Matzav

Senators Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut traveled to Kyiv on Friday to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and discuss their latest legislative initiative aimed at ramping up pressure on Russia through sweeping new sanctions. The two lawmakers are pushing a bipartisan bill designed to punish Moscow if it continues to evade meaningful peace negotiations.

The proposed legislation, introduced last week, threatens to enforce harsh penalties on Russia and those who facilitate its war efforts in Ukraine. One of the central components of the bill is a massive 500% tariff on imports from nations that purchase Russian energy, including oil, gas, and uranium, as well as other key commodities.

“We understand that Russia is trying to turn diplomacy into a farce,” Zelenskyy said, The New Voice of Ukraine reported. “It hides behind talks while planning fresh offensive operations on the front, striking our towns and villages daily and rejecting any ceasefire proposals. That’s why additional pressure is necessary.”

A corresponding measure in the House of Representatives was introduced by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania. Like its Senate counterpart, the bill has received broad bipartisan backing. Fitzpatrick, who is part of the congressional Ukraine Caucus along with Graham and Blumenthal’s membership in the Senate version, previously met with Zelenskyy in Kyiv this past April.

“Enough of talking, it’s time to act,” Graham told reporters, according to Bloomberg. “I would expect next week that the Senate will start moving the sanctions bill. There are House members that are ready to move in the House, and you will see congressional action.”

During their visit, the senators commended Ukraine for standing firm in the face of Russian assaults. Zelenskyy, in turn, voiced his gratitude for their leadership on the sanctions initiative.

“I appreciate this initiative — a bipartisan sanctions bill now supported by 82 senators,” said Zelenskyy, who also expressed gratitude to the American people and to President Donald Trump for his efforts to end the conflict. “We discussed this and other measures to force Russia toward peace, and we will continue working on this together.”

In a press release, Zelenskyy’s office stated that Graham and Blumenthal also visited the scene of a deadly missile attack in Kyiv on April 24, which left 13 dead and over 90 injured. The strike, one of the deadliest since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022, prompted President Trump to issue a strong rebuke to Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling on him via Truth Social to “STOP!” and pursue peace.

“I’m determined that we will pass the Russian sanctions bill, now with 82 co-sponsors evenly bipartisan divided, and move forward to send a message to Putin: It’s crunch time,” Blumenthal said in a video from Kyiv posted Friday on his X account. “Show up and put up or you will be hit by bone-crushing sanctions, and more military aid for Ukraine, which we have an obligation to provide.”

The leaders also reviewed the status of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine held in Istanbul. Thus far, the only tangible result has been a prisoner exchange, The New Voice of Ukraine reported. Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine remains willing to pursue dialogue, but said that Russia has failed to submit an agenda for the upcoming round of negotiations scheduled for Monday.

Despite the upcoming talks, Russian officials reportedly indicated on Friday that President Putin would not be participating in the next meeting.

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg is preparing to sail to Gaza this weekend on a humanitarian mission, drawing sharp criticism from some commentators who are suggesting she shouldn’t plan on returning.

The 22-year-old, known globally for her climate change campaigns, will be joined by several other notable figures as they board the ship “Madleen” in Catania, Sicily on Sunday. Their goal is to bring aid to Gaza and protest the Israeli blockade that has remained in place for months.

According to the World Health Organization, Gaza faces a looming famine due to the blockade, with 75% of the population experiencing severe to extreme food shortages.

“The world cannot be silent bystanders,” Thunberg said of the initiative, which is being organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.

“This silence and passivity that we are seeing from most of the world is deadly. We are seeing a systematic starvation of 2 million people. Every single one of us has a moral obligation to do everything we can to fight for a free Palestine.”

This marks the second recent effort by the FFC to reach Gaza. Their earlier attempt on May 2 ended when the vessel “Conscience” was hit by drones in international waters near Malta.

The coalition accused Israel of being behind that strike, though Israeli authorities have neither confirmed nor denied involvement.

Among those joining Thunberg on the “Madleen” are actor Liam Cunningham, known for his role in “Game of Thrones,” and European Parliament member Rima Hassan. However, much of the public reaction has been focused on Thunberg herself, with critics questioning her decision to enter a region embroiled in conflict.

Danica De Giorgio, a host for Sky News Australia, labeled Thunberg her “big loser of the week.”

“She’s sailing to Gaza like it’s some sort of idyllic holiday destination,” De Giorgio said angrily. “She really is annoying at all times.”

“She’s such an urban terrorist herself, she’ll fit right in. But also I’m wondering if it’s a secret deal from the Israelis — all the Hamas terrorists will leave if she’s inflicted on them. Wouldn’t you?” remarked guest Prue MacSween of Verve Communications.

“This girl is not well, I believe, and let’s just hope she stays over there. I think that would be a good thing.”

Many online echoed those thoughts.

“I hope she stay in Gaza,” one person commented.

“Let’s hope it’s a one-way voyage,” another user posted.

Thunberg’s departure coincides with efforts by Hamas to keep talks alive regarding a possible long-term ceasefire. The discussions are centered around a U.S.-brokered 60-day truce that includes the phased release of hostages.

On Saturday, Hamas reportedly delivered its response to U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff. The group demanded that Washington take stronger measures to prevent Israel from renewing its military operations if a permanent ceasefire isn’t finalized within the designated timeline, according to a source cited by The Times of Israel. This could lead to further delays in negotiations.

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Erev Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Bamidbar – 47th day of the Omer

Dear Parents of Yeshiva ——–   ——–    שליט”א,

A Gutten Erev Shabbos and Yom Tov to you and all of Klal Yisroel. As we prepare for the upcoming Yom Tov, please take a moment to read this message. As your child’s Sgan Menahel I am zoche to know the wonderful talmidim and watch them Shteig every single day of the year. As you can imagine, some days are easier and some are harder. For example, Sundays in general are a drop more challenging, especially in the summer when Havdala is very late and the talmidim go to sleep very late. Sunday is also harder for many talmidim who have sisters who stay home.

This coming Sunday, which is Erev Shavuos – Kabbalas Hatorah and Zman Mattan Toraseinu – our school is open and we hope that every single talmid will gain tremendously. We are planning assemblies and fun projects for the talmidim. Our goal is that every single talmid will be excited and well prepared for this great Yom Tov.

At the same time, we understand that some of the talmidim will be exhausted after a Shabbos of going to sleep very late Leil Shabbos – Friday Night – and again on Motzei Shabbos. If your dear child is in a very deep sleep on Sunday morning, please have rachmanus on him and on the school. If he needs his Shavuos Divrei Torah and Yom Tov project, please call or email the secretary and guide us how to send it to you. I hope that this will be well taken. We want every child to attend school, but we would rather have healthy, quality students who are eager to learn. Our devoted Rebbeim are working tirelessly and we do not want to make it a burden on them.

This same message also applies to Wednesday, Isru Chag, after five consecutive very late nights. Although we are usually very strict about the talmidim coming on time, this Sunday and Wednesday we have decided to let all the children come whenever their parents bring them. We tried to arrange a late start for Wednesday, but were not able to due to bussing issues. We hope that this will be for your benefit and to help bring you nachas.

Now is the time to show our children that we care about them. I discussed this with our esteemed Menahel and Vaad Hachinuch and they strongly encouraged this message.

Let us take advantage of these holy days and accept the Torah whole-heartedly together with our families and all of Klal Yisroel. Wishing you a very beautiful and uplifting Shabbos and Yom Tov.

Sincerely,

Your humbled Sgan Menahel, Rabbi ——-  ————–

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{Matzav.com}

WATCH:

Hamas issued a new set of conditions and revisions today in response to U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s latest ceasefire and hostage-release proposal, prompting Witkoff to condemn the group’s reply as “totally unacceptable and only takes us backward.”

A Hamas representative, who spoke with the Associated Press anonymously because of the sensitive nature of the discussions, said the revisions centered around “US guarantees, the timing of hostage release, the delivery of aid and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.”

One individual with direct knowledge of the discussions told The Times of Israel that one of Hamas’s conditions would make it more complicated for Israel to resume military operations if negotiations toward a permanent truce are not finalized after the 60-day pause. Unlike the U.S. outline, which scheduled hostage releases in two phases at the beginning of the truce, Hamas proposed spacing them out across the entire two-month period.

According to the source, this change was aimed at preventing Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu from disengaging from the ceasefire negotiations once the initial hostages are released or from avoiding participation altogether, as had happened during a previous ceasefire attempt in January.

An Israeli official reported to The Times of Israel that Hamas’s demands also included a truce lasting as long as seven years.

Witkoff urged Hamas to embrace the American-led initiative. “Hamas should accept the framework proposal we put forward as the basis for proximity talks, which we can begin immediately this coming week.”

He added: “That is the only way we can close a 60-day ceasefire deal in the coming days, in which half of the living hostages and half of those who are deceased will come home to their families, and in which we can have at the proximity talks substantive negotiations in good faith to try to reach a permanent ceasefire.”

Under the proposal presented by Witkoff, both sides would use the two-month pause to finalize arrangements for Israel’s limited withdrawal from Gaza. The document also outlines a structure for negotiations during the truce to explore the possibility of ending the conflict altogether.

Another Israeli source, speaking on background, told reporters that Israel views Hamas’s reaction as tantamount to a rejection of the proposal.

Senior Hamas figure Basem Naim told Reuters that the group had not dismissed the offer and accused Israel of misrepresenting the situation. He said Witkoff’s comments reflected “unfair” treatment and “complete bias” in favor of Israel.

The most recent U.S. initiative was shared with Hamas earlier in the week after Israel’s chief negotiator, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, gave it the green light.

Arab intermediaries remain engaged in behind-the-scenes efforts to persuade Hamas to soften some of the proposed edits, according to a source involved in the dialogue.

In a public statement today, Hamas reiterated its core goals: a lasting ceasefire, full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and unfettered humanitarian aid access — all of which Israel has largely opposed up to this point.

In response, Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office issued a statement reaffirming its position. “While Israel has agreed to the updated Witkoff framework for the release of our hostages, Hamas continues to cling to its refusal.”

Echoing Witkoff’s language, the statement continued, “It is unacceptable and sets the process back.”

“Israel will continue its efforts to bring our hostages home and to defeat Hamas,” the statement declared.

According to Channel 12, Israeli officials involved in the negotiations told hostage families today that if enacted in full, the Witkoff plan would eventually result in the return of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas—not just a partial release.

At present, there are 58 hostages still in Gaza. The IDF has confirmed that at least 35 are deceased, while 20 are believed to still be alive. Israeli officials have voiced serious concern about the fate of three others whose status remains uncertain.

On Friday, President Donald Trump told reporters that a resolution between Israel and Hamas might be near. “We’ll let you know about it during the day or maybe tomorrow, and we have a chance of that,” Trump said during remarks in the Oval Office.

When asked whether he thought Hamas would agree to the deal, Trump responded, “I think they want to — they want to get out of that mess.”

Sources with knowledge of the discussions said Hamas was dissatisfied with the proposal because it still grants Israel the ability to resume fighting once the ceasefire ends.

Although Netanyahu told hostage families last Thursday that he was open to the deal, he has not yet submitted it to the cabinet for approval. Several far-right members of his coalition have voiced strong opposition to the plan.

Defense Minister Yisroel Katz did not mince words. “The Hamas murderers will now be forced to choose: accept the terms of the ‘Witkoff Deal’ for the release of the hostages — or be annihilated,” he said Friday.

Israel has maintained that dismantling Hamas remains one of the primary goals of its military campaign.

Efforts to reach an end to the nearly 20-month war have so far fallen short. Israel resumed combat operations in March after an earlier temporary truce collapsed. Humanitarian conditions in Gaza have reached critical levels, with the United Nations warning that the population faces an imminent risk of famine.

According to a verified copy of Witkoff’s latest proposal, Hamas would release 10 living Israeli hostages and return the remains of 18 others over the course of a 60-day truce.

In exchange, Israel would release 125 Palestinians convicted of terrorism and serving life sentences, 1,111 Gazans detained since the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023, and the bodies of 180 Palestinians currently in Israeli custody.

The IDF would also be required to withdraw from specific areas, though the exact locations and scope of that redeployment would be determined during future proximity talks.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar squarely placed the blame for the ongoing war on Hamas.

“Hamas initiated this war with the 7/10 massacre [and] is responsible for its continuation by refusing to release our hostages and disarm,” Sa’ar posted on X in English.

He added, “If France and the UK want to reach a ceasefire, pressure should be put on Hamas that continues to say No, instead of attacking Israel, which says Yes,” in reference to increasing criticism from European governments.

{Matzav.com}

Iran has expanded its reserves of enriched uranium and continues to block access to its nuclear facilities for inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), according to the agency’s latest quarterly assessment.

The report notes that Iran’s supply of uranium enriched to 60% has climbed to 133.8 kilograms, bringing the total amount of material at that level of enrichment to 408.6 kilograms. Meanwhile, the stockpile of uranium enriched to 20% has declined, dropping from 332.3 kilograms to 274.5 kilograms.

In a rare move, the Prime Minister’s Office of Israel issued an English-language statement on Shabbos, urging swift action from the global community to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

“The IAEA has reported a grave and unequivocal report on Iran’s nuclear program,” the statement warned. “The agency presents a stark picture that serves as a clear warning sign: despite countless warnings by the international community, Iran is totally determined to complete its nuclear weapons program.”

“The report strongly reinforces what Israel has been saying for years — the purpose of Iran’s nuclear program is not peaceful. This is evident from the alarming scope of Iran’s uranium enrichment activity. Such a level of enrichment exists only in countries actively pursuing nuclear weapons and has no civilian justification whatsoever.”

“The report clearly indicates that Iran remains in non-compliance of its fundamental commitments and obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and continues to withhold cooperation from IAEA inspectors.”

The statement concluded with a direct appeal to world leaders: “The international community must act now to stop Iran.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

United Airlines revealed that it will restart its route from Newark Airport to Tel Aviv ahead of its previously scheduled date.

The airline confirmed that service will officially resume on June 5, with the initial flight from Newark to Tel Aviv set to depart this coming Thursday.

United noted that the decision came after a detailed review of safety and logistical factors, carried out in consultation with the airline’s pilots and flight attendant unions.

Meanwhile, AirBaltic announced on Saturday that it plans to restart its flights to Israel on June 6. Earlier in the week, Air France resumed its service to Ben Gurion Airport on Tuesday. Delta Air Lines has also confirmed its intention to reinstate flights to Israel.

Some airlines have not yet resumed operations. Lufthansa, for instance, is expected to delay its return until June 15. British Airways and Ryanair have both prolonged their suspensions, now aiming to resume flights only at the end of July.

Ryanair, a budget airline, said last Wednesday that it will be halting all flights to Israel until July 31.

British Airways made a similar announcement approximately a week ago, stating that all of its flights to Israel will remain suspended through the end of July.

{Matzav.com}

The United States delivered its initial official nuclear proposal to Iran today, just hours after UN nuclear watchdogs disclosed a significant uptick in Iran’s accumulation of highly enriched uranium, according to a report by The New York Times.

Rather than submitting a complete agreement, U.S. officials presented a set of key points. These included a call for Iran to halt its uranium enrichment efforts and participate in a regional nuclear energy initiative alongside the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and several other Arab nations.

The proposal was transmitted through Oman and acknowledged by both Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and the White House as having been received.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, as quoted in the New York Times, that President Trump “has made it clear that Iran can never obtain a nuclear bomb.” She added, “Special Envoy Witkoff has sent a detailed and acceptable proposal to the Iranian regime, and it’s in their best interest to accept it.”

In response, Araghchi said Iran’s reply would be shaped by “the principles, national interests and rights of the people of Iran.”

Despite the diplomatic outreach, Iran has continued to expand its stock of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, which now totals around 900 pounds, according to two separate IAEA assessments reviewed by The New York Times. IAEA Director Rafael Grossi expressed deep concern over this escalation, particularly since Iran has not been recognized as a nuclear weapons state.

Reports also indicated that in May, President Trump blocked an Israeli plan to attack Iranian nuclear facilities. “I want it very strong where we can go in with inspectors, we can take whatever we want, we can blow up whatever we want, but nobody’s getting killed,” Trump said earlier this week.

In a highly unusual move, Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office released a statement on the Jewish Sabbath, reacting to the IAEA findings. “The IAEA has reported a grave and unequivocal report on Iran’s nuclear program,” the statement warned. “The agency presents a stark picture that serves as a clear warning sign: despite countless warnings by the international community, Iran is totally determined to complete its nuclear weapons program.”

“The report strongly reinforces what Israel has been saying for years — the purpose of Iran’s nuclear program is not peaceful. This is evident from the alarming scope of Iran’s uranium enrichment activity. Such a level of enrichment exists only in countries actively pursuing nuclear weapons and has no civilian justification whatsoever.”

“The report clearly indicates that Iran remains in non-compliance of its fundamental commitments and obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and continues to withhold cooperation from IAEA inspectors.”

The Israeli statement concluded with a direct and urgent message: “The international community must act now to stop Iran.”

{Matzav.com}

U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff issued a sharp rebuke on Saturday in response to Hamas’ latest position on a proposed ceasefire agreement. Witkoff denounced the group’s reply as “totally unacceptable,” warning that it “only takes us backward.”

An official closely involved in the talks disclosed that an in-depth review of Hamas’ counteroffer reveals it falls far short of the terms presented by Israel. The source noted that Hamas’ list of demands strays significantly from the existing framework.

Hamas has called for an extended truce that could last up to seven years, the complete withdrawal of IDF forces from territory seized since March, and the dismantling of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s recently implemented aid distribution system. They also want to revert to the older aid distribution method. “This isn’t a response — it’s a slammed door,” the official said.

Israel’s government issued a statement affirming that it had accepted the latest iteration of the Witkoff proposal to secure the release of hostages. However, the statement emphasized that Hamas remains unwilling to comply.

“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.”

In reaction, Hamas criticized Witkoff’s remarks, arguing that they never outright rejected the plan. The group said his characterization was “unfair” and showed partiality toward Israel.

Previously, Hamas confirmed it had delivered its answer to the mediators concerning the revised Witkoff framework. They described the proposal as one designed to “achieve a permanent ceasefire, a comprehensive withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and ensure the flow of aid to our people and our families in the Strip.”

Reports from Egypt’s Al-Ghad channel revealed specific details of Hamas’ offer regarding hostage releases. They proposed releasing ten living hostages in three separate phases: four on the first day, two on day 30, and another four by day 60. The remains of eighteen deceased hostages would also be handed over in three phases: on days 10, 30, and 50.

Hamas further stipulated that these hostage transfers—both living and deceased—would be contingent on Israel agreeing to release a pre-determined number of Palestinian prisoners.

{Matzav.com}

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For Some, It’s Joy.
For Others, It’s Just Pressure.

In thousands of homes across our community, Shavuos is being planned with excitement; menus, learning, flowers, guests… But in over 1,500 homes, what should be a Yom Tov of joy is instead a source of quiet stress.

They’re not thinking about which cheesecake to try or which appetizer to make.
It’s not about extras. It’s about basics.
Milk? Eggs? Chicken? Challah? Can they make Yom Tov at all?

And this year more than ever, those questions are real.
In this economy, even basics feel out of reach for so many.

Rising prices, stretched budgets, and financial setbacks are leaving families, families just like ours, without the means to prepare for Yom Tov. And it’s not just those in obvious crisis. It’s families doing their best, quietly struggling behind closed doors.

Families that once got by are falling behind. And as Shavuos approaches, more and more are turning to the one place they know will be there: Tomchei Shabbos.

Essentials shouldn’t be extras and Simchas Yom Tov shouldn’t be a luxury.

For more than 40 years, Tomchei Shabbos has been the quiet answer to a growing need. With discretion, dignity, and a massive volunteer effort, they distribute weekly food packages, bringing Shabbos and Yom Tov to the tables of more than 1800 families, many of whom are facing real hardship.

Week after week, Yom Tov after Yom Tov, over 1800 families receive what they need,delivered with care, packed by volunteers, and made possible by people like you.

• 7 million+ pounds of food distributed annually

• 88,200 individuals fed every year—69,000 of them children

• 925,000 pounds of chicken and meat given out in 2020 alone

• All powered by 350+ volunteers who pack, sort, and deliver

It’s not just about the food.

It’s about making sure that Yom Tov feels like a gift—not a burden.

Because we’re not just individuals here. We’re a community that shows up.
When things get hard, we step in. When someone falls behind, we make sure they’re not left behind.

And as Shavuos approaches, the opportunity to give is even greater,both for them and for us.

Send Them Simchas Yom Tov.
And Bring Brachah Into Your Own.

Giving to Tomchei Shabbos is always a zechus. But before Shavuos, it becomes something more.

As brought down by Rav Chaim Palagi-

ערב שבועות יפריש צ”א פרוטות וישלים על שיעור ב’ פעמים ב”ן…
והוא סגולה לחשוכי בנים ומקרב הגאולה.

Gift a family with Simchas Yom Tov and bring brachah into your own home.

Tomchei Shabbos makes it possible.
You make Tomchei Shabbos possible.

Donate $104 Today

732.978.9901 |  tomchei.org

President Trump declared on Friday that steel imports into the United States would now face a steep 50% tariff, doubling the previous rate, as part of an intensified push to defend American manufacturing. The move followed two court decisions that cast uncertainty over key aspects of his trade policies.

“At 25%, they can sort of get over that fence. At 50%, they can no longer get over the fence,” Trump told US Steel workers during a rally held in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania.

He assured the enthusiastic audience that the city’s storied industrial legacy was about to be revived. “Pittsburgh will very soon be respected around the world as the Steel City again,” Trump told the crowd.

“We don’t want America’s future to be built with shoddy steel from Shanghai, we want it built with the strength and the pride of Pittsburgh.”

Trump’s visit highlighted a major investment agreement with Nippon Steel of Japan, which opted to put $14 billion into US Steel rather than acquire it outright—a deal that had previously drawn political fire.

“This is an incredible deal for American steel workers, and it includes vital protections to ensure that all steel workers will keep their jobs at all facilities in the United States will remain open and thriving,” Trump said.

He emphasized that his success in winning Pennsylvania and other battleground states on November 5 was tied to his strong support from steelworkers—and he reaffirmed his commitment to standing by them.

Earlier in his administration, Trump had imposed 25% tariffs on steel imports and later removed exemptions that had initially been granted to top suppliers such as Canada, Mexico, and Brazil.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Defense Minister Yisroel Katz issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas on Friday evening, demanding the terror group accept the ceasefire arrangement brokered by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff—or face complete destruction.

“The IDF continues its operations in Gaza with full force, striking and dismantling Hamas strongholds while evacuating the local population from all combat zones and attacking the area from the air, land, and sea on an unprecedented scale to provide maximum protection for our soldiers ahead of the entry of maneuvering forces into every area and during the maneuver,” said Katz.

He emphasized that protecting Israeli troops remains the military’s top priority. “Our primary commitment is to the safety of our heroic soldiers, both regular and reservists, above all other considerations,” he added.

Katz laid out the IDF’s broader strategy, explaining that after clearing each area of terrorists, the army will follow the same playbook used in Rafah—eliminate threats, secure control, and maintain a presence to ensure stability. “After neutralizing the terrorists and clearing the area, the IDF eliminates any threat based on the Rafah model—and remains to hold the ground. In this way, we will achieve the war’s objectives: the release of all hostages while subduing and defeating Hamas,” stated Katz.

He closed his remarks with a direct message to Hamas leadership: “Hamas murderers will now have to choose: accept the terms of the ‘Witkoff Deal’ for the release of the hostages – or be eliminated,” the Defense Minister concluded.

Katz’s comments followed a statement from Hamas indicating they were still weighing their response. “Hamas is holding discussions with other Palestinian factions regarding the ceasefire proposal, which Hamas recently received from Mr. Witkoff through the mediators.”

On Thursday, regional news outlets Al Arabiya and Al Hadath reported that Hamas and Israel had reached an agreement on a 60-day truce, and that President Trump would soon disclose the full details of the accord.

But an Israeli diplomatic source quickly refuted the report, insisting that Jerusalem had not been informed of any acceptance from Hamas regarding Witkoff’s offer.

Later that same day, a high-ranking Hamas leader issued a tempered response: “Witkoff’s new proposal does not meet our demands, but we are still examining it.”

Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu had already met with the families of Israeli hostages to inform them that Israel had accepted the ceasefire plan laid out by Witkoff.

Still, Netanyahu made it clear that this agreement does not signal a cessation of the military campaign in Gaza.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump stated on Friday that discussions surrounding a potential truce and hostage exchange deal in Gaza are advancing, and he anticipates a formal update might be released either later in the day or by Shabbos.

Trump further noted that negotiations with Iran concerning its nuclear program also appear to be progressing.

“They’re very close to an agreement on Gaza, and we’ll let you know about it during the day or maybe tomorrow, and I think we have a chance of making a deal with Iran. They don’t want to be blown up, they would rather make a deal, and I think that could happen in the not too distant future,” he said.

Trump continued by emphasizing that the United States seeks stability and prosperity for Iran but made clear that Tehran’s nuclear ambitions must be curbed.

“We want them to be safe. We want them to have a very, very successful nation. Let it be a great nation, but we can’t have that. They cannot have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple. And I think we’re fairly close to a deal with Iran,” added Trump.

These remarks followed reports in the Arab media on Thursday claiming that both Hamas and Israel had accepted a 60-day ceasefire plan introduced by Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. According to those reports, Trump was expected to unveil the specifics of the agreement imminently.

An Israeli diplomatic source rejected those claims, stating that the Israeli government had not been made aware of Hamas agreeing to Witkoff’s terms.

Shortly afterward, a high-ranking Hamas representative said, “Witkoff’s new proposal does not meet our demands, but we are still examining it.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu informed the families of Israeli captives that Israel had given its approval to the ceasefire framework proposed by Witkoff.

Nevertheless, Netanyahu made it clear that this development does not indicate a conclusion to the ongoing military campaign in Gaza.

{Matzav.com}

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has revised its guidance on COVID-19 vaccines for children, no longer urging universal vaccination for all minors. Instead, the agency now says that kids without preexisting conditions may receive the vaccine, depending on physician judgment and parental choice.

This policy shift was reflected in the CDC’s newly published childhood immunization schedule on Thursday. It follows a recent announcement by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who declared earlier in the week that the CDC would end its recommendation of COVID-19 shots for both healthy children and expectant mothers who are not considered at risk.

“Where the parent presents with a desire for their child to be vaccinated, children 6 months and older may receive COVID-19 vaccination, informed by the clinical judgment of a healthcare provider and personal preference and circumstances,” reads the revised CDC guidance.

Although the updated stance is now classified as a “shared clinical decision-making” approach for children, insurance providers will still be obligated to cover the cost of vaccinations for this age group.

The agency maintains its endorsement of COVID-19 vaccination for children with moderate or severe immune system issues, as well as for most adults. Pregnant women, however, are now categorized under “No Guidance/Not Applicable,” whereas previously the CDC had formally advised all pregnant adults to get vaccinated.

Kennedy, in a video posted online, emphasized that the CDC was also removing healthy pregnant women from its list of recommended COVID-19 vaccine recipients. Yet, multiple pages on the CDC’s website as of Friday still recommend that pregnant individuals receive the shot due to increased vulnerability to serious illness.

“Studies including hundreds of thousands of people around the world show that COVID-19 vaccination before and during pregnancy is safe, effective, and beneficial to both the pregnant woman and the baby. The benefits of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine outweigh any potential risks of vaccination during pregnancy,” states one CDC webpage still live as of Friday.

Experts often view CDC vaccine recommendations as influential because they impact everything from insurance mandates to legal protections. These guidelines are typically vetted in public forums by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

Another notable edit in Thursday’s release was the removal of a statement indicating that the recommendations had been formally endorsed by ACIP, the CDC, and various external medical associations.

The CDC’s current position aligns with what the advisory committee had been preparing to vote on next month: narrowing its COVID-19 vaccine guidance to focus primarily on older adults and at-risk children, while still allowing others to get vaccinated if they choose.

Historically, the CDC has used the “shared clinical decision-making” label to preserve insurance coverage for vaccines even when it chooses not to universally recommend them.

As of its April meeting, ACIP had not indicated any plan to withdraw its recommendation for pregnant women to be vaccinated. On the contrary, pregnancy was still considered one of the health conditions that might justify continued vaccination.

The updated recommendation appeared to be prompted by a memo from Kennedy that came shortly after his social media announcement. According to multiple officials at the CDC, the directive caught them off guard.

Kennedy’s order cited findings from the FDA and NIH, stating that for healthy children, “the risks of the COVID-19 vaccine… do not outweigh the purported benefits of the vaccine.” It also pointed to “the lack of high-quality data demonstrating safety of the mRNA vaccines during pregnancy combined with the uncertainty of the benefits” for both mother and child.

“Truly the death of expertise. This would be like the secretary of transportation directing that all planes must fly 5,000 feet higher than current. It’s vibe-based decision making,” remarked one federal health official in response to the directive.

In an internal message to employees on Friday morning, CDC officials confirmed the policy change. “As you might be aware, the HHS Secretary issued a directive to CDC to update COVID-19 vaccine recommendations on the child and adult immunization schedules. In accordance with that instruction, CDC last night posted updated versions,” the email stated.

{Matzav.com}

Elon Musk surprised reporters at the White House on Friday when he appeared at an Oval Office event with a noticeable black eye, marking the conclusion of his 130-day stint in the Trump administration.

“I’ve got a little shiner here,” said the 53-year-old after President Trump fielded a question from Fox News reporter Peter Doocy about “the first lady of France slapping her husband, Emmanuel Macron.”

“I wasn’t anywhere near France,” Musk joked. “I was just horsing around with Little X, and I said, ‘Go ahead, punch me in the face,’ and he did.”

“Turns out even a five-year-old punching you in the face … ” he started to say, before cutting himself off.

The bruise had actually been visible a day earlier in images from a separate event where Musk gave a talk about SpaceX’s ambitious mission to reach Mars.

When asked whether creating a functioning Mars colony or streamlining the U.S. government would be more challenging, Musk responded, “It’s a tough call, but I think colonizing Mars and making life multiplanetary is harder,” adding, “We do expect to achieve, over time, the trillion-dollar savings.”

As head of the Department of Government Efficiency, known by the acronym DOGE, Musk had set a bold target of reducing federal expenditures by $2 trillion by the time Trump assumed office.

For about four months, DOGE employees had collaborated with various departments across the federal government to slash grants, cancel contracts, and eliminate certain funding channels.

However, by the time Musk stepped down on Wednesday, DOGE’s own website only showed $175 billion in confirmed cuts — translating to about $1,087 in savings per U.S. taxpayer.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) commented Wednesday that these reductions would be factored into this year’s congressional spending bills, alongside $1.5 trillion in additional savings tied to Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.

Photos from Thursday’s Mars presentation also showed Musk with the same visible bruise while he discussed SpaceX’s vision for building a sustainable human presence beyond Earth.

At his farewell event Friday, Musk wore a black “Dogefather” shirt and a cap emblazoned with “DOGE,” though his demeanor was more subdued than usual.

Speculation swirled online about the injury. Users on X raised questions about the tech billionaire’s appearance.

“What happened to Elon, appears he has a black eye on his right,” one post wondered.

“Yoo did Elon Musk get straight up punched in the face? That’s a left hook black eye if I’ve ever seen one. Might explain his delayed talk?” another user wrote.

During the event, President Trump presented Musk with a ceremonial key to the White House, similar to the one he had previously given to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Speaking to reporters, Musk clarified that this wasn’t the end for DOGE. “Not the end of DOGE, only the beginning,” he declared, promising, “the DOGE team will only grow stronger over time.”

“He’s going to be back and forth,” Trump said. “I’ve got a feeling.”

{Matzav.com}

President Trump lashed out at China on Friday, accusing the country of breaking the trade agreement the two nations reached just weeks ago.

The deal, announced on May 12 after negotiations in Switzerland, had called for a 90-day easing of tariffs while both sides continued talks. Under the terms of the agreement, the United States reduced its tariffs on Chinese imports from 145% to 30%, moving away from what had effectively been a trade blockade.

But signs of trouble began to emerge this week. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Thursday night that discussions had become “a bit stalled,” and on Friday morning, Trump publicly blasted China for violating the terms of the deal.

“Because of this deal, everything quickly stabilized and China got back to business as usual. Everybody was happy! That is the good news!!!” Trump posted on Truth Social. “The bad news is that China, perhaps not surprisingly to some, HAS TOTALLY VIOLATED ITS AGREEMENT WITH US. So much for being Mr. NICE GUY!”

The markets responded quickly. The S&P 500, which had been flat in pre-market trading, fell about 0.3% by late morning. Despite the dip, the index is still nearly 5% higher than it was when the U.S.–China agreement was first announced, continuing an upward trend that began when Trump paused most other tariffs in April.

In response to Trump’s accusations, the Chinese embassy in Washington issued a statement defending its actions and pushing back against what it called discriminatory U.S. policies. Spokesperson Liu Pengyu said, “China once again urges the US to immediately correct its erroneous actions, cease discriminatory restrictions against China and jointly uphold the consensus reached at the high-level talks in Geneva.”

What steps Trump might take next remain unclear. The current agreement is set to remain in effect until August 12. Meanwhile, a federal court recently ruled that Trump’s earlier tariffs on China were illegal—a decision that has been temporarily stayed while legal proceedings continue.

{Matzav.com}

At a pre-Shavuos gathering in Ra’anana, the noted posek and member of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein, delivered powerful words of chizuk to a group of Brazilian olim, expressing wonder and gratitude over the miraculous survival of the Jewish people in Eretz Yisroel despite overwhelming odds.

The remarks were delivered following Rav Zilberstein’s regular Thursday evening shiur for doctors from hospitals across the country, held at Mayanei HaYeshua Medical Center in Bnei Brak.

During his address, Rav Zilberstein reflected on the precarious security situation and the miraculous resilience of Am Yisroel. “We are a tiny nation,” he said, “barely eight million people, surrounded by huge, powerful countries. And yet, we are still here.”

Pointing specifically to Iran, he remarked, “Iran is ten times the size of Israel, and yet it stands powerless. We are surviving here through nisei nissim—open miracles.”

Rav Zilberstein stated emphatically, “It is clear as day—we are living in the period right before the coming of Moshiach.”

He went on to describe how much has changed in recent decades: “Until 90 years ago, who dreamed of aliyah to Eretz Yisroel? Everything was still called Palestine. Who had any foothold here at all?”

“Seventy or eighty years ago, things began to change,” he recalled. “They brought over yeshivos—Mir, Chevron, Porat Yosef, Slabodka, Etz Chaim, and others—and Torah began to blossom here.”

With emotion, Rav Zilberstein spoke of the recent missile attacks. “The Arabs fired hundreds and thousands of bombot—and baruch Hashem, they didn’t explode. They were launched to every corner of the country, and no one understands how they failed to detonate.”

He concluded with heartfelt thanks to Hakadosh Baruch Hu, saying, “We must thank Hashem, who has separated us from those who err and shows us clearly that we are on the threshold of bi’as haMoshiach. Boruch atem laHashem, Creator of Heaven and Earth. May you be blessed with all good things, my dear ones.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu underwent a scheduled colonoscopy on Friday morning at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Yerushalayim.

His office later issued a statement confirming that the procedure had gone smoothly. Netanyahu expressed gratitude to the medical professionals involved in the exam, naming Professor Eran Goldin, Professor Yaakov Gozal, Dr. Ariel Benson, and nurse Galit Peres for their care.

The Prime Minister’s personal doctor, Dr. Herman Berkovitz, was also present during the examination to oversee the process.

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure where physicians use a long, flexible tube fitted with a small camera and fiber-optic lighting to examine the interior of the lower digestive system. The instrument is gently inserted through the rectum to allow for detailed imaging.

This process enables doctors to inspect the lining of the colon and in many cases, reach as far as the appendix and the terminal ileum.

Roughly two and a half years earlier, Netanyahu had a similar test at the same facility. During that earlier visit, doctors identified and removed two small growths, which were later determined to be benign.

{Matzav.com Israel}

In a BBC interview on Friday, United Nations humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher walked back a previous assertion that 14,000 infants in Gaza might perish within 48 hours if aid didn’t reach them—a statement the UN later officially rescinded.

Fletcher conceded that the original comments lacked the necessary precision. “We were desperately trying to get that aid in,” he explained, acknowledging the urgency of the situation at the time.

“We were being told we couldn’t get it in, and we knew that we’d probably have a couple of days, a window to get as much aid in as possible, and that was being denied, and we were desperate to get that in. And so yes, we’ve got to be utterly precise with our language, and we’ve clarified that,” Fletcher said.

After disavowing Fletcher’s initial claim, the UN referred to a separate report projecting that from April 2025 through March 2026, as many as 14,100 children in Gaza could suffer from malnutrition—a significantly different timeline from the two-day warning previously issued.

The BBC also asked Fletcher to address his claim that “10,000 aid trucks on the Gaza border, cleared and ready to go” had been blocked, a figure denied by Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT). In response, Fletcher acknowledged the need for more exactness in public statements, saying he “especially needed to be careful and really precise.”

Despite issuing clarifications and corrections, Fletcher continued to accuse Israel of deliberate starvation tactics against Gaza civilians. “It is classified as a war crime. Obviously, these are issues for the courts to take the judgement on, and ultimately for history to take a judgement on,” he told the BBC.

While the UN has distanced itself from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), the group announced on Thursday the launch of its third aid distribution site within Gaza.

GHF reported that it distributed approximately 997,920 meals on Thursday alone, raising the cumulative total to about 1,838,182 meals, delivered in around 17,280 aid packages.

Fletcher also condemned the Israeli government for allegedly blocking food from entering Gaza. “We’re seeing food set on the borders and not being allowed in when there is a population on the other side of the border that is starving, and we’re hearing Israeli ministers say that is to put pressure on the population of Gaza,” he said, urging Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu to “absolutely” repudiate such rhetoric.

Calling for international accountability, Fletcher said, “We would expect governments all over the world to stand for international humanitarian law, the international community is very, very clear on that,” and urged Netanyahu to put a stop to “this language, and ultimately, this policy… of forced displacement.”

{Matzav.com}