Matzav

Republican Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Eric Schmitt of Missouri announced on Thursday that they will be leading a Senate hearing next month aimed at uncovering who was effectively making presidential decisions in place of Joe Biden, and how efforts were coordinated to conceal his cognitive challenges.

The two senators revealed that the Senate Judiciary Committee will hold its first session on June 18, focusing on what they describe as a close circle of Biden family members and staffers who allegedly took over key responsibilities while Biden was “sidelined.”

“For four years, when the American people saw Joe Biden, they saw someone who was clearly not capable of making major decisions for the nation. Yet those closest to the President and the mainstream media did everything they could to hide this truth. It’s time to expose how a cadre of Biden aides and family members were the de-facto commander-in-chief, while President Biden was sidelined,” Schmitt stated in the announcement.

Cornyn echoed those concerns, condemning the alleged deception as unacceptable.

“For this conspiracy between the mainstream media, Joe Biden’s family, and his inner circle to have hidden the impairment of the President of the United States for years, and lied consistently to the American people about his capacity to make decisions, which are solely vested by the Constitution, is unacceptable,” said Cornyn. “Our Republic depends on having a President who has the mental capacity to do the job, and it’s clear that President Biden did not.”

In response to speculation about his mental fitness, Biden made an appearance on “The View” earlier this month to dismiss the criticism, saying people are “wrong” and asserting there is “nothing to sustain that.”

But just over a week later, a new book titled Original Sin was released, including the word “cover-up” in its subtitle. Drawing from approximately 200 interviews—primarily with Democrats and former White House personnel—the book outlines numerous instances that point to Biden’s mental decline and describes how those closest to him worked to keep the situation hidden from the public.

{Matzav.com}

Speaking with Newsmax on Thursday, border czar Tom Homan declared that the United States is currently experiencing its most secure border ever under President Donald Trump’s leadership.

“Illegal crossings on the southern border are down 96%,” Homan stated during an appearance on The Record With Greta Van Susteren. “We have the most secure border in the history of this nation, even beating Trump 45. President Trump is a game-changer, and its success has been unprecedented.”

According to Homan, morale and enthusiasm within Immigration and Customs Enforcement remain strong, and recruitment numbers are soaring.

“Last month, Border Patrol had the highest recruiting numbers at any time in the history of the United States Border Patrol,” Homan said.

He attributed the surge in interest directly to Trump’s return to office. “Now that they know we’ve got President Trump in office, you get to do the job that you signed up for. You get to uphold the oath you took.”

He added that the renewed sense of mission is motivating many to return to public service. “A lot of people want to come back and make America safe again. They want to secure our border and protect America,” he said. “A secure border gives strong national security. Recruiting right now not a problem.”

Still, Homan stressed the importance of legislative support. “We just need Congress to pass that budget to give us money, to bring out more resources. We need money to hire people,” Homan said. “That’s what we’re waiting on.”

Even with these positive developments, Homan emphasized that finishing construction of the southern border wall remains a critical objective.

“Every place they build a border barrier, illegal immigration went down, drug flow went down,” Homan explained.

He also highlighted the humanitarian benefits of a physical barrier. “But the walls also save lives. Women, children can’t get over that wall, which means they’re going to a place where there’s not a wall, and they’re going to be met with Border Patrol, who take care of the humanitarian needs.”

Vice President JD Vance expressed in a Thursday interview with Newsmax that the Trump administration believes the cryptocurrency sector should be given the freedom to flourish within the broader economy, with its success or failure ultimately determined by market dynamics.

Vance himself is optimistic about crypto’s future.

The vice president, who had just returned from delivering a keynote address at the Bitcoin Conference in Las Vegas, shared his perspective during a one-on-one conversation with Greg Kelly on Greg Kelly Reports.

While speaking at the Vegas event, Vance declared that Bitcoin now enjoys solid backing at the federal level, stating, “Bitcoin finally has an ‘ally in the White House.'”

Acknowledging the inherent risks in emerging technologies, Vance told Kelly: “I fully accept there are risks to all of these things. There’s always risks in new technologies. Our approach in the Trump administration is to say, let people innovate, let people figure this stuff out on their own. If the critics of Bitcoin are right — I happen to think they’re wrong — that will eventually win out in the marketplace. If the advocates of Bitcoin are right — and I happen to agree with them — … that’s eventually going to win out in the marketplace.”

During his remarks at the conference on Wednesday, Vance outlined three pillars that reflect the administration’s efforts to advance Trump’s pledge to champion Bitcoin in the United States: reducing government-imposed hurdles, integrating digital assets into institutional frameworks, and establishing a transparent regulatory environment.

In the Newsmax interview, Vance emphasized the administration’s belief in limited government intervention. “What you shouldn’t have is a dictatorial government that tells certain industries they’re not allowed to do what they need to do. You’ve gotta let these people make decisions on their own. And that’s sort of been our approach,” Vance told Kelly.

He reiterated that the administration’s regulatory strategy is rooted in practical oversight, not micromanagement. “We want common sense regulatory regimes; we would allow the cryptocurrency industry to participate in the mainstream of the economy. But then ultimately, the laws of economics, the laws of supply and demand are gonna make the determinations from there,” he added.

{Matzav.com}

During an appearance on MSNBC’s “The Weeknight,” Representative Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) leveled serious accusations against Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), claiming their actions may have crossed into criminal territory.

The discussion began when co-host Symone Sanders brought up recent developments involving Musk. “Let’s talk about Elon Musk. You know, I’ve seen a lot of headlines, congressman, over the last 24 hours. Elon Musk’s exit: he is leaving Washington. But I think that Elon Musk is just finished. I have not heard a lot of Democratic elected officials talk about the data. Elon Musk and his DOGE peeps, if you will, they installed servers within the White House complex. They were integral within the office of presidential personnel, which has tentacles out into every single agency they are. They have inroads into every single agency. Now the DOGE was in there, and the servers, I don’t think, have left the White House. So what are Democrats going to do about the data? Are you all going to follow up on this?”

Responding to her remarks, Subramanyam didn’t hold back in criticizing Musk’s conduct and intentions. “Yeah, I heard he’s on some image repair tour. I think the best way for him to repair his image is to reverse all the damage he did to our government, to the American people. Yeah, those servers are a big issue. We want to continue to investigate that. And certainly, I think some crimes may have been committed over the past 3 or 4 months, and they are going to come to light one way or another, even if it takes us getting into power again, but we will subpoena people and find out.”

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

Judges from the U.S. Court of International Trade who recently ruled against President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs have longstanding ties to the Democratic Party and liberal activism, raising questions about their impartiality.

The trio of judges—Gary Katzmann, Timothy Reif, and Jane Restani—who delivered Wednesday’s ruling, which was temporarily halted by an appellate court on Thursday, all have personal and professional histories that align with progressive causes and candidates. Critics say their decision fits a pattern of judicial activism aimed at weakening Trump’s executive authority.

President Trump didn’t hold back in his reaction. Taking to Truth Social, he posted, “Where do these initial three Judges come from? How is it possible for them to have potentially done such damage to the United States of America? Is it purely a hatred of ‘TRUMP?’ What other reason could it be?”

Judge Gary Katzmann, an Obama appointee since 2015, boasts a pedigree from Columbia, Oxford, and Yale Law School. He clerked for Stephen Breyer during Breyer’s time on the First Circuit and worked at Harvard Law School as both a researcher and lecturer. Despite being listed as an unaffiliated voter in Massachusetts, records show he voted in three Democratic primaries between 2014 and 2018.

In late 2021, Katzmann ruled against Trump’s move to raise tariffs on solar panel imports, stating that the president had clearly gone beyond his authority. He also upheld Massachusetts’ assault weapons ban as constitutional in a different case, and has participated in educational events organized by Discovering Justice, a progressive nonprofit advocating for systemic reforms. The group publicly declared, “It is abundantly clear to all of us that this justice system does not work for everyone.”

Though the other two judges are also aligned with Democratic politics, they were nominated by Republican presidents due to a legal cap on the number of judges from the same party on the trade court.

Judge Timothy Reif, named to the bench by President Trump in 2019, has an extensive record of contributions to Democratic campaigns, including Hillary Clinton in 2016 and both Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. In total, Reif contributed $1,015 to Democratic entities over two decades, according to Federal Election Commission data.

An alumnus of Princeton and Columbia Law School, Reif has spent most of his career in public service. His roles have included stints at the U.S. International Trade Commission, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the House Ways and Means Committee. He’s also been a lecturer at institutions including Georgetown University and Princeton.

Reif’s Senate confirmation documents outline his political involvement going back to 1980, including volunteering for campaigns of prominent Democrats such as Ted Kennedy, John Kerry, and Barack Obama. One detail in his paperwork that drew attention was that he never registered for the selective service.

He also penned an article in 2016 criticizing what he saw as overreach by the World Trade Organization’s appellate body, indicating a concern with judicial overstepping—though critics say that stance didn’t extend to his own court.

Judge Jane Restani, first appointed by Ronald Reagan, earned her undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, a university known for its liberal leanings. During the recent case, she pressed Trump administration attorneys on whether the courts truly lacked the power to halt presidential declarations, even if they were “crazy.”

Restani has consistently ruled against Trump’s trade policies. In 2019, she joined a decision restricting his ability to raise steel tariffs on Turkey. And in 2018, she rejected a challenge to Trump’s use of Section 232 tariffs, dismissing claims that factoring in broader economic issues went beyond legal authority.

Although the initial ruling by the panel has been paused, the broader legal battle over the tariffs remains unresolved as the appeals court has yet to weigh in on the case’s substance.

{Matzav.com}

Two detectives with the NYPD have been reassigned to desk duty following revelations that they were moonlighting as security guards for a group of cryptocurrency investors now accused of kidnapping a man in SoHo, according to law enforcement sources who spoke with CBS News New York.

The department confirmed that an internal probe has been launched, and both officers have had their guns and badges taken away pending the outcome of the investigation.

While it’s common for NYPD officers to take side jobs during off hours—a practice known as moonlighting—department regulations require prior approval. Authorities say these two detectives did not receive such clearance, prompting a response from Internal Affairs.

“It sounds like they just circumvented the process. Perhaps they were tempted by the allure of the salary, right? Salary comes into play,” said Michael Alcazar, a retired NYPD detective who now teaches at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. “The money is just probably worth the squeeze and the money is just wanna take a chance, take a gamble because they don’t feel it’s going to get approved and the money is just too great to turn down.

“If you’re working off duty without authorization, you could be suspended. You could even be terminated as a police officer,” Alcazar added.

One of the detectives had been part of the security team assigned to protect Mayor Eric Adams. Speaking on the matter, Adams—who recently returned from a cryptocurrency summit in Las Vegas—said he’s not informed about the personal activities of those assigned to his detail. However, he acknowledged that the claims are being addressed.

“I have security personnel and we don’t know what they do in their private lives. It has nothing to do with their professional capacity to make sure that I’m safe while I move around the city,” Adams said.

Police have yet to disclose the exact time or location of the detectives’ work for the crypto investors. So far, investigators have not found evidence suggesting the officers had any knowledge of or involvement in the alleged kidnapping plot.

According to sources familiar with the case, one of the detectives is said to have picked up the victim—an Italian national—at the airport on May 6 and transported him to the SoHo residence where the incident took place. At this time, authorities do not believe either officer was aware of the abuse that followed.

Prosecutors allege that John Woeltz and William Duplessie imprisoned the man for more than two weeks, attempting to coerce him into revealing the password to his Bitcoin wallet.

Investigators say the victim was subjected to electric shocks, had his leg cut with a saw, and was forced to use crack cocaine while being held against his will.

Following a court appearance Thursday morning, a judge denied bail for Woeltz. His attorney refused to comment when approached by reporters. The NYPD has not yet determined whether the detectives witnessed or knew about any of the abuse.

In a statement provided to CBS News New York, the mayor’s office said, “Every city employee is expected to follow the law, including our officers, both on and off duty. We are disturbed by these allegations, and as soon as it came to our attention, the officers were placed on modified duty. The investigation is ongoing.”

{Matzav.com}

Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey is turning his recent 25-hour speech on the Senate floor into a book set to be released in November, drawing ridicule across social media platforms.

Delivered on April 1, a date many associate with jokes and pranks, Booker’s extended address became the longest uninterrupted speech in Senate history, surpassing the record held since 1957 by Strom Thurmond of South Carolina.

Publisher St. Martin’s Press has announced the upcoming release of “Stand,” a book meant to complement Booker’s prolonged Senate remarks and further expand on the themes he discussed during the oration.

“This book is about the virtues vital to our success as a nation and lessons we can draw from generations of Americans who fought for them,” Booker said in a promotional statement regarding the upcoming title.

Online reactions came swiftly and were largely critical, with users deriding the senator’s move as opportunistic. “It was a grift all along,” one person commented bluntly.

“I can’t wait not to read this,” someone posted on X, summing up a widespread sentiment of derision.

“Those poor trees,” another sarcastic voice added, mocking the publication’s necessity.

“Rebel without a cause. Or a clue,” chimed in a user, lampooning the senator’s motivations.

Booker, who once served as mayor of Newark, used his hours-long address primarily to denounce President Trump and his administration’s policies. He criticized a wide array of issues, including entitlement programs, educational initiatives, social media regulation, Elon Musk, and even a lighthearted remark by Trump suggesting Canada join the United States as the 51st state.

He invoked past national struggles for justice, likening the current political climate under Trump to pivotal moments like the civil rights era and the fight for women’s suffrage. Booker pushed the idea that Trump’s second-term landslide win—complete with a rare Republican popular vote majority—was an aberration that demanded urgent resistance.

“These are not normal times in our nation, and they should not be treated as such in the United States Senate,” Booker said. “The threats to the American people and American democracy are grave and urgent, and we all must do more to stand against them.”

“This is not right or left. It is right or wrong. This is not a partisan moment. It is a moral moment,” Booker said. “Where do you stand?”

Booker’s marathon speech included dramatic flair—at points, he was visibly emotional, and he reportedly fasted beforehand to avoid interrupting his speech for a restroom break. His effort was enthusiastically received by liberal media, including a glowing write-up in the New York Times, which hailed it as “an act of astonishing stamina.”

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer lavished praise on the performance, calling it a powerful rebuttal to the Trump administration’s policies.

“It’s not only the amount of time that you have spent on the floor, what strength,” Schumer said, “but the brilliance of your indictment of this awful administration that is so destroying our democracy, that is taking so much away from working people.”

In a twist of fate, while Booker was decrying the state of the country, one of his own staff members, Kevin A. Batts, was arrested near the Senate Galleries for illegally possessing a firearm.

“Stand” is scheduled for release on November 11.

{Matzav.com}

LISTEN:

​​For more info, email bitachon4life@gmail.com.

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By Rabbi Moshe Dov Heber

In the grand tapestry of life, there are threads woven with such precision that they can only be described as min haShamayim. Just days before Shavuos, as the Jewish world braced itself to reaccept the Torah with awe and reverence, one father experienced a moment that is her personal mesoras hatorah.

He wasn’t looking for miracles. In fact, all he wanted was to catch a quick Mincha. Living out of town, the earlier 1:30 Mincha had slipped past him. He had a long drive ahead, and he didn’t want to miss Mincha with a minyan. Then it occurred to him—his son’s yeshiva, nestled just beyond the town’s edge, held a later Mincha. Fifteen minutes away. The timing was perfect. Not only could he daven, but he could also pop in to give his son a warm yom tov bracha

A small, simple gesture. Or so he thought.

This visit held deeper meaning. His son’s journey to yeshiva life was not paved in gold. It was winding, at times painful, marked by uncertainties, sleepless nights, and tearful tefillos. But with Hashem’s help, and the fierce love and persistence of his parents, the boy found his footing in Torah. And not just stability—but growth, momentum.

As the father entered the yeshiva building, ten minutes ahead of Mincha, he asked a bochur where he might find his son. “Down that hallway,” came the reply. What he found was nothing short of breathtaking.

There, in a modest room lined with sefarim stood his son, dancing at the center of a circle, surrounded by friends and his rebbi. Arms linked, faces alight, they danced.

The boys had just completed a mesechta. Not an official siyum, per se, but the moment they actually finished it in shiur.  They had just finished a meschecta they were learning all year in bekius.

And at the exact moment this joy erupted, the father had walked in. There are no coincidences in a Jew’s life.

When I first heard this story, I wanted to share it with my grandfather, Rabbi Paysach Krohn for a perspective.  His response was instant and profound. “It’s Yaakov Avinu all over again,” he said. “Vayifga bamakom—Yaakov thought he just happened upon a place, but really, it was a moment of destiny.”

Rabbi Krohn recalled the pasuk where Yaakov, upon realizing the spiritual depth of the place where he had rested, exclaimed: “Mah nora hamakom hazeh!”, How awesome is this place! The father, like Yaakov, thought he was stopping by. In truth, he had stepped into a sacred moment, a revelation of his son’s spiritual triumph,one built brick by brick from his own tears, hopes, and relentless belief.

This encounter is not just a touching anecdote. It is a mirror to every parent’s journey. A reminder that our efforts, even when they feel thankless or unseen, are seeds planted deep in the soil of our children’s souls. Sometimes, the bloom comes when you least expect it.

And what timing. On the cusp of Shavuos, when we all stand again at Sinai and say “Naaseh v’nishma,” this story reminds us of what that acceptance looks like in real time. Not just receiving the Torah—but dancing with it. Living it and passing it on.

So this Shavuos, as the Torah is once again gifted to us with love, let us remember this father’s dance. A dance not just of his son’s triumph—but of his own. A dance of mesorah, of continuity, of dreams come true in the quiet corners of a yeshiva hallway.

Because sometimes, the holiest moments aren’t scripted. They just… arrive. Right on time.

Audio: https://torahanytime.com/lectures/372687

Rabbi Moshe Dov Heber is a rebbe at Yeshiva K’tana of Waterbury and a division head in  Camp Romimu. He can be reached via email mdheber@ykwaterbury.org.

{Matzav.com}

Drop Site News released what it claims is the full text of U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff’s proposed framework for a ceasefire and hostage exchange in Gaza, publishing both the document itself and an accompanying photo titled “Framework for Negotiating an Agreement to a Permanent Ceasefire.” The 13-point plan outlines a path to a temporary truce, humanitarian access, and steps toward a long-term resolution.

The plan sets out the terms for a temporary cessation of hostilities, stating: “60-day ceasefire. President Trump guarantees Israel’s adherence to the ceasefire during the agreed-upon period.”

Under the section that details how hostages would be released, the framework specifies: “10 Israeli live hostages and 18 deceased hostages, from the ‘list of 58’ to be released on days 1 and 7 – half of the living and deceased hostages (5 living and 9 deceased) will be released on day 1 of the agreement. The remaining half of the hostages (5 living and 9 deceased) will be released on day 7.”

Addressing humanitarian relief, the document includes a clause titled “Humanitarian Assistance” which says: “Aid will be sent into Gaza immediately once Hamas agrees to the ceasefire agreement. Whatever agreement is reached on aid to the civilian population will be respected throughout the course of the agreement. Aid will be distributed through agreed upon channels that will include the United Nations and Red Crescent.”

With regard to Israel’s military operations, the document indicates a complete halt to aggression during the ceasefire: “All Israeli offensive military activities in Gaza will cease upon this agreement entering into force. During the ceasefire period, there will be a cessation of aerial movement (military and surveillance) in the Gaza Strip for 10 hours daily, or 12 hours daily during days when exchange of hostages and prisoners take place.”

A phased redeployment of Israeli troops is also planned. According to the document: “On day 1, after the release of the Israeli hostages (5 living and 9 deceased), redeployment in the northern part of the Gaza Strip and in Netzarim corridor, in accordance with article 3 regarding the humanitarian aid and base on maps to be agreed upon.” The next step reads: “On day 7, after the release of the Israeli hostages (5 living and 9 deceased), redeployment in southern part of the Gaza Strip in accordance with article 3 regarding the humanitarian aid and based on maps to be agreed upon.” The document further states that “The technical teams will work out final redeployment boundaries during proximity negotiations.”

The document also maps out the negotiation process moving forward. It states: “On day 1, negotiations under the auspices of the mediators-guarantors on the necessary arrangements for a permanent ceasefire will commence.” These discussions are meant to cover issues such as “Keys and terms for the exchange of all the remaining Israeli hostages for a number to be agreed upon of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons,” “Issues relating to redeployments and withdrawals of Israel forces and long-term security arrangements within the Gaza Strip,” “Arrangements relating to the ‘day after’ in the Gaza Strip which would be raised by either side,” and “The announcement of a permanent ceasefire.”

On the topic of U.S. commitment, the document notes: “The President is serious about the parties’ adherence to the ceasefire agreement and insists that the negotiations during the temporary ceasefire period, if successfully concluded with an agreement between the parties, would lead to a permanent resolution of the conflict.”

The section titled “Release of Palestinian Prisoners” spells out the terms of the exchange: “In exchange for the release of the 10 Israeli live hostages, consistent with the terms and conditions of phase 1 of the January 19, 2025 agreement regarding the hostages and prisoners, Israel will release 125 ‘life sentence’ prisoners and 1,111 Gazan detainees who were detained after 7 October 2023. In exchange for the release of the remains of 18 Israeli hostages, Israel will release 180 deceased Gazans. The release will be performed simultaneously in accordance with an agreed mechanism and without public displays or ceremonies. Half of these releases will occur on day 1 and the other half will occur on day 7.”

The text also lays out mutual commitments to transparency. Under “Status of Hostages and Prisoners,” it reads: “On day 10, Hamas will provide complete information (proof of life and medical status report /proof of death) on each of the remaining hostages. In exchange, Israel will provide complete information on the Palestinian prisoners that were detained from the Gaza Strip since 7 October and the numbers of deceased Gazans held in Israel. Hamas commits to ensure the health, welfare and security of the hostages during the ceasefire.”

A key section titled “Remaining Hostages Released upon Agreement” outlines the timeline for the release of those still in captivity: “The negotiation on the necessary arrangements for a permanent ceasefire should be completed within 60 days. Upon agreement, the remaining hostages (living and deceased) from the ‘list of 58’ provided by Israel will be released.” The clause adds that “In case negotiations on arrangement for a permanent ceasefire are not concluded within the aforementioned time period, the temporary ceasefire may be extended under conditions and for a duration to be agreed upon by the parties so long as the parties are negotiating in good faith.”

The responsibilities of international mediators are described under the heading “Guarantors”: “The mediators-guarantors (US, Egypt, Qatar) will guarantee that the ceasefire will continue for the 60-day period and for any agreed upon extension, will guarantee that serious discussions will be held on the necessary agreements for a permanent ceasefire and will make every effort to ensure the completion of the abovementioned negotiations.”

The proposal includes direct involvement from the U.S. envoy: “Witkoff would come to the region to finalize the agreement. Steve Witkoff will preside over the negotiations.”

The document concludes by underscoring the President’s active role in the agreement: “President Trump will personally announce the ceasefire agreement. The United States and President Trump are committed to working to ensure that good faith negotiations continue until a final agreement is reached.”

Earlier in the day, reports from Al Arabiya and Al Hadath indicated that both Hamas and Israel had come to terms on a 60-day ceasefire, with President Trump expected to officially disclose the plan within hours.

However, an Israeli government source pushed back on that claim, stating Israel had not received confirmation that Hamas had agreed to Witkoff’s plan.

Later, a top Hamas representative clarified the group’s stance: “Witkoff’s new proposal does not meet our demands, but we are still examining it.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu had earlier informed families of the hostages that Israel had accepted the terms of the ceasefire deal as presented by Witkoff.

Netanyahu, however, emphasized that this acceptance should not be interpreted as an indication that the military campaign in Gaza was ending.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Bernard Kerik, once lauded for his leadership in the wake of the 9/11 attacks and a longtime fixture in New York law enforcement, has passed away at the age of 69.

The news of his passing was shared Thursday evening by FBI Director Kash Patel, who revealed that Kerik had been quietly battling illness. “Rest easy, Commissioner. Your watch has ended, but your impact will never fade,” Patel wrote.

Kerik first came to national attention in the days following the September 11 terrorist attacks, standing shoulder to shoulder with then-Mayor Rudy Giuliani as they led the city through its darkest hours.

In the chaotic aftermath of the World Trade Center’s collapse, Kerik played a key role in organizing the city’s emergency response efforts, becoming a symbol of strength amid devastation.

Throughout his 35-year career in public service, Kerik received over 100 honors recognizing his courage and dedication. These included a presidential commendation for heroism from President Ronald Reagan, as well as two Distinguished Service Awards issued by the Department of Homeland Security.

Appointed police commissioner in 2000, Kerik led the NYPD until 2001. Years later, in 2009, he admitted guilt to eight criminal charges—among them tax violations and lying during a background check as he was being considered for the top job at the Department of Homeland Security in 2004.

Following his conviction, Kerik served nearly three years behind bars, then transitioned to home confinement and was later placed on supervised release. His record was wiped clean in 2020 when President Donald Trump issued a full pardon.

After his time in prison, Kerik became a vocal opponent of what he viewed as flaws in the criminal justice system, aligning himself closely with Trump in public discourse and political advocacy.

Kerik also partnered with Giuliani in probing allegations of election irregularities after the 2020 presidential race, and he was later subpoenaed by the congressional committee investigating the events of January 6.

Born in 1955 in Newark, New Jersey, Kerik left high school before graduating, but later obtained his GED. He joined the U.S. Army and served honorably before returning to civilian life, where he began a long and distinguished career in law enforcement. Rising through the ranks, he eventually became head of New York City’s Department of Correction and, later, was tapped by Giuliani to lead the NYPD.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump lashed out Thursday against a recent court decision that nullified his aggressive tariff policy, condemning the verdict as a blow to executive authority and blasting the judges behind the move as political operatives working in secret.

In a lengthy statement posted on Truth Social, Trump criticized the ruling harshly, asking, “Where do these initial three Judges come from? How is it possible for them to have potentially done such damage to the United States of America? Is it purely a hatred of ‘TRUMP?’ What other reason could it be?”

Trump defended his tariff strategy, asserting that it had already brought massive economic benefits to the U.S. “In this case, it is only because of my successful use of Tariffs that many Trillions of Dollars have already begun pouring into the U.S.A. from other Countries, money that, without these Tariffs, we would not be able to get,” he wrote. “It is the difference between having a rich, prosperous, and successful United States of America, and quite the opposite.”

He didn’t hold back in his critique of the judiciary, calling the judgment “so wrong, and so political,” and voicing hope that the highest court in the land would undo the decision swiftly. “The ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trade is so wrong, and so political! Hopefully, the Supreme Court will reverse this horrible, Country threatening decision, QUICKLY and DECISIVELY.”

The Court of International Trade had determined Wednesday that Trump acted beyond his powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act when he issued blanket tariffs—including a 10% tax on numerous nations, 25% on goods from Mexico and Canada, and 20% on Chinese imports—ostensibly in response to the influx of illegal fentanyl.

By Thursday, the administration had secured a temporary block on the ruling from a federal appeals court while it prepares a formal challenge.

Trump expressed outrage over what he views as underhanded efforts to derail his agenda. “Backroom ‘hustlers’ must not be allowed to destroy our Nation!” he declared.

He also pushed back hard against the court’s suggestion that Congress should have oversight of tariff implementation. “The horrific decision stated that I would have to get the approval of Congress for these Tariffs,” he fumed. “In other words, hundreds of politicians would sit around D.C. for weeks, and even months, trying to come to a conclusion as to what to charge other Countries that are treating us unfairly.”

Trump concluded with a stark warning about the implications of the ruling. “If allowed to stand, this would completely destroy Presidential Power — The Presidency would never be the same!”

{Matzav.com}

Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, the Slabodka rosh yeshiva, spoke out sharply about the dangers facing the chareidi community in Eretz Yisroel, warning in unequivocal terms: “The army is a melting pot. A bochur who enters the army as a chareidi will not leave as a chareidi.”

The remarks were delivered during a private gathering with several major philanthropists from abroad ahead of a critical fundraising mission to raise $107 million for the Keren Olam HaTorah, which was established last year in response to severe cuts in government funding for yeshivos and kollelim across Eretz Yisroel.

“The army is a dangerous place,” he declared. “There are those who ask if it’s possible to build a truly chareidi unit in the IDF that would protect spiritual standards. But anyone who knows the army today understands that it’s simply not feasible. Netanyahu himself told me, ‘We want a situation where someone who enters the army as a chareidi remains a chareidi.’ But it’s very, very difficult.”

He explained that the IDF was built with the explicit goal of reducing religious identity. “The army was designed as a melting pot to create a ‘new Israeli’—a Jew whose religiosity is diminished. Yes, some in the army today may be well-intentioned and trying to change that. But those efforts are extremely difficult and far from being successful.”

As the group of donors peppered Rav Moshe Hillel with further questions about the campaign, he addressed concerns about why a second fundraising trip is necessary, given that last year’s campaign was described as a one-time effort. “At the time, we truly believed it would be a one-time need. We hoped that by now there would no longer be a necessity. But it turns out, the need is still very real.”

Rav Moshe Hillel also revealed that this new campaign was actually initiated by donors in America, who called him and expressed their desire to hold another drive. “They told me this is a crucial cause and they want to take part. When I heard that, I said—by all means, let’s do it. The need is enormous.”

He added, “We hope this will be the last time… but for now, it must happen.”

The question of how much donors are expected to give was also raised. Rav Moshe Hillel responded, “It depends on the individual’s means. Someone who has more money should give more than a chomesh if they’re able to. But if someone cannot give more than a chomesh, they should not overextend. It’s a personal matter.”

Asked whether individuals should give from their savings, as encouraged by gedolim last year, he answered similarly: “It’s the same answer—it depends on the person and their financial reality.”

One donor suggested that perhaps the existence of the fund has deterred the Israeli government from finding a sustainable funding solution. Rav Moshe Hillel firmly rejected this claim. “Absolutely not. It’s simply not true. The members of Knesset have done everything they could. Even without the money, the problem would remain. If there’s no solution, there will be mandatory army service. The issue isn’t just the money—it’s the draft. That’s the core challenge. And our representatives have worked to resolve it to the best of their ability.”

He continued, “Maybe the government could do more to cut spending, maybe not. But we must do everything we can with what we have.”

In closing, Rav Moshe Hillel bentched the participants warmly: “Anyone who takes part in this campaign isn’t just donating money. You are becoming a partner in the Torah of Eretz Yisroel. It is a tremendous zechus. May everyone who joins us merit siyata diShmaya, and brachos and hatzlacha in both gashmiyus and ruchniyus.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

It was announced today that the Gerer Rebbe will be traveling to the United States to take part in the monumental Keren Olam HaTorah initiative.

The Rebbe is expected to arrive in New York for the week of Parshas Shelach, joining a massive effort to raise over $100 million for yeshivos and kollelim in Eretz Yisroel, which have been deeply impacted by recent government budget slashes.

The Rebbe’s participation in the campaign highlights the unprecedented unity being forged across the Torah world.

While in the United States, the Rebbe is also expected to attend the chanukas habayis of a major new cheder campus in Boro Park.

Joining the Rebbe on this mission will be a delegation of prominent gedolei Torah, including leading roshei yeshiva from the Litvishe world such as Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch and Rav Dov Landau, as well as the Sanzer and Rachmistrivka Rebbes.

The Rebbe’s final itinerary is still being coordinated.

{Matzav.com Israel}

A deeply moving tefillah gathering was held on the eve of Rosh Chodesh Sivan at the kever of the Shelah HaKadosh in Tiveria, organized by the Vaad HaRabbanim L’Inyanei Tzedakah B’Eretz HaKodesh. Gedolei Yisroel and roshei yeshiva from across the country came together, reciting the Tefillas HaShelah.

The highlight of the event came during the fiery and emotional address delivered by the renowned mashpia, Rav Elimelech Biderman. With heartfelt words that stirred the crowd, he spoke about the power of the moment and the holiness of the place.

During his remarks, Rav Biderman shared a powerful secret he had heard from Rav Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz zt”l. “He told me,” said Rav Biederman with emotion, “that generations of talmidim passed through his hands—sometimes four generations from the same family—and he noticed something astonishing: Often it was the weaker children who eventually grew to be the great talmidei chachamim and pillars of Torah. Why? Because for the regular children, the Tefillas HaShelah was said. But for the weak ones… for them, it was said with tears.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

It is with great sadness that Matzav.com reports the passing of Rabbi Getzel Segal z”l, a devoted askan, loyal Agudist, and passionate servant of the tzibbur, who dedicated his life to hachzokas haTorah and strengthening Yiddishkeit.

Rabbi Segal was the son of the legendary tzaddik, Rav Yehuda Zev Segal zt”l, the Manchester Rosh Yeshiva. He was steeped in the hashkafah and values of his illustrious father, which guided his every endeavor.

For decades, Rabbi Segal was an active participant in the work of Agudath Israel, lending his wisdom and unwavering dedication to countless initiatives that advanced Torah and protected the needs of the frum community. He was also a deeply involved board member of Shuvu, among other roles he held.

But above all titles and roles, Rabbi Segal was a man of the people. A true baal chesed, he invested himself fully in any cause that would help another Yid. With quiet strength and profound humility, he served as an eved Hashem, ensuring that no need went unmet, no concern went unheard.

Yehi zichro boruch.

{Matzav.com}

In a wide-ranging interview marking the halfway point of his term, Israeli President Isaac Herzog hosted Kikar HaShabbat at the Presidential Residence for a frank conversation with journalist Yishai Cohen. The discussion covered some of the most urgent and divisive issues in Israeli society today, including the chareidi draft law, judicial reform, the ongoing hostage crisis, and Herzog’s role as a unifying figure in a fractured nation.

Herzog, whose presidency has coincided with some of the most turbulent events in Israel’s history—including the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple elections, shifting governments, the judicial overhaul battle, the Simchas Torah massacre, and the Iron Swords War—spoke with deep emotion about the need for national cohesion ahead of Shavuos.

Reflecting on the Yom Tov, he said, “This is the chag on which we received the greatest gift. I always remember what Rashi wrote, that k’ish echad b’lev echad, and that’s the message I want to share now: It’s unacceptable that we can’t sit together, talk, and disagree respectfully. I’m calling on the public and our leaders—this Shavuos, let’s do something real, let’s reach out and start a conversation.”

Herzog pointed out the painful juxtaposition between Yom Yerushalayim, marking 58 years since the city’s liberation, and the 58 hostages still being held by Hamas in Gaza, now for more than 600 days. “It’s a terrible situation,” he said. “I think about the hostages every minute. I’m in contact with the families and the returnees—it’s unbearable. We have to do everything possible, by every means, to bring them home.”

He shared his frustration with the international community. “Every day I speak with heads of state and tell them: Instead of attacking Israel, you should be demanding the hostages’ release. That would be the key to everything. Hamas wants to exploit the divisions between us and the world. A united demand to release the hostages should come first.”

Herzog praised the chareidi leadership for supporting hostage release efforts. “It’s very impressive. Families of hostages tell me this and bless them for it. I deeply appreciate it.”

He continued emotionally: “Just think of the hell they’ve gone through simply for being Jews, for being Israelis. Think of Maftir Yonah—three days in the fish. And here, it’s over 600 days. This is an unbearable reality.”

Asked whether political interests had blocked potential deals for hostage release, Herzog was cautious. “I have to be very careful with my words,” he said. “As president, anything I say can be misused by our enemies. There’s been a huge effort by President Trump and the Israeli government—by the Prime Minister and the top leadership. But how we got here? That will have to be investigated.”

Herzog called for the establishment of a national commission of inquiry. “There have been nearly 60 such commissions in Israel’s history. Families and citizens have come to me with footage and testimonies. Soldiers who fought that day want a place to share what they know. We need to investigate this properly to learn and make sure it never happens again.”

He acknowledged the political dispute over who should appoint such a commission and proposed a solution. “I suggested that Justices Sohlberg and Amit jointly appoint the committee. We have to get creative and think outside the box.”

Herzog criticized the refusal of the government to engage with Chief Justice Amit and called for dialogue. “It can’t be that people can’t sit in a room and talk. I understand the anger and pain—but we must respect the judges and follow the court’s rulings. We have to avoid a confrontation that could end in disaster. Let’s make an effort to reduce tensions and start talking.”

“I’m crying this out,” Herzog said. “I feel like a prophet crying out at the city gates, but no one wants to listen. People keep fighting, humiliating one another, gouging each other’s eyes out. It’s intolerable.”

He reiterated his stance that defiance of the court is a red line. “I’ve made it absolutely clear—disregarding the court is unacceptable. There are initiatives that threaten the independence of the judiciary, and that’s dangerous. We must prevent it.”

Still, he called on the judiciary to open up as well. “I told the legal system: You need to enter the room and extend your hand. I’m calling on all of Am Yisrael—get in the room and talk.”

Herzog has also advocated for a plea deal in Prime Minister Netanyahu’s trial. “I’ve said this repeatedly—I think it would be the right move for both sides. Former Chief Justice Barak and others have said the same. This case burdens the system and will take years.” Asked whether such a deal would require Netanyahu to leave public life, Herzog replied, “I haven’t entered into the details. That’s for the parties to decide. I’m not getting into politics.”

Addressing criticism from both political extremes, Herzog said, “Let me tell you something disturbing, but revealing. During the March of the Living in Auschwitz, my staff showed me one post calling me the ‘Kaplanist President,’ and another calling me the ‘Bibist President.’ Maybe that means I’m doing something right. I’m trying to speak to the whole nation. Honestly? I don’t care about the criticism. My only goal is to prevent a rift so deep we can’t heal from it.”

Turning to the draft law and the status of yeshiva students, Herzog was quick to respond. “I know this issue very well—I even served on the Tal Committee. I was very disappointed when the Tal Law, which brought real change, was struck down by the Supreme Court. But since the war, a lot has changed. We need to talk about that. I support practical solutions—ones the IDF must help create.”

He lamented that his proposal, the “President’s Framework,” was rejected out of hand during the judicial crisis. “They didn’t even give it five minutes. But now we’re in a different situation. We’re at war. I know there’s real change happening in the chareidi public—people are engaged and care. We need to work with the IDF to find deep and practical solutions for chareidi integration.”

He added, “It’s crucial that we don’t speak in divisive terms. We are sending our sons and daughters into a milchemes mitzvah to protect everyone. I have immense respect for the Torah world—that’s no secret—but we must understand that all the tribes of Israel must stand together against the immense threats we face.”

Summing up his term so far, Herzog said, “This has been an extraordinary presidency. I doubt any of my predecessors had to deal with what I’ve faced. This is a journey I carry every day, every hour, for the sake of all of Am Yisrael. We must get through this together, return to being a light to the nations, and build a better future for all.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

In a powerful address delivered this week at the Ponovezh Kollel in Bnei Brak, Rav Tzvi Drebkin, Rosh Yeshiva of Grodno in Be’er Yaakov, offered words of chizuk for Shavuos, focusing on the challenges of our generation, particularly the overwhelming flood of information confronting all of us.

Rav Drebkin spoke about Klal Yisroel’s elevated capacity to receive the Torah, before turning to the modern reality of non-stop news and information flowing from every corner of the globe. He warned that the constant exposure to media, current events, and chatter can dull one’s spiritual senses.

“There must be caution when it comes to information,” he said. “A person today is exposed to a torrent of information—it’s simply beyond belief. Every single detail, from the most remote corner of the world, reaches a person’s ears. Every event, every incident—it’s all delivered directly to the individual through newspapers with supplements, through the media, through cell phones and ‘neias.’ It’s astounding how much a person hears, how much he knows about every place and every situation, to the point that he’s filled with knowledge about every development across the globe, day in and day out.”

Rav Drebkin then raised his voice in anguish: “How can such a person hear the word of Hashem?” he asked. “An ear like that cannot absorb the dvar Hashem. When there is such kol, such noise, the voice of Hashem cannot be heard. Chazal tell us to be careful in what we listen to. Don’t listen to anything but the dvar Hashem. If there could be a person who listens to nothing but Torah and yiras Shamayim, then Torah becomes embedded in his heart.”

He went on to explain that this was the hallmark of gedolei Yisroel throughout the generations: “They simply weren’t interested in anything else. The stories and events of the world never entered their ears. That’s why Torah became part of them. This, the Shem MiShmuel says, is the ‘third path’—aside from toil in Torah, kindness, and tefillah. If a person’s curiosity is entirely focused on Torah, he will merit a unique connection, and the dvar Hashem will be engraved in his heart and soul.”

In an interview with Kan, singer and actor Shuli Rand opened up about the emotional toll of instability, the power of music to soothe the soul, and his thoughts on chareidi enlistment and fostering meaningful discussion.

“I see myself as part of the broader Jewish community here in Israel,” Rand explained. “I’m involved with the chareidi community, the religious-national community—really, all segments. I’m part of it all.”

Discussing the issue of chareidi enlistment, especially concerning those not engaged in employment, Rand emphasized balance and sensitivity: “Our strength and survival are deeply tied to the Torah world. But we can’t ignore the suffering of others. It’s not right that people who could serve are left out. We need to find a way to bring them into the fold with respect and love—not by force. It’s about willingness, not coercion.”

Rand also voiced admiration for the dati leumi sector, describing them as “a group of exceptional Torah scholars, whose depth of knowledge is truly inspiring.” He believes there’s genuine interest within the chareidi world to contribute to society. He recalled the initial phase of the war, saying there was a “remarkable sense of solidarity and concern.” While he sees this moment as a possible breakthrough for unity, he expressed concern that “the opportunity is slipping away” as discourse becomes more aggressive. Still, he insisted, “the desire to integrate is there.”

Reflecting on the creative process behind his latest album, Rand admitted it came about organically and unexpectedly: “It wasn’t even meant to be an album. Our reality itself is a rolling event. Until recently, we thought we could control things, but we’ve learned that events unfold beyond our control.”

One of the album’s central pieces, A Voice of Silence, captures this theme of unpredictability. “It’s about the feeling of losing control,” Rand said. “You can prepare, but life always catches you off guard. Redemption doesn’t come from material things, alcohol, or drugs—it’s about surprise.”

When asked about music’s role during times of upheaval, Rand shared his belief in its deep emotional resonance. “I truly believe in music as a healing force. It’s a place for reflection. Music asks questions, provides answers, expresses anger, and offers comfort. It lets us articulate deep emotions, sometimes without needing words.”

Addressing the tension between creating art and confronting a painful reality, Rand remarked, “The world is tough. Judaism isn’t about hiding from pain, but confronting it with truth—the truth of the Torah. Even King David wrote from a place of struggle, from crises, with raw honesty.”

Rand also touched on his feelings about participating in official state ceremonies, saying he has mixed emotions. “I’m not particularly drawn to ceremonies. There was one I participated in that caused controversy, and looking back, I realized it wasn’t the right place for me. I don’t boycott anyone—I just don’t want to be in situations that spark conflict. That’s not what I’m trying to do.”

As for how audiences have responded to his new performances, Rand said the reception has been heartening. “There’s clearly a thirst for both comfort and thought through music,” he said. “It warms my heart to see an audience that cares enough to come together, to listen, and to connect.”

{Matzav.com Israel}