Matzav

President Donald Trump said Sunday that the timing of when the war with Iran will conclude will be determined in coordination with Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu, emphasizing that the two leaders remain in close contact as the conflict continues.

Speaking to The Times of Israel, Trump explained that both leaders are communicating regularly and that the decision will be made with input from both sides.

“I think it’s mutual… a little bit. We’ve been talking. I’ll make a decision at the right time, but everything’s going to be taken into account,” Trump said when asked whether he alone would determine when the war ends or if Netanyahu would also have a say.

Although Trump indicated that Netanyahu would be involved in discussions, he also suggested that the ultimate decision would be his to make.

When asked whether Israel might choose to continue fighting even if the United States stops its military operations, Trump dismissed the scenario.

“I don’t think it’s going to be necessary.”

Trump’s comments came shortly after Iranian state media reported that the country’s Assembly of Experts had selected Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to become Iran’s next Supreme Leader.

Earlier on Sunday, Trump told ABC News that whoever succeeds Iran’s current leadership would not remain in power long without approval from Washington. When The Times of Israel asked him to respond to reports about Mojtaba Khamenei’s selection, Trump offered a brief response.

“We’ll see what happens.”

During the conversation, Trump also spoke positively about Netanyahu and the way the two leaders have worked together during the ongoing conflict.

“We’ve done a great job together, like what we’ve done with Iran,” Trump said when asked whether his view of Netanyahu had changed since his previous term.

Trump also argued that Iran represented a direct danger to Israel before the war began eight days earlier.

“Iran was going to destroy Israel and everything else around it… and now look what we have – we have them being destroyed,” Trump said, while praising Netanyahu’s leadership during the conflict.

“Bibi’s done a great job. He’s been a wartime prime minister. We’ve worked together. We’ve destroyed a country that wanted to destroy Israel. Would have destroyed Israel if I wasn’t around. And [if] Bibi wasn’t around, Israel would not exist today.”

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump said he continues to support granting a pardon to Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, repeating his call for Israeli President Isaac Herzog to take action on the matter.

In an interview Sunday with Libby Alon of Channel 14 News, Trump addressed the controversy surrounding Netanyahu’s legal situation and the possibility of a presidential pardon in Israel.

When asked whether he is troubled by the conduct of Israel’s judicial system and whether he might consider sanctions against the country’s Attorney General or the President of the Supreme Court, Trump signaled his strong backing for Netanyahu.

“I don’t want to say it, but I’m all for Bibi.”

Trump was also questioned about regional diplomacy, including whether a deal might be possible between Israel and Qatar and whether Qatar could shift its position regarding support for Hamas.

“Anything is possible, who knows, they have been very helpful, the Qataris are very supportive and that’s great,” the President replied.

The remarks follow sharp criticism Trump directed last week at Herzog during an interview with Axios reporter Barak Ravid, in which he expressed frustration that the Israeli president had not yet granted Netanyahu a pardon.

“The president … should give Bibi the pardon today. I don’t want anything on Bibi’s mind other than fighting against Iran,” Trump said, arguing that Herzog had previously suggested he might issue a pardon but had not acted on it.

“He told me he would give it to him. But he has held it over Bibi’s head for a year,” Trump said. “Tell him I am exposing him. That president better damn well give him the pardon right now – and stop using it as leverage for his own political career.”

Herzog responded to Trump’s criticism in an interview with Fox News on Saturday, emphasizing that any decision regarding a pardon must follow Israel’s legal procedures.

“I said that I will consider everything seriously, but I’m obliged under the process and under Israeli law to await opinions that must be given to me by the relevant authorities. And that is why, of course, everything is on the table, but it has to be done according to Israeli law,” Herzog stressed.

He also expressed respect for Trump while noting that the issue involves Israel’s internal legal system.

“I respect President Trump tremendously, honestly. And I take the brunt with a lot of affection and respect to him because he’s the leader of the free world who’s changing history. But on the merits of a case, which is an internal case in Israel, I am obliged, I’m sworn in, and I’m the President of the state of Israel,” he added.

{Matzav.com}

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has declared its allegiance to Mojtaba Khamenei following his selection as the country’s new supreme leader, a move that also drew praise from several Iranian-backed groups across the Middle East.

Mojtaba Khamenei was chosen as successor to his father by Iran’s Assembly of Experts, placing him at the helm of the Islamic Republic during a period of intense conflict involving the United States and Israel.

In a statement released after the appointment, the Revolutionary Guard Corps said it stands fully prepared to serve under the authority of the new leader.

“The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps… is ready for complete obedience and self-sacrifice in carrying out the divine commands of the Guardian Jurist of the time, His Eminence Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei,” the Guards said.

Organizations aligned with Iran throughout the region also issued statements welcoming the development.

Yemen’s Houthi movement offered congratulations to Iran’s leadership and citizens after the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei, describing the appointment as a major milestone during the ongoing regional conflict.

“We congratulate the Islamic Republic of Iran, its leadership and people, on the selection of Sayyid Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution at this important and pivotal juncture,” the Houthis said in a statement on Telegram.

The group characterized the decision as a significant achievement for the Iranian regime and its allies.

The Houthis said the appointment represented “a new victory for the Islamic Revolution and a resounding blow to the enemies of the Islamic Republic and the enemies of the nation.”

In Iraq, the pro-Iran militia Kataib Hezbollah also voiced strong support for the leadership transition, praising Mojtaba Khamenei’s qualifications.

The group said in a statement that he is “a figure possessing the leadership qualifications and competence necessary to shoulder the responsibilities of this great trust in these critical times.”

It further argued that the decision by Iran’s Assembly of Experts demonstrated careful judgment about the challenges facing the country.

According to the statement, the appointment “is further proof of the vigilance of the Assembly of Experts and their deep foresight regarding the existential challenges facing the nation in confronting global arrogance,” describing him as “the best successor for the best predecessor.”

For many years, Mojtaba Khamenei has been viewed as one of the most influential figures within Iran’s security establishment and widely seen as a preferred choice of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Despite that backing, his path to leadership faced significant hurdles.

Reports over the weekend indicated that Mojtaba Khamenei was wounded during the initial stage of Operation Roaring Lion last Saturday morning but survived the assassination attempt. His father, mother, wife, and son were killed in the same strike.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has publicly opposed Mojtaba Khamenei’s elevation to supreme leader.

“Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me, we want someone who will bring harmony and peace to Iran. I have to be involved in the appointment,” he told Axios last Thursday.

Trump later reiterated his position in remarks to ABC News, suggesting that the next Iranian supreme leader would need American approval to maintain power.

“He’s going to have to get approval from us,” Trump told the American news outlet. “If he doesn’t get approval from us, he’s not going to last long.”

Trump said the objective is to prevent future confrontations tied to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

“I don’t want people to have to go back in five years and have to do the same thing again, or worse, let them have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said.

{Matzav.com}

Tucker Carlson drew widespread criticism online after describing Israel as “one of the single ugliest countries in the world” while discussing the current Middle East conflict.

The remarks gained rapid attention after conservative activist Laura Loomer posted a video clip of Carlson’s comments. The clip spread quickly across social media and accumulated more than one million views within roughly 16 hours.

In the video, Carlson spoke about Israeli military operations in Beirut while expressing regret over what he characterized as the destruction of “beautiful places” in different parts of the world.

Carlson highlighted the appearance of Lebanon’s capital city before turning to Israel for comparison.

“When you say that the Israelis are destroying Beirut, which is, having been to a lot of places in the world, one of the prettiest places on the globe,” Carlson said. “Beirut is just a marvel. It’s beautiful.”

He then pivoted to a harsh critique of Israel. “It’s being destroyed by Israel, which is one of the single ugliest countries in the world,” Carlson said.

“Nothing of beauty has been built there since 1948. Sorry. I’ve been everywhere in that country.”

Carlson continued by arguing that other locations in the region had historically been visually striking before suffering destruction during conflicts.

“Europe, right? Beirut. Parts of Syria, the holy sites, parts of Iran are apparently beautiful, totally blown up. It does seem like a war on beauty as well,” he added. “Beautiful things wind up being destroyed.”

Loomer sharply criticized Carlson’s comments when she shared the clip online, accusing him of hostility toward Jews.

“Today, Tucker Qatarlson said, ‘Israel is one of the ugliest countries in the world, which has built nothing of beauty since 1948,’” Loomer wrote.

She also rejected Carlson’s comparison between Israel and neighboring countries.

“He said all of Israel’s Islamic neighbors are beautiful and Israel is waging a war on beauty,” she wrote. “He said Israel wants to bomb Iran because Iran is pretty and Israel isn’t.”

“Tucker is consumed by his hatred of Jews,” Loomer added, pointing out that she had traveled to Israel numerous times and considers it “a beautiful country.”

The video quickly triggered a flood of responses from social media users reacting to Carlson’s remarks.

Machon Bnos Yehuda Seminary has warned parents not to route their daughters through Egypt after receiving reports of disturbing incidents involving women traveling through the country while trying to leave Eretz Yisroel.

In a letter sent to parents, Moishe Bak of Machon Bnos Yehuda said the seminary had received verified information describing frightening situations encountered by women attempting to travel through Egypt.

The message began by reassuring parents that the students currently at the seminary are safe.

“A Gut Voch. I am happy to be able to share with you that the Eim Bayit reported that Shabbos at Machon Bnos Yehuda (for those who chose to stay) was a beautiful and uplifting experience. Baruch Hashem, the girls are doing well and are safe.”

Bak explained that the school felt obligated to inform parents about troubling developments affecting women who had tried to leave the region through neighboring countries.

“It has been brought to our attention that a number of girls and women who attempted to travel through Egypt experienced very frightening situations, and in some cases may have been harmed or assaulted.”

According to the seminary, verified reports received recently described incidents in which women traveling in groups were separated from men who were accompanying them, including husbands.

“Just this evening we received verified information describing extremely distressing incidents. In certain situations, groups of women were separated from the men traveling with them — including married women being separated from their husbands — and were subjected to very troubling experiences.”

Bak noted that many of the people involved in the incidents have chosen not to speak publicly but asked that others be warned.

“Many of the individuals involved have chosen not to speak publicly about what happened, but they have specifically asked that others be warned.”

The seminary urged parents to avoid sending daughters through Egypt or nearby countries under any circumstances.

“For this reason, we are begging parents: please do not even consider sending your daughters through Egypt or any of the neighboring countries.”

At the same time, the school indicated that alternative travel options may soon become available as the situation evolves.

“Baruch Hashem, other options are beginning to present themselves. We are starting to hear that the skies are slowly reopening, airport operations are expected to resume tomorrow, and flights are gradually beginning to take passengers out of Eretz Yisrael. Igud HaYeshivos is also working on arranging flights, and we expect to have more information from them very soon.”

Bak also cautioned parents against making travel decisions based on information circulating in messaging groups or social media.

“At a time like this, decisions based on WhatsApp groups, group chats, or by people who do not truly understand the matzav on the ground should be avoided.”

He said the seminary administration is closely monitoring developments and will continue to update families.

“We are monitoring the situation very carefully and will continue to share reliable updates as they become available. I have a scheduled conference call with the hanhala at 2:00 AM to discuss plans for the coming days, and I will, b’ezras Hashem, send another update tomorrow morning.”

The letter concluded with further reassurance that the students currently in Yerushalayim are safe and coping well under the circumstances.

“Baruch Hashem, your daughters are safe and doing well. In general, they are calm, happy, and adjusting to life in Yerushalayim under the current circumstances. With a steady stream of calm, supportive, and positive messages coming from home, we believe they will continue to handle this situation with the strength and resilience they have already shown.”

{Matzav.com}

It is with great sadness that Matzav.com reports the passing of Mrs. Geraldine Schottenstein a”h, the respected matriarch of a family long known for its steadfast support of Torah and Jewish education. She passed away this past week.

Geraldine was the wife of Jerome Schottenstein z”l. Together with her husband, Mrs. Schottenstein was part of a family whose generosity and loyalty helped strengthen Torah institutions and Jewish educational initiatives in Columbus, Ohio, and in communities far beyond. Through their quiet but significant support, countless Jews were given the opportunity to receive a strong foundation in Torah and Yiddishkeit.

Geraldine was born in New Orleans on Feb. 1, 1933, to her parents, Eva and Joseph. She and Jerome were married in 1953, when she joined him in Columbus, Ohio.

The Schottenstein family has for decades been recognized for its dedication to the growth of Jewish education and communal life. Geraldine shared in that commitment, standing alongside her husband in supporting schools, yeshivos, and organizations devoted to the transmission of Torah values to future generations.

Her life reflected the ideals of devotion to family, community responsibility, and a deep appreciation for the importance of Jewish continuity through education.

She is survived by her brother, Marc Hurwitz; her four children; her 10 grandchildren; and her 22 great-grandchildren: Her children are : Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein; Ann and Ari Deshe; Susan and Jon Diamond; and Lori Schottenstein.

After Jerome’s untimely passing at the relatively young age of 66 in 1992, Geraldine married Marty Hoffman, who passed away in 2013.

The levayah was held on Shushan Purim at Lakeside Cemetery in Miami.

Yehi zichroh boruch.

{Matzav.com}

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Air raid sirens sounded repeatedly across Israel early Monday after several rounds of missile launches from Iran were detected, sending residents in many regions rushing to shelters.

The first alerts were activated shortly after 1:15 a.m., when warning sirens were heard in northern and central Israel following the detection of launches from Iran. Roughly twenty minutes later, additional missiles were identified, prompting sirens across central Israel, the Shfela region, the Lachish area, and parts of Samaria.

Another set of sirens sounded around 1:45 a.m. in northern Israel. Later, at approximately 4:00 a.m., residents in the north were again alerted after Israeli defense systems identified yet another round of missiles launched from Iran.

תיעוד: שברי יירוט במודיעין עילית@hadasgrinberg pic.twitter.com/upNjzfjHx5

— כאן חדשות (@kann_news) March 9, 2026

Authorities reported that fragments from interceptor missiles fell in several locations, including Lod, Rishon Letzion, and Modi’in Ilit. Israel Fire and Rescue Services said teams were dispatched to multiple sites in central Israel after debris from the interceptions caused substantial damage.

At one of the impact locations in Rishon Letzion, a woman in her 50s was injured. According to Magen David Adom, stones thrown into the air by the blast struck her head, causing a head injury.

A Magen David Adom EMT who arrived at the scene said, “We arrived quickly at the scene and saw a crater in the road, with broken rocks scattered on the ground all around. At the scene there was a woman who was injured in the head by rocks that flew towards her. We provided her with life-saving medical treatment and evacuated her in an MDA Mobile Intensive Care Unit to the hospital while in stable condition.”

The woman was transported to Shamir Hospital, where officials reported that her injuries were light and that she remained in stable condition.

At roughly the same time, warning sirens also sounded in Kiryat Shmona and nearby communities after rockets were launched from Lebanon. No casualties were reported from that incident.

The Israel Defense Forces said that in response it carried out strikes targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut while also launching a new round of attacks on Iranian regime terror infrastructure in central Iran.

The overnight attacks followed a separate incident on Sunday in which a man in his 40s was seriously wounded by shrapnel in Tel Aviv during another missile barrage fired from Iran toward central Israel.

Emergency responders from Magen David Adom treated the man at the scene before transporting him to Ichilov Hospital’s emergency department.

In addition, MDA crews provided treatment to six other individuals injured at several locations throughout central Israel. Among them were two people in Petach Tikva: a 25-year-old man who sustained moderate injuries and a 56-year-old man who was lightly hurt.

{Matzav.com}

Confusion and frustration have been reported at the Kosel in recent days, as mispallelim arriving to daven say they are being prevented from entering despite official statements indicating that limited access to the plaza has been permitted.

According to Israel Police announcements, up to 50 people at a time were supposed to be allowed into the Kosel plaza in accordance with current Home Front Command safety guidelines. However, those who came to the site report that in practice entry is often blocked entirely or handled in an inconsistent manner.

Mispallelim who arrived at the Kosel say that no clear system has been established for regulating entry and exit. Some report that the situation is being managed arbitrarily by security personnel on the ground, with small groups occasionally allowed inside while at other times the entrance is closed completely without any clear explanation.

At the center of the disagreement is the question of adequate protection in the event of missile alerts. A standard protected space exists only in nearby buildings under the management of the Western Wall Heritage Foundation. However, individuals familiar with the area say that the Wilson’s Arch complex could offer meaningful protection, similar to the portable shelters used elsewhere in the country.

Many mispallelim say the failure to make use of that area for tefillah has caused significant pain and frustration, particularly during a time when many feel a strong need to pour out their hearts in tefillah at the Kosel.

“It is not appropriate that the police cannot find a way to allow tefillah at the holiest place while still safeguarding human life,” rabbonim said, adding that the ability to daven there is a vital ruchniyus need during the ongoing war.

Amid Operation Roaring Lion and the ongoing security situation, the Western Wall Heritage Foundation carried out its traditional pre-Pesach removal of the notes placed between the stones of the Kosel.

The procedure took place Sunday morning, as it does each year before Pesach, and involved removing tens of thousands of kvittelach that had been placed between the stones over the past six months before transferring them for proper genizah.

The removal was carried out in the presence of Rav Shmuel Rabinowitz, the rov of the Kosel and the holy sites, together with Mordechai (Suli) Eliav, director general of the Western Wall Heritage Foundation. During the gathering they recited a special tefillah for the success of the campaign against the enemies of Klal Yisroel, particularly Iran, and for the safety of the soldiers of the IDF and security forces fighting on multiple fronts — in the air, at sea, and on land — as well as for the safety of U.S. soldiers assisting Israel.

In a statement, the Western Wall Heritage Foundation said that even during this difficult period, tefillos continue to arrive at the Kosel from throughout Eretz Yisroel and around the world.

“In these days, when the people of Israel face great challenges and seek rachamei Shamayim, we see how thousands of tefillos continue to reach the stones of the Kosel from across the country and the world,” the statement said.

Alongside tefillos for the safety of the country, its soldiers, and the Jewish people, the foundation said it has also received notes from individuals in countries considered hostile to Israel, expressing hopes for peace among nations.

The removal was carried out in accordance with halachah, with workers using gloves and disposable wooden tools to preserve the sanctity of the site and the privacy of the notes. The collected notes were placed in special sacks and will be buried through proper genizah.

The foundation also noted that hundreds of notes are sent daily through its website, in addition to the hundreds of thousands placed personally by mispallelim and visitors at the Kosel throughout the year. Among the notes received this year were messages sent online by individuals from countries including Iran, Yemen, Iraq, Qatar, Lebanon, Pakistan, Sudan, Jordan, Egypt, and Kazakhstan, many expressing heartfelt hopes for peace and reconciliation between nations.

{Matzav.com}

Technical problems with Israel’s Home Front Command emergency alerts have been reported on older-generation kosher mobile phones, with some users saying the warnings cause their devices to freeze or even erase stored data.

The issue was discussed on the radio program Osim Seder on Kol Chai, where host Yisroel Meir spoke with Pinchas Ben Ziv, an editor at the Emes news site. Ben Ziv described a troubling situation in which safety alerts meant to save lives are instead creating serious technical problems for users of older kosher phones.

“The alert that pops up on the screen takes over their phone and they can’t do anything,” Ben Ziv said. In some cases, he explained, the alert has reportedly caused entire contact lists to be deleted and has also drained phone batteries quickly on Shabbos, since users cannot acknowledge the message or silence it.

According to Ben Ziv, the main difficulty stems from the fact that the modern alert systems were not designed for older basic phones. He said the alerts override the device’s operating system and function externally, which can cause the phone to lock up.

Ben Ziv suggested that a possible solution could come through the Rabbinical Communications Committee, noting that if certain restrictions were removed, a dedicated application could potentially be installed to manage the alerts more effectively.

Lt. Col. (res.) Danny Cohen, who serves as the Home Front Command’s spokesperson to the chareidi community, offered a different explanation, saying the system follows updated guidelines issued by Israel’s Ministry of Communications that are designed primarily for devices using fourth-generation networks.

Cohen explained that unlike second- and third-generation phones, which may freeze when the alerts appear, newer devices support modern broadcast messaging technology that functions more reliably.

“I’m not aware of problems with fourth-generation devices,” Cohen said. However, he added that some phones may require a simple software update through a computer connection in order for the text alerts to display properly.

He noted that the alert system can provide early warnings minutes before a siren sounds and can also notify residents when it is safe to leave protected areas, features that are particularly valuable on Shabbos.

Yisroel Meir concluded the discussion by calling for a better balance between maintaining the spiritual standards associated with kosher phones and ensuring that users receive reliable safety alerts.

“There’s no reason a kosher phone shouldn’t provide you with safe and quiet protection,” he said, adding that he plans to continue following the issue together with the rabbinical communications committee.

For now, officials say the recommendation is clear: to ensure proper receipt of alerts without disrupting the device, users should switch to phones that support fourth-generation networks and make sure their devices receive the necessary software updates.

Israel’s Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, said Sunday that the current conflict represents a historic and decisive struggle that will shape Israel’s future security for years to come.

Zamir made the remarks during a situational assessment held earlier in the day with Home Front Command chief Maj. Gen. Shai Kalper, the commander of the Air Defense Array, Brig. Gen. K., and additional senior officers.

During the meeting, Zamir revealed that Israeli forces carried out overnight operations targeting Iranian Quds Force elements operating in Lebanon.

“During the night we acted against Iranian Quds Force elements in Lebanon, in Beirut, and struck them,” Zamir said. “I tell you that there is no safe place for the Iranian evil proxies anywhere in the Middle East — not in Beirut and not anywhere else.”

The chief of staff also addressed the ongoing confrontation with Hezbollah and the heavy price being paid on the northern front.

“At the same time, we have experienced considerable fire directed at northern communities, and there was also an incident overnight. From here I want to send my condolences to the families of those who were killed and wish a speedy recovery to our wounded,” he said. “Hezbollah is an extreme arm of the Iranian octopus, and it is paying — and will continue to pay — a heavy price for this.”

Zamir noted that Israel has already been operating under prolonged emergency conditions and warned that the current war could continue for an extended period.

“Israel has been in a state of ongoing emergency for two years already. What we need right now above all is perseverance and patience. This will take a long time, and you must be prepared for that — however long it takes, it will take.”

He echoed remarks made by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu the previous evening, emphasizing that determination and resilience will ultimately determine the outcome of the conflict.

“I say to you — and you know this very well — that the one who will win is the side that shows determination and perseverance. We know our home front; it has very great resilience. I am confident in the strength of our home front to give us all the backing we need to achieve our goals.”

Zamir also acknowledged the difficulties faced by Israeli civilians, many of whom have repeatedly had to seek shelter during missile alerts.

“I know that citizens at home are forced to enter protected spaces quite often. We are constantly reviewing the instructions according to the evolving situation. I say to the citizens — remain attentive and act according to the instructions.”

He stressed that the war effort involves the combined work of multiple branches of Israel’s military.

“We are all together in this effort — the Air Force pilots, the armored forces, our infantry and engineering units that are now on the border lines and in Lebanon. Everyone together in this effort. It is a very large effort.”

Zamir concluded by describing the war as a defining moment for Israel.

“This is the war of our generation, a critical war, a decisive war. This war will determine our future and our security here for many years to come.”

{Matzav.com}

A chareidi firefighter from Beit Shemesh who helped rescue victims during last week’s devastating incident in the city has been hailed for his bravery after entering dangerous conditions to save those trapped at the scene.

Yeshayahu Penik, a chareidi resident of Beit Shemesh who serves as a support firefighter in Israel’s Fire and Rescue Authority, rushed into the disaster zone even as sirens continued to sound and the situation remained volatile.

At the scene, surrounded by thick smoke and the cries of distressed families, Penik immediately joined rescue teams searching for trapped victims and deploying water lines to battle the flames.

Reflecting on the moment, Penik described acting almost instinctively as he carried out the rescue efforts.

“I was working on instinct,” he said. “What I did was a kiddush Hashem and truly saving lives. I understood this was not a normal interception. I went out to the scene together with all the teams and we began searching.”

Penik is one of 45 chareidi firefighters serving within Israel’s firefighting system, a group that demonstrates that it is possible to maintain a strong Torah identity while participating in emergency response and community protection.

His personal story reflects that balance. Although he comes from a deeply religious background, Penik said his family supported his decision to join the firefighting service. His parents even attended his graduation ceremony from the training program.

“I feel part of a system that accepts me as a chareidi Jew,” he said, adding that he also receives strong support from his wife.

The rescue efforts have drawn national attention. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir praised Penik’s actions and the growing participation of chareidi volunteers in emergency services.

“The service of chareidi young people is a real asset to the State of Israel,” Ben Gvir said. “Yeshayahu proves that it is possible to combine religious mission together with national and security responsibility at the highest level.”

For Penik, the combination is natural. He says that wherever help is needed, he intends to be there, wearing his uniform while guided by his faith and commitment to saving lives.

{Matzav.com}

The Satmar Rebbe addressed the ongoing war with Iran during Seudah Shlishis, speaking emotionally about the situation and cautioning against rejoicing over the military successes of what he referred to as the “Zionist Eigel.” The Rebbe said that even feeling happiness in one’s heart over such successes requires kapparah.

During his remarks, the Rebbe explained that he sees three different levels of people who become entangled, in his view, in the sin of the “Zionist Eigel” during the current war.

He began by recalling a memory from his childhood connected to the parsha of Ki Sisa, involving his uncle, the Satmar Rebbe, Rav Yoel Teitelbaum.

“I was then a child and I visited his home on Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Ki Sisa. He tested me on what I had learned in cheder, and tested me on Chumash Rashi from the weekly portion, Parshas Ki Sisa. I told him that we learned everything that is written about the sin of the golden calf, that the Jewish people worshipped the golden calf.”

According to the Rebbe, his uncle asked him how it could be possible that Klal Yisroel would bow down to a figure made of gold.

“And he asked me: ‘How can it be that the Jewish people would simply worship and bow down to a calf made of gold? How can that be?’. I was a child and I did not know how to answer him, and then he answered me based on what is brought in the Midrash: the calf was not just a silent calf made of gold, the golden calf had life; it danced, it sang, the calf performed wonders, it did tricks – it was just like a living calf. And therefore the Jewish people fell into its trap, and that caused them, heaven forbid, to worship the golden calf and to sin with that terrible sin.”

The Rebbe said that his uncle explained there were three levels of people who became involved in the sin of the Eigel.

“There were three levels of those who stumbled in the sin of the calf: some saw the wonders and simply began to worship the idol outright. The second group did not actually worship the calf, but they kissed and embraced the calf with affection. And there was a third group, which was the majority of the Jewish people, who simply rejoiced in their hearts; they saw the dancing and wonders of the calf and they enjoyed and were happy that the idol was able to perform all these wonders, and therefore everyone needed to bring atonement for the sin.”

Drawing a parallel to the current situation, the Satmar Rebbe said the lesson is very relevant to the present war with Iran.

“This is a very important lesson for our time, for this moment that we are standing in now with the war with Iran — the Zionist calf is performing wonders, it dances, it jumps, the whole world sees that it is succeeding in performing wonders. There are some among the Jewish people who bow to the idol — they serve the Zionist calf, and there are some who do not serve the calf but they kiss the Zionist calf.”

He continued by saying that the largest group, in his view, are those who simply feel joy in their hearts when they hear about military successes.

“But the main large group are those who rejoice in their hearts over the success of the calf, over the wonders that the calf succeeds with, over the dancing. They follow all day exactly every wonder, every success of the calf. You have no permission to think about it; even to rejoice in your heart is completely forbidden. They hear the news, they see all the strikes of the calf and they rejoice in their hearts over the success of the Zionist calf, and for that they need atonement — for the joy in the heart over the success of the idol.”

The Rebbe concluded by urging listeners to remember that avodah zarah remains forbidden even when it appears powerful or successful.

“Hashem should help and grant us understanding, to realize that idol worship is forbidden even when it succeeds in showing wonders. It dances, but the golden calf remains the golden calf. It is forbidden to serve it, forbidden to kiss it, forbidden to look at it and forbidden to rejoice in it. And this should be a guiding light for us, until Hashem helps and all idol worship will be abolished from the world, including this calf.”

{Matzav.com}

During a Purim celebration held in the court of the Biala Rebbe of Bnei Brak, the Rebbe delivered a fiery address that included sharp criticism of the Mizrachi movement and Zionism, drawing strong reactions from those present.

The remarks were delivered during the traditional Purim tish gathering held in the Rebbe’s court, where chassidim assembled to celebrate the holiday together with their Rebbe.

Opening his address, the Rebbe offered words of encouragement to the bochurim standing around the parenches, emphasizing the spiritual strength and value of every ben Torah.

“There is no such thing as a weak bochur,” the Rebbe declared passionately. “Every bochur is a precious treasure; each one is strong in his ruchniyus. Who are the truly weak ones? The people of Mizrachi and the Zionists — they are the klipah of Amalek in our generation.”

The Rebbe continued with pointed criticism, saying that anyone who adopts what he described as the outlook of Mizrachi is also considered part of that spiritual impurity.

“Anyone who goes with the ‘head’ like Mizrachi is also considered part of those klipos of Amalek that must be erased. This is the tumah from which we must distance ourselves completely.”

During the tish, in keeping with certain chassidic customs, the Rebbe was seen smoking a cigarette during moments of intense spiritual elevation, which according to chassidic tradition can symbolize lofty spiritual ideas and yichudim on this holy day.

{Matzav.com}

In recent days, unusual videos circulating online have shown what appear to be clusters of small glowing objects streaking across the night sky, sparking both curiosity and concern among the public.

Those images reflect a new security reality after Iranian barrages that included this type of missile struck central Israel. The attacks reportedly caused direct impacts and injuries from shrapnel in locations including Petach Tikvah and Tel Aviv.

The weapon involved is a ballistic missile equipped with a cluster warhead. Unlike a conventional missile that carries a single large explosive payload, this type of missile is designed to break apart during flight and release numerous smaller explosive units.

The process occurs high above the ground. At an altitude of roughly seven kilometers, the missile’s warhead opens and releases approximately twenty smaller submunitions. These small bombs then spread over a wide area, potentially covering a zone that can reach a diameter of up to sixteen kilometers from the point where the missile splits apart.

The glowing appearance seen in videos is caused by intense heat created as the submunitions pass through the atmosphere. Friction with the air generates bright light until the objects cool somewhat before reaching the ground.

Iran’s decision to deploy these missiles at this stage of the conflict appears to stem from both technological limitations and operational considerations.

One reason is that the weapon helps compensate for the relatively poor accuracy of some older Iranian missile systems, such as the Imad and Qadr missiles, which can miss their intended targets by more than a kilometer. By scattering dozens of explosive submunitions across a broad area, the missile increases the likelihood that at least one will strike something.

Another factor is the challenge such weapons pose to air-defense systems. Intercepting dozens of small objects can be far more difficult than stopping a single large missile. This creates an additional burden for defensive systems such as Iron Dome, especially if the missile is not intercepted earlier at high altitude by the Arrow system.

Security experts also believe the timing of their use may simply reflect availability. Some of these weapons are believed to have been stored in eastern Iran at sites that were less affected by recent strikes.

Paradoxically, cluster missiles are generally considered less destructive to buildings and protected spaces than missiles carrying a single large warhead.

A standard ballistic missile with a unified warhead weighing hundreds of kilograms can cause the collapse of an entire building. By contrast, each submunition in a cluster missile contains only about 2.5 kilograms of explosive material.

That amount of explosive is typically not enough to penetrate the reinforced concrete walls of a protected safe room or cause major structural damage. As a result, people who follow Home Front Command instructions and remain in protected areas are significantly safer.

However, for anyone caught outside, the danger can be severe. Each submunition spreads fast-moving and potentially lethal shrapnel across a wide area.

Another serious risk comes from unexploded submunitions. Some of the small bombs may fail to detonate when they hit the ground and can remain dangerous for years. These unexploded devices can detonate if touched or moved.

Authorities therefore stress that anyone who encounters suspicious objects or debris should avoid approaching them and report the location immediately to the police.

{Matzav.com}

Rabbi Moshe Yosef Edri has been chosen as the chief rabbi of the city of Givatayim following a vote conducted by the municipal rabbinical election committee, which was headed by Rabbi Yaakov Zamir, a retired judge of Israel’s Supreme Rabbinical Court.

The announcement was made Sunday after the ballots were counted, confirming Rabbi Edri’s victory in the election. He is the son of the late Rabbi Pinchas Edri, who previously served as Givatayim’s chief rabbi.

The appointment is part of a broader initiative by Israel’s Ministry of Religious Services to establish permanent rabbinical leadership in cities across the country, reflecting the ministry’s emphasis on stable and consistent Torah guidance for local communities. The decision carries particular significance for Givatayim residents following the passing of Rabbi Pinchas Edri.

The election committee was chaired by Rabbi Yaakov Zamir. Other members included Rabbi Dovid Cohen, the chief rabbi of Gan Yavne, as well as Moshik Goldstein, Sivan Goldberg, Yamit Yona, and representatives from the legal department of the Ministry of Religious Services. Tzuriel Porat served as the committee’s secretary.

Once the vote counting was completed, the committee reported that Rabbi Moshe Yosef Edri received 31 votes. Two ballots were submitted blank, while three members of the electoral body did not participate in the vote. Rabbi Edri, the son of the late Rabbi Pinchas Edri, is expected to continue the rabbinical legacy established by his father in the city.

Rabbi Edri studied at the Beit Shmaya and Kol Yehuda yeshivos and received semichah from several prominent poskim, including Rav Nissim Karelitz, Rav Mordechai Eliyahu, Rav Shalom Mashash, Rav Moshe Malka, and Rav Yaakov Edelstein.

He also holds official certification from Israel’s Chief Rabbinate to serve as both a city rabbi and a dayan. In addition, Rabbi Edri previously headed the Rav Pe’alim kollel, which trains rabbis and rabbinical judges, and authored the halachic work Imrei De’ah on the Shulchan Aruch.

MK Michael Malkieli, who previously served as Israel’s minister of religious services, praised the outcome of the election, saying that Givatayim’s residents have gained an outstanding city rabbi and the son of the late Rabbi Pinchas Edri, whom he described as the city’s longtime and beloved rabbinical leader.

Yehuda Avidan, director general of the Ministry of Religious Services, thanked the chairman of the election committee and Givatayim Mayor Ran Konik while congratulating Rabbi Edri on his selection. He said the appointment was the result of an orderly process initiated by the previous minister of religious services and carried out in coordination with all relevant authorities. Avidan expressed confidence that Rabbi Edri will continue his father’s legacy, work to strengthen residents’ connection to the world of Torah, and present Judaism in an accessible and welcoming way. He added that appointing a city rabbi provides spiritual and communal stability and allows residents to benefit from clear and committed Torah leadership.

Eitan Reuveni, chairman of Givatayim’s religious council, also welcomed the decision. He said the selection of a city rov is not merely a ceremonial moment but a meaningful statement about direction, responsibility, and partnership. According to Reuveni, the city has chosen rabbinic leadership that seeks to connect Torah with daily life, tradition with community, and spiritual depth with human sensitivity, marking both a continuation of the past and the beginning of a new chapter for the city and its residents.

{Matzav.com}

Col. (res.) David Rokni, who for decades served as the commanding officer of Israel’s Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony at Mount Herzl, passed away at the age of 94.

Rokni, who was born in Iran and later married there, immigrated to Israel in 1950 and joined Kibbutz Ashdot Yaakov.

He served in the Golani Brigade for 35 years, holding various staff and training positions, and during the 1970s he served as the sergeant major of Training Base 11. During his military service, he was appointed commander of the traditional torch-lighting ceremony held each year on the eve of Israel’s Independence Day at Mount Herzl.

For this role he was granted officer rank and was called up to reserve duty each year for a period of 42 days. Over the course of his tenure, Rokni oversaw 34 Independence Day torch-lighting ceremonies. He was later succeeded by Lt. Col. Shimon Deri, who was eventually promoted to the rank of colonel.

President Isaac Herzog paid tribute to Rokni, saying, “I received with great sorrow the news of the passing of Col. (res.) David Rokni, the legendary commander of the torch-lighting ceremony at Mount Herzl for about 34 years. Rokni was the symbol of this national and unifying ceremony, always leading it with grace and the utmost precision. Rokni served in the IDF with dedication, professionalism, and great love for the State of Israel, and for many years led one of Israel’s flagship events – the torch-lighting ceremony on the eve of Independence Day. He was a model figure of statesmanship and love of the land, and his unique contribution will be remembered for many years. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”

{Matzav.com}

A large fragment from an intercepted projectile struck a residential home in the city of Lod last night, causing major damage to the structure but leaving the family inside unharmed after they followed safety instructions and quickly moved to a protected area.

The incident occurred shortly after an air raid siren sounded. According to reports, the family immediately evacuated their apartment and moved into the building’s stairwell, which was the safest available location in the limited time they had to take cover.

Only seconds later, a heavy interception fragment crashed into the home.

Lod Mayor Yair Revivo arrived at the scene later in the evening to support the family and assess the damage caused by the impact.

Revivo said, “This case is a sharp reminder to all of us how much the Home Front Command’s instructions save lives. The members of the family showed exemplary responsibility, and that is what saved them today.”

Officials from the Lod municipality and the Home Front Command again urged residents to strictly follow safety guidelines during alerts.

In a statement, authorities said, “Continue to follow the instructions and reach a protected area in time. Remaining in the protected space for 10 minutes is critical to preventing injuries from shrapnel and interception debris.”

An Israeli reservist has been suspended from duty after being filmed vandalizing a memorial dedicated to the former Palestinian Authority chairman, arch terrorist Yasser Arafat, in the Samaria region. Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir sharply criticized the decision and called for it to be reconsidered.

According to a report by I24NEWS journalist Shlomi Heller, the reservist, who serves in a battalion of the Menashe Brigade, was suspended from reserve service after footage circulated showing him damaging the monument in the Palestinian village of Zababida in Samaria. The memorial commemorates Arafat, whom many in Israel hold responsible for numerous terrorist attacks.

Ben Gvir responded strongly to the suspension, arguing that the move was misguided. He said, “The decision to suspend the reserve fighter who smashed the picture of the arch-terrorist and mass murderer Yasser Arafat — whose hands are stained with the blood of many Jews — is, in my view, a mistaken decision.”

The minister added that the soldier is currently serving during wartime, noting that, in his words, “his brothers and sisters were slaughtered and murdered.”

Ben Gvir said the act reflected “the pain, anger, and sense of justice of someone who is fighting for the people of Israel.”

He further argued that suspending a reservist under such circumstances was “a step too far,” and urged authorities to reconsider the decision.

{Matzav.com}