Matzav

By Rabbi Berach Steinfeld It seems puzzling that the mention of the building of the inner mizbeach is not discussed when the other vessels of the Mishkan are mentioned in Parshas Terumah. The inner mizbeach, which was used for the k’tores, is discussed in Parshas Tetzaveh when the vestments of Aharon Hakohen are mentioned. The inner mizbeach seems to be out of place there.                   The Chavatzeles Hasharon brings another puzzling point to discuss. When each command is mentioned in Parshas Tetzaveh, it says that Aharon should do it following the commandment. In contrast, when commands are mentioned in Parshas Terumah, it does mention that Aharon should do it. Why is this so? We could explain the difference by understanding the purposes of the Mishkan. The first reason for the building of the Mishkan was to build a house for Hashem so the Shechina could rest in it. The second reason is that we have a place where we could serve Hashem by bringing various sacrifices and do the Avoda. It would seem that in Parshas Teruma we concentrate on making a dwelling for Hashem and “furnishing it,” hence we see the klei Hamishkan enumerated in Parshas Teruma. In Parshas Tetzaveh we concentrate on the Avoda and the ability to bring sacrifices in the Mishkan. The Parsha therefore concentrates on the vestments of Aharon Hakohen, who was the high priest to serve Hashem in the Mishkan. This would explain why we don’t mention Aharon in Parshas Terumah; since it is a house built for Hashem with the furniture that belongs to Hashem. Parshas Tetzaveh, on the other hand, deals with the Avoda part of the Mishkon. It is therefore appropriate that when every command is mentioned, Aharon Hakohen is also mentioned. The posuk mentions the keilim again in Parshas Tetzaveh to tell us that Aharon was the one responsible to do the Avoda. Based on the above premise we can say that the mizbeach hapnimi was not part of the furniture of the Mishkon; it was just a way to be able to bring the k’tores. A proof of this is that Shlomo Hamelech built ten shulchanos and ten Menoros in the Bais Hamikdosh, but he did not build ten Mizbechos. Shlomo Hamelech, based on the word of Hashem, was able to enhance the hashra’as haShechina by enhancing the furniture and adding more. In contrast, because the Mizbeach was not part of the furniture, Shlomo Hamelech could not add any. To further understand the difference between the inner mizbeach and other klei hamishkan we can look at the explanation of Meshech Chochma who explains why the command of the inner Mizbeach is not written with the rest of the klei hamishkan. The Meshech Chochma explains that all the other vessels were integral as far as the Avoda is concerned. If there was no Aron, then there would be no luchos. If there was no outside mizbeach, there would be no korban tamid. If there was no Menorah, there would be no lighting of the candles. However, even if there was no mizbeach hapnimi, we would still be required to bring the k’tores since it could be brought even without a mizbeach. This proves that the mizbeach hapnimi was not part of the furniture, it was there to enhance the avoda, This explains why it is not written in Parshas Teruma with the furniture of the Mishkon, but rather in Parshas Tetzaveh with the part of the avoda that was needed for the mishkon. May we be zoche for the Bais Hamikdosh Hashlishi that will be both a place for hashra’as hashechina and avodas hakorbanos.

On the eve of a pivotal Supreme Court hearing regarding petitions over tefillah arrangements at the Kosel, Israel’s Chief Rabbis, Rav Dovid Yosef and Rav Kalman Ber, submitted an urgent notice along with a detailed halachic ruling clarifying their uncompromising position on preserving the sanctity of the site.

The High Court of Justice is set to convene Tuesday morning to deliberate on petitions challenging the current prayer framework at the Kosel. In advance of the hearing, the Chief Rabbis released a clear and forceful psak addressing the kedushah of the remnant of the Beis Hamikdash.

In their ruling, the chief rabbis state unequivocally that the plaza of the Kosel carries the full halachic status of a beis haknesses, deriving its sanctity from its proximity to the makom haMikdash. As such, they stress, the most stringent halachic standards apply there, including complete separation between men and women during prayer.

The psak also reviews the historical conduct of tefillah at the Kosel across generations, emphasizing that prayer at the site has always followed the mesorah of Klal Yisrael without deviation. Any attempt to alter established practice, they warn, would constitute a severe affront to the feelings of the believing public and to the enduring traditions of Am Yisrael.

The Chief Rabbinate further argues that explicitly halachic and religious matters—particularly the order of prayer at the holiest accessible site for the Jewish people—do not fall within the jurisdiction of civil courts. “It is not possible to decide through legal tools on matters whose roots lie in faith and halachah,” the statement asserts.

The rabbis also point to the existing alternative at the southern section of the Kosel, known as Ezras Yisrael, which allows groups wishing to pray according to different formats to do so. Given that alternative, they contend, there is no justification for transforming the main Kosel plaza into what they describe as a political or social battleground.

Additionally, the Chief Rabbinate expresses firm opposition to any modification of the regulations governing the holy sites. They warn that altering the longstanding arrangements would undermine the status quo and erode the Rabbinate’s exclusive authority in matters of religion.

In an official statement, the Chief Rabbinate declared: “The Kosel is a remnant of our Beis Hamikdash. It is not private property and not a venue for demonstrations. We expect the Court to respect the thousands of years of Jewish tradition and not permit harm to the sanctity of the site and the unity of those who daven there.”

{Matzav.com}

Sharp backlash erupted Monday after media personality Eyal Berkovich made inflammatory remarks about the chareidi community during a live radio broadcast, in the wake of the unrest in Bnei Brak. Speaking on 103FM, the Channel 13 presenter lashed out at those involved in the disturbances and used language that many listeners described as deeply offensive.

During the program, Berkovich addressed the riots that broke out after two IDF servicewomen entered the city, directing harsh criticism at those who attacked soldiers and burned Israeli flags.

“It’s time to finally put an end to these chareidim,” he said. When his co-host, Arel Segal, pressed him to clarify what he meant, Berkovich elaborated and called for a forceful response by authorities.

“There is police, there is an army, there is the Shin Bet, there is everything,” Berkovich said. “What is this thing? To burn Israeli flags, here in the State of Israel? To beat up female soldiers? To call us Nazis? These people need to be exiled from here, they are haters of Israel”.

The most controversial moment of the exchange came when Berkovich escalated his rhetoric and drew a comparison between the extremists in Bnei Brak and terrorist operatives. “They are worse than Arabs, terrorists. They are haters of Israel,” the broadcaster declared.

Segal quickly distanced himself from that comparison and attempted to temper the discussion, responding, “But terrorists shoot, kill and murder. They don’t kill and murder. I have a lot of anger at them.”

{Matzav.com}

A video recorded during Sunday’s unrest in Bnei Brak has sparked widespread reaction after footage showed police officers pulling the wig off a chareidi woman amid efforts to disperse rioters. The clip quickly spread across social media, drawing strong responses from across the political spectrum.

The incident, which occurred during clashes between police and demonstrators, shows officers approaching the woman in the protest area and forcibly removing her wig while carrying out operations against those involved in the disturbances.

The footage ignited a storm online, with many questioning whether such an action was necessary in the course of police activity. Senior political commentator Amit Segal shared the video on his social media platforms and asked, “Is it really necessary to remove wigs from chareidi women as part of police operations?”

On Monday, Arab MK Ahmad Tibi of the Hadash-Ta’al party addressed the matter during a speech in the Knesset plenum, strongly criticizing what was seen in the video. He drew a comparison to incidents involving Muslim women whose hijabs were removed.

“In Yerushalayim, on the light rail, women with hijabs were attacked several times,” Tibi said in the plenum, “and even once a woman’s hijab was removed. It’s terrible, something that must not happen.”

Tibi then turned directly to the events in Bnei Brak. “I will relate to what happened in Bnei Brak in one matter. I saw in the video a police officer striking a woman and removing her wig. This is something that must not happen. Just as I oppose harming a Muslim woman with a hijab, so too I oppose harming a Jewish woman with a wig.”

{Matzav.com}

The IDF developed and briefly deployed a classified capability aimed at securing the release of hostages during the war, with plans to transfer those rescued to a concealed location inside Israel, but the effort ultimately failed and the method was abandoned, according to a report aired on Channel 12 News.

During the course of the fighting, the military activated a sensitive and previously undisclosed tool that enabled forces to draw terrorists out from tunnels in Gaza. Defense officials hoped the tactic would create an opportunity to extract hostages safely and move them to a secure, undisclosed site within Israel.

The broader plan envisioned holding the rescued captives at that secret location for several days. During that window, Israel intended to launch an additional operation to free other hostages still being held.

However, the initial mission did not succeed in securing the hostages through this approach. Following the failed attempt, Israel discontinued use of the method and did not return to it for the remainder of the war, the report said.

{Matzav.com}

Bnei Brak experienced another difficult evening on Monday, as groups of fringe youths engaged in prolonged confrontations with police along Rechov Ezra, igniting fires, attacking motorists, and causing significant traffic disruptions throughout the city. The incidents have raised serious concern among residents, particularly given the impact on the city’s Torah atmosphere and the welfare of its youth.

What began in the early afternoon as a protest near the Vizhnitzer center quickly spiraled beyond control. As the hours passed, additional marginal elements joined the scene, and the demonstration turned into an extended public disturbance. Garbage bins were set ablaze, major roads were blocked, and confrontations with police continued well into the evening.

Large police forces were dispatched to the area multiple times in an effort to restore order and disperse the crowds. According to law enforcement officials, officers used crowd-control measures, including batons, after police personnel and passing drivers were reportedly attacked and a tangible threat to public safety emerged.

As reported earlier, Bnei Brak Mayor Chanoch Zeibert responded sharply to the unrest, expressing deep pain over the events. “In recent hours in the city, there have been uncontrolled and unsupervised demonstrations and protests, which are an educational disaster for our children’s souls. These demonstrations originate with a handful of fringe individuals who are dragging young people into actions whose consequences no one can foresee.”

The mayor urged parents to act decisively to protect their families. “I ask every parent to take responsibility for himself and his family and ensure that no one from their immediate family is present in these areas that are dangerous from an educational standpoint. At the same time, the police are operating on the scene to prevent the continuation of these irresponsible events in our city.”

Although authorities say there is no direct link, the disturbances come just one day after serious clashes broke out on Chagai Street following the harassment of two IDF servicewomen. Those incidents also continued for hours, resulted in numerous arrests, and required a significant police presence in several parts of the city.

Many residents voiced sorrow that such scenes are unfolding in a city identified with Torah and spiritual growth, and community leaders once again called on parents and educators to safeguard both the physical safety and spiritual wellbeing of the city’s precious youth.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who leads the Religious Zionism party, said this week that he would counsel his own daughter against serving in the Israel Defense Forces, citing the stance of leading rabbinic authorities and long-standing religious principles.

Speaking during his party’s faction meeting in the Knesset, Smotrich was asked directly by a reporter how he would respond if his daughter expressed interest in enlisting. He replied, “If my daughter asked me, I would try to educate her not to go” serve in the military.

He pointed to the guidance of senior rabbinic leadership as shaping his position. “The Chief Rabbinate is against this. This is the position of my rabbis,” says Smotrich. “I hope that you, these big progressives, can also respect the values of several thousand years…. And I of course respect those who think differently than I do.”

The question of religious women serving in the IDF remains a source of ongoing debate within the national religious community. While many young women from that sector choose to perform national service in lieu of military enlistment, it is also not uncommon for graduates of religious high schools to join the army. At the same time, a number of prominent religious Zionist rabbis have publicly opposed female enlistment, contending that army service does not align with standards of modesty and appropriateness.

Smotrich himself entered the military later in life, enlisting at age 28 and completing a shortened period of service. Over the years, he has also voiced criticism of mixed-gender combat frameworks within the IDF.

{Matzav.com}

A day after painful scenes of unrest shook the city of Bnei Brak, Mayor Chanoch Zeibert released a heartfelt message to residents, pleading with parents to ensure that their children remain at home and far from any gatherings or demonstrations that could place them in harm’s way.

In a tone reflecting deep concern for the chinuch and ruchniyus of the city’s youth, the mayor warned, “In recent hours in the city, there have been uncontrolled and unsupervised demonstrations and protests, which are an educational disaster for our children’s souls.”

Zeibert stressed that these incidents were not representative of the city’s Torahdike population, but rather the actions of a small and extreme element. According to Zeibert, “The demonstrations originate with a handful of fringe individuals who are dragging young people into actions whose consequences no one can foresee.”

He noted that law enforcement authorities are taking steps to restore calm and prevent further disturbances. At the same time, he placed clear responsibility on parents to safeguard their families, calling on them “to take responsibility and make sure that no member of their family is in these areas.”

Emphasizing that such behavior stands in stark contrast to the derech of Bnei Brak, the mayor declared, “Violence is not our way, unleashing passions goes against our values, and we can not condone moves that negate the Torah and halacha.” He continued with an emotional appeal: “Dear parents, protect your children’s lives, your treasures, with all vigilance. The place for treasures is not in the streets.”

Concluding his message, Zeibert said that his words reflect the daas of the city’s rabbonim, writing that he speaks in the name of the rabbinic leadership “who ask that we live in a tribute to the Torah and those who study it.”

{Matzav.com}

A heavy pall has descended upon the Torah community of Rechasim with the petirah of Rav Yehuda Sharabi zt”l at the age of 91. One of the elder talmidim of Yeshivas Knesses Chizkiyahu and among the founders of the Torah settlement in the northern community, he embodied a lifetime of unwavering dedication to Torah, avodah, and mussar.

Rav Sharabi zt”l was counted among the devoted students of the great roshei yeshiva and baalei mussar of earlier generations. He learned under the guidance of the mashgiach Rav Eliyahu Lopian zt”l, Rav Noach Shimonowitz zt”l, Rav Eliyahu Meiselsky zt”l, and the mashgiach Rav Dov Yaffe zt”l.

From his earliest youth, his heart burned with a love for Torah. Under the direction of Rav Avraham Tzadok zt”l, he was sent to Yeshivas Tiferes Yisrael in Haifa, where he grew in Torah and yiras Shamayim and forged close bonds with his rabbeim. Later, at the instruction of his rebbi Rav Eliyahu Meiselsky zt”l, he transferred to Yeshivas Knesses Chizkiyahu in Zichron Yaakov to learn under Rav Noach Shimonowitz zt”l. It was there that his character was shaped as a profound learner, a man of deep thought and refined mussar.

After his marriage, he established his home near the yeshiva and remained there until his final day, fulfilling in the most literal sense the description of “an elder who sits in the yeshiva.” He fixed his place of tefillah in the yeshiva’s beis medrash and was meticulous in attending the mussar seder and shmuessen. In his later years, he even maintained chavrusos with younger bochurim, studying matters of mussar and avodas Hashem. He was known as a living example of deference to rabbeim, exactness in halachah, and purity of speech. Not a word of disparagement about another person was ever heard from his lips.

For decades, he transmitted Torah at Yeshivas Ohr Chadash, under the leadership of the mara d’asra Rav Moshe Tanaami, alongside his close friend Rav Yaakov Ben Shoshan zt”l. There, he invested heart and soul into bringing his students into the world of Torah, raising many talmidim with mesirus nefesh and a profound sense of responsibility for their spiritual future. His talmidim recalled that his firmness and strength were always coupled with warmth and a shining countenance, and that every demand he made of them was purely lesheim Shomayim.

Rav Sharabi was among the founders of the community in Rachasim and contributed greatly to establishing its Torah character and spiritual fabric. Together with his devoted wife, the rebbetzin, he built a faithful Torah home founded on deep mutual respect. He merited to see sons and sons-in-law who are marbitzei Torah, and all his descendants continue in the path of Torah and yirah.

The family is sitting shivah at his home at 3 Rechov Hazayit in Rechasim.

Yehi zichro boruch.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said Monday night in Yerushalayim that Washington and Jerusalem are fully coordinated in confronting Iran’s nuclear ambitions, while also addressing his upcoming interview with Tucker Carlson and last week’s White House meeting between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu.

Speaking at the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, Huckabee first commented on his planned sit-down with Carlson, explaining why he agreed to the interview.

“This Wednesday I’m doing a long interview with Tucker Carlson. Many have asked why. I figured instead of him talking about me, he should talk to me. I don’t recognize the Tucker of the last few years. But we do not change the narrative by being silent in the face of misinformation. We change the narrative by pushing back. Silence is agreement. It is why some of the horrific things in human history have happened. Because people were silent in the face of blood libels and lies.”

Turning to the recent meeting in Washington between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu, Huckabee described the discussions in highly positive terms.

“The meetings I felt were extraordinary, in many ways historic.”

Focusing on the Iranian threat, Huckabee emphasized what he called complete strategic alignment between the two allies. “The US and Israel are absolutely aligned on Iran. Iran cannot continue their nuclear and ballistic program. Iran is not Israel’s problem; it is the world’s problem. For 47 years, Iran has said death to America – they preface that with death to Israel, but only because Israel is in the way.”

He cautioned that Iran’s influence extends well beyond the Middle East, pointing to the global reach of Tehran’s allied groups. “The proxies of Iran alone are a threat not only in the Middle East and Israel, but they are already in the western hemisphere. If you think it’s only the Middle East at risk, you fail to understand the threat is global.”

On the question of ongoing negotiations, Huckabee acknowledged uncertainty about whether diplomatic efforts would succeed. “Talks are taking place. But can anything come from the talks this week that will bring peace? I honestly don’t know. There is significant doubt as to whether the Iranian nuclear threat, ballistic program, and funding of terror will be removed. But if they were willing to do that, because they realize the consequences of not doing so, I’d be delighted.”

He further revealed that he had conveyed both hope and resolve in conversations with President Trump. “As I told the President, I hope that, miraculously, something can happen to thwart a military confrontation.

But I also told him, Mr. President, if it has to happen, I’m willing to be in the middle of it, because for the future of my children, to remove this threat. At some time, the United States has to say enough is enough. Either they make a radical change, or they experience ‘the second kick of a mule’. I think the President has made it clear that a military action is not his first choice, but it is his desire to make sure they can’t wreak havoc in the world.”

Qatar is reportedly evaluating whether to take on the largest financial share of rebuilding the Gaza Strip under a new international framework initiated by President Donald Trump, according to a report aired Monday night on Kan News.

The initiative, referred to as the “Peace Council,” is expected to oversee funding for Gaza’s reconstruction. Under the proposed structure, each participating country would contribute roughly $1 billion toward a broad recovery plan. The effort would not only cover rebuilding infrastructure in Gaza but would also finance a peacekeeping force tasked with operating in the territory.

Qatar, which already provides substantial funding for fuel deliveries into Gaza via Egypt, is said to be seeking a leading role in the new reconstruction effort as a way to expand its regional influence. According to Qatar’s approach, “He who holds the money holds the power,” reflecting its reported interest in becoming the primary financial backer of the project — a move seen by some as an effort to preserve Hamas’ governing position.

At the same time, Israeli officials are encountering obstacles in attempts to coordinate postwar arrangements with Hamas. The group has rejected proposals to hand over authority to a technocratic committee that would manage Gaza’s civilian affairs once rebuilding begins.

In messages conveyed to Arab governments, Hamas has indicated it prefers a model resembling Hezbollah’s position in Lebanon — retaining political control in Gaza while agreeing to surrender only part of its weapons arsenal.

Israeli leaders, however, have made clear to U.S. officials that they firmly oppose any arrangement that leaves Hamas involved in governing Gaza, insisting the organization must be excluded from any future administrative structure in the territory.

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham said Monday that President Trump is expected to determine in the coming weeks whether the United States will pursue a military response to Iran’s violent crackdown on its own citizens and its continued destabilizing actions across the region. Speaking at a press conference during a visit to Israel, the South Carolina Republican described the current moment as pivotal for both Iran and the broader Middle East.

“I’m back. I come here every two weeks, whether I need to or not. Why did I come this time? To put a fine point of where we’re at as a world regarding the Iranian regime,” Graham began.

He argued that Iran’s ruling leadership is facing unprecedented internal and external pressure. “The Iranian Ayatollah, and his murderous regime are at their weakest point since 1979. Their economy is in shambles, their military has been degraded, there are people in the streets, Iranian people in the streets, demanding an end to oppression. All these forces are coming together,” he stated.

Graham pointed to Israel’s response to the October 7 massacre carried out by Hamas, which he described as a key factor in weakening Tehran’s grip on power. “We must beat the moment. If this regime falls in the coming weeks or months, two things will [be] attributed to it: October 7th. Without October 7th, I do not believe this regime would be as weak as it is today. What happened on October 7th was horrible, and it will be part of the Israeli, the people of Israel’s history as long as they’re the people of Israel. But your determination out of the ashes of October 7th to give new meaning to never again, to go on the offensive to weaken the Iranian regime and their proxies, is paying dividends. The response of Israel after October 7th to make sure never again was credible has led to the weakest regime in Iran since 1979.”

He identified a second major factor: widespread protests inside Iran. “The second event, the rise of the people [of Iran]. The people in Iran have gone to the streets without weapons, maybe 30,000 or more have been killed to demand an end to their oppression,” he added. “These two events, the bravery of the people of Iran who are saying, I’ve had it, I won’t change, and the response of Israel to October 7th have led to the potential demise of the Ayatollah. I can’t think of a more satisfying event for me personally than seeing the good people of Iran to be able to get their country back, to live in a place where they didn’t have to worry about their daughter being murdered because she didn’t wear the headscarf right on bus, being able to be part of the world, not isolated from the world, being able to embrace the light and not be overshadowed by the darkness. I look forward to a day when Israel no longer has to fear a nuclear weapon being developed by the Iranian regime.”

Graham made clear that he believes a change in leadership in Tehran would be the most effective solution to the crisis. “The best answer to all the problems created by Iran is regime change. The best answer is for the people to take the place of the Ayatollah. I do not believe they’re in the streets to build more nuclear weapons. I think they’re in the streets to have a better life. I don’t think they’re in the streets to purify Islam and destroy Israel and come after us to praise Satan. They’re in the streets to have normalcy and a life that’s not normal. So my view is the risk of regime change is real. There are unknowns, but let me just say this. I’m willing to take that risk.”

He expressed confidence that a post-Ayatollah Iran could align with Washington and Jerusalem. “I think the Iranian people have the potential to be a great ally of the United States, Israel, and the region. I think the Ayatollah, as long as he’s alive and around, will be chaining death to America and will be trying to enact a religious agenda of purifying Islam and destroy Israel and come after us. He’s a religious Nazi,” he said. “Hitler wanted a master race. The Ayatollah wants a master religion, and we’re not going to give it to him. We’re going to fight back.”

Turning directly to Israelis, Graham voiced solidarity and encouragement. Addressing “the brave people of Israel,” Sen. Graham said: “I know you were hurt very hard, very wide and very deep on October 7th. I’m here to tell you we’re on the verge of eliminating the largest state-sponsored terrorism in the region. And with the fall of Iran comes the fall of Hezbollah, Hamas, and Houthis. The real effect is [that] normalization becomes far more likely. If the Ayatollah survives, God help the region. So my presence here today is to reassure the Israeli people.”

He emphasized that Washington and Jerusalem are operating in close coordination. “There is no light or gaps between President Trump and Bibi about what to do and how to do it. There are two lines in the water right now. One’s the diplomatic line, trying to find a way to end this regime diplomatically that will advance our national security interests,” he said. “The other line is the military option. I think President Trump is looking for which line can catch the biggest fish. The bottom line is we’re into weeks, not months, in terms of decision-making.”

Graham added that he hopes diplomacy will succeed, but said the United States and Israel are prepared for stronger measures if necessary. Sen. Graham stated that his hope is that “in the coming weeks, if we can’t find a diplomatic solution, that we engage in a great endeavor, supporting the people of Iran, demanding their freedom and the end of their oppression. We have military capabilities second to none. There is no more clever nation on the planet than Israel. There is no more powerful nation on the planet than the United States.”

In a message aimed at Tehran’s leadership, he delivered a blunt warning. Addressing the Iranian regime, he said: “You’re weak because of your ideas. You’re weak because of the way you’ve treated your people. You’re weak because you’re evil. Eventually, good will replace evil in Iran. To those who may participate in this endeavor, God bless you. God keep you safe if that day does come.”

Concluding his remarks, Graham described the current period as potentially historic for the region. “If the regime falls as a result of the pressure put on the regime by Israel and the United States after October 7th, combined with the uprising of the people demanding a better life, then that would be the biggest change in the Mideast in a thousand years. I am leaving here confident of the capability the United States and Israel have called upon to deliver a decisive blow to the Iranian regime. I am hopeful that diplomacy may prevail yet. Either way, our date with history, our date with a new destiny for the Mideast, is upon us,” the Senator concluded.

ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith says he is seriously considering entering the race for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028, signaling that what once sounded like a joke may now be evolving into a possible campaign.

Over the weekend, Smith revealed that he is “giving strong consideration” to pursuing the White House. His remarks came during an interview broadcast on “CBS Sunday Morning,” where he outlined his current thinking about a potential run.

“I will confess to you, I’m giving strong consideration to being on that debate stage for 2027,” Smith said. “I’ve got this year coming up, 2026, to think about it, to study, to know the issues.”

Smith’s public musings about a presidential campaign stretch back to early 2025. In March of that year, he appeared on “The View” and characterized the idea as only partly serious, though he did not dismiss it outright.

“If you came to me and you told me I had a legitimate shot to win the presidency of the United States of America, I would definitely consider it,” he said then.

Not long after that appearance, Smith indicated that conversations with influential figures had prompted him to reflect more deeply on the possibility of running. He said he had heard from “billionaires,” “elected officials,” “pundits,” and, in particular, his “pastor,” all encouraging him to think about a campaign.

Although Smith has expressed a preference for another candidate to emerge, he has also made clear that he would not rule himself out. Speaking on ABC’s “This Week,” he said he hoped “somebody else would step up that’s more qualified,” but acknowledged that if it ultimately fell to him, “it is something I would consider. Yes, I would,” he said on ABC’s “This Week.”

President Donald Trump even weighed in on the idea during an April 30, 2025, town hall, offering praise for the sports commentator’s on-air presence.

“I love watching him. He’s got great entertainment skills, which is very important. People watch him,” Trump said. “I’ve been pretty good at picking people and picking candidates, and I will tell you, I’d love to see him run.”

Smith responded by saying he appreciated the president’s comments but emphasized that he was not seeking political backing from anyone.

“I wasn’t looking for any kind of endorsement from anybody, especially him,” he said, “but he is the president of the United States. There is a bit of flattery that comes with getting such words from the man who holds the highest office in the land, and I can appreciate that.”

Smith has built a national profile as a longtime ESPN figure and as the outspoken host of “First Take.” Known for his animated delivery and sharp debate style, he has become one of the most recognizable personalities in sports media across television and radio.

The United States has come out forcefully in defense of three mohalim in Antwerp who are facing criminal proceedings, with the U.S. ambassador to Belgium denouncing the case as “absurd and antisemitic” and urging immediate action to safeguard religious freedom.

U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Bill White sharply criticized the ongoing legal case in Antwerp against the three mohalim, who allegedly performed brisos without official state certification.

The case centers on three mohalim who were arrested and later released in May 2024 after a complaint was filed accusing them of conducting circumcisions without formal government authorization. Their circumcision instruments were confiscated, and they were barred from continuing their work pending a final ruling.

Writing on X, White declared that “antisemitism is unacceptable in any form and must be rooted out of our society,” and called on Belgium “to do a far better job on this issue.” He went on to describe the proceedings as “the absurd and antisemitic prosecution of three Jewish religious figures in Antwerp,” stressing that the men are clergy performing an ancient religious tradition.

The ambassador addressed Belgian Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke directly, demanding that legal provisions be established to allow Jewish mohalim to carry out circumcisions in accordance with the law. “This is done in all civilized countries,” White stated, adding that Belgium must ensure religious freedom for Jewish families in the country.

In a separate post, White personally criticized the minister, claiming that during their first meeting Vandenbroucke refused to shake his hand or pose for a photograph with him. The ambassador also referenced America’s role in liberating Belgium during the World Wars and called for the proceedings to be brought to an immediate end. He announced that he plans to travel to Antwerp next week to meet with the mohalim and their families.

The case has stirred strong reactions among Antwerp’s Jewish residents and revived memories of previous European disputes over circumcision, sometimes framed as matters of “the best interest of the child,” but often accompanied by concerns about infringements on religious freedom.

At this stage, however, community leaders — acting on legal advice — have chosen not to launch a public campaign against the individual who filed the complaint. Their stated goal is to resolve the matter without unnecessary damage and to ensure the continued practice of bris milah for generations to come.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chairman MK Boaz Bismuth responded to the violent incidents in Bnei Brak, urging decisive progress on the long-stalled enlistment law. He described the events as a “wake-up call” and cautioned that prolonged failure to resolve a major national issue exacts a public price.

“This is a wake-up call. Today we received yet another troubling reminder of the price a country pays when a deep national issue remains unresolved for many long years. Many have spoken about it. Few have truly tried to take responsibility and regulate it,” Bismuth said.

He added that the current reality requires firm decision-making and responsible leadership.

“The gravity of the moment requires resolution. There are times when a multitude of reservations is not a guarantee of responsibility, and professional judgment is measured not only by its caution, but also by its ability to allow for a decision.”

Although Bismuth did not explicitly name any legal or political actors, his remarks appeared directed at all parties involved — both elected officials and professional authorities — to enable movement toward agreed-upon legislation.

He concluded with a symbolic message: “Until white smoke emerges.”

New findings from the scene appear to contradict the IDF’s initial denial regarding the activities of two female soldiers who were attacked in Bnei Brak, with reports indicating that recruitment flyers were in fact distributed at several addresses in the city.

A disturbance broke out Sunday afternoon in Bnei Brak after two female soldiers arrived at multiple locations in the city. According to a report on Army Radio, despite an earlier statement from the IDF Spokesperson denying any flyer distribution, detailed recruitment leaflets were left at at least four addresses. The materials were directed at candidates for military service ahead of their upcoming enlistment at the Chavat HaShomer base.

In a response, the IDF Spokesperson firmly rejected the claims, stating: “The claim that the commanders who were attacked in Bnei Brak arrived in order to distribute recruitment flyers is incorrect. The commanders arrived for a home visit to a candidate for service prior to his enlistment.”

However, documentation from the scene indicates that the flyers addressed prospective recruits scheduled to enlist in March and included extensive information about training conditions, the base’s location, and a list of required equipment — ranging from personal hygiene items to instructions on arranging a bank account and redeeming purchase credits.

The flyer left at the homes also contained detailed social and financial information intended to ease the enlistment process, including guidance related to personal status and eligibility for assistance. Among other things, the young men were asked to prepare medical documentation for family members, proof of financial status, and bank statements from the previous three months.

The unrest began after rumors spread that the soldiers had arrived to distribute draft orders to chareidi youths. The incident escalated on Chaggai Street during the afternoon hours.

Subsequently, the IDF updated its version of events, stating that three female non-commissioned officers serving at the Chavat HaShomer base had come to Bnei Brak to visit a candidate who is expected to enlist soon and serve at the facility. According to the military, the visit was intended as a preliminary meeting to establish familiarity and assess any potential need for social support.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs on Monday outlined a firm diplomatic and security position regarding Gaza, declaring that Israel will not tolerate continued Hamas rearmament and setting a 60-day deadline for the terror group to fully disarm.

Speaking at the Besheva Conference, Fuchs said Hamas must dismantle “all” of its weapons within two months. If it fails to do so, he warned, Israel will take military action.

“Hamas must disarm from all its weapons — everything. If that does not happen, the IDF will be required to ensure that it does,” Fuchs stated. He made clear that absent full disarmament, Israel would resume large-scale military operations in the Gaza Strip.

Addressing the recent unrest in Bnei Brak connected to the ongoing draft law crisis, Fuchs sought to lower the public rhetoric. He argued that the current tensions stem from the expiration of previous legal arrangements and emphasized that for years there had been an agreed-upon framework regulating the status of yeshiva students.

“If we label a ציבור of one and a half million people as criminals, we will push it toward extremism,” he said, adding that in his view the situation reflects a legal vacuum rather than a failure of governance.

Fuchs also commented on negotiations surrounding the draft law, noting that efforts are underway to formulate a version that will receive the backing of the Knesset’s legal advisers, in order to prevent an interim injunction that could freeze the legislation upon passage.

He indicated that from the coalition’s standpoint, a central objective is for the chareidi factions to actively support the bill, as part of a broad agreement that would ensure both its legal durability and political stability.

When asked whether Israel might one day return to reestablish Jewish communities in Gush Katif, which were evacuated under the 2005 Disengagement Plan, Fuchs responded briefly: “With Hashem’s help.”

{Matzav.com}

President Trump said Monday that anyone responsible for abducting Nancy Guthrie must ensure her safe return or face what he described as the toughest possible federal punishment.

Speaking in a brief phone interview with The NY Post, Trump made clear that if the 84-year-old mother of NBC “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie is killed, he would expect the Justice Department to pursue capital punishment.

He stated that those behind the Feb. 1 kidnapping from her home outside Tucson would face “very, very severe — the most severe” federal consequences if she is found dead.

When asked directly whether that meant the Department of Justice would seek the death penalty, Trump responded: “The most, yeah — that’s true.”

On Feb. 4, the president personally called Savannah Guthrie to offer federal support in the investigation. The FBI later obtained disturbing images and video showing a masked individual at the front door of the suburban residence.

Trump has largely refrained from making public comments about the case while authorities continue an intensive search for the elderly mother of three, whom investigators believe could still be alive.

In an effort to locate her, law enforcement officials conducted aerial searches over the desert terrain during the weekend, using specialized Bluetooth technology designed to detect a signal from Nancy Guthrie’s pacemaker.

Federal charges are frequently pursued in prominent criminal cases, especially when state lines may be involved or when federal laws are implicated. Although Arizona maintains the death penalty, many of the 109 prisoners currently on the state’s death row have remained there for decades.

Since 2022, Arizona has carried out only two executions, partly due to a nearly two-year suspension ordered by the Democrat-led state government, which was lifted in late 2024.

Separately, the federal government has authority to seek capital punishment and typically reserves it for the most high-profile crimes, including the cases of Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, Pittsburgh synagogue shooter Robert Bowers, and racist mass murderer Dylann Roof.

Joe Biden commuted the sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row, leaving Tsarnaev, Bowers, and Roof excluded from that action. Trump officials have indicated they intend to transfer the remaining federal death row inmates to a federal supermax facility, where they would serve their sentences under strict conditions.

Israeli state prosecutors on Monday filed an indictment against a 32-year-old northern Israeli man accused of collecting intelligence on former defense minister Yoav Gallant at the direction of an Iranian operative.

According to court documents, Fares Abu al-Hija was detained in late January after he allegedly photographed streets surrounding Gallant’s residence in Amikam and transmitted the images to his handler. Authorities say the surveillance was carried out at the handler’s request.

Police and the Shin Bet security service said in a joint announcement that Abu al-Hija is a resident of the Galilee village of Kaukab Abu al-Hija, located roughly an hour north of Gallant’s home.

Investigators believe the suspect initially connected with the Iranian operative last August through the Telegram messaging platform while seeking employment opportunities. The indictment states that the contact was made under the guise of work.

From October through January, Abu al-Hija is said to have fulfilled a series of assignments from the individual, who identified himself as “Martin,” despite harboring suspicions that he was dealing with a foreign intelligence agent.

Prosecutors allege that the assignments included purchasing mobile phones and chargers, concealing them in various spots around Haifa, activating the devices, installing communication applications, documenting their hiding places, and relaying those details back to his handler. He was also instructed to deliver an envelope containing the password to a cryptocurrency account to a site in Zichron Yaakov and to photograph a cafe in Tel Aviv.

The indictment states that Abu al-Hija received payment in cryptocurrency for carrying out the missions. For capturing photos and videos of the Tel Aviv cafe, he was paid $1,000 in digital currency.

In January, the suspect was reportedly directed to document Gallant’s home. Authorities arrested him at the scene shortly after he transmitted the images.

An indictment was filed in the Haifa District Court charging Abu al-Hija with contact with a foreign agent. Prosecutors have asked the court to keep him in custody through the duration of the proceedings.

Gallant served as defense minister from 2022 to 2024 before being dismissed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid political disagreements. Earlier in his career, he commanded the Israel Defense Forces Southern Command.

In their statement, police and the Shin Bet warned that Iran has stepped up attempts to recruit Israelis to conduct espionage activities within the country.

Law enforcement “takes a very serious view of any involvement in such activities and will continue to bring to justice those involved in harming the country’s security and its citizens,” they said.

Officials noted that over the past two years, dozens of Israelis have faced espionage charges linked to Iran. In many instances, recruitment efforts were carried out through social media platforms, particularly Telegram.

{Matzav.com}

A heated exchange erupted in the Knesset ahead of a no-confidence vote, as Opposition Leader Yair Lapid charged that the assault on two IDF servicewomen in Bnei Brak reflects a broader pattern under the current government, while Deputy Minister Yisrael Eichler accused the opposition of fueling dangerous incitement against the chareidi community.

Taking the podium before the vote, Lapid argued that the violence in Bnei Brak was not a one-time occurrence but part of a recurring trend. “What we saw yesterday in Bnei Brak is not an isolated phenomenon. It happens time and time again under this government. You are permitting [the shedding of] the blood of the IDF. You are against the IDF. This isn’t just happening in Bnei Brak,” he says, pointing as well to incidents involving settlers confronting IDF troops in the West Bank.

Lapid dismissed the coalition’s portrayal of itself as staunchly right-wing. “This government keeps saying that it’s completely right-wing. You’re not completely right-wing, you’re not right-wing at all. You’re a government that exists thanks to anti-Zionist parties, who are against conscription into the IDF, whose public is trying to lynch female soldiers and flips over police cars,” Lapid says.

In response to the opposition’s no-confidence motions, Eichler of United Torah Judaism rejected the criticism and instead accused lawmakers on the other side of stoking hostility toward his community. He warned that such rhetoric carries serious consequences.

“The incitement during no-confidence motions on the Knesset stage regarding ‘chareidi draft evasion’ is dangerous and intended to legitimize state violence,” he says.

Eichler further contended that statements urging authorities to confront chareidim as they would terrorists amount to a “license for bloodshed. Recently, two chareidi youths have already been killed by bus strikes during demonstrations.”

He cautioned that failing to push back against such language could escalate tensions even further. “If we do not fight against this incitement, it will continue to get worse, heaven forbid. This is how civil wars begin, and one can never know when or how they will end,” Eichler says.

{Matzav.com}