin under the leadership of Rav Yitzchok Hutner.

He stood out as an exceptional talmid, and Rav Hutner regularly engaged him in deep discussions in learning. After his marriage, he was appointed as a ram at Yeshiva Rabbeinu Yaakov Yosef in Edison, New Jersey.

After moving to Israel, he attached himself wholeheartedly to Rav Yonasan David, son-in-law of Rav Hutner and rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Pachad Yitzchok. Rav David placed his trust in him completely and appointed him as a ram in the yeshiva.

In Elul 5771 (2011), he was appointed mashgiach of Yeshivas Chevron in Givat Mordechai, due to the declining health of the previous mashgiach, Rav Avraham Salomon.

It was an extraordinary appointment. Chevron had a long-standing tradition of only appointing its own alumni to such senior roles. The rationale was that only someone trained in Chevron’s specific approach could properly guide its talmidim. Rav Chaim Yitzchok, though he had attended Tiferes Tzvi (a feeder yeshiva to Chevron), was not a Chevron alumnus, and his appointment was considered unprecedented — a testament to his extraordinary stature.

Upon taking the position, Rav Chaim Yitzchok revived a long-lost Chevron tradition: delivering mussar shmuessen in the main beis midrash. This custom had lapsed following the passing of Rav Meir Chodosh. Thanks to the new mashgiach, mussar regained its rightful place in the spiritual core of the yeshiva.

His mussar talk is delivered every other Wednesday. In addition, he gives vaadim at least three times a week. These sessions are divided by student profiles — older bochurim, younger bochurim, me’oresim (those engaged to be married), and more — so that each vaad is precisely tailored to the unique needs of its group.

He also serves as a ram at Yeshivas Pachad Yitzchok, where he delivers a daily shiur after Shacharis, which he davens together with his Chevron talmidim.

Since arriving at Chevron, he has drawn talmidim to him like a magnet. Many consult with him regularly and benefit from his unique perspectives. He delves into every topic with original depth and a mind that breaks free from conventional boundaries.

His shmuessen are filled with ideas rich in thought, closely aligned with the path of his teacher and mentor, Rav Yitzchok Hutner. Talmidim note that his insights in mussar are no less powerful than his sharp Talmudic analyses.

Many of his talmidim report on his incredible genius in learning. Beyond his mussar greatness, Rav Chaim Yitzchok is a phenomenal Torah scholar. He serves as a model for integrating Torah and mussar, demonstrating how true Torah study must be rooted in purity, character development, and genuine yiras Shamayim.

He is known for his broad knowledge in all areas of Torah. One former talmid, now at a different yeshiva, once visited him for Shabbos. At the Shabbos seudah, Rav Chaim Yitzchok asked which masechta his current yeshiva was studying. The student replied casually, mentioning the masechta and daf. Rav Chaim Yitzchok immediately paused the meal and began analyzing the sugya in depth. The student was astonished at the Rav’s total command of every line of Tosafos — despite the fact that this sugya was not being learned in either of the yeshivos where Rav Chaim Yitzchok currently taught.

In the past, Rav Chaim Yitzchok was a regular participant in an elite chaburah that included Rav Shmuel Yaakov Borenstein (rosh yeshiva of Kiryas Melech), Rav Eliyahu Baruch Finkel, and Rav Dovid Cohen (rosh yeshiva of Chevron). The group would meet for long sessions of intense learning.

That friendship bore fruit in joint scholarly works. Before publishing any of his seforim, Rav Borenstein would send them to Rav Chaim Yitzchok for review — and vice versa.

Rav Nissan Kaplan

Rosh Yeshiva of Daas Aharon – “Kaplan HaChadasha” | Rav of the Givat HaMivtar Neighborhood

Rav Nissan Kaplan, the second son of Rav Naftali, was recognized as one of the leading marbitzei Torah in the Torah stronghold of Yeshivas Mir before he left. His shiurim, primarily given to bochurim from abroad, attracted hundreds of talmidim. His was considered the second-largest shiur in the yeshiva, following only the renowned shiur of Rav Asher Arieli.

In addition to his brilliance in learning, Rav Nissan was known as a father figure to his talmidim. Throughout approximately twenty years of teaching at the Mir, he was deeply involved in their lives, even down to the smallest personal details.

He lives in the Har Nof neighborhood of Yerushalayim, where he also established his yeshiva. His entire day is devoted to Torah learning and communal involvement. Not long ago, he oversaw the construction of one of the most beautiful mikvaos in Yerushalayim—a project that required significant time and energy from his schedule.

He never hesitates to go the extra mile for his talmidim.

“Recently, someone from the community asked him for a recommendation letter so his son could be accepted into a cheder,” recounts a student.

“He made the request at 12:30 at night, thinking it would be addressed in the next day or two. But Rav Nissan told him to come to his home right away. ‘At one in the morning?’ the father asked in surprise. ‘Yes,’ Rav Nissan replied.”

The man left that very night with the letter in hand. But Rav Nissan didn’t stop there. For the next few days, he followed up with the father to find out whether the child had been accepted. Only once he heard that the boy had been accepted to the desired school did he rest.

These stories repeat themselves often. Most notably, his talmidim seem eager to publicize his extraordinary dedication, as if wanting to share a miracle.

“There isn’t a taxi driver in Yerushalayim who doesn’t know Rav Nissan,” says a close student.
“Every one of them will tell you that the Rav is like a second father to them. When they run into trouble in their personal lives, he’s the first person they call. And he, in turn, looks after every person in Hashem’s world.”

After many years of giving shiur at Mir, Rav Nissan felt the time had come to establish a yeshiva of his own—another tier in the growing Kaplan empire. He often tells those close to him that the Torah world is expanding, and that soon there will be a need for a new institution on the scale of Mir. To that end, he took the first step. His hope is that the yeshiva he has founded will eventually grow into a Torah empire in its own right.

Currently, the yeshiva includes about forty bochurim in Shiur Alef, another forty in the kibbutz level (post-high school division), and about twenty avreichim in the kollel.

A few years ago, the residents of Givat HaMivtar asked Rav Nissan to become the official rav of their neighborhood.

“When Rav Nissan comes for Shabbos,” says one resident, “you literally can’t get into the shul—it’s so packed. Masses come to hear his Friday night drasha.”

Rav Nissan himself often greets people warmly at the entrance to the shul at the start of davening, offering a wide smile and an open heart to every mispallel and guest.

Despite being fully immersed in the urgent matters of his yeshiva, he never misses his regular weekly shiur, which he delivers every Monday night at the neighborhood beis midrash. The topic varies according to current events and relevant themes.

When Rav Nissan first launched the yeshiva a few years ago, he was naturally preoccupied with its development and rarely left the beis midrash. Members of the community assumed that this meant his weekly shiur would be temporarily suspended. But when Rav Nissan heard about this assumption, he was deeply hurt.

“How could anyone think I would cancel the shiur?” he asked, visibly pained.

On the final Shabbos of the year, the community made a kiddush, during which Rav Nissan shared a moving story: out of concern for the health and well-being of the bochurim before the tekios on Rosh Hashanah, one of the local baalei batim arranged fresh pastries for every student. It was, he said, an act of pure fatherly care.

All this is in addition to his vast Torah knowledge and legal proficiency. Rav Nissan is known as a brilliant scholar and a respected posek whose mastery of Shulchan Aruch is vast. Many leading Torah sages rely on his psak and hold his halachic authority in high esteem.

He is regularly presented with complex halachic questions—ones that demand both encyclopedic Torah knowledge and a deep understanding of human psychology and the communal landscape.

“That combination,” says one student, “that’s Rav Nissan.”

Rav Avraham Kaplan

Rosh Yeshiva of Netiv HaDaas – Yeshivas Kaplan

Rav Avraham Kaplan, the youngest son of Rav Naftali, made a powerful impression on the Torah world at a young age with the yeshiva he founded. Officially called Netiv HaDaas, it is more widely known by its colloquial name: Yeshivas Kaplan.

Rav Avraham established the yeshiva 15 years ago—before he had even turned 40. That alone magnifies the remarkable nature of his success, which is considered virtually unprecedented in the history of the modern yeshiva world in Eretz Yisrael.

He was born in the Beis Vagan neighborhood and was extremely close to his esteemed father from a young age, clinging to his father’s every word and step. In every stage of both his spiritual and practical life, he consulted with his father and never acted independently without his direction.

As a teenager, he learned at Yeshivas Tiferes HaTalmud and later at Yeshivas Beis Mattisyahu, where he became a leading talmid of the rosh yeshiva, Rav Baruch Weisbecker, who often praised him publicly.

By the time he reached marriageable age, he was already considered one of the outstanding iluyim of the yeshiva world, and shadchanim vied for the opportunity to arrange a match. He married Rebbetzin Tziporah from the Berlin family, and immediately after his wedding entered a new stage in his spiritual development.

He settled in Yerushalayim and joined the kollel affiliated with the yeshiva of Rav Chizkiyahu Yosef Schreiber. Rav Yossel, as he was known, had established a unique yeshiva for deep, intellectually intense learners. Those who couldn’t find fulfillment in standard sederim of the yeshiva world gravitated toward Rav Yossel’s penetrating approach. There, they analyzed every word and debated Torah topics with astonishing intensity.

Rav Avraham was part of this elite group and quickly earned a reputation as a brilliant lamdan, with an extraordinary mind and uncommon insight. Even in mundane matters, people preferred to consult him, due to his ability to view the entire picture and offer brilliant, out-of-the-box solutions.

“While others are still deciding where to begin dissecting the problem,” says one student,
“Rav Avraham has already polished the solution.”

He soon became one of Rav Yossel’s most outstanding talmidim and was appointed a sho’el u’meishiv in the yeshiva. Simultaneously, he was appointed rosh kollel in Yerushalayim, where he continued to spread Torah with increasing intensity.

In 2009, with the close support of his father, he founded Yeshivas Netiv HaDaas in the Ramot neighborhood of Yerushalayim. Almost immediately, the Kaplan name became associated with the yeshiva, and to this day, in the wider yeshiva world, it is known as “Kaplan.”

Acting on the advice of Rav Aharon Leib Shteinman, who guided the early stages of the yeshiva’s development, Rav Avraham appointed Rav Yisrael Binyamin Schreiber, the brother of his rebbi Rav Yossel Schreiber, to serve alongside him in heading the yeshiva.

Even though Rav Avraham had built the yeshiva from the ground up and was involved in every step of its establishment and development, he faithfully followed Rav Shteinman’s recommendation to share the leadership.

To this day, the main shiur in the yeshiva alternates weekly—one week Rav Avraham, the next week Rav Binyamin.

“The meteoric growth of the yeshiva will one day be studied by historians of the yeshiva world,” said one senior observer.

“It is no small thing for a young man with no prior experience in heading a yeshiva to launch an institution and, within a matter of months, have it recognized across the Torah world. Today, it is well known that Kaplan attracts the elite of the Torah world—the best of the best.”

Talmidim attribute the yeshiva’s success to the powerful combination of Rav Avraham’s personality and his brilliant scholarship.

“He poured his entire being into building the yeshiva,” says one of his close talmidim.
“During the early years, he barely slept or ate—he lived and breathed the yeshiva. He didn’t say, ‘I opened a yeshiva, now let’s see what happens.’ He invested with total dedication.”

Today, the yeshiva boasts hundreds of talmidim, kein yirbu. Yet Rav Avraham insists on keeping each shiur limited in size. Initially, he capped each class at 40 talmidim. Due to overwhelming demand, the limit was increased to 70—but no more. He remains adamant that this cap will not be exceeded.

Rav Avraham’s reasoning is simple: in smaller shiurim, the ram and mashgiach can more effectively monitor each student’s development—both in learning and in character—and offer individualized guidance.

“You can’t help 180 bochurim in one shiur,” he says.
“But you can help 70. It’s simple math. That’s how he produces one lamdan after another.”

The yeshiva’s staff is widely regarded as a dream team, complemented by the overflowing Torah energy that radiates from Rav Avraham’s dynamic leadership. Everything in the yeshiva is top-tier. Until recently, the institution was fully funded by donors closely connected to Rav Naftali.

{Matzav.com}

Erev Shavuos 5785 in Bnei Brak: Photographer Shuki Lehrer ventured out under the blazing sun into the streets of Bnei Brak, capturing scenes of the Yom Tov preparations.

ע ע ערב חג השבועות בבני ברקצילום: שוקי לרר ערב חג השבועות בבני ברקצילום: שוקי לרר

ערב חג השבועות בבני ברקצילום: שוקי לרר ערב חג השבועות בבני ברקצילום: שוקי לרר

Ukrainian intelligence sources are reporting that a sweeping drone strike has dealt a devastating blow to Russia’s air power, allegedly destroying numerous aircraft—some with nuclear capabilities—at airbases far from the front lines.

According to a report in the Kyiv Independent, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) executed the mission using first-person-view (FPV) drones. The assault reportedly struck 41 large Russian warplanes at four different bases located thousands of miles inside Russian territory.

The drones used in the mission are said to have been covertly transported into Russia, camouflaged within cargo trucks.

Among the aircraft Ukraine claims to have hit were TU-95 “Bear” bombers capable of carrying nuclear payloads, TU-22 “Backfire” supersonic bombers, and A-50 “Mainstay” early-warning and control planes.

One of the airfields struck was located in the Irkutsk region of Siberia, roughly 2,500 miles from Ukraine. The remaining targets included installations in Murmansk near the Arctic Circle, Ryazan to the southeast of Moscow, and Ivanovo, situated northeast of the capital.

The covert campaign, reportedly called “Web,” is said to have taken a year and a half of meticulous planning. If confirmed, the strike could severely impair Russia’s capacity to launch strategic missile attacks on Ukraine from a distance.

“The SBU first transported FPV drones to Russia, and later on the territory of the Russian Federation, the drones were hidden under the roofs of mobile wooden cabins, already placed on trucks,” the source claimed.

“At the right moment, the roofs of the cabins were opened remotely, and the drones flew to hit Russian bombers.”

{Matzav.com}

Conservative commentators lashed out at New Jersey Senator Cory Booker over a gesture he made at the end of a speech Saturday night, arguing it closely resembled a Nazi salute. Critics also drew parallels to a similar gesture by Elon Musk, which previously drew widespread condemnation from liberals.

Booker made the motion while speaking at a Democratic gathering in California. He first placed his hand over his heart, then extended his arm outward with an open palm raised above shoulder level, directed toward the audience.

Social media personalities were quick to highlight what they saw as a double standard, pointing out the lack of backlash Booker faced compared to the firestorm that followed Musk’s action earlier this year.

“If Elon Musk is a Nazi for doing this gesture.. Cory Booker is one too. Sorry, I don’t make the rules,” read one widely shared post online.

Another viral comment mocked the perceived hypocrisy: “Cory Booker did the thing. This is literally the Third Reich all over again. These are the darkest days ever. Democracy is doomed.”

Users on the X platform voiced frustration over what they called inconsistent reactions from media and political figures.

“Same gesture. Different political party. Funny how that works,” wrote Brandon Straka, who leads the Walk Away campaign.

“This better be a national story for the next week!,” another user remarked sarcastically.

Back in January, Elon Musk drew criticism after performing a nearly identical gesture during an event at the Capital One Arena celebrating an inauguration.

“Thank you for making it happen. Thank you, my heart goes out to you,” Musk said at the time, placing his hand on his chest before extending his arm toward attendees.

Although the one-armed gesture prompted accusations of Nazi symbolism, some Jewish organizations and leaders defended Musk, attributing it to poor judgment rather than malice.

“It seems that @elonmusk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute, but again, we appreciate that people are on edge,” the Anti-Defamation League commented on X.

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu also came to Musk’s defense, stating on X, “@elonmusk is being falsely smeared. Elon is a great friend of Israel.”

{Matzav.com}

With Shavuos being celebrated under the shadow of war, Israel’s Chief Rabbis have issued a heartfelt call to the public: bring even the youngest children to shul to hear the reading of Aseres Hadibros on the Yom Tov of Matan Torah.

The Rishon Letzion and Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rav Dovid Yosef, wrote: “Lechu banim shimu li — Come, children, and listen to me. Gather in the batei knessios on the day of Shavuos, the day of the giving of the Torah, as one person with one heart — men, women, and children, even the very youngest.”

Rav Yosef referenced the well-known call of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who emphasized the importance of coming to shul on Shavuos to hear Aseres Hadibros, especially for children. “Especially in times of such great tzaros for Klal Yisroel,” Rav Yosef wrote, “this areivus, this collective merit of the Bnei Yisroel, will surely bring us added zechuyos, and may we merit a great yeshuah.”

Ashkenazic Chief Rabbi Rav Kalman Ber echoed this message in a letter, encouraging families to bring their “young lambs” to shul to hear the kriah of Aseres Hadibros together with the tzibbur.

“This,” wrote Rav Ber, “is how we instill in them emunah and embed in their hearts the foundation of Jewish belief. The Aseres Hadibros encompass the essence of the Torah — between man and G-d, and between man and his fellow.”

He added that “in the merit of our emunah in Hashem and His Torah, we will see days of calm and security. We pray for the success of those on the battlefield, for the recovery of the wounded, and for the return of the captives.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

The BBC has discontinued its relationship with Gaza-based freelancer Ahmed Alagha after mounting criticism over his deeply antisemitic and inflammatory social media activity, according to The Telegraph.

Alagha, a freelance contributor to BBC Arabic, came under fire for a string of online posts in which he vilified Jews and celebrated violence against Israelis. Among the most egregious, he wrote that “the Jews, they are the devils of the hypocrites” and praised the terrorist who murdered eight people near a Jerusalem synagogue, calling him a “martyr” who “stole my heart.”

Despite The Telegraph publishing revelations in April and again in May exposing Alagha’s extremist rhetoric, the BBC reportedly continued using him until recently. The posts cited in the reports date back to before the outbreak of the current war with Hamas, indicating a long-standing pattern of hateful commentary.

In response to the backlash, BBC management has now instructed its Arabic service to stop using Alagha in any capacity. The decision comes amid a broader inquiry into BBC Arabic’s coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, led by chairman Dr. Samir Shah. Shah announced in May that an independent figure would be appointed to assess the outlet’s editorial standards.

The Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis (CAMERA), a media watchdog, has called on the BBC to conduct a thorough evaluation of its Arabic division’s contributor policies to ensure fair and unbiased reporting.

Alagha’s social media posts reveal a disturbing level of vitriol. In one since-deleted message on X, he declared: “The ‘Israelis’ are not human beings… perhaps they belong to a race for which no description can capture the extent of their lust and sadism.” He also referred to Israel as “the entity of filth” and a “swamp of wickedness.”

On October 7 — the day Hamas launched a surprise attack, murdering 1,200 people — Alagha published a post refusing to show sympathy for Israeli victims, writing: “Remove your emotions… no honorable blood is being shed for them… The truth is clear. The truth never dies. #AlAqsa_Flood.” In another post, he prayed for the downfall of Israel, saying: “O God, oppress the Israeli occupation and its supporters. O God, glorify Islam and Muslims.”

Even prior to that day, Alagha trafficked in classic antisemitic tropes. One post he amplified alleged Jews “break covenants,” “killed the prophets,” and “loved money more than God,” invoking centuries-old libels.

{Matzav.com}

In an interview with the Jewish Journal, Syria’s newly appointed president, Al-Julani, addressed the issue of Israel and spoke of a possible shift in regional dynamics.

“The era of endless tit-for-tat bombings must end. No nation prospers when its skies are filled with fear. The reality is, we have common enemies — and we can play a major role in regional security,” he stated, suggesting that continued hostilities serve no one and hinting at an interest in a more stable and cooperative future.

Al-Julani also voiced support for reviving the 1974 disengagement agreement between Syria and Israel, which followed the Yom Kippur War. He emphasized his commitment to the Druze population, saying, “Syria’s Druze are not pawns. They are citizens — deeply rooted, historically loyal, and deserving of every protection under the law. Their safety is non-negotiable.”

Turning to international relations, Al-Julani offered surprising praise for President Trump, stating, “I see him as a man of peace. We’ve both been shot at by the same enemy. Trump understands leverage, strength, and outcomes. Syria needs an honest broker who can reset the conversation. If there is a possibility of alignment that helps bring stability to the region — and security to the U.S. and its allies — I am ready to have that conversation. He is the only man capable of fixing this region, bringing us together, one brick at a time.”

When asked about Syria’s future, he acknowledged the profound challenges that lie ahead but maintained a cautiously optimistic tone. “We have inherited more than ruins,” he said. “We’ve inherited trauma, mistrust, and fatigue. But we have also inherited hope. Fragile, yes — but real.”

{Matzav.com}

Israel’s recent move to bar a high-ranking Arab diplomatic delegation from entering Ramallah drew harsh criticism from Jordan on Saturday, according to Arab News. The delegation had intended to meet with Palestinian Authority officials but was denied access by Israeli authorities.

The Jordanian Foreign Ministry issued a forceful rebuke, characterizing Israel’s decision as a “blatant violation” of its duties as an occupying force. The ministry further accused the Israeli leadership of acting with “arrogance” and of flouting international norms.

The delegation, created as part of a joint Arab-Islamic summit focused on the Gaza conflict, canceled its planned visit after the denial. It included foreign ministers from several key nations in the region: Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

“It reflects the extent of the Israeli government’s arrogance, its disregard for international law, and its continued illegitimate measures and policies that besiege the brotherly Palestinian people and their legitimate leadership, perpetuate the occupation, and undermine the chances of achieving a just and comprehensive peace,” Jordan’s foreign ministry declared in its statement.

The visit was meant to advance diplomatic discussions around Palestinian statehood. However, Israeli officials rejected the initiative outright, warning of dangerous consequences.

“Such a state would undoubtedly become a terrorist state in the heart of the land of Israel. Israel will not cooperate with such moves aimed at harming it and its security,” an Israeli official stated.

The group of diplomats was to be headed by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.

Prior to the October 7, 2023 Hamas assault on Israel, Israel and Saudi Arabia were actively exploring steps toward normalizing relations. That process was suspended after the attack, halting U.S.-brokered talks between the two countries.

Saudi Arabia is now shifting its focus toward international diplomacy regarding the Palestinian issue. Alongside France, it is set to co-host a major conference next month at the United Nations in New York aimed at reviving the two-state solution.

French President Emmanuel Macron indicated in April that France could move to formally recognize a Palestinian state as early as June.

Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu strongly condemned the French proposal, telling Macron that “this would constitute a huge prize for terrorism.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Earlier today, Palestinian Arab reports claimed that an Israeli military operation in the Tel al-Sultan district of Rafah led to the deaths of over 30 individuals and caused many others to be wounded near a location designated for distributing humanitarian aid. These assertions were swiftly picked up by international news outlets and sparked a surge of condemnation toward Israel.

In response, the Israel Defense Forces issued a statement clarifying their position. “The IDF is currently unaware of injuries caused by IDF fire within the Humanitarian Aid distribution site. The matter is still under review.”

Later, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation released surveillance footage taken from cameras at the aid center at the time the attack was said to have happened. The footage clearly showed that no strike occurred in that area, directly refuting the initial claims made by Palestinian Arab sources.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Today, Erev Yom Tov, the Houthi terrorist group in Yemen fired a missile toward central Israel, interrupting Shavuos preparations for countless Israeli families. The projectile was successfully intercepted before causing harm.

Warning sirens were activated across multiple regions, including Yerushalayim , Tel Aviv, Gush Etzion, and the Chevron area, following the launch. Magen David Adom confirmed that there were no injuries or reports of shrapnel landing as a result of the incident.

Flights en route to Ben-Gurion Airport experienced delays, including EL AL aircraft arriving from London and Boston, due to the heightened security situation.

This attack marks the 43rd ballistic missile fired at Israel by the Houthis since the resumption of hostilities in Gaza.

{Matzav.com Israel}

In a powerful address delivered just days before Zeman Matan Toraseinu, Rav Shneur Kluft, one of northern Israel’s most respected rabbanim and the Av Beis Din of Adas Yisrael in Haifa, sharply criticized the misplaced priorities surrounding Shavuos observance in some segments of the Torah world.

Rav Kluft, who also serves as Rosh Kollel of Daas Yoel and Rosh Yeshiva of Nachlas Naftali in Tzefas, devoted his derashah to what he described as a troubling trend: “People are making the ikkar the tofel, the main thing secondary, and the secondary thing into the main thing.”

Referring to the widespread custom of remaining awake all night on Leil Shavuos, Rav Kluft acknowledged the long-standing nature of the practice, but warned against allowing it to overshadow the core obligations of the day.

“The entire reason for staying up at night,” he explained, “is to prepare ourselves for tefillah, krias haTorah, and Megillas Rus. But if someone is dozing off during krias haTorah—especially when we read the Aseres Hadibros—then they have missed the point entirely.”

Quoting the Ramchal and Pesikta d’Rav Kahana, Rav Kluft emphasized that the most significant spiritual impact of Shavuos comes during the Torah reading itself. “According to halachah, if you won’t be fully alert for what you are obligated to hear, there’s no reason to stay up at night,” he stated.

He went on to lament: “They’re tired from the all-nighter, half asleep, and end up missing the Torah reading and Megillas Rus. They are forfeiting the very essence of the yom tov. The Aseres Hadibros were given on this day—and that’s what we’re here to receive again.”

With pain in his voice, the Rav concluded: “We are taking the essence and treating it as trivial, and taking the trivial and turning it into essence.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Israel is gearing up to intensify its military campaign in Gaza, with a particular focus on the northern sector, following Hamas’s rejection of the Witkoff-brokered ceasefire framework. Israeli officials viewed the group’s refusal as a clear sign of its unwillingness to seriously engage in negotiations.

Sources suggest that the move toward heightened military pressure comes in response to intelligence indicating that Az al-Din al-Haddad, the commander of Hamas’s Gaza Brigade, currently wields substantial authority within the enclave and is believed to be directing the group’s strategic decisions.

Alongside military operations, Israeli authorities are expected to implement adjustments to the distribution of humanitarian assistance. These changes include reducing the number of food trucks permitted entry and modifying distribution mechanisms. Security experts believe such steps weaken Hamas’s influence by targeting the logistical systems that underpin its control. “Undermines Hamas’s foundations,” one official said regarding the impact of restructured food delivery channels.

Steve Witkoff, U.S. Presidential Envoy to the Middle East, dismissed Hamas’s latest response as wholly unacceptable, asserting that it “only takes us backward.” He maintained that his plan represents “the only path to agree on a 60-day ceasefire during which half of the living hostages and half of the deceased would return to their families, allowing continued good-faith negotiations for a permanent ceasefire.”

In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, officials reiterated Israel’s commitment to the ceasefire outline presented by Witkoff, while faulting Hamas for standing in the way. “While Israel has agreed to the updated Witkoff framework for the release of our hostages, Hamas persists in its refusal. As US Presidential Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff has said, Hamas’s response is totally unacceptable and is a step backward. Israel will continue its efforts to return our hostages and defeat Hamas.”

Gal Hirsch, alongside the Hostage and Missing Persons Headquarters, communicated a similar message to families of those captured, confirming the joint U.S.-Israeli rejection of Hamas’s stance. “Dear families, Hamas’s response has reached us and is unacceptable to both the U.S. and Israel. While Israel agreed to the updated Wietkoff framework for the release of our hostages, Hamas continues to adhere to its obstinacy. As President Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, officially announced this evening—Hamas’s response is unacceptable and sets the situation back. Israel will continue its efforts to return all our hostages and defeat Hamas. We will continue to update you as negotiations with the mediators progress.”

A senior source involved in the diplomatic process disclosed that a thorough examination of Hamas’s reply made it clear that their terms remain vastly incompatible with Israel’s. Hamas’s demands reportedly include a ceasefire lasting as long as seven years, a complete Israeli military withdrawal from areas taken since March, dismantling of the Gaza Assistance Fund’s new aid model, and a reversion to the previous distribution system. “This is not a response—it’s a door slam,” the official remarked.

{Matzav.com Israel}

As tens of thousands prepare to walk to the Kosel this Shavuos, a series of hospitality tents have been erected throughout Yerushalayim to serve the crowds en route to the site.

The initiative, now in its third year, is led by the Ministry for Yerushalayim and Jewish Tradition under the direction of Minister Meir Porush.

The tents are strategically positioned across the city, providing pedestrians with a place to pause and refresh as they make their way to and from the Kosel on the night and day of Shavuos. Every year, multitudes from all neighborhoods of Yerushalayim walk to daven and learn at the makom kadosh, and the tents offer support along the way.

Each hospitality station is stocked with cold and hot drinks, light refreshments, grape juice for Kiddush, popsicles for children, and chairs for resting. Staff will be present to assist visitors.

The project is managed by the Yerushalayim Development Authority and, this year, is dedicated to the memory of Mr. Eyal Chaimovsky z”l, the late CEO of the Authority, who was deeply involved in the city’s growth and development. Large signs at each tent will include berachos for the food and a printed Kiddush text, all in tribute to Eyal Yitzchak ben Moshe Aharon Chaimovsky z”l.

The five tent locations are:

1. Schneller Parking Lot – Rechov Malchei Yisrael

2. Shamgar Funeral Home Parking Lot

3. Chords Bridge

4. Har Chotzvim Intersection

5. IDF Square (Kikar Tzahal)

Minister Porush stated, “It is a tremendous privilege for us to act on behalf of the tens of thousands of mispallelim at the Kosel during Shavuos. …We warmly welcome all those ascending to Yerushalayim for Shavuos and invite them to stop at the hospitality tents for light refreshments and a moment of rest. May we all be zocheh to receive the Torah with joy and see all our heartfelt tefillos answered for the good.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Just days before Shavuos, in the midst of the wheat harvest, a meaningful tradition played out once again: Reb Aharon Yosef Kornitzer, a devoted askan and chossid, personally delivered the first of the year’s gleaming wheat stalks to Gedolei Yisroel. The wheat was freshly harvested for matzos mitzvah to be baked for Pesach 5786 and was presented as a symbolic gift to adorn the Yom Tov tables of gedolei Torah.

Rabbi Kornitzer, affiliated with the Tiv HaMatzos bakery, has long been involved in the preparation of shmurah matzah. He ensures that the initial yield of the harvest is shared with the gedolim, linking the harvest of Shavuos with the preparation for the next Pesach.

This year, once again, these first fruits of the field were laid on the Yom Tov tables of gedolei Torah. Photographer Shuki Lehrer captured the touching moments:

An antisemitic act of vandalism shook the heart of Paris over Shabbos as three historic shuls, a well-known Jewish restaurant, and a Holocaust memorial in the city’s 4th arrondissement were defaced with green paint, widely associated with Islamic symbolism.

According to Paris police, security cameras captured a hooded figure in black defacing the Holocaust memorial around 4:30 a.m., roughly 45 minutes before officers discovered the scene. An open bucket of paint was later found near the Chez Marianne Jewish restaurant.

The Paris prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation on the grounds of “religiously motivated vandalism,” and transferred the case to the city’s special security unit.

The incident sparked swift and widespread condemnation across France’s political spectrum. Yonathan Arfi, president of the CRIF (Representative Council of French Jewish Institutions), told AFP: “There is deep sorrow and shock in seeing these images this morning.” Former French President François Hollande denounced the act as “intolerable. Antisemitism has no place in our Republic.”

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo announced that the city would be filing an official complaint, calling the attack “an act of intimidation that must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.” Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau described it as “a vile expression of hatred toward the Jewish community,” and far-left MP Manon Aubry called it “a despicable racist act,” adding, “Racism is poison; unity is the antidote.”

Jordan Bardella, leader of the far-right National Rally party, said that the attack “bears all the hallmarks of resurgent antisemitism in our country.” The Israeli Embassy in France also issued a statement labeling it “a coordinated antisemitic assault,” adding, “This cannot be separated from the troubling rhetoric we’ve witnessed from certain French leaders in recent weeks amid the Gaza conflict.”

Emmanuel Grégoire, a Socialist MP running for mayor of Paris, called for the establishment of a city department dedicated to combating racism, antisemitism, homophobia, and all forms of discrimination. Fellow Socialist Laurent Wauquiez remarked: “I think of the Righteous Among the Nations who saved Jews during the war. It’s shameful that this is where we are today. France deserves better.”

Socialist Party Secretary Olivier Faure was unequivocal: “Whether or not this was politically manipulated, it is an antisemitic act targeting the Jews of France.” The anti-racism group SOS Racisme also issued a strong condemnation.

The attack echoes a similar event in May 2024, when a red handprint—a symbol tied to a brutal lynching of Israeli soldiers in Ramallah in 2000—was spray-painted on the Wall of the Righteous at the Holocaust Memorial. In that case, three Bulgarian nationals were arrested and the act was attributed by French security services to foreign interference by Russian-speaking actors.

In light of the latest attack, Interior Minister Retailleau ordered heightened security around Jewish institutions ahead of Shavuos. He noted that “over 60% of religiously motivated crimes in France are antisemitic,” warning that the Jewish community remains under specific threat.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog commented: “I was horrified by the attack on Jewish institutions in Paris over Shabbos, including the historic shul in the Marais district, founded by my great-great-grandfather. I spoke this evening with CRIF leadership and Jewish community heads in France, expressing my full support and solidarity during this difficult time. I call on French authorities to act swiftly and decisively to bring the perpetrators to justice and to safeguard the Jewish community against all manifestations of hatred and violence.”

{Matzav.com}

Professor Stanley Fischer, one of the most influential figures in Israeli economic history and a former Governor of the Bank of Israel, passed away last night at the age of 81 after a prolonged illness.

Born in October 1943 in Zambia, Professor Fischer’s distinguished international career began long before he assumed his prominent role in Israel. He served as Vice President of the World Bank in 1988 and, from 1994 to 2001, held the role of First Deputy Managing Director at the International Monetary Fund. He later entered the private sector, taking on senior leadership positions at Citigroup International.

In 2005, Fischer accepted an invitation from Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Finance Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to become Governor of the Bank of Israel. Upon his arrival in the country, he received Israeli citizenship and succeeded Professor David Klein in the role. In 2010, he was reappointed for a second term and concluded his service in 2013.

The Bank of Israel released an official statement mourning his passing: “The Governor of the Bank of Israel, the Monetary Committee and Administrative Council, the Bank’s management and all its employees and retirees extend their deepest condolences to the family and bow their heads in memory of Professor Stanley Fischer, of blessed memory, who passed away last night. Professor Fischer served as Governor of the Bank of Israel from 2005 to 2013.”

The statement continued: “Professor Fischer made a decisive contribution to the Israeli economy — first in the 1980s as the IMF’s representative to Israel, when he played a pivotal role in formulating the 1985 Economic Stabilization Plan, and later during his tenure as Governor, during which he led a policy of economic responsibility through challenging times, including the global financial crisis of 2008.”

Current Governor of the Bank of Israel, Professor Amir Yaron, also paid tribute: “All of us at the Bank of Israel, past and present, bow our heads today in memory of Professor Fischer, whose contribution to the Bank and the advancement of Israel’s economy was monumental. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family. Yehi zichro baruch.”

{Matzav.com}

WATCH:

A flight filled with Breslover chassidim headed to Uman for Shavuos was thrown into chaos after one passenger was caught smoking an electronic cigarette, forcing the plane to return to Tel Aviv and leading to the removal of all passengers, Matzav.com has learned.

The incident occurred on a Wizz Air flight scheduled to depart from Tel Aviv to Bucharest, Romania, on Thursday. Just moments before takeoff, smoke detectors in the cabin were triggered when a passenger began vaping. Flight attendants rushed to the scene, and although there was no immediate danger to the aircraft, security protocols required the involvement of law enforcement.

Despite the passenger explaining that he was unaware the smoking ban extended to e-cigarettes, police arrived and ordered all passengers off the plane. Among them were hundreds of Breslover chassidim en route to Uman for Yom Tov. The group had planned a journey from Bucharest to the Ukrainian border to spend Shavuos at the kever of Rav Nachman of Breslov.

The annual Shavuos pilgrimage to Uman is part of a longstanding tradition established by Rav Nachman himself, who encouraged his followers to join him during three key times of the year: Rosh Hashanah, Shabbos Chanukah, and Shavuos. Even after his passing, chassidim continue to uphold this custom, gathering at his kever for these dates.

One of the passengers related: “The flight was supposed to depart at 5:00 p.m., but without notice it was delayed until 6:00. Then one passenger, who didn’t realize how serious vaping was, used his e-cigarette, and because of that, all of us were thrown off the flight, with no explanation and no alternative travel arrangements.”

Drivers were already waiting in Bucharest to help the group cross into Ukraine, and all those plans were ruined. “No one was available to talk to us. Out of all the passengers, only eight managed to book a replacement flight late that night at a cost of $1,000.”

While incidents involving passengers smoking on planes have occurred in the past, they typically result in the removal of the individual offender, not the entire passenger list.

{Matzav.com}

A powerful new ruling has sent shockwaves through the city of Bnei Brak, as leading rabbinic authorities have declared that renting apartments in the new “Supermarket Complex” neighborhood in the northern part of the city to individuals who are not chareidi le’dvar Hashem (devoutly observant) is strictly forbidden.

In a strongly worded letter published in recent days, prominent poskim of Bnei Brak expressed concern over developments in the new neighborhood, where, due to difficulty in finding tenants, some property owners have begun renting out their apartments to individuals who do not conform to the religious character of the area.

The letter, authored by Rav Moshe Shaul Klein, rav of the Or HaChaim neighborhood in Bnei Brak and a leading posek, states unequivocally: “There is a severe prohibition against renting — all the more so selling — to those who are not chareidim le’dvar Hashem.”

The letter continues with an urgent call to action: “It is the obligation of every individual to protest those who breach the boundaries in this matter, for it is a matter of life to us.” The rabbonim further clarified, “One need not be concerned about halbanas panim (embarrassing others) or similar considerations in this context.”

Joining the ruling are additional leading rabbonim, including HRav Shmuel Eliezer Stern, rav of the western Bnei Brak neighborhood, and Rav Menachem Mendel Lubin, who added: “This must be absolutely avoided, as the matter is clear and simple, and one must stand firm on this.”

Residents of the neighborhood, including many who acquired homes through Israel’s subsidized housing initiative Mechir LeMishtaken, hope that this halachic ruling will strengthen the Torah character of the community and ensure that new residents align with the spiritual and communal standards expected in the “City of Torah and Chassidus.”

The neighborhood already hosts a thriving cheder serving the general Chassidic population, which has seen great success since its opening at the beginning of the year. Additional educational institutions are expected to open in the coming school year, serving a range of groups and communities. There are also five functioning batei knesses and daily kollelim for yungeleit.

{Matzav.com Israel}