Matzav

The Chernobyler Rebbe, who is currently in Poland on a journey together with major benefactors of the chassidus, visited the kever of his illustrious ancestor, Rav Shlomo of Karlin hy”d, in the Ukrainian town of Ludmir, this past Thursday night, on the day of his yahrtzeit, 22 Tammuz.

The Rebbe, leading a group of Chassidim who had contributed generously toward the journey and its causes, first participated in the historic Hachnasas Sefer Torah that took place in Ludmir on the night of the hillula.

Following that event, the Rebbe affixed mezuzos at the entrance to the newly constructed Rebbe’s hall, where he later held a tish in honor of the yahrtzeit, joined by a large crowd of Chassidim.

The Rebbe then made his way to the kever of his grandfather, Rav Aharon of Karlin. Upon arriving near the ohel, the Rebbe unexpectedly paused outside and did not step inside.

Explaining his decision to the crowd, the Rebbe said that tzaddikim kadmonim—earlier generations of tzaddikim—were filled with fear and awe at the thought of entering the ohel of the holy one whose yahrtzeit they were marking. “I, too,” he said, “am afraid to go in.” He chose instead to remain just outside the structure.

Those gathered followed the Rebbe’s lead, surrounding the entrance as they poured out heartfelt Tehillim.

{Matzav.com Israel}

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As the ongoing war drags on across multiple fronts, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi has made the decision to begin gradually releasing reservists from active combat zones over the coming months. This move, which affects operational areas including Gaza, Lebanon, and Yehuda and Shomron, is intended to reduce the mounting burden on Israel’s reserve army, which has been showing increasing signs of strain.

Military correspondent Doron Kadosh reported on Galei Tzahal this morning that due to the prolonged nature of the war and the heavy reliance on reserve forces since the start of 2025, Halevi has approved a phased drawdown of approximately 30% of reserve troops currently deployed on the front lines. This will take place gradually, assuming no unexpected developments such as a renewed confrontation with Iran or a large-scale escalation in Gaza.

In the Gaza Strip, the reduction will be especially significant. Many reservists currently engaged in fighting will be discharged in the coming weeks, with only one reserve brigade expected to replace them—marking a substantial scaling back of reserve presence in the area.

In Yehuda and Shomron, which has until now been held almost entirely by reserve units, the situation is also set to change. Regular army units will now be deployed in place of the reserves, shifting the region’s security back to the standing army.

Along the northern borders with Lebanon and Syria, there will also be a modest reduction of reserve forces. Here too, regular units will be brought in to replace some of the reservists, though on a smaller scale compared to other sectors.

Senior officials familiar with the matter explained that the decision stems from a growing need to ease the pressure on reservists, who have been operating under intense conditions. Many of the reserve brigades, originally expected to serve for 70-day rotations in 2025, have been serving for 100 days or even longer.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Overnight reports from Syria indicate that Israeli aircraft and drones carried out a wave of airstrikes in the region of As-Suwayda in southern Syria, an area currently engulfed in unrest and fighting.

According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, “Israeli planes and UAVs conducted a series of airstrikes overnight in the western countryside of As-Suwayda, in southern Syria.”

In addition, local sources claim that “Israeli helicopters flew over As-Suwayda and provided aid to residents,” amidst reports that local security forces had withdrawn from the area. The pro-Iranian Sabrin News outlet reported that six helicopters landed in As-Suwayda carrying ammunition and military supplies for Druze factions active in the region.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hadath television channel reported that a prisoner release operation is imminent, involving women and children who were “taken captive” during the recent clashes in As-Suwayda province. The network cited a security official, Ahmad al-Dalti, who stated that “the release of families held by factions in As-Suwayda will take place in the coming hours,” adding that “their safe return is guaranteed as part of the state’s commitment to protect all its citizens and preserve national unity.”

This comes on the heels of previous reports that the death toll in the week-long fighting in the Druze mountain region had risen to at least 1,120, the vast majority of whom were Druze residents of the As-Suwayda province killed in the ongoing violence.

As of now, Syrian army units have reportedly been deployed at the eastern entrance to the city in an effort to prevent armed Bedouin tribal fighters from advancing further into the area. Reports also indicate that relative calm has been restored in recent hours, while a humanitarian aid convoy from the Red Cross has been making its way into the city. As-Suwayda has suffered severe damage, including to its main hospital.

{Matzav.com Israel}

A high-ranking figure within Hamas’s internal security apparatus has announced that the terror group maintains a “blacklist” of Gaza residents suspected of cooperating with Israel. This list reportedly includes businessmen, organized crime affiliates, and others deemed criminal by Hamas.

The official warned that these alleged collaborators would soon be prosecuted and face capital punishment. Hamas is expected to publicize the names of those under investigation at a time it finds strategically advantageous.
“If they do not return to their people and seek to atone for their crimes, we will have no choice but to publish the list,” the official stated.

He also claimed that some of the individuals being pursued had sought protection from Israel, thereby hindering Hamas’s attempts to control the internal situation in Gaza. Still, he insisted, “justice will be served with them, and it will come by the sword.”

Meanwhile, according to a report from the Shehab news agency, which is affiliated with Palestinian Arab sources, the Revolutionary Court operated by the Gaza Ministry of Interior’s Military Court has issued a directive to Yasser Abu Shabak, a militia commander in Rafah, demanding that he present himself for prosecution.

Despite the fact that Palestinian law requires approval from Palestinian Authority (PA) chairman Mahmoud Abbas before any executions are carried out, Hamas has continued to conduct executions in Gaza without his authorization. Abbas, who resides in Ramallah, imposed a freeze on executions years ago.

Hamas no longer acknowledges Abbas’s authority, and its leadership has openly asserted that death sentences in Gaza do not require his endorsement.

The majority of executions carried out by Hamas have been aimed at individuals accused of spying for Israel. In September 2022, two Palestinian Arabs were executed by Hamas after being found guilty of relaying intelligence to Israel that allegedly led to the deaths of two individuals.

In May 2023, several Palestinians in Gaza were sentenced to death—by both hanging and firing squad—after a military tribunal convicted them of supplying intelligence to Israel.

Later that year, in December, Hamas claimed it had detained a cell of Palestinian Arabs who had worked with Israel to gather intelligence inside the Gaza Strip shortly after the group’s October 7 massacre.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Inside the ultra-secure Rakafot Wing at Ayalon Prison, one of the most tightly guarded units run by the Israel Prisons Service (IPS), a group of Israel’s most dangerous security prisoners is being held under maximum supervision. These inmates include high-ranking terrorists from both Hamas and Hezbollah.

Established nearly a year ago, this specialized wing houses senior members of Hamas’ elite Nukhba and naval commando forces, along with fighters from Hezbollah’s Radwan Force who were apprehended by the IDF in cross-border operations in Lebanon.

A detailed report from Kan Reshet Bet offered a rare window into the inner workings of this facility. The wing, built like a concrete bunker, is equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance systems that monitor every movement inside the cells.

“This is where the toughest inmates are held, those who committed the most serious offenses,” said the wing commander. “Most belong to Hamas’ Nukhba unit. Operationally, it’s classified as a tactical wing—the first of its kind in the IPS and currently undergoing a pilot phase. Every staff member here operates under an alias and uses an operational ID tag.”

The prison staff assigned to this wing receives intensive training, particularly in developing emotional strength and resilience, so they can handle the unique pressures of the job. “Every day presents a new challenge or dilemma that we must solve,” the commander added.

Life inside the Rakafot Wing is intentionally spartan. According to prison authorities, the conditions meet only the most basic requirements under international law. Inmates are confined to their cells 24/7, with only one hour a day spent in a fortified outdoor space where faint daylight slips through narrow slits.

All necessary engagements—whether it’s meeting with attorneys, receiving medical care, or attending legal hearings—take place entirely within the secure perimeter of the wing. Prisoners are not allowed to converse with one another or with the guards.

“We’ve provided mental preparation for all our personnel. When professional or psychological support is needed, it’s available. We’re constantly accompanied by experts, and we’re fully prepared to meet any challenge,” the commander concluded.

{Matzav.com Israel}

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By Mordy Berkowitz 

I had no business getting behind that wheel. Don’t make my mistake.

Three years ago, I was just your average nearly-21-year-old bochur from Lakewood, New Jersey. I had friends, plans, and a future ahead of me. But in one moment, everything changed. I made a decision that can never be undone — I got behind the wheel after drinking alcohol. That choice ended someone’s life, permanently injured another person, and launched a brutal legal battle that turned my entire world upside down. Suddenly, my life became consumed by courtrooms, lawyers, and the overwhelming weight of consequences I never imagined facing.

It was Friday, July 22, 2022. I was at a to’ameha with a few friends — drinking, laughing, and enjoying the moment. A little before Shabbos, I decided to head over to a friend’s house to spend Shabbos. I jumped behind the wheel and started speeding, rushing to get there in time. I was driving down the winding curves of South Lake Drive when, in an instant, everything changed — I was in a head-on collision.

My car flipped on impact and landed upside down. I was trapped inside, disoriented and unable to move, with smoke filling the vehicle and flames beginning to spread. Lying there, helpless, it felt like the end — I didn’t think I was going to survive. Then a stranger pulled over, ran toward the wreck, and pulled me out just moments before the car exploded. The fact that I walked away from that crash with only minor injuries is nothing short of a miracle.

After I was released from the hospital, reality started to hit. A close family friend stepped in, hired a lawyer, and advised us that the next step I would have to take was turn myself in at the Ocean County Jail. Walking through those doors was a moment heavy beyond words, stepping into a place I never imagined I’d be. I spent five long, painful weeks behind bars.

That period of time was a constant waking nightmare. I was thankfully able to be in touch with seven contacts through the jail phone, and that was my lifeline. My friends and family kept me afloat, with chizuk and conversations around the clock. I didn’t speak to any of the other individuals in jail with me; they were very, very bad people, and having any conversation with any of them was not something I wanted to do.

Finally, after those five weeks, I was released on house arrest, where I’ve been confined ever since.

Being on house arrest means I’m home all day. It means I’m missing all family simchahs, all outings with friends — everything. For the first year, I wasn’t even allowed to go to shul. Now, baruch Hashem, I can go out for minyanim — at set times only — and it’s been a huge saving grace.

Ihave now gone before the judge and pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide. This means I’m awaiting sentencing, facing five to ten years in state prison. I am 23 years old now. Under the No Early Release Act, I won’t be eligible for parole until I’ve served at least 85 percent of my sentence. It’s a painful reality — to know I’ll be spending years behind bars, separated from everything and everyone I know.

The reason I’m sharing this now is because I’ve seen — and continue to hear about — far too many people making the same mistake I did: attending simchahs, parlor meetings, to’amehas, and other events, having a few drinks, and then casually getting behind the wheel. They say they feel “fine.” They genuinely believe they’re okay to drive. Too many people think they’re invincible behind the wheel, convinced that “it won’t happen to me.” I thought the same thing.

But the truth is, it only takes one time. You don’t realize how easy it is to cross the line — until you already have. One poor decision can destroy a family and your future in a matter of seconds. That quiet confidence is where the real danger lies. It’s what turns an ordinary night into a tragedy — one drive that ends with flashing lights, twisted metal, and a life forever lost.

And from that moment on, nothing is ever the same — for the family who will never see their loved one again, for the friends left grieving, and for everyone whose world was shattered in an instant. The pain doesn’t fade. The hole left behind never truly heals.

Please take my story as a life lesson. Set a clear, no-exceptions boundary for yourself. If you’re going to any event where you know you’ll be drinking, even just a little, decide in advance that you’re not driving afterward — not even once. Call a car service, arrange a ride, stay over, do whatever it takes. Be the one with the courage to say, “I feel fine, but I’m not risking it.”

I cannot get a second chance to undo this tragedy, so please: Take your first chance seriously.

Think ahead. Plan smart. Stick to your decision, because no simchah, no shortcut, no moment of feeling “okay” is worth a lifetime of regret.

And it’s not just about your own decisions. You have a responsibility to your friends, too. If you see someone about to drive after drinking — even if he insists he’s fine — step in, say something, take his keys, or call a ride. Stopping him might feel uncomfortable in the moment, but living with the regret of staying silent is far worse. True friendship means protecting each other, even from ourselves.

The next choice is yours. You can be the reason someone lives — or the reason they don’t.

Choose wisely.

 

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 1070)

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Following medical evaluation for leg swelling, President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, according to an official statement from the White House. The condition occurs when certain veins fail to pump blood effectively back to the heart, leading to blood pooling in the lower limbs. The Cleveland Clinic notes that this issue is relatively common in older adults, affecting about one in every twenty.

Dr. Chauncey Crandall, a prominent cardiologist and the director of preventive medicine at the Palm Beach Cardiovascular Clinic, explained how the condition works. When vein valves malfunction, he said, fluid builds up in the feet and legs. “This does not mean that you’re going to die. You’re not going to have a stroke or something like that. It’s a fairly benign condition. Often it can be managed with compression stockings or maybe even a mild diuretic,” adds Crandall.

The American Heart Association lists several symptoms associated with chronic venous disease, including varicose veins, swelling in the legs, and changes in skin appearance—like reddish, scaly patches. Patients may also experience leg pain, cramping, heaviness, fatigue, or a restless sensation in the limbs.

Crandall suggested that Trump’s busy travel schedule might be a factor in his symptoms. “I would like to point out that President Trump is a little different than other 80-year-olds. He’s almost like a bulldog. He has great endurance,” Crandall tells Newsmax’s “Newsline.”

“He is in the plane, in and out every single day, almost. He probably flies more than anyone else. And, you know… when you fly in a plane, you collect fluid in your legs. It’s because of the change of the cabin pressure. And I think this is really what’s causing the president’s problem. No one’s picked up on it,” explains Crandall, who also serves as editor of Dr. Crandall’s Heart Health Report.

To alleviate the condition, Crandall recommends a few straightforward steps. Wearing compression stockings and reducing salt intake, he says, can help minimize swelling and improve circulation.

{Matzav.com}

It is with great sadness that Matzav.com reports the petirah of Rabbi Yaakov Tzadok z”l of the Har Nof neighborhood in Yerushalayim.

He was a man of Torah and chessed, who made Torah his foundation and his profession secondary. His life was devoted to establishing batei midrash and strengthening Torah study. He was niftar at the age of 71 after years of physical affliction that served to refine his already noble spirit.

Born in Iran in Kislev 1953, Rabbi Tzadok grew up in a deeply rooted, devout family that fiercely protected Torah observance. He would often recount how his mother and grandmother risked their lives for the mitzvah of taharah, breaking through frozen rivers in winter to immerse in the mikvah.

At age eight, he immigrated with his family to Eretz Yisroel, settling first in the Asbestonim neighborhood of Yerushalayim before moving to Romema. Through the influence of Chabad activists, he entered Chabad institutions, where many Iranian and other Sephardic immigrants also learned.

As a young man, he studied at Kiryat Noar in Bayit Vegan, where he also acquired a trade to support himself. After completing army service, he became known for his kosher pizza shop on Pisgah Street in Bayit Vegan. Even before his marriage, he embarked on a path of spiritual growth and began learning seriously at Yeshivas Or Samayach, where he developed a deep bond with Rav Uri Zohar, a friendship that would last for decades.

In 1984, when Har Nof was first established, Rabbi Tzadok was among the founding residents. He played a significant role in encouraging Rav Ovadia Yosef to settle in the neighborhood and maintained a close relationship with him throughout his life.

He was also one of the earliest founders of the Yechaveh Daas institutions, back when they were located at the corner of Shaulzon and Mishkalov Streets. There, he immersed himself in Torah learning, especially the shiurim of Rav Ovadia Yosef.

Rabbi Tzadok had deep hisbatlus and unwavering devotion to Rav Dovid Yosef, who encouraged him in his efforts to strengthen the Yechaveh Daas institutions.

For many years, he was well known in Har Nof as an honest and G-d-fearing contractor. Despite his success, he lived with humility and devoted much of his time and energy to Torah learning and quiet acts of chessed.

He was considered a driving force behind the growth of Yechaveh Daas in Har Nof and was beloved by Torah leaders from all backgrounds. A close friend of Shas leader Aryeh Deri for many years, he helped advance many of Deri’s initiatives to promote Torah and chesed.

From a young age, Rabbi Tzadok was immersed in Torah and nullified himself before talmidei chachamim, learning consistently throughout the day.

Though his outward appearance was that of a simple man—working humbly and serving Hashem with joy—Reb Yaakov was filled with Torah and wholly dedicated to it. For hours, he could be found sitting in the corner of the Yechaveh Daas beis midrash, immersed in learning.

He was known to be among the first to arrive at shuls and batei midrash, standing at his post like a humble servant before his Master.

Rabbi Tzadok cherished mitzvos, performing them with reverence and joy, always wearing a warm smile. He recited berachos with intensity and gratitude for being counted among those who sit in the beis midrash.

He radiated peace and kindness, greeting every person with warmth and dignity. He carried himself with humility, yet inspired all who came near him.

He gave everything for his children’s education, ensuring they studied in the finest Torah institutions. He merited marrying off his sons and daughters to esteemed bnei Torah families.

About a year and a half ago, he was diagnosed with a severe illness. Despite its advanced stage, he defied expectations and held on with determination. Even during grueling treatments, he continued to attend shiurim and tefillos at Yechaveh Daas.

Those close to him testify that he accepted his suffering with love, never complaining or doubting Hashem’s love. He valued every moment of life and expressed gratitude for each breath.

He would often remind visitors: “Hashem doesn’t give a person a test they cannot withstand.” His emunah burned within him like fire, illuminating everyone around him.

In his final month, following a sharp decline, he was hospitalized in the oncology ward at Hadassah Ein Kerem. Surrounded by family and loved ones, he spent his final days in spiritual readiness.

He was buried in the Sanhedria cemetery in Yerushalayim following brief but emotional hespedim delivered by Rav David Yosef, Rav Avner Efjin (Rosh Yeshivas Beis HaLevi), Rav Yosef Eliyahu (Rosh Beis Midrash Heichal Yaakov), Rav Erez Elcharar (Rosh Kollel Yechaveh Daas and Rav of Hod HaSharon), and his eldest son, Rav Reuven Tzadok.

He leaves behind a family of distinguished avreichim, talmidei chachamim, and marbitzei Torah.

Yehi zichro boruch. 

{Matzav.com Israel}

Amid the ongoing political crisis and fierce disputes surrounding the draft law, Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu is preparing for a potential reshuffle of ministerial portfolios within the coalition, in hopes of paving the way for United Torah Judaism and Shas to rejoin the government.

According to Likud insiders, if UTJ returns to the coalition, the distribution of ministries among its representatives will be reconsidered.

Meanwhile, Shas leader Aryeh Deri has issued a clear demand: the two key ministries for his party—the Interior Ministry and the Ministry of Religious Services—must remain under the control of Minister Yariv Levin, Deri’s closest ally within Likud.

In parallel, Minister Shlomo Karchi, a loyal Netanyahu ally, is the leading candidate to take over the Health Ministry—a prominent portfolio now vacant following recent government changes.

Another ministry under discussion is the Yerushalayim and Tradition Ministry (formerly the Ministry for Yerushalayim and Heritage), which may be handed over to either Religious Zionism or Otzma Yehudit, depending on ongoing negotiations surrounding control of the Knesset Finance Committee—still a major bargaining chip among coalition partners.

In addition, it has been decided that the Ministry of Labor and Welfare will be transferred to Minister Chaim Katz.

{Matzav.com Israel}

In light of growing concerns over renewed atrocities targeting the Druze community in Syria, Israel’s Chief Rabbi, Rav Kalman Ber, met Sunday with Sheikh Qassem Bader, one of the most prominent figures in the Druze community and president of the World Council for Peace.

The meeting, which took place at the Chief Rabbi’s office, was initiated by World Council for Peace member Amichai Levi. During the encounter, Sheikh Bader expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Rabbi for his recent call to Israel and the international community to take action to protect the Druze population in Syria.

Sheikh Bader shared the deep mourning, anguish, and fear felt by members of his community following the recent wave of violence in Syria, and their acute anxiety over the possibility of more atrocities being committed against them.

Rav Ber voiced his sorrow and solidarity with the Druze during this painful time, reiterating the immense moral obligation that rests upon Israel and the global community to stand by the persecuted Druze and work to prevent further horrors.

{Matzav.com Israel}

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir has developed a strategy aimed at expanding the military’s operations against Hamas, according to a report by Channel 12. Individuals familiar with the details of the plan referred to it as “the plan for taking over Gaza.”

This new approach is positioned as an alternative to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial “humanitarian city” initiative in Rafah, which Zamir reportedly opposes. According to the report, Zamir’s proposal would be implemented if negotiations over the hostages fall apart or if a truce ends without an agreement to conclude the war after the 60-day ceasefire period.

The reported plan outlines a significant expansion of territory under IDF control within Gaza. The military would gradually advance, capturing additional ground daily to demonstrate to Hamas the consequences of its continued resistance.

A separate article published in Yisroel Hayom emphasizes that while the IDF would encircle the majority of Gaza under the plan, it would not entail full territorial control of the entire enclave.

The newspaper also revealed that Netanyahu has blocked Zamir from formally presenting the plan to the security cabinet. Additionally, he prevented a smaller group of ministers, who had already received a briefing from the IDF chief, from holding any discussions on the proposal.

{Matzav.com Israel}

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Israeli officials have announced a move to assume oversight of Meoras Hamachpeilah in Chevron as part of an effort to carry out long-awaited construction at the revered and sensitive site.

According to the Civil Administration—under the auspices of the Defense Ministry’s office for coordination with the Palestinians—the government has authorized a plan to build a protective canopy in one of the outdoor sections of Meoras Hamachpeilah. The purpose of the project is to offer relief and shade to mispallelim who gather there, often under intense sun and heat.

The Civil Administration explained that the administrative steps needed to begin the work are already in “advanced stages” and emphasized that the improvements are intended to benefit “all population groups who pray at the site.”

Meoras Hamachpeilah is also regarded by Muslims as a sacred site, with a significant portion of the structure functioning as the Ibrahimi Mosque. The site operates under a time-sharing and spatial division arrangement for both Jewish and Muslim worship, and even minor changes have historically triggered backlash and criticism.

Israeli authorities have accused the Islamic Waqf and the Palestinian municipality of Chevron—who have until now played a role in administering the site—of refusing to cooperate in much-needed renovation and safety efforts.

Because of this lack of collaboration, a decision was made to shift management responsibility from the Chevron municipal body to the Civil Administration, Israeli officials confirmed.

In recent days, representatives affiliated with the moetzet datit of Kiryat Arba, the nearby Jewish community, stated that the council would be supervising the new construction at Meoras Hamachpeilah.

However, the Civil Administration rejected that assertion, clarifying that the site will remain under its jurisdiction during the construction process.

Officials added that once the building work is complete, authority over the site would be returned to the Chevron Municipal Council.

Despite this statement, Amitai Cohen, an official from the Jewish administrative body of Meoras Hamachpeilah, insisted that the religious council is currently overseeing daily operations at the makom kadosh.

He said he was not aware of any plan to reinstate management to the Palestinian municipal authorities in Chevron.

A similar situation unfolded in 2020, when the Defense Ministry gave the green light to install an elevator to improve access for individuals with disabilities. That initiative, also coordinated by the Civil Administration, was completed and inaugurated in June 2023.

Defense Minister Yisrael Katz’s office declined to comment on the conflicting reports about who is actually managing the site at present.

“The idea is to make order at the Tomb of the Patriarchs for everyone who prays there,” said Cohen.

“We need to develop it and take it forward as a holy site, it’s something healthy that there will be an organization with authority and responsibility to deal with the issues there.”

Still, the Palestinian Authority and the United Arab Emirates harshly condemned the move to shift administrative control.

Ramallah declared the development “an unprecedented step in the occupation’s measures to impose its sovereignty over the mosque, Judaize it, and completely alter its identity and features.”

Likewise, the UAE’s foreign ministry voiced “strong condemnation” over the decision, calling it “a grave violation of the historical and legal status quo at the Ibrahimi Mosque.”

The ministry also called for “an immediate halt to all unilateral and provocative actions that risk destabilizing the occupied Palestinian territories and undermining international efforts toward de-escalation.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

The Trump administration is expressing growing unease over Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s recent military maneuvers in Syria, with multiple officials harshly criticizing the Israeli leader’s conduct. According to comments cited Sunday, the prime minister has been referred to as “a madman” and “a child who just won’t behave” by White House sources.

“Bibi acted like a madman. He bombs everything all the time,” one administration official reportedly told Axios, adding, “This could undermine what Trump is trying to do.”

The tension began escalating Tuesday when Israeli forces launched strikes against Syrian troops advancing into the city of Sweida. The offensive followed accusations that the regime had committed massacres in the Druze-dominated area. The next day, Israel escalated further by targeting significant sites in Damascus.

“The feeling is that every day there is something new. What …. ?” said a second senior U.S. official, reacting to an Israeli tank strike that mistakenly hit Gaza’s only Catholic church, leaving three dead.

Although President Trump did not issue a public statement about the incident in Gaza, he reportedly had a heated phone conversation with Netanyahu and instructed him to publicly express remorse. Netanyahu complied shortly after.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed to the press that Trump’s response to the church shelling “was not a positive reaction.”

Doubts about Netanyahu’s judgment appear to be intensifying within the administration. A third official remarked, “Netanyahu is sometimes like a child who just won’t behave.”

While it’s unclear whether these sentiments reflect Trump’s own views, this wouldn’t mark the first occasion when the president has expressed irritation with actions taken by the Israeli government.

Last month, Trump publicly exploded in anger after learning that Israel had planned a large-scale bombing campaign in retaliation for a single Iranian missile launch, just after a ceasefire ended a twelve-day conflict.

Axios reported that U.S. special envoy to Syria Tom Barrack had requested Israel on Tuesday to cease its strikes to allow for diplomatic progress. Israel initially agreed, but the following day it resumed heavy bombardment, striking military targets including locations near the Syrian presidential palace.

Israel defended its operations, saying they were in solidarity with the Druze population—a group with strong ties to Israel and a record of loyal military service.

The White House also fielded complaints from Saudi Arabia and Turkey, along with concerns from Barrack and fellow U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff.

“The bombing in Syria caught the president and the White House by surprise,” another official shared. “The president doesn’t like turning on the television and seeing bombs dropped in a country he is seeking peace in and made a monumental announcement to help rebuild.”

“Bibi’s political agenda is driving his senses. It will turn out to be a big mistake for him long-term,” one source added.

According to a senior Israeli figure speaking to Axios, President Trump had previously encouraged Netanyahu to retain strategic territory in Syria and had not voiced opposition to Israeli activity in the region.

“The US wants to keep the new Syrian government stable and doesn’t understand why we attack in Syria because of attacks on the Druze community there,” the Israeli official explained. “We tried to explain to them that this is our commitment to the Druze community in Israel.”

The conflict erupted last week when Druze militias began fighting against Sunni Bedouin factions, later joined by government troops. As clashes intensified, reports from Sweida detailed horrifying abuses, including the murder of civilians, looting, and humiliating treatment of Druze clerics. Meanwhile, videos surfaced showing Druze fighters attacking captured regime soldiers and displaying their bodies.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitoring group, reported that more than 1,000 individuals have died in the past week. The dead included 336 Druze fighters, 298 Druze civilians, 342 regime personnel, and 21 Sunni Bedouins.

After several failed attempts, a new ceasefire declared Saturday appeared to be holding. No hostilities were reported Sunday morning in the outskirts of Sweida, where AFP correspondents noted quiet. Government forces were seen positioned at several locations in the region, and a humanitarian aid convoy was on its way to the city, which remains predominantly Druze.

{Matzav.com}

After nearly two years of legal wrangling, a request filed under Israel’s Freedom of Information Law by the “Hatzlacha” organization has finally resulted in the release of a long-awaited report. For the first time, a detailed inventory of high-value gifts given to Israeli officials during their public service has been made public.

According to a report by Channel 12, the extensive list outlines gifts received by government figures during official functions and foreign trips spanning from 2017 through 2025.

Among the most notable items are pricey cigars given to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a decorative statue presented to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, and a luxury Rolex watch that was gifted to Dr. Eyal Hulata, who previously served as National Security Advisor.

Rather than being retained by the individuals to whom they were given, these and numerous other items were transferred to the custody of the General Caretaker, the Justice Ministry department responsible for overseeing public assets.

The Prime Minister’s Office, which released the list earlier this week, included a breakdown of each item, identifying who presented the gift, the recipient, a description of the item, and its current storage location.

Gifts received by Netanyahu included cigars, personalized chocolates shaped like him and his wife, a diamond-studded gold ring, and a leather briefcase.

Naftali Bennett, who held the prime ministership before Yair Lapid, is recorded as having accepted 193 gifts during his time in office. These included gold-plated cutlery from the King of Bahrain and a commemorative glass sculpture he was given during a visit to the Special Missions Array. These items are currently held in the official storage facility at the Prime Minister’s Office. Lapid, who followed Bennett in the role, appears on the list in 23 separate entries.

As noted in the report, the vast majority of these gifts were either transferred to the General Caretaker or placed on display within the Prime Minister’s Office.

{Matzav.com Israel}

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Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio voiced his enthusiastic support for President Donald Trump’s recent call to restore traditional team names, particularly Cleveland’s baseball franchise. Moreno, a Republican, backed the push to bring back the “Indians” name, declaring, “Cleveland wants this.”

Taking to X, Moreno posted his endorsement alongside a screenshot of Trump’s Truth Social post, writing, “Cleveland wants this, let’s go!” Trump had urged professional sports franchises that had previously changed their names due to political pressure to now reverse those decisions, stating that the country had returned to an era of “common sense.”

In his Sunday statement on Truth Social, President Trump wrote, “The Washington ‘Whatever’s’ should IMMEDIATELY change their name back to the Washington Redskins Football Team.”

He followed that with a call for Cleveland’s team to do the same, writing, “There is a big clamoring for this,” and adding, “Likewise, the Cleveland Indians, one of the six original teams, with a storied past.”

President Trump went on to say, “Our great Indian people, in massive numbers, want this to happen. Their heritage and prestige is systematically being taken away from them.”

He concluded his post with a rallying cry to team owners: “Times are different now than they were three or four years ago. We are a Country of passion and common sense. OWNERS, GET IT DONE!!!”

As previously reported by Breitbart News, the name change from Indians to Guardians was finalized in 2021, when team owner Paul Dolan responded to social justice demands during the peak of so-called “woke” influence by retiring the team’s century-old name.

The original “Indians” name, which had been used for 106 years, was widely believed to honor Louis Sockalexis, a Native American outfielder who played for the Cleveland Spiders in the late 19th century and is considered the first Native American to compete in professional baseball.

{Matzav.com}