Matzav

During a ceremony held at the U.S. State Department today, First Lady Melania Trump presented the 2025 International Women of Courage Award to former Israeli hostage Amit Soussana.

Soussana was among eight women honored from different parts of the globe. Her selection was based on her relentless advocacy on behalf of the hostages abducted on October 7, 2023, including those still held in Gaza, and her courageous decision to come forward as the first former hostage to publicly detail the sexual abuse she endured while in captivity.

Upon receiving the award, Soussana addressed the audience with emotion and strength. “It is with deep gratitude that I stand before you today as an awardee of the 2025 International Women of Courage Award alongside the courageous women here, women that I’m honored and grateful to have met.”

“This is an honor I never imagined receiving, and one I wish I didn’t have to accept under these circumstances,” she continued. “My name is Amit Soussana, and I am a survivor.”

She went on to recount her harrowing experience. “On October 7th, my world changed forever. I was taken hostage by Hamas and held captive for 55 days. 55 days of pain, of fear, and of being stripped of every freedom I once took for granted. In captivity, I had no control over my body, no control over my body, no control over my life. I resisted as best I could, but it was not enough to stop what happened to me.”

Despite the trauma, Soussana said she drew on inner strength to persevere. “The darkness was suffocating, yet even in the darkness, there was one thing they could not have taken from me: The strength my mother instilled in me, the belief that we must always stand for what is right no matter the cost,” she declared.

Although she expressed gratitude for the recognition, Soussana admitted the moment was also filled with grief. She said the ceremony was a “deeply painful moment” because “While I am here, my friends remain in the darkness. 543 long days and nights. They are still suffering, still waiting, still hoping. Their voices remain unheard, so I will speak for them.”

“We cannot move forward until they are free. I vowed that if I would survive, I would never be silent. I would speak not just for myself, but for every woman who had been silenced,” she said. “When I first told my story, I only wanted to raise awareness about the horrors of captivity and the terror of October 7th, but my story became part of a much bigger conversation, one about sexual violence, about war, and about the unimaginable strength of women in the face of brutality.”

In a statement, the U.S. State Department highlighted Soussana’s advocacy and professional background. “Amit Soussana uses her voice to courageously advocate for survivors by using her own lived example to describe the trauma she suffered as a hostage of the October 7th attack in Israel. Ms. Soussana has raised awareness of the conditions faced by the women, men, girls, and boys who remain hostages of Hamas. As an attorney at law, she holds an LLB from Sapir College and has been a licensed member of the Israel Bar Association since 2014. Ms. Soussana has extensive experience in intellectual property law, having worked at Luzzatto & Luzzatto, Attorneys and Patent Attorneys from 2015 to 2024, where she managed client files, negotiated with foreign patent attorney offices, and handled patent and trademark registrations both in Israel and abroad. Ms. Soussana is an advocate for the hostages that remain under Hamas control following the October 7, 2023 attacks.”

First Lady Trump, in her remarks at the event, honored not only Soussana but women across the globe who face adversity with courage and resolve. She praised “the women who are driven to speak out for justice, even though their voices are trembling; to the women who are motivated to rise up for their community, when all others remain indifferent; to the women who feel compelled to heal wounds caused by hatred — and cherish peace.”

{Matzav.com}

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President Donald Trump weighed in on the news that Marine Le Pen, leader of France’s National Rally Party, has been barred from holding public office for five years following a conviction for embezzlement, calling the situation a “very big deal” and drawing parallels to what he sees happening in the United States.

“A lot of people thought she wasn’t going to be convicted of anything,” Trump told reporters Monday, according to The Hill. “I don’t know if it means conviction, but she was banned for running for five years, and she was the leading candidate. That sounds like this country, it sounds very much like this country.”

A court in Paris handed down the verdict Monday, finding Le Pen guilty of misusing funds allocated by the European Union Parliament. As a result, she is now legally disqualified from running for office for the next five years, a ruling that could block her from seeking the French presidency in the 2027 race.

The case centered on allegations that Le Pen and 24 of her party colleagues had redirected EU parliamentary funds—intended for official aides—to compensate National Rally party workers instead, over a period stretching from 2004 to 2016. Le Pen, who ran for the French presidency in 2022, has announced plans to appeal the decision. While she hopes the legal process will conclude before the next presidential election, she remains barred from campaigning unless the conviction is overturned.

Speaking Monday in an interview with TF1, Le Pen questioned the impartiality of the court’s decision. “If the ruling is not a political decision, I don’t know what is.”

She also addressed her supporters directly, saying, “There are millions of French people who believe in me, millions of French people who trust me. For 30 years I’ve been fighting for you, and for 30 years I’ve been fighting against injustice, so I’m going to continue fighting.”

The verdict drew criticism from several of Le Pen’s far-right allies across Europe. Among them were Dutch politician Geert Wilders and Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, both of whom expressed opposition to the ruling.

{Matzav.com}

The post Trump: Marine Le Pen Exclusion From French Election a ‘Very Big Deal’ first appeared on Matzav.com.

A family in Deir al-Balah, a city in the central Gaza Strip, carried out a retaliatory killing of a Hamas police officer accused of fatally shooting one of their relatives. The incident was captured on video and has ignited widespread outrage across Gaza, coming on the heels of large-scale protests against Hamas and the reported execution of demonstrators by the group.

Hamas, the terrorist organization that governs the Gaza Strip, responded with a public statement issued in the name of “Clans and Families in Deir al-Balah,” in which it denounced what it called the “treacherous” killing of the officer. According to the statement, the officer had been “fulfilling his national duty to provide humanitarian aid and flour to civilians who are suffering the difficult circumstances in which our Palestinian people find themselves.”

Hamas claimed the shooting occurred when police officers discharged their weapons into the air to maintain order during the distribution of aid. One resident was reportedly struck by a bullet and later died from his injuries.

In its statement, Hamas urged the public to remain calm and avoid descending into further unrest. The group emphasized that those responsible for the act “will not escape punishment.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

The post Gazan Clan Executes Alleged Hamas Operative Who Killed Their Relative first appeared on Matzav.com.

It is with great sadness that Matzav.com reports the petirah of Rav Dovid Wolpin zt”l,Mashgiach of Yeshivas Kol Yaakov in Monsey, who was niftar this morning at the age of 82.

Rav Wolpin was recognized as a brilliant talmid chacham from a young age. He learned in Yeshiva Torah Vodaas, where he was deeply connected to the Roshei Yeshiva and his rabbeim, from whom he absorbed a lifelong foundation in Torah and mussar.

He later continued his learning at Bais Medrash Elyon of Monsey, immersing himself in the highest levels of limud haTorah.

Throughout his life, his hasmadah, humility, and depth of character earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

Over the years, Rav Wolpin delivered shiurim to hundreds of talmidim at Mesivta Rabbi Shamshon Rephael Hirsch and later spent over two decades as the Mashgiach at Yeshivas Kol Yaakov in Monsey. In that role, he shaped the lives of generations of bochurim, not just through his shiurim, but through his personal guidance and care. He was mekarev his talmidim with warmth and sincerity, molding them into true bnei Torah. He wasn’t just their rebbi. He was their father. He maintained close relationships with his talmidim for decades, helping them navigate life’s challenges, assisting them in getting their children into schools, and participating in their simchos with a full heart.

Rav Wolpin was the devoted husband of Rebbetzin Chavi Wolpin (née Bursztyn), the longtime principal of Bais Rachel High School of Monsey and the daughter of the renowned Dr. Bursztyn of Williamsburg. Together, they built a home of Torah, chinuch, and unwavering dedication to Klal Yisroel.

He is survived by his wife and children, all of whom are rabbanim and marbitzei Torah, proudly continuing in his illustrious footsteps. His son Rav Moshe Chaim serves as the Rav of Khal Adas Yeraim in Queens. His son Rav Yitzchok is a noted talmid chacham who has been mekarev hundreds of Yidden. His son Rav Naftali is a marbitz Torah in Monsey, while his son Rav Yoissy is a marbitz Torah in Lakewood. His son Rav Ephraim Ben Tzion is a dedicated marbitz Torah, as are his sons Rav Shlomo and Rav Shalom Boruch, both of whom also reside in Lakewood.

His sons-in-law are likewise outstanding marbitzei Torah. Rav Mordechai Helberg is a respected marbitz Torah in Monsey. Rav Avraham Meyer of Lakewood serves as a Rosh Chaburah at Bais Medrash Govoha. Rav Noson Faman serves as the Mashgiach at the Los Angeles Kollel, and Rav Moshe Lowy is a marbitz Torah in Monsey.

The levayah will take place today, Tuesday, at 4:45 PM at Bais Medrash Tiferes Gedalya, located at 9 North Saddle River Road in Monsey, followed by kevurah at the Monsey Bais Olam.

Yehi zichro baruch.

{Matzav.com}

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The Brooklyn woman accused of causing the devastating car crash that killed a mother and her two daughters is now threatening legal action against the NYPD over a prior mental health-related arrest — and has taken to social media to share footage of the incident.

“Tell me why you want to take me out when I said I’m OK and you barged in,” 35-year-old Miriam Yarimi is heard shouting at officers in an October video she posted to Instagram.

“I am not moving from my bed. If you guys have a problem with me exposing the truth, you can take it up with God.”

In the video, recorded during the police response inside her home, one officer tells her, “Ma’am, get your clothes.”

“I have clothes on,” she responds. “I’m not going anywhere. This is my bed. You barged into my home without my knowledge, without a warrant, without even a reason why you’re here, without a validating excuse as to what the phone call was even about.”

Moments later, the video shows the officers physically removing her from her bed.

“Look, look, look,” Yarimi says while filming. “I’m not even resisting. Look. This is to show you guys.”

Back in December, Yarimi was awarded $2 million in a separate abuse case involving the city. Now, according to the Daily News, she’s filed a notice of claim connected to the October police visit — a move that typically signals intent to sue.

She explained in her Instagram post that it was an ex who contacted authorities and falsely claimed she was suicidal.

Sources familiar with her situation say Yarimi and the father of her child have been locked in a fierce custody dispute over their daughter.

On March 11, she posted again, this time to TikTok, revisiting the altercation with law enforcement.

“They thought they could break me, but I’m coming back to buy the whole building,” she wrote in the caption of a video titled, “Don’t you ever underestimate me.”

Currently, Yarimi is in custody at Bellevue Hospital, facing manslaughter charges for a horrific crash that took place Saturday on Ocean Parkway. The tragedy claimed the lives of 32-year-old Natasha Saada and her daughters, 8-year-old Diana and 5-year-old Debra. Their 4-year-old brother, Philip, remains hospitalized in critical condition.

At the scene, according to reports, Yarimi allegedly told emergency workers that she was “possessed.”

{Matzav.com}

The post Woman Accused of Killing Mother, 2 Kids In Horrific NYC Crash Threatening To Sue Cops Over Psych Arrest first appeared on Matzav.com.

Russia is weighing American cease-fire suggestions for Ukraine with gravity, though it is not ready to agree to the terms currently on the table, a top Russian official stated on Tuesday — signaling that negotiations toward peace remain at a standstill.

“We take the models and solutions proposed by the Americans very seriously, but we can’t accept it all in its current form,” said Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, as reported by Russian state outlets.

“As far as we can see, there is no place in them today for our main demand, namely to solve the problems related to the root causes of this conflict. It is completely absent, and that must be overcome,” Ryabkov continued.

His remarks, published in the Russian journal International Affairs, appear to confirm that the divide between the United States and Russia—first highlighted by President Vladimir Putin last month—has yet to be resolved. At the time, Putin asserted that the US-backed cease-fire blueprint required substantial revision.

Adding to the tension, President Trump recently voiced strong dissatisfaction with Putin’s actions, stating he is “pissed off” and has even floated the idea of slapping sanctions on nations that continue purchasing Russian oil should Moscow drag its feet on broader negotiations.

Meanwhile, Putin has reiterated his position, demanding that Ukraine abandon its aspirations to join NATO and accept Russian authority over four Ukrainian territories already claimed by Moscow.

{Matzav.com}

The post Russia Taking Ukraine Cease-Fire Deal ‘Seriously’ — But Won’t Accept Current Proposal first appeared on Matzav.com.

On April 1st, Knesset member Simcha Rothman posted what he called a satirical legislative proposal, suggesting an official day to mourn the demise of Israeli democracy—an apparent April Fools’ Day prank.

“I am happy to announce that after hard work, we were able to place on the Knesset table one of the laws that I am most proud of,” wrote Rothman on social media. The Religious Zionism party representative has been a central force behind the coalition’s contentious judicial reform efforts, which opponents claim threaten the foundations of Israeli democracy.

He continued, “Immediately after the recess, I intend to present the proposal to the Ministerial Committee for Legislation and ensure that no one in the country forgets where we came from and where we are going.”

The mock legislation outlines a proposed annual remembrance day dedicated to honoring what it describes as the downfall of Israeli democracy—specifically citing the passage of legislation that altered the Judicial Selection Committee. The change, it says, allowed the opposition to have a say in judicial appointments and led to the supposed end of democratic governance.

In a theatrical twist, the bill also mandates an annual Knesset session on the topic, to be inaugurated by none other than Ronen Bar, described tongue-in-cheek as “the eternal head of the Shin Bet.”

Rothman’s post drew comparisons to a parody campaign ad from 2019 in which then-Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked promoted a fictitious perfume named “Fascism”—a pointed jab at critics of her judicial reform initiatives at the time.

{Matzav.com}

The post In April 1 ‘Joke,’ Judicial Overhaul Architect Rothman Touts Bill For ‘Memorial Day For Israeli Democracy’ first appeared on Matzav.com.

Hamas has quietly erased approximately 3,400 previously listed war casualties, including the reported deaths of 1,080 children, from its official figures, according to research by Salo Aizenberg, a board member at Honest Reporting and analyst at NGO Monitor.

Aizenberg’s review revealed that thousands of names appearing in Hamas’s casualty records during August and September 2024 were missing from the most recent report published in March 2025.

“These ‘deaths’ never happened. The numbers were falsified—again,” Aizenberg stated. “What happened? How did 1000s of supposedly confirmed, fully identified deaths just vanish? Were some actually missing persons? Sloppy records? Intentional deception? Hamas’ Ministry of Health was never reliable.”

He pointed out that Hamas has consistently exaggerated civilian and child fatalities in past conflicts. “From day one, Hamas has gamed the fatality data—from including 471 fake ‘deaths’ at al-Ahli Hospital in the official count, to claiming 70% of fatalities were women & children (then quietly backing off). Managed fakery, dressed up as precision—just like in past wars.”

Aizenberg also stressed that the revised numbers should not be interpreted as proof that the current figures are trustworthy. “Is the March 2025 list suddenly credible? No. Dropping names doesn’t equal accuracy. It includes ~8,000 natural deaths; by now it’s clear after 16 months Hamas is not keeping a separate list. Hamas may be adding real IDs to match fake casualty claims then removing them later.”

Throughout the conflict, Hamas has asserted that 70% of those killed in Gaza have been women and children. These figures are frequently cited by global media and human rights groups without clarifying that the data originates from Hamas or its health ministry, despite ample evidence that the organization has repeatedly fabricated statistics.

Israel, meanwhile, has estimated that it has eliminated approximately 20,000 Hamas fighters, making up nearly half of the total fatalities. If accurate, this would represent one of the lowest ratios of civilian to combatant deaths ever recorded in urban warfare, where the United Nations notes that typically nine civilians die for every combatant.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The post Report: Over 1,000 Child Deaths Disappear From Hamas Casualty List first appeared on Matzav.com.

In a historic and emotionally charged evening, thousands of Belzer Chassidim gathered Sunday night at Binyanei HaUmah in Yerushalayim to celebrate 45 years since the founding of the Beis Din Machzikei Hadas, the bais din of Belzer Chassidus.

In a momentous appearance, the Belzer Rebbe left his home to participate personally in the event, something he has not done for the past two years, aside from occasions marking the yahrtzeits of his father and uncle, the previous Belzer Rebbes.

As the Rebbe entered the packed hall, the crowd erupted with excitement, dancing and singing with fiery enthusiasm. A reverent hush fell over the crowd as the Rebbe began to speak. In a heartfelt address, he expressed deep gratitude several times to the head of the community, Rav Mordechai Brisk, and was followed by his son, Rav Aharon Mordechai Rokeach, who delivered a stirring address about the kehillah’s early days and the growth of Machzikei Hadas communities across the world.

Throughout the event, the impressive scope of Kahal Machzikei Hadas’s activities was highlighted. As the Rebbe remarked, the kehillah serves as a true “beacon of light,” radiating vitality in all areas of Yiddishe life.

A special honor was bestowed upon Rav Eliyahu Klein of Yerushalayim, a distinguished supporter of Torah causes, who was appointed by the rabbanim and Badatz members as “Netziv Kahal Machzikei Hadas.”

One of the evening’s most poignant moments came when Rav Yisroel Stern of London announced to the assembled thousands that rare letters of brocha had been received from leading gedolei Torah, sent specifically in honor of the occasion.

The letters were read by Rav Naftali Offman, Rav of Belz in Har Yona. He began with a letter from HaGaon Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman, Rosh Yeshivas Rashbi:

“…the distinguished Belzer Chassidic community, gathered for a sacred purpose under the leadership of the esteemed members of the Beis Din Machzikei Hadas and especially their exalted leader, my dear friend, the Belzer Rebbe shlit”a, a cherished confidant of my father-in-law, our revered teacher and Gadol Hador, the Avi Ezri zt”l, who stood staunchly by his side, and received in return love and sincere friendship.

“At this time, when yirei Hashem unite to fortify the gates of halacha and Torah guidance, marking 45 years since the founding of the great Beis Din Machzikei Hadas under the leadership of the Rebbe shlit”a, and in recognition of over 130 rabbanim and dayanim around the world who proclaim ‘this is the halacha’ in the name of Hashem…

“…in this era of confusion and dispersion, when brothers stray and mislead, seeking to diminish Torah learning, it is our obligation to infuse kedushah and taharah into Klal Yisroel, and uplift the honor of Torah. Fortunate are you, and fortunate is your portion in both this world and the next. May the honor of Heaven be magnified through you, and may the Rebbe shlit”a and all who follow his path merit success and blessing in all their endeavors, to elevate and expand Torah in good health and clarity. May we merit the day when the world is filled with the knowledge of Hashem and Hashem will reign forever, with the consolation of Tzion and Yerushalayim.”

Following this, Rav Offman read a letter from HaGaon Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, Rosh Yeshivas Slabodka:

“To the Belzer Chassidic community gathered for the sake of Heaven under the leadership of the Rebbe shlit”a, to uplift the Torah and honor the hundreds of Torah disseminators and dayanim of the Machzikei Hadas community who toil in Torah…

“May Hashem grant you strength and robust health to continue expanding and glorifying the Torah.”

Additionally, a letter from the Rebbe of Boyan was read before the massive crowd, expressing his own admiration and brachos for the Belzer community.

{Matzav.com Israel}

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גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

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גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר הרבי מסאדיגורה בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר גדולי ישראל בברכת האילנותצילום: שוקי לרר

The post Photos: Rabbonim and Admorim Recite Birkas Ha’illanos (Shuki Lerer) first appeared on Matzav.com.

Lakewood, NJ – Moadim L’Simcha, an organization known for distributing Yom Tov essentials in Lakewood, issued an apology after egg cartons included in their Pesach distribution featured a message expressing solidarity with Israeli soldiers and hostages.

Moadim L’Simcha is a project of Tomchei Shabbos of Lakewood.

A sticker on the boxes of eggs from Deb El Food Products, LLC, stated, “Am Yisroel Chai! Donated in honor of the soldiers of Israel and the safe return of all the hostages.”

In a statement released to the public, Moadim L’Simcha apologized, referring to the message as “very offensive” and “very offensive anti-Torah.”

“With a heavy heart,” the apology says, “….we acknowledge that a very offensive anti-Torah message was displayed on the egg cartons.”

The organization accepted full “responsibility” for the incident, saying, “We understand that we bear the responsibility,” and assured the public that it is implementing “strong measures” to prevent such an occurrence in the future.

LISTEN:

https://matzav.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/250331_0552.mp3

{Matzav.com}

The post Lakewood Moadim L’Simcha Issues Apology After Pro-Soldier and Hostage Message Found on Pesach Egg Cartons first appeared on Matzav.com.

National Unity leader Benny Gantz harshly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu after the latter referred to the brief detention of two of his top aides in the Qatargate affair as them being “held hostage.”

“While you free up your time for interrogations, 59 hostages are counting the seconds,” Gantz posted on X.

Netanyahu, in a recorded video message, said he had immediately made time to testify when informed by police that his input was needed in the ongoing investigation involving his associates.

“Our hostages, who were kidnapped on your watch — they are not those who worked with Qatar during the war and were detained for one day for interrogation, but people who have been languishing with the enemy in the tunnels for 542 days,” Gantz wrote.

He went on to accuse Netanyahu of being out of touch with the nation’s pain, stating, “Prime Minister — You are simply disconnected. This people deserve a leader who will clear his entire schedule, call the members of the negotiating team, and give them one task: a deal to return all the kidnapped,” urging the government to focus its energy on achieving a deal that would finally secure the release of all hostages.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The post Gantz Blasts Netanyahu For Saying Aides ‘Held Hostage,’ While 59 Captives Still In Gaza first appeared on Matzav.com.

Democrat New Jersey Senator Cory Booker carried out a lengthy speech overnight Monday into Tuesday in opposition to the policies of President Donald Trump.

Booker began speaking on the Senate floor late Monday, pledging to stay at the podium for as long as he could endure. Well into the following day, he continued undeterred, still delivering remarks after 14 hours had passed.

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

During his address, Booker criticized recent reductions in Social Security services, which he said were implemented under Trump advisor Elon Musk through the Department of Government Efficiency. He also warned of potentially broader attacks on the nation’s social programs, despite assurances from Republican lawmakers that Social Security itself remains untouchable.

Booker, switching between wearing and removing his glasses, read aloud from what he described as letters written by constituents. One of the letters expressed fear over Trump’s mention of annexing Greenland and Canada, and referenced what the writer called a “looming constitutional crisis.”

“I hear you. I see you, and I’m standing here in part because of letters like yours,” Booker said.

By Tuesday morning, Booker received support from fellow Senate Democrats, who stepped in to ask him questions—offering him a short reprieve. He welcomed their questions but made it clear he would not surrender control of the floor.

As noted on the official Senate website, the longest solo speech in Senate history is held by Strom Thurmond, who spoke for 24 hours and 18 minutes to oppose the Civil Rights Act of 1957.

Booker referred to both Thurmond and Georgia Representative John Lewis during his speech, emphasizing that significant change requires public involvement and sustained effort.

“You think we got civil rights one day because Strom Thurmond — after filibustering for 24 hours — you think we got civil rights because he came to the floor one day and said, ‘I’ve seen the light,’” Booker said. ”No, we got civil rights because people marched for it, sweat for it and John Lewis bled for it.”

Now in his second Senate term, the 55-year-old Booker made a run for the presidency in 2020. He launched his campaign in Newark, where he resides, but ultimately withdrew after failing to meet polling requirements for a January debate.

Before gaining national prominence, Booker earned recognition within the Democratic Party as a promising figure. He led Newark, New Jersey’s most populous city, as mayor from 2006 through 2013. His academic résumé includes degrees from Stanford, Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, and Yale Law School. Early in his career, he worked as a lawyer serving nonprofit organizations and held a seat on Newark’s City Council prior to his mayoral term.

He won his Senate seat in a 2013 special election following the passing of longtime Democratic Senator Frank Lautenberg. Booker secured a full term in 2014 and was reelected in 2020.

As Newark’s mayor, Booker played a central role in securing a $100 million pledge from Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg to improve the city’s education system in 2010. About ten years later, Zuckerberg reflected to the Associated Press that one key takeaway from the Newark donation was the importance of involving the community in such efforts.

{Matzav.com}

The post New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker Speaks Through The Night To Protest Trump’s Agenda first appeared on Matzav.com.

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu has reversed his decision to appoint Vice Adm. (res.) Eli Sharvit as the new director of the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet), less than 24 hours after announcing the nomination.

Netanyahu thanked Sharvit for his readiness to take on the role but stated he would be considering additional candidates before making a final decision, according to a Tuesday morning statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.

The nomination of Sharvit, who previously served as commander of the Israeli Navy, prompted pushback from members of Netanyahu’s political bloc. Critics pointed to Sharvit’s alleged involvement in demonstrations against the government’s 2023 judicial reform initiatives and public remarks criticizing climate policies endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump during his first term.

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham expressed strong disapproval of Sharvit’s potential leadership, labeling the appointment as highly concerning due to Sharvit’s past statements regarding Trump.

This leadership shake-up comes amid Netanyahu’s attempt to replace the current Shin Bet chief, Ronen Bar, whose dismissal was temporarily blocked by an injunction issued by Israel’s Supreme Court. JNS

{Matzav.com Israel}

The post Netanyahu Rescinds Nomination Of Former Navy Chief As Shin Bet Head first appeared on Matzav.com.

In a scene that tore at the hearts of all in attendance, the levayah of Sarah Natasha Saada a”h and her young daughters, Dina Bracha, and Devorah Mazal, took place after midnight at Har HaMenuchos in Yerushalayim.

The three niftaros, residents of the Flatbush neighborhood in Brooklyn, tragically lost their lives in a horrific car accident on Shabbos, as was widely reported.

In a deeply moving display of kavod ha’meis and chizuk for a grieving nation, the Gadol HaDor, Maran Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, Rosh Yeshiva of Slabodka, personally participated in the kevurah, covering the fresh graves of the niftaros with his own hands. With tears in his eyes, he offered comfort and silent strength to the crushed family and the stunned crowd.

The bereaved father, Sidney Tzedakah Yeshuah Saada, a well-known tomech Torah, flew to Eretz Yisroel amid the unspeakable tragedy, holding onto tefillos for the refuah of his young son, Rafael Pinchas ben Sarah Natasha, who remains hospitalized following the accident.

The levayah drew a large crowd who came to mourn and cry alongside the family. The brokenhearted father, who lost both his wife and two daughters, received words of chizuk from the renowned mashpia Rav Elimelech Biderman.

Also delivering words of comfort was Rav Dovid Yosef, the Rishon L’Tzion.

Shortly before the kevurah, Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch arrived at Har HaMenuchos, where he consoled Sidney, who has sought guidance from the Rosh Yeshiva many times, including during Rav Hirsch’s recent visit to the United States.

The Rosh Yeshiva stayed at the gravesite and covered each of the fresh mounds with his hands.

No eye remained dry as the crowd stood in silence, enveloped by grief, sorrow, and awe at the solemn scene.

May Hashem send a complete refuah to Rafael Pinchas ben Sarah Natasha and comfort all those affected by this heartbreaking loss.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The post Maran Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch Participates in Kevurah of Natasha Saada a”h and Her Daughters first appeared on Matzav.com.

In a unanimous decision, Knesset lawmakers voted 22-0 in favor of a bill’s first reading that would prohibit individuals or party lists from running in municipal elections if they have rejected Israel’s identity as both a Jewish and democratic state or voiced support for terrorism or armed resistance against the country.

The proposed law aims to amend the Local Authorities Bill to match an existing statute that already bars individuals who endorse terrorism or racism from running for national office in the Knesset.

“We are putting an end to the terrible absurdity in which terror supporters can be elected to local government,” said Likud MK Dan Illouz, who authored the bill.

“My bill passed its first reading today – another step in restoring logic to governance. Those who support the murderers of Jews belong not in councils, but in prison. Public officials should serve the state – not collaborate with those who seek to destroy it.”

In a separate move, lawmakers voted 23-2 to advance the first reading of another bill that would formally replace the phrase “West Bank” with “Judea and Samaria” in all Knesset laws, adopting the biblical name for the area.

Introduced by Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman, the legislation specifies that “Judea and Samaria” will be the exclusive term used in future laws and will also be substituted in any past legislation where other terminology was previously used.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The post Knesset Approves Law Disqualifying Municipal Candidates Who Reject Legitimacy of the State of Israel first appeared on Matzav.com.

Iran has formally brought its concerns to the United Nations Security Council regarding recent threats made by U.S. President Donald Trump toward the Islamic Republic.

In a letter obtained by Reuters, Iran’s ambassador to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, condemned the comments, labeling them “reckless and belligerent” as well as “a flagrant violation of international law.”

The letter, submitted by the Iranian diplomat, included a warning from Tehran, stating that the country “strongly warns against any military adventurism and will respond swiftly and decisively to any act of aggression or attack by the United States or its proxy, the Israeli regime, against its sovereignty, territorial integrity, or national interests.”

This diplomatic escalation followed remarks made by Trump just a day earlier, in which he declared, “if they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing — and it will be bombing the likes of which they have never seen before.”

In a defiant response, Iran’s state-run Tehran Times posted on X, formerly Twitter, that the nation’s missiles are “loaded onto launchers in all underground missile cities and are ready for launch.”

Trump later upped the pressure again, floating the possibility of enacting secondary tariffs against Iran if the country refuses to reach an agreement on its nuclear ambitions.

The rhetoric intensified further on Monday when Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning to the U.S. president, cautioning that any American aggression would result in a “strong blow.”

Adding to the tension, Khamenei’s advisor, Ali Larijani, stated that should the U.S. or Israel initiate an attack on Iran, the Islamic Republic would feel compelled to pursue the development of a nuclear weapon.

{Matzav.com}

The post Iran Complains to UN: Trump’s Threats Are Reckless and Belligerent first appeared on Matzav.com.

A group of U.S. lawmakers, with House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast (R-FL) at the forefront, has appealed to Jürg Lauber, president of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), urging him to block Francesca Albanese’s reappointment as special rapporteur for the “occupied Palestinian territories.”

The legislators laid out their case in a letter to Lauber, accusing Albanese of violating the standards expected of her role and making incendiary remarks about Israel, particularly in the wake of the October 7 Hamas massacre.

Signed by Representatives Young Kim (R-CA), Michael Lawler (R-NY), Keith Self (R-TX), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Cory Mills (R-FL), and Ryan Zinke (R-MT), the letter claims Albanese’s actions have fallen far short of what should be acceptable behavior for someone serving under the UN’s banner.

“[Albanese] has consistently aligned herself with Hamas terrorists, accused Israel of genocide, likened the Government of Israel to the ‘Third Reich,’ and compared Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler,” the lawmakers wrote. “The Council has allowed antisemitism and anti-Americanism to thrive within, with a seeming unwillingness to hold the most egregious violators of human rights to account.”

The lawmakers presented various examples of what they see as Albanese’s breaches of the UNHRC’s code of conduct, which calls for neutrality, ethical behavior, and professionalism from rapporteurs. They charged her with spreading antisemitic narratives, defending Hamas, and attacking Israel’s right to exist. They also pointed to her repeated criticism of the United States’ support for Israel, including allegations that pro-Israel lobbying groups heavily influence American politicians.

Their strongest criticism was reserved for Albanese’s statements following Hamas’ deadly October 7 assault, in which more than 1,200 people were murdered and 250 taken hostage. Albanese described the massacre as an act that should be considered within the “context” of supposed Israeli “aggression.”

In their letter, the lawmakers called on Lauber to exercise his authority to deny Albanese’s reappointment, saying that keeping her in the position damages the UNHRC’s already fragile standing. “By rejecting the renewal of Ms. Albanese’s term, the Council would bring much-needed credibility, integrity, and accountability back to the institution – attributes of which it has been severely lacking in recent years,” the letter stated.

Concerns over Albanese’s views first came to light in 2022, when she made social media posts claiming that the “Jewish lobby” exerts control over the U.S. government — rhetoric widely condemned as antisemitic.

Albanese dismissed those accusations, saying the remarks were “mischaracterized,” but critics argue her anti-Israel stance has only become more apparent since then.

The post US Lawmakers Demand UN Reject Reappointment of Francesca Albanese first appeared on Matzav.com.

President Donald Trump confirmed that his first overseas trip would be to Saudi Arabia and indicated that he was also considering visiting Qatar and the United Arab Emirates during the same tour.

While speaking to reporters in the Oval Office after signing a series of executive orders, Trump did not reference Israel but mentioned that his travel plans in the Middle East might include “a couple of other countries.”

When asked if the visit would happen in May, as previously speculated, Trump replied, “It could be next month, maybe a little bit later.”

Trump explained that his choice to prioritize Saudi Arabia for his debut international visit was influenced by the kingdom’s commitment to invest close to $1 trillion in American businesses.

{Matzav.com}

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