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Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson harshly criticized President Trump and his administration on Wednesday, following the announcement of a federal investigation into the city’s employment practices. The Department of Justice had recently reached out to Johnson with concerns regarding possible racial discrimination in hiring, prompting a fierce response from the mayor.

The Justice Department’s inquiry came in the wake of remarks Johnson made at a church in the Woodlawn neighborhood, where he had spoken about efforts to prioritize Black hires in his administration. During a press conference later in the week, Johnson lashed out at the president.

“As far as, you know, the president’s animus towards women, people of color, working people, we have always known who he has been,” Johnson said during a Wednesday press conference. “This is not a surprise. He’s a monster.”

“We have the most diverse administration in the history of Chicago, and he is threatened by that,” he added.

Earlier, while addressing congregants at the Apostolic Church of God, Johnson, who is Black, defended his approach to staffing by saying he intentionally hired more Black employees because they are “the most generous people on Earth.”

In response, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon issued a letter to the mayor on Monday questioning whether race-based criteria were influencing hiring across all levels of city government.

“If these kind of hiring decisions are being made for top-level positions in your administration, then it begs the question whether such decisions are also being made for lower-level positions,” Dhillon wrote.

This inquiry aligns with the broader campaign by President Trump to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion policies nationwide, putting such efforts under increasing scrutiny.

Mayor Johnson pushed back, characterizing the federal action as politically motivated and rooted in insecurity.

“You can tell when someone is fearful is because they act out,” Johnson said Wednesday. “We have a president that is screaming and having tantrums right now because we have an administration that reflects the city of Chicago, but he would much rather have administrations that reflect the country club. Period.”

“He is most comfortable around people who think and look like him,” the mayor added.

In light of the DOJ’s investigation, Johnson’s office released data highlighting the racial composition of his administration. According to figures shared by ABC7, 34.3 percent of staff members are Black, 30.5 percent are white, 23.8 percent are Hispanic, and 6.7 percent are Asian.

President Donald Trump took aim at Apple on Friday, warning the tech giant that it could face a hefty 25% tariff on iPhones that are not assembled within the United States. The ultimatum increases the pressure on Apple CEO Tim Cook to shift operations away from Asia and into the U.S.

“I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhone’s that will be sold in the United States of America will be manufactured and built in the United States, not India, or anyplace else,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.

“If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25% must be paid by Apple to the US. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

Following Trump’s remarks, Apple’s stock took a hit, tumbling 4% during early premarket activity.

Apple’s primary manufacturing hubs remain overseas, especially in China, and currently the company does not produce any of its smartphones domestically.

Dan Ives, an analyst with WedBush, dismissed the prospect of U.S.-made iPhones as wholly unrealistic. “This would result in an iPhone price point that is a non-starter for Cupertino and translate into iPhone prices of ~$3,500 if it was made in the US which is not realistic as this would take 5-10 years to shift production to the US,” Ives stated in an analyst note.

Trump’s latest message comes on the heels of earlier calls this month for Apple to halt expansion in India and redirect its efforts to American soil instead of attempting to reduce dependence on China.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Cook and Trump met in person at the White House this week to discuss business issues.

Earlier this year, Apple pledged to invest $500 billion over four years in its U.S. operations, spreading that investment across facilities and job creation in nine states. However, the commitment made no mention of establishing domestic iPhone production.

A source cited by Reuters revealed that Apple plans to manufacture the majority of its iPhones for the U.S. market in India by the end of 2026, and has begun accelerating those efforts in anticipation of steeper tariffs that may arise from continued operations in China.

Trump, along with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, has floated the idea that Apple could manufacture iPhones domestically, despite the challenges.

Although iPhones and other electronics were left out of the sweeping 145% reciprocal tariffs on Chinese goods unveiled last month, Trump has continued to push the idea of reshoring production.

This pressure campaign comes shortly after the U.S. and China agreed to a 90-day pause in their trade hostilities, offering markets a brief period of stability.

Despite the fact that more than 60 million smartphones are purchased annually in the U.S., the country currently lacks any facilities dedicated to smartphone manufacturing.

U.S. defense officials have revealed that Russia has introduced nuclear-capable air-to-air missiles into its military arsenal, a move reminiscent of the nuclear strategies employed during the Cold War era. This new development was disclosed by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) in its latest global threat report.

The 2025 Worldwide Threat Assessment was presented to lawmakers during a session of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Intelligence and Special Operations, held on May 15. Leading the briefing was Air Force Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kruse, who heads the DIA.

“Russia remains a significant aggressive and enduring threat against the United States and its neighbors,” Kruse stated during his testimony. “Moscow has remained steadfast in its demands for Ukrainian neutrality, authority over the size of Ukraine’s armed forces, and further partitioning the Ukrainian state. Russia will continue its military strategy of attrition, focusing on degrading Ukraine’s ability and will to resist while facing its own significant losses of equipment and personnel.”

FlightGlobal reported that these nuclear air-to-air munitions would likely be fitted onto advanced long-range missiles like the Vympel R-37, commonly mounted on MiG-31 interceptor aircraft. This would mark a return to strategies emphasizing stand-off nuclear deterrence from the air.

Military Watch noted that this shift aligns with Russia’s broader strategic aim to counterbalance NATO’s numerical and technological advantages by leaning more heavily on its nuclear capabilities.

Outfitting R-37 missiles with nuclear warheads could pose a particular threat to stealth aircraft such as the F-35, which have been increasingly stationed around Russia’s borders in Europe, the Arctic, and the Far East by Western forces.

According to Military Watch, the R-37 missile stands out as the fastest air-to-air missile in service, traveling at Mach 6, and ranks second globally in range, following only China’s PL-XX. Designed for agility, it can down smaller aircraft with precision, but when armed with a nuclear payload, it would require less accuracy due to its destructive blast radius and the possibility of an electromagnetic pulse disabling electronics—even on unmanned systems.

Back in the mid-20th century, air-to-air nuclear weapons were introduced to counter mass bomber attacks. Models like the U.S. AIR-2 Genie and AIM-26 Falcon were eventually phased out as more precise, long-range missile technology emerged, FlightGlobal explained.

In the new assessment, the DIA stated: “Russia probably maintains a nuclear stockpile of about 1,550 deployed strategic warheads and up to 2,000 nonstrategic warheads. Russia is expanding its nuclear posture to Belarus by establishing missile and nuclear-capable aircraft capabilities, renovating a nuclear weapons storage site, and training Belarusian crews to handle tactical nuclear weapons.

“Throughout the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russia has used nuclear-related rhetoric and military exercises to signal its resolve and deter Russia-perceived Western involvement in the conflict. However, Russia is very unlikely to use nuclear weapons in the conflict unless Russian leadership judged it faced an existential threat to the regime.”

{Matzav.com}

In the early hours of Friday morning, a devastating accident on Hope Chapel Road near the intersection with New Central Avenue, on the Lakewood/Jackson, NJ border, claimed the lives of two bochurim, r”l, and left others injured.

According to initial reports, a Toyota Sienna carrying five bochurim was traveling along Hope Chapel Road when the vehicle struck a deer. The impact caused the driver to lose control, resulting in the minivan veering off the road, crashing into a tree, and erupting into flames.

Tragically, two of the young men were killed in the fiery crash.

Emergency personnel responded swiftly to the scene, and an investigation is currently underway.

The remaining passengers survived but sustained various injuries. Those with more serious injuries were transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune, NJ for treatment.

Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims, pending notification of their families.

{Matzav.com}

During an appearance on Fox News Channel’s “America Reports” Thursday, Ofir Akunis, Israel’s Consul General in New York, pointed to Qatar’s influence on American college campuses as a contributing factor in the deadly shooting of two Israeli embassy staff members the previous day. Akunis accused Qatar of financing radical groups on U.S. campuses and urged the Gulf state to cease its funding if it truly wishes to play a constructive role in the region.

Akunis argued that the violence can be traced back to years of ideological indoctrination funded by Qatar across American higher education institutions. “I think that [it] is a result of…the brainwash[ing] of the Qataris among the universities and the campuses right here in the United States for the last twenty years, but especially since October 7,” he said.

He continued by denouncing Qatar’s contradictory behavior—on one hand, serving as a mediator in talks to free hostages held in Gaza, while on the other, allegedly bankrolling protests and movements sympathetic to terrorist causes. “I know that everybody in the United States already knows that they are supporting the pro-terrorist moves on the campuses and on the streets and amongst all the universities. So, they are playing a double game. And their double game is that they’re hosting the negotiation to release the hostages from the tunnels that they built [with] their own money under the Gaza Strip, it’s money from Qatar. It’s not from anywhere else around the world.”

Akunis emphasized that these anti-Israel demonstrations aren’t grassroots efforts but rather the result of strategic financial backing. “And now it’s another double game. Why? Because there are, beyond all these mobs, you cannot protest these days in our world without money, someone needs to give you money. I’m not saying that 100% [of] the money is from Qatar. But most of the money is from Qatar.”

He concluded with a direct appeal to Doha: “So, I’m calling from here to Qatar to stop their double game. If they want to negotiate with Israel, if they want to be part of the new Middle East, they are more than welcome, but they must stop all the money that they’re actually transfer[ing] every week, every month to the mobs here in the universities.”

A major development in Yerushalayim has left the chareidi community shaken: A kollel yungerman, a father of ten young children, has been held in Shin Bet custody for over two days on suspicion of endangering state security—without legal representation and without being informed of the specific charges against him.

According to close family members, who spoke to Kikar HaShabbat, the avreich, who runs a Torah hotline called “Sod HaChashmal,” was arrested at his home by Shin Bet agents two days ago. He has since been held in a detention facility and subjected to continuous interrogation.

The hotline he operates blends Torah teachings rooted in kabbalah with updates and political commentary. Relatives say he would regularly share spiritual interpretations of current events and even speculative predictions, such as, “Israel is about to strike in Yemen or Iran,” presenting them as personal forecasts inspired by his beliefs. “But no one seriously thought he was receiving classified briefings or anything of the sort,” they insisted.

The family says they have yet to be informed of the nature of the allegations against him, beyond a vague reference to “a matter of national security.” The prosecution, they claim, has declined to disclose the details of the investigation or allow the detainee access to a lawyer.

Despite repeated appeals, Shin Bet has refused to permit him to meet with an attorney. According to the family, the agency has also denied him basic items, including tefillin, a siddur, a Tehillim, and even food and hygiene supplies.

A court hearing was held yesterday following an appeal filed by the family regarding his detention. The judge rejected the appeal and extended his remand until next Monday. The family expressed outrage that even the court did not intervene to provide him basic religious or personal accommodations.

At this time, the Shin Bet has not issued a public comment.

{Matzav.com Israel}

In a closely divided ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court has effectively halted the launch of what would have been the country’s first religious charter school, handing a setback to advocates seeking a broader role for faith-based institutions within the public education system.

The high court reached a 4-4 stalemate on the case involving St. Isidore of Seville Virtual Charter School, leaving intact a prior ruling by the Oklahoma Supreme Court. That ruling had determined that establishing a religious charter school would run afoul of constitutional protections that separate religion and government.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett did not join the deliberations. While no official explanation was given, her personal connection to a Notre Dame Law professor who had once advised the Catholic Church in Oklahoma—an entity central to the case—was widely noted.

The Court issued a brief, one-sentence statement revealing the deadlock, which followed three weeks after oral arguments were heard. The announcement did not disclose how each of the justices voted.

With no majority reached, the ruling does not create a binding precedent that lower courts must follow.

Alliance Defending Freedom, which defended the state charter school board’s decision to approve St. Isidore, expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about the possibility of future litigation on the issue.

“Oklahoma parents and children are better off with more educational choices, not fewer,” Jim Campbell, the group’s chief legal counsel, said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Oklahoma’s Catholic Church leadership vowed to keep pursuing ways to provide faith-based virtual education to state residents.

Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, hailed the outcome as a crucial moment for upholding constitutional boundaries.

“A publicly funded religious charter school would have obliterated the wall of separation between state and church,” Gaylor said in a statement. “We’re relieved that, at least for now, the First Amendment still means what it says.”

During the hearing, the Court appeared to wrestle with the tension between two aspects of the First Amendment—its restrictions against government-endorsed religion and its protections of religious liberty.

While several conservative justices seemed initially inclined to back the Catholic Church’s effort to use public money for religious education, one ultimately sided with the three liberal justices, tipping the balance.

Chief Justice John Roberts seemed to signal caution, suggesting he viewed religious charter schools as more complicated than previous cases where the Court had expanded religious access to public resources.

The proposal by the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and the Diocese of Tulsa sought to establish a K-12 school that would include religious teachings as part of its curriculum.

The state charter school board had approved the application in a narrow 3-2 vote, but that decision triggered a lawsuit by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond. He argued the arrangement was unconstitutional, since charter schools receive public funding and are required to operate as secular institutions.

“Oklahoma’s charter schools bear all of the hallmarks of a public school identified by this Court and more,” Drummond, a Republican, wrote in a brief to the justices as he urged them not to intervene.

Drummond also warned that redefining charter schools as private could cause legal chaos across the nation, as 46 states and the federal government all classify them as public institutions.

The dioceses and the nonprofit managing the school countered that charter schools are not truly public in the governmental sense, but rather privately managed entities that happen to be publicly funded. They argued that excluding religious organizations from operating such schools amounted to unconstitutional religious discrimination.

They also noted that no student would be compelled to attend the school, and therefore, there would be no government coercion of religious participation.

The Trump administration’s Justice Department had sided with the Church, arguing during the case that Oklahoma could not bar religious charter schools. Trump’s solicitor general was given time to speak during oral arguments.

The dispute also revealed a political divide within Oklahoma itself. While the state’s governor backed the Catholic school plan, Attorney General Drummond strongly opposed it.

Drummond warned the arrangement would “open the floodgates and force taxpayers to fund all manner of religious indoctrination, including radical Islam or even the Church of Satan.” In contrast, Governor Kevin Stitt accused Drummond of exhibiting “open hostility against religion.”

National charter school advocates also raised concerns that the case could destabilize public charter education across the country. They feared that if religious charter schools were deemed private, it could jeopardize state funding for charter schools in areas where public dollars cannot go to private institutions.

“With this legal clarity, we can move forward with renewed focus on expanding access to high-quality public charter schools for every family nationwide,” Starlee Coleman, president of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, said in a statement after the ruling.

The St. Isidore case is one of several major religion-related cases the Supreme Court has agreed to review this year.

{Matzav.com}

Edan Alexander, an Israeli soldier who endured nearly two years as a hostage of Hamas, had a meeting with Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar, according to a report aired Thursday by Channel 12 News.

In a candid exchange during their meeting, Bar expressed deep regret to Alexander for the circumstances that led to his capture and the failure of Israeli security forces to prevent it. Bar told him, “I want to apologize to you for falling into captivity partly because of us, and for being freed thanks to [Steve] Witkoff and not us.”

Alexander recounted to Bar the terrifying experience of October 7, the trauma he suffered during his abduction, and his continued anxiety for the well-being of those who are still being held hostage.

This encounter took place just after the Israeli team returned from negotiations in Qatar, which ended in stalemate. The discussions broke down due to Hamas’s demand for assurances from the United States that the war would be brought to a conclusion.

The Prime Minister’s Office highlighted Friday morning that David Zini’s appointment to lead the Israel Security Agency was primarily driven by his early and prescient warnings about the nation’s unpreparedness for a large-scale assault like the one that took place on October 7.

In a formal statement, officials noted that Zini had been tasked back in March 2022—six months before the deadly incursion—with conducting a review of the Gaza Division’s operational capabilities, particularly in the event of an unexpected attack. The request came directly from the division’s commanding officer. Zini’s findings pointed to significant gaps in defensive strategy and made clear recommendations to bolster readiness.

One section of Zini’s top-secret evaluation, which Prime Minister Netanyahu has now permitted to be shared with the public, warned starkly: “In almost every sector, a surprise raid could be executed against our forces, undermining the concept of ‘surprised but not defeated.’ There are numerous ways to carry out such an attack during routine times. In my view, an above-ground attack represents the most plausible and accessible option.”

In his report, Zini noted that although the phrase “surprise raid” appeared frequently in operational discussions, security personnel and leadership had failed to grasp its practical implications or take the necessary steps to respond adequately.

“The concept of a surprise scenario is not clearly imagined or internalized by our forces,” he wrote. “As a result, operational readiness is seriously lacking.”

He concluded that this lack of clarity surrounding possible threats left the military and broader security establishment without the proper framework to anticipate or respond effectively to emerging dangers: “The main deficiency lies in the situational awareness of both the troops and the wider defense system.”

Netanyahu went ahead with Zini’s nomination on Thursday night, even though both the Attorney General and the Supreme Court had previously ruled that no appointments should be made while the Qatar-Gate probe is still ongoing.

{Matzav.com}

WATCH:

More than two years after a horrific incident that left a chareidi mother of 11 critically injured, police in Yerushalayim have finally apprehended one of the central suspects, who had evaded arrest for nearly two and a half years. The arrest was reported Thursday afternoon by journalist Liran Tamari.

According to police suspicions, the man played a key role in an attack during riots on Rechov Yechezkel in Yerushalayim in 2022, when a burning garbage bin was pushed down a slope and struck the woman with great force, leaving her severely wounded.

The victim, 40-year-old Mirel Dzhilovsky, had left her home that Thursday in December 2022 to shop for Shabbos. As she walked near Rechov Yechezkel, where violent protests were unfolding, she was suddenly struck in the chest by a flaming trash container. The impact caused her to collapse on the sidewalk, and she was rushed in critical condition to the trauma unit at Shaarei Tzedek Medical Center.

Mirel suffered life-threatening bilateral lung injuries and required immediate, invasive life-saving treatment. Once her condition stabilized, she remained in intensive care for an extended period under the supervision of Dr. Philip Levin.

In July 2023, a precedent-setting sentence was handed down by the Jerusalem District Court in connection with the case. Meir Katsav, another individual involved in the same incident, was sentenced to 20 months in prison under a plea deal. He was also ordered to pay financial compensation and received a suspended sentence. Katsav had been convicted of pushing the trash bin that caused Mirel’s critical injuries.

According to the indictment, the defendant, together with others, deliberately ignited a dumpster during riots on Yechezkel Street and used it to block traffic. The trash bin was then forcefully pushed from different angles in an effort to move it into the middle of the road. Because the street slopes downward, the burning dumpster rolled downhill, and one of its corners struck the woman with brutal force.

Following the impact, the woman collapsed, and the defendant, along with the others involved, fled the scene. As a result of their actions, she was hospitalized in intensive care. The defendant has now been convicted of aggravated assault under aggravating circumstances and endangering public safety. His sentencing follows the plea deal presented to the court.

{Matzav.com Israel}

By Shaul Berlowitz

Over the past week, a series of meaningful meetings took place at the home of Rav Aryeh Malkiel Kotler, rosh yeshiva of Bais Medrash Govoah. These gatherings brought together rabbonim from kehillos across Lakewood in preparation for the upcoming fourth Ma’amad Adirei HaTorah. The meetings reflected the community’s unified commitment to supporting Torah learning, with participation from rabbonim representing all segments of Lakewood’s Torah world.

Unlike previous years, which featured one central asifas rabbonim, this year’s meetings adopted a more focused format. Smaller, more intimate settings allowed for practical discussions about advancing the Adirei HaTorah initiative throughout the community. What was particularly noteworthy was the sense of shared purpose that permeated these gatherings, as rabbonim from different backgrounds came together with a single goal: strengthening support for Torah learning in Lakewood.

“These asifos demonstrated how our community—though we may differ in nusach or havara—is fundamentally united in our commitment to Torah,” noted one participating rov. “In Lakewood, we’re fortunate that our differences are nuanced—we’re really variations of the same commitment to Torah and lomdei Torah.”

Another rov added, “Whether a family davens in a Litvishe shul, a Chassidishe shtiebel, or a Sephardic minyan, we all share the same fundamental values. Adirei HaTorah gives expression to this unity of purpose.”

A central theme of these meetings was the recognition that Adirei HaTorah represents more than just an organization. It embodies the deep connection between the families of greater Lakewood and the bnei Torah learning in the yeshiva. This connection is guided by the community’s rabbonim, who understand both the challenges faced by baalei batim and the needs of those dedicated to full-time learning.

“A rov today serves as an important bridge,” explained one of the rabbonim present. “He understands the baalei batim’s concerns about balancing parnassah and time for learning, while also appreciating the dedication of kollel families who make the greatest sacrifices to devote their lives to limud haTorah.”

This perspective enables rabbonim to foster authentic connections between these two vital parts of the community. Under their guidance, baalei batim and kollel yungeleit increasingly recognize their shared mission and mutual support in building Lakewood as a makom Torah.

Rav Kotler spoke about the positive impact Adirei HaTorah has had on respect for Torah learning throughout Lakewood. What began primarily as a financial support initiative has evolved into something far more significant—an elevation of Torah’s place in the community’s consciousness.

“When a person who isn’t sitting and learning in yeshiva develops a kesher with lomdei Torah through supporting them, something remarkable happens,” Rav Kotler explained. “The entire family begins to view Torah learning differently. Children see their parents’ respect for Torah and talmidei chachomim. The home atmosphere changes. Family conversations revolve around Torah. The wife and children respect their father’s commitment to Torah and hachzokas haTorah. This is the true achievement that Adirei HaTorah has brought to the world.”

Many rabbonim shared inspiring stories from their kehillos, accounts of families who, through their connection to Adirei HaTorah, discovered new depths in their own learning and a greater appreciation for Torah. Homes where discussions about yeshiva learning have become commonplace. Children aspiring to greater heights in their own Torah studies after seeing their parents’ enthusiasm for supporting talmidei chachomim.

“We’re witnessing an increased respect for Torah that goes well beyond financial support,” noted one rov. “People mamish gained a renewed connection to Torah. They feel part of it. They see themselves as partners with the Adirei HaTorah, the yungeleit sitting and learning. This, in turn, makes them seek ways to be more connected with Torah in their own lives.”

The upcoming fourth Ma’amad Adirei HaTorah, scheduled for Sunday, the 16th of Sivan, at Wells Fargo Arena, promises to be a powerful demonstration of community-wide unity and commitment. This gathering will showcase how Lakewood’s kehillos, with their shared values and dedication to Torah, come together in support of Torah learning.

“What makes Adirei HaTorah special is that it’s not simply about fundraising,” explained one of the organizers. “It’s about raising awareness. It’s about reinforcing how we view our collective responsibility for supporting Torah study. When our various kehillos come together for this purpose, we demonstrate that Torah truly is what unifies us. And the conduit is through supporting lomdei Torah, those who dedicate their lives to learning.”

The Ma’amad will feature inspiring words from rabbonim representing different parts of the community, highlighting how the partnership between working families and yungeleit has strengthened the entire kehillah. Special emphasis will be placed on how this partnership has enhanced family life, chinuch habonim, and the overall ruach of Lakewood’s kehillos.

As the meetings concluded, Rav Kotler emphasized that the upcoming Ma’amad represents more than just an organizational milestone. It embodies a kiddush Hashem that reinforces the very foundations of our community.

Rav Kotler shared how the Adirei HaTorah initiative has begun to resonate far beyond Lakewood, spreading to frum communities worldwide. “What began here in Lakewood has become a model for communities across the globe,” he explained. “Just last month, I was invited to address an event in Mexico City called Amudei HaOlam, which was directly inspired by our Ma’amad Adirei HaTorah.”

He recounted how several members of the Mexican kehillah had attended last year’s Ma’amad at Wells Fargo and were so deeply inspired that they decided to create a similar framework in their own community. “They told me how seeing the partnership between baalei batim and kollel yungeleit in Lakewood opened their eyes to what was possible in their own kehillah,” Rav Kotler said. “They were particularly moved by how the Adirei HaTorah event conveyed the powerful message that lomdei Torah truly uphold the world. After witnessing this, they created their own event, Amudei HaOlam, specifically to honor their yungeleit and express this.”

Rav Kotler explained how the Mexican community recognized the importance of publicly expressing this message and the profound impact it has on everyone involved. “They understood that such an event benefits their entire community—the baalei batim who gain appreciation for the Torah being learned, the yungeleit who feel valued for their dedication, and perhaps most importantly, the children who see this respect demonstrated in such a tangible way.”

As preparations continue in the coming weeks, rabbonim will encourage their kehillos to participate in this important event. The fourth Ma’amad Adirei HaTorah aims to further elevate Torah learning in Lakewood, strengthening the partnership between the community and the yeshiva that continues to be its spiritual center.

In the words of one participating rov, shared as the final meeting concluded, “When our community unites around Torah, there is no limit to what we can achieve together. This Ma’amad is about ensuring that Torah remains central to our lives and to the lives of future generations.”

{Matzav.com}

France and Saudi Arabia are reportedly drafting a joint initiative aimed at stripping Hamas of its weapons, a move seen as the first step toward dismantling the group’s military capabilities, according to Bloomberg, which cited individuals with direct knowledge of the matter.

As part of this initiative, Saudi representatives are said to have established a channel of communication with Hamas leaders. While it remains uncertain whether France has also engaged directly with Hamas—given the European Union’s official designation of the group as a terrorist organization—Saudi involvement has been confirmed by the sources.

Insiders suggest that discussions are centered around the idea of Hamas giving up its arms in exchange for retaining a level of political influence. The overarching goal is reportedly to recast Hamas as a strictly political player that could still participate in future Palestinian leadership structures.

Tensions have reportedly been escalating between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and French President Emmanuel Macron, largely due to France’s push to broaden international recognition of a Palestinian state.

France and Saudi Arabia are co-chairing a United Nations summit in New York, where formal steps toward such recognition are expected to take place, further straining diplomatic relations with Israel.

On Tuesday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot criticized Israel’s limited steps to increase aid into Gaza, saying, “totally insufficient… Immediate and massive aid is needed.”

A joint statement on Monday from the leaders of Britain, France, and Canada expressed firm opposition to Israel’s continued military operations in Gaza and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, warning that countermeasures could be on the table.

Hamas reacted positively to the message, declaring it a repudiation of “the policy of siege and starvation pursued by the occupation government against our people in the Gaza Strip, and the Zionist plans aimed at genocide and displacement.”

According to The Wall Street Journal, the IDF uncovered Hamas records suggesting that the October 7 massacre orchestrated by the group was deliberately designed to sabotage the progress of normalization talks between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Earlier this month, Macron lambasted Netanyahu’s strategy in Gaza, where he claimed half a million residents are at risk of starvation, calling it disgraceful and urging European nations to consider expanding sanctions.

{Matzav.com Israel}

President Donald Trump held up a printed screenshot of a Reuters video during a tense meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday, claiming it showed the funerals of white farmers in South Africa—when in reality, the footage was filmed in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“These are all white farmers that are being buried,” Trump declared, referring to the image, which was actually taken from a February 3 Reuters video that captured the aftermath of violence in the Congolese city of Goma. That video, authenticated by Reuters’ fact-checking team, depicted humanitarian workers handling body bags following clashes with M23 rebels backed by Rwanda.

The image Trump referenced was originally published in a blog post by American Thinker, a right-leaning website. The post discussed racial unrest in both South Africa and Congo, but it did not label the image or identify it as being from South Africa. Instead, it was described simply as a “YouTube screen grab,” linking to a YouTube video report about the conflict in Congo, which properly credited Reuters.

The White House offered no comment when asked to clarify the president’s use of the image. However, American Thinker managing editor Andrea Widburg, who authored the article Trump held up, responded to Reuters by acknowledging that Trump had “misidentified the image.”

Despite the mistake, Widburg stood by the article’s content, stating that it aimed to highlight the “increasing pressure placed on white South Africans” and criticizing what she described as Ramaphosa’s “dysfunctional, race-obsessed Marxist government.”

The video from which the still was taken was captured by Reuters journalist Djaffar Al Katanty. It shows mass burials in Goma following an M23 offensive. “That day, it was extremely difficult for journalists to get in … I had to negotiate directly with M23 and coordinate with the ICRC to be allowed to film,” Al Katanty explained. “Only Reuters has video.”

Al Katanty said he was stunned to learn that Trump had used his footage out of context. “In view of all the world, President Trump used my image, used what I filmed in DRC to try to convince President Ramaphosa that in his country, white people are being killed by Black people,” he said.

President Ramaphosa traveled to Washington in an effort to restore relations with the United States following ongoing criticism from Trump regarding South Africa’s land policies, international alignment, and accusations of discrimination against the white population—allegations the South African government strongly denies.

During their meeting, which was being broadcast, Trump paused the conversation to show a video he claimed supported allegations of widespread killings of white farmers in South Africa. This narrative, long promoted in far-right circles, has been repeatedly debunked.

Trump also presented a series of printed articles, flipping through them as he referenced violent incidents. “Death, death, death, horrible death,” he said, emphasizing what he claimed was a pattern of attacks.

{Matzav.com}

Elias Rodriguez, accused of fatally shooting two Israeli Embassy staff members in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, reportedly confessed to officers shortly after the attack, saying, “I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza,” according to federal court filings.

As law enforcement led him out of the museum where the shooting occurred, Rodriguez shouted, “Free Palestine,” according to an affidavit submitted by FBI agents.

Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators revealed that Rodriguez initially walked past the victims outside the Capital Jewish Museum. He then turned back, drew a handgun from his waistband, and opened fire, shooting both victims in the back, the affidavit states.

The court documents say that after both victims collapsed, Rodriguez approached and continued firing. One of the victims, Sarah Milgrim, was seen on video trying to crawl away before briefly sitting up. As Rodriguez reloaded, he shot her again, according to what the footage showed.

Authorities recovered 21 shell casings from the scene along with a 9mm pistol. Investigators later confirmed the weapon matched one that Rodriguez had legally purchased in Illinois in 2020. He transported the gun in his checked luggage on a flight from Chicago to Virginia, according to the affidavit.

During his subsequent questioning, Rodriguez told authorities he looked up to Aaron Bushnell, an anti-Israel protester who set himself on fire outside the Israeli Embassy in 2024. He referred to Bushnell as a “martyr.” Rodriguez also mentioned that he had purchased a ticket to the museum event about three hours before it began.

{Matzav.com}

Following the deadly shooting of two Israeli Embassy staff members in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, New York City officials took swift action to bolster protection at sites associated with the Jewish community.

The NYPD released a statement announcing stepped-up safety efforts in response to the attack. “While there is no known nexus to NYC, in response to last night’s horrific attack in DC targeting Jews and Israelis, the NYPD is increasing its presence at religious sites and cultural institutions with high visibility patrols, heavy weapons teams, and counterterrorism officers.”

Mayor Eric Adams addressed the tragedy on X, expressing deep sorrow over the incident. “We’re keeping the victims in our prayers and have directed the NYPD to increase security at sensitive locations for the Jewish community here in NYC,” the mayor wrote.

He condemned the nature of the assault, stating: “This act of hateful violence is exactly what it means to globalize the intifada. Let me be clear — antisemitic violence has no place in our country.”

The victims, Yaron Lischinsky from Israel and Sarah Milgrim, an American citizen, were a young couple planning to become engaged, according to Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter.

Authorities from the Metropolitan Police Department said the pair was leaving a diplomatic event hosted at the Capital Jewish Museum when the suspect approached a group of four and began shooting.

After opening fire, the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez of Chicago, reportedly entered the museum. He was stopped by event security and began shouting, “Free, free Palestine,” according to law enforcement.

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino commented on the investigation via social media, writing that “early indicators are that this is an act of targeted violence.”

{Matzav.com}

Elias Rodriguez, the man accused of fatally shooting two Israeli embassy employees in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night, was officially indicted on Thursday. Authorities charged him with two counts of first-degree murder, among several other serious federal offenses.

According to a sworn statement cited by Fox News, Rodriguez faces multiple charges, including the murder of foreign officials, use of a firearm resulting in death, and firing a weapon during a violent crime.

The affidavit states: “During an interview with MPD detectives, after having been advised of his Miranda rights and after waiving them, Rodriguez expressed admiration for the actions of an individual who self-immolated in front of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., on February 25, 2024, as a form of protest intended to draw attention to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.”

It further recounts: “Rodriguez described this person’s actions as courageous and labeled him a ‘martyr.’ Rodriguez also stated that he had purchased a ticket to the event at the Museum approximately three hours prior to its commencement.”

Authorities have confirmed the identities of the two people killed in the attack as Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim.

On Thursday, Sky News revealed that Rodriguez had ties to an extremist leftist group and was frequently engaged in spreading anti-Israel propaganda.

According to the same report, Rodriguez had scheduled a social media message to go live an hour after carrying out the shooting, in which he leveled harsh accusations against Israel, alleging it had committed “atrocities” against Palestinians.

In his post, Rodriguez wrote, “The atrocities committed by Israelis against Palestine go beyond what words can describe.” He added, “public opinion has turned against the apartheid state committing genocide,” and expressed dismay over what he described as the U.S. government’s failure to act.

Investigators have concluded that Lischinsky and Milgrim were exiting an event at the Capital Jewish Museum when Rodriguez approached a small group and opened fire.

Video footage that circulated online showed police apprehending Rodriguez. As he was being taken into custody, he was heard shouting, “Free Palestine.”

{Matzav.com}

Secretary of State Marco Rubio leveled harsh criticism at what he termed the entrenched “foreign aid industrial complex” during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee session, expressing frustration over what he described as a deeply flawed system in which USAID fails to effectively deliver assistance to those most in need.

Rubio took aim squarely at the agency, asserting that it’s long overdue for a complete overhaul from the ground up.

“At USAID, 12 cents of every dollar was reaching the recipient. That means that in order for us to get aid to somebody, we had to spend all this other money supporting this foreign aid industrial complex,” Rubio said.

He outlined plans for a dramatic shift in how foreign aid is distributed, emphasizing a model that focuses on greater efficiency, regional expertise, and programs with measurable impact.

“We’re going to find more efficient ways to deliver aid to people directly. It’s going to be directed by our regional bureaus. It’s going to sponsor programs that make a difference. And it’s going to be part of a holistic approach to our foreign policy.”

While he made it clear that U.S. assistance would continue, Rubio insisted that the bloated systems managing the aid must be restructured.

“We still will provide more foreign aid, more humanitarian support, than the next 10 countries combined… and far more than China,” he said, pushing back against critics who claim these changes would weaken America’s global influence. “China doesn’t do humanitarian aid. China does predatory lending.”

Rubio also credited long-serving staffers within the department for helping to drive reform and admitted that the State Department had lost its primary role in shaping American foreign relations.

“Many of the reforms we’ve made were driven by people inside the building—many of whom have worked there for 20 or 30 years,” he said. “The State Department had to change. I’m telling you—it was no longer at the center of American foreign policy. It had often been replaced by the National Security Council or by some other agency of government.”

{Matzav.com}

For the first time in 17 years, a new Sefer Torah will be brought into the main beis medrash of Ponovezh Yeshiva in Bnei Brak. The event, scheduled for Tuesday, Isru Chag Shavuos, marks a poignant milestone and is expected to draw thousands from across the country.

The Sefer Torah is being dedicated l’ilui nishmas the Rosh HaYeshiva,HaRav Gershon Edelstein zt”l.

The Sefer Torah, meticulously written over the past year with the highest levels of hiddur, is being funded entirely through donations from Rav Edelstein’s talmidim.

The first letter was penned by Rosh HaYeshiva Rav Berel Povarsky on Motzaei Simchas Torah last year in front of thousands of talmidim.

The hachnosas Sefer Torah will be held just hours after the conclusion of Shavuos, on the evening before Rav Edelstein’s yahrtzeit. It will be led by Rav Berel Povarsky and Yeshiva nosi Rav Eliezer Kahaneman, and will culminate with the placement of the Sefer Torah in the aron kodesh of the yeshiva.

The occasion will honor the memory of the Rosh Yeshiva, who taught Torah in Ponovezh for 80 years, right up until his final day.

{Matzav.com Israel}