Matzav

Hundreds gathered Monday evening to accompany the three Biton siblings — Avigail, Yaakov, and Sarah, Hy”d — to kevuras Yisroel after they were killed in a direct Iranian missile strike in Beit Shemesh. The heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the tzibbur, as family, friends, and residents stood together in grief to bid farewell to the young souls taken so suddenly.

Their father, Reb Yitzchak Biton, delivered a tearful hesped, his voice breaking as he struggled to comprehend the magnitude of the loss. “Avrohom Avinu sacrificed one son, I sacrificed three. I sacrificed my son Yaakov, my daughter Avigail, and my daughter Sarah. Hakadosh Boruch Hu wanted to take these holy souls. We were at home when there was a tremendous blast. The ceiling collapsed, and I shielded the youngest daughter.”

The devastation unfolded in an instant, as the family home was struck and partially collapsed from the force of the explosion. The father’s words conveyed both anguish and submission to the gezeirah, as he described the terrifying moments when the blast tore through their home.

During the levayah, the children’s grandmother, Lillian, also addressed the crowd, her words saturated with pain. “These were pure children who only knew how to do good. They grew up in a home of goodness, joy, love for Israel, and only doing good for others.”

She spoke lovingly of her daughter, the children’s mother, emphasizing her strength and unwavering emunah. “They have a special mother. Their mother is stronger than anyone. She has great strength and deep faith. She taught them at home, not in institutions. A home education-she feared that the outside world would spoil them.”

Turning to the assembled mourners and to Klal Yisroel at large, the grandmother called for spiritual awakening in the face of tragedy. “The people of Israel must strengthen themselves-this is the time. We must be together and believe that the Torah will save us and cling to Hakadosh Boruch Hu. That is what will save us, not shelters. The mother told them, ‘Do not go to the shelter, stay with me,’ because she has faith.”

As the levayah drew on, she lifted her voice heavenward in a final anguished plea: “Creator of the world, these holy children have come to You; send redemption, enough, Creator of the world!”

Authorities have released all the names of the nine people killed when a ballistic missile launched from Iran struck a residential area in Beit Shemesh, marking the deadliest single strike in Israel since the current conflict with Iran began.

The missile leveled a shul and caused massive destruction to a public bomb shelter located beneath it, along with severe damage to nearby homes. In total, nine people were killed and more than 40 others were wounded when the estimated 500-kilogram warhead made a direct impact.

Those killed included three teenage siblings, a mother and her adult daughter, a mother and her adult son, a 16-year-old boy, and a man.

The Beit Shemesh attack was the deadliest missile strike inside Israel during the ongoing hostilities. A day earlier, Philippine national Mary Anne Velasquez de Vera, 32, was killed in a missile strike in Tel Aviv.

The IDF said the Israeli Air Force is investigating why the missile was not intercepted. Air defense systems were activated, but for reasons that remain unclear, the interceptors failed to bring down the projectile before it hit its target.

Even during some of the funerals, as victims were being laid to rest, additional missile fire from Iran forced mourners to seek shelter once again.

Ronit Elimelech, 45, and her mother, Sara, were among those killed in the strike. Elimelech volunteered with United Hatzalah, and emergency crews responding to the scene discovered her medical vest and equipment among the debris.

According to a statement from United Hatzalah, Elimelech and her three children had been visiting her parents’ home in Beit Shemesh. When sirens sounded, they entered the public shelter beneath the shul, which was later destroyed in the blast.

Rescue teams pulled two of Elimelech’s children from the rubble and transported them to Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center in Yerushalayim with light to moderate injuries. A third child was not hurt, and Sara’s husband was also located unharmed.

“Ronit joined United Hatzalah after her young son asked her to volunteer as his birthday gift. I met them personally, and they hold a very special place in our hearts,” Eli Beer, president of United Hatzalah, wrote on X before Elimelech’s death was formally announced.

He later shared how her son Itamar, who is autistic, had requested on his 11th birthday that his mother become a volunteer. “Itamar was so proud of his mother,” Beer wrote.

Among the victims were siblings Yaakov Biton, 16, Avigail Biton, 15, and Sara Biton, 13. Hundreds attended their funeral Monday night. Their father described the moment the missile struck, calling it a “tremendous explosion,” according to Hebrew media. He said his first instinct was to protect his youngest daughter.

Drawing a parallel to the Torah account of the Akeidah, he said, “Avrohom Avinu bound one son, I bound three. I bound my son Yaakov, my daughter Avigail and my daughter Sara. God wanted to take these holy souls.”

Their grandmother, Lilian, remembered them as “pure children who only knew how to do good. They grew up in a home of only good and happiness and love of country.”

At the funeral, according to Arutz Sheva, she cried out, “Creator of worlds, these holy children have come to you. Bring redemption.”

Oren Katz was also identified by the Beit Shemesh municipality as one of the victims. He is survived by his wife, children, and a brother, according to a local news report.

He was buried Monday. During the funeral, his son Yosef delivered a eulogy, saying, “You were always a special person who cared for everyone, not only yourself.”

“Yesterday you came home in the middle of the workday so we’d have something to eat for lunch. I’m glad I had the privilege to eat your food for the last time,” he said. “You told us we were your reason for living.”

Sixteen-year-old Gavriel Baruch Ravach was another victim identified by municipal officials. According to a local outlet, his father had previously contributed to and been involved in building the very synagogue that was destroyed in the same missile strike that claimed his son’s life.

Bruria Cohen was killed together with her adult son Yosef. A Beit Shemesh news site reported that Yosef was widely known in the community for his devotion to caring for his mother.

{Matzav.com}

In light of the war with Iran, the Gerer Chassidus has issued firm instructions ahead of Purim, prohibiting public gatherings and large-scale celebrations. The directive was delivered via a recorded message sent to thousands of bochurim in the chassidus’ yeshivos.

In the recording, the bochurim were informed that the yeshivos will not be organizing any official Purim activities this year, and that each individual should celebrate at home. They were specifically instructed to conduct themselves “without garatchke in the streets,” making clear that there should be no public revelry or commotion outdoors.

Additionally, the bochurim were asked not to dance in the streets, not to travel from city to city to attend festive meals, and not to arrange independent minyanim. Rather, they were directed to daven only in established shtieblach.

It was further clarified that bochurim may visit members of the yeshivah staff, but not in large groups, and that any seudah gatherings should take place only in small groups.

El Al announced Monday evening that it will not begin operating flights to Taba at this time, citing the absence of authorization from Israeli security officials.

In a statement released by the airline, the company made clear that it will not operate any flights without explicit security clearance. The announcement also stressed that a severe travel warning remains in effect for Egypt, and that Israeli carriers are barred from flying to the country.

El Al emphasized that it follows the directives of the relevant security authorities without exception and that passenger safety takes precedence over every other consideration.

Following the reopening of Ben Gurion Airport, the airline reiterated its commitment to bringing all of its customers back to Israel at no extra cost from more than 20 destinations worldwide.

At the same time, it was reported that Wizz Air will take part in the evacuation efforts and will bolster its service to Sharm El Sheikh beginning Friday.

The head of Israel’s Intelligence Directorate, Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder, declared that Israel will continue striking senior enemy figures and expanding its target list, stating that recent operations delivered a clear and uncompromising message to its adversaries.

Maj. Gen. Binder made the remarks Monday during an intelligence situation assessment held at the Intelligence Directorate’s Command Center, where he met with commanders and personnel from the Research Division to review ongoing operations and future objectives.

Addressing those present, Binder described the operational capabilities that enabled Israeli forces to act with speed and precision.

“We could tactically surprise them, beginning at an unexpected hour and catching our enemies mid-gatherings. In 40 seconds, we eliminated more than 40 of the most important people in Iran…and we are not finished. You must continue to set these targets and mark them. Just last night we achieved another such accomplishment, and we intend to add to the list every day.”

He framed the recent actions within the broader context of the war over the past two years, emphasizing the strategic message being conveyed.

“Looking at the past two years of the war, I believe we are sending a very clear message to our enemies – there is no place where we will not find them.”

Binder concluded with a direct warning to those who threaten Israel and its citizens.

“Anyone who chooses to engage in such actions against the State of Israel, against the residents of the State of Israel, against our future here, we will find them, and we will eliminate them.”

{Matzav.com}

The Yerushalayim Municipality has introduced a new emergency notification system tailored specifically for residents who use kosher phones and do not have access to smartphone apps or standard digital alerts.

The initiative, launched at the direction of Mayor Moshe Lion, is designed to automatically place phone calls to those who register for the service. Subscribers receive two types of recorded voice updates: an advance warning prior to the sounding of a siren in their area, and a follow-up message informing them when the security incident has concluded.

One of the system’s central features is its ability to send localized alerts based on specific neighborhoods, rather than issuing blanket notifications citywide. In addition, the system has been structured in a manner that complies with halachic requirements, enabling it to function on Shabbos and Yomim Tovim in a permissible way.

“It is important to ensure that those who choose a lifestyle without a smartphone receive the earliest possible warning so they can reach a protected space safely,” Lion stressed.

In the wake of the recent tragedy in Beit Shemesh, where residents lost their lives despite following official directives, Lion stressed the critical importance of remaining inside a protected room, describing it as “life-saving and an obligation upon every individual.”

{Matzav.com}

As Purim approaches in the shadow of the current war, Rav Yitzchok Yosef, nosi of the Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah, has released detailed pesakim addressing how to properly observe the mitzvos of Purim during the current military operation.

In recent days, hundreds of she’eilos have been presented to the Rishon LeTzion in light of the wartime situation. In response, he issued clear guidance on how to fulfill the mitzvos of Purim this year, with particular focus on the proper observance of Krias Megillas Esther under security restrictions.

First and foremost, the Rishon LeTzion stressed that it is self-evident that one must strictly adhere to all instructions issued by Pikud HaOref, as these directives are life-saving and fall under the obligation of “v’nishmartem me’od lenafshoseichem.”

Accordingly, he ruled that during these days it is essential to remain in locations that are in close proximity to a protected space. One should not conduct simchas Purim in areas that are not immediately near an accessible shelter.

Regarding Krias HaMegillah, the Rishon LeTzion clarified that one does not fulfill the obligation by listening through technological means such as “radio,” “Zoom,” “telephone,” or any other electronic medium — even if it is a live broadcast heard in real time. The obligation is fulfilled only through direct hearing from the baal koreh, without any intermediary device.

Therefore, he ruled that Krias HaMegillah in batei knesses and batei medrash should take place only in locations that are immediately adjacent to a protected area capable of accommodating all participants, or alternatively in shelters themselves.

If a siren sounds during the Krias HaMegillah, the entire tzibbur must immediately proceed to a shelter or protected space and pause the reading. They should make every effort not to speak during the interruption. If feasible, the reading may continue in the protected area. If this is not possible, the Megillah reading should resume in the bais knesses once Pikud HaOref authorizes a return to routine activity.

The Rishon LeTzion further ruled that if the reading was interrupted in order to seek shelter — even if there was speech during the interruption, and even if a lengthy amount of time passed, sufficient to complete the entire Megillah — upon returning, the baal koreh should resume from the exact point where he stopped, without reciting the berachos again. However, if the interruption and speech occurred immediately after the initial berachos and before the reading itself began, the berachos must be repeated, with the exception of Shehecheyanu.

If the tzibbur already heard the majority of the Megillah — defined as six chapters — and then were required to disperse to their homes, they may complete the remaining portion by reading from a Chumash at home.

Women, who are equally obligated in Krias HaMegillah, must also ensure that they hear the reading from a baal koreh in a protected location or one close to a shelter, in accordance with Pikud HaOref regulations.

Concerning the concluding berachah of Harav Es Riveinu, it may only be recited in the presence of a minyan. Even ten women may combine for this purpose. If, b’dieved, there was speech between the conclusion of the reading and the final berachah — for example, if the congregation had to evacuate to a protected space before the berachah — upon returning to the place of reading, if a tzibbur of ten is present, the berachah of Harav Es Riveinu should be recited, even if conversation took place in the interim.

Regarding Machatzis HaShekel, as of today, Erev Purim, 13 Adar 5786, the value stands at 101 shekels. One who cannot afford this amount for all household members should at minimum give this sum for himself, and contribute for the rest of his family according to his ability — at the very least three half-shekel coins per person. It is proper to give this amount today, on Taanis Esther, during Minchah, close to the time of Krias HaMegillah. The Rishon LeTzion emphasized the importance of directing these funds to mosdos haTorah that support bnei yeshivos and avreichim.

As for Matanos LaEvyonim, strictly speaking one fulfills the obligation with the value of a perutah. However, it is appropriate to beautify the mitzvah by giving the equivalent of a meal including a drink — approximately 25 shekels per needy individual, totaling 50 shekels for each person above the age of bar or bas mitzvah.

The Rishon LeTzion concluded with a heartfelt tefillah: May the Ribono Shel Olam perform for us nissim v’nifla’os as He did for our forefathers in those days at this time, and may He hasten the arrival of Moshiach Tzidkeinu speedily in our days, amein kein yehi ratzon.

It is with great sadness that Matzav.comreports the petirah of Rav Meir Berlin zt”l, one of the distinguished talmidei chachamim of the Ezras Torah neighborhood and a devoted talmid muvhak and close confidant of the Rosh Yeshivah of Brisk, Rav Meshulam Dovid HaLevi Soloveitchik zt”l. He was 78 years old.

The levayah was held today at his home at 13 Even Ha’azel Street in Ezras Torah, proceeding past Bais Medrash Bais Yisroel in the neighborhood, and continuing to Har HaMenuchos for kevurah.

Rav Meir was born on 19 Teves 5708 to his father, Rav Chaim Berlin, and his mother, Mrs. Ruchama Berlin. His father, Rav Chaim, was among the close associates and attendants of the Brisker Rov.

In his youth, he learned in Yeshivas Brisk, where he became a beloved talmid and close disciple of the Rosh Yeshivah, Rav Meshulam Dovid HaLevi Soloveitchik. He remained deeply connected to the Brisker mesorah and its hanhagos throughout his life.

Upon reaching marriageable age, he married his wife, daughter of Rav Yehoshua Schiff, Rosh Yeshivah of Yeshivas Bais Shraga in Monsey, New York.

Throughout his life, Rav Meir was wholly bound to Torah, which was the joy and essence of his existence. He toiled in it with extraordinary diligence and strength, investing constant amal and yegiah, teaching and transmitting it in its pristine purity.

He served as a living model for many in attaining elevated levels in the precise fulfillment and beautification of mitzvos, sparing no effort or expense. With tireless exertion and unwavering resolve, he charted his path in accordance with the ways of his rabbeim, the great luminaries of the generation from the house of Brisk, to whom he cleaved from his earliest years.

Beloved by all, he shouldered the burdens of others with humility and selflessness. His heart was open wide to assist both the community and individuals, materially and spiritually alike. His radiant joy in avodas Hashem brought happiness to all who came near him.

Rav Meir served as a R”M at Yeshiva Torah V’Yirah in the Meah Shearim neighborhood of Yerushalayim. In Ezras Torah, he was among the founders of the Ashkenaz minyan at the Bais Yisroel Shul, which he maintained, led, and guided for many years.

He is survived by sons and daughters and many grandchildren who continue in his path.

His brother, Rav Zev Berlin zt”l, Rosh Yeshivah of Yeshivas Gaon Yaakov, passed away one year ago, during the month of Adar.

Yehi zichro boruch.

{Matzav.com}

Saudi Arabia temporarily closed its largest domestic oil refinery on Monday following a drone strike, according to a source, as escalating Israeli and US operations against Iran — and Tehran’s retaliatory attacks — triggered disruptions to energy infrastructure across the Middle East.

The latest round of strikes marked the third consecutive day of violence affecting the region’s oil and gas sector. In response to security concerns, most crude production in Iraqi Kurdistan was halted as a precaution, and several major Israeli offshore gas fields were also taken offline, curbing exports to Egypt.

Saudi Aramco’s Ras Tanura refinery, which has a processing capacity of 550,000 barrels per day, was shut down as a preventive measure. The refinery forms part of a major energy hub along the kingdom’s Gulf coastline and functions as a key export terminal for Saudi crude.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, where approximately 200,000 barrels per day were shipped via pipeline to Turkey’s Ceyhan port in February, companies including DNO, Gulf Keystone Petroleum, Dana Gas and HKN Energy suspended operations at their fields as a precaution. No physical damage was reported at those sites.

Off Israel’s Mediterranean coast, the Leviathan natural gas field, operated by Chevron, was shut on Saturday, sources said. Energean also halted operations at its floating production unit servicing smaller gas reservoirs.

The situation at Aramco’s Ras Tanura refinery is under control, the source said. Two drones were intercepted at the facility, with debris causing a limited fire, the Saudi defense ministry’s spokesperson said on Al Arabiya TV, adding there were no injuries.

Saudi state news agency SPA reported, citing an unnamed energy ministry official, that while some refinery units were taken offline as a precaution, domestic supplies of petroleum and refined products were not disrupted.

Even so, the refinery’s temporary closure is likely to intensify concerns about global supply. Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical waterway through which roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption passes — has slowed sharply after vessels were targeted in the area on Sunday. Brent crude futures jumped about 10% on Monday, climbing above $82 per barrel.

“The attack on Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura refinery marks a significant escalation, with Gulf energy infrastructure now squarely in Iran’s sights,” said Torbjorn Soltvedt, principal Middle East analyst at risk intelligence firm Verisk Maplecroft.

“The attack is also likely to move Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf states closer to joining U.S. and Israeli military operations against Iran.”

Saudi energy infrastructure has been targeted in the past. In September 2019, coordinated drone and missile attacks on the Abqaiq and Khurais facilities temporarily knocked out more than half of the kingdom’s crude production capacity.

Ras Tanura itself was previously targeted in 2021 by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement.

{Matzav.com}

With Purim just a few hours away amid the ongoing war, the Rishon Letzion, Rav Dovid Yosef, published a psak halacha emphasizing that obedience to Pikud HaOref directives takes precedence over reading the Megillah b’rov am when there is even a chashash pikuach nefesh.

In detailed guidelines addressed to “Acheinu Bnei Yisroel b’Eretz Yisroel,” the Rav stressed that safeguarding life overrides any hiddur mitzvah. He wrote that it is self-understood that we are obligated to heed the instructions of Pikud HaOref regarding security, and since there is a concern of pikuach nefesh, it is absolutely forbidden to act against those directives.

One of the primary questions raised was the fulfillment of the principle of “b’rov am hadras Melech” in a time of sirens and security alerts. While in an ordinary year there is a mitzvah to hear Krias HaMegillah with a large gathering, this year — given that security authorities have determined that large assemblies in unprotected areas may pose a danger — the Rav ruled that the Megillah should be read in a protected space or shelter. This applies even if it is not possible to gather a crowd, and even if one must read the Megillah individually without a minyan.

The Rav further clarified that one does not fulfill the obligation by listening to the Megillah via telephone, radio, or online platforms such as Zoom. One who does not have access to a kosher Megillah should read from a printed Chumash without reciting the berachos.

Special guidance was issued for chayalim serving on the front lines. For soldiers who, due to operational demands, cannot read the Megillah at night, the Rishon Letzion ruled that in a shaas hadchak they may read from plag hamincha.

In the event that a siren sounds in the middle of the kri’ah, the instruction is unequivocal: the reading must be stopped immediately, and everyone must proceed at once to a protected area or shelter. The Rav reassured the public that even if the interruption is prolonged and includes conversation, there is no need to return to the beginning of the Megillah; rather, one resumes from the place where he left off.

Concluding his psak, Rav Yosef called upon the tzibbur to strengthen themselves in emunah and tefillah on behalf of Klal Yisroel and the chayalei Yisroel. He expressed a heartfelt tefillah that the Ribono Shel Olam protect His people and perform nissim v’niflaos as in the days of Mordechai v’Esther, and concluded with a prayer for the salvation of the people dwelling in Tzion, the success of Israel’s soldiers in battle, and that we merit the swift arrival of the Goel Tzedek b’karov.

{Matzav.com}

[COMMUNICATED]

President Donald Trump delivered a forceful message to Iran’s leadership, declaring that the current round of US strikes represents only the opening phase of a broader military operation and signaling that more significant action is imminent.

In an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Trump said the campaign is progressing effectively and emphasized the strength of the American armed forces. “We’re knocking the crap out of them,” Trump said in an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper. “I think it’s going very well. It’s very powerful. We’ve got the greatest military in the world and we’re using it.”

The president made clear that, in his view, the most intense phase of the operation has yet to begin, suggesting that additional strikes are forthcoming. “We haven’t even started hitting them hard. The big wave hasn’t even happened. The big one is coming soon.”

Trump also indicated that the United States is taking further steps aimed at supporting the Iranian population in its struggle against what he described as an oppressive regime led by the Ayatollahs. At the same time, he cautioned civilians in Iran to remain indoors while hostilities continue.

{Matzav.com}

Allies of Mayor Zohran Mamdani in the state Legislature have introduced a proposal that would empower New York City to levy an additional 25% surcharge on corporate tax liability, a move that would significantly expand the city’s authority to raise revenue from businesses.

The legislation reflects the Democratic socialist mayor’s broader push to increase taxes on corporations and high earners to fund a series of costly initiatives promised during the 2025 campaign.

“This legislation would authorize New York City to charge a surcharge on corporate taxes, allowing the city to increase its corporate taxes should the mayor and City Council deem this necessary and appropriate,” said Assemblywoman Diana Moreno and Sen. Kristen Gonzalez in a memo summarizing their legislation.

Moreno, who is also aligned with the Democratic Socialists, succeeded Mamdani in representing Astoria in the Assembly after he vacated the seat to assume the mayoralty.

Gonzalez represents areas that include western Queens, parts of northern Brooklyn and Manhattan’s East Side.

“Revenues generated from a corporate tax could contribute to addressing the affordability crisis and strong public services for residents of the city,” the lawmakers said.

The bill summary, however, does not estimate how much additional revenue the surcharge might produce, instead noting that the fiscal impact is “to be determined.”

Mamdani has indicated that his preference is for Gov. Kathy Hochul and the Legislature to raise taxes at the state level—either by increasing the income tax on millionaires or boosting the corporate tax rate—to help close a multibillion-dollar shortfall in his proposed budget and bankroll his policy agenda. He has described a 9.5% property tax increase as a last-resort option, one that appears to lack sufficient support in the City Council.

“New York City is home to dozens of Fortune 500 companies. Yet, for corporations with over $5 million in annual profits, the corporate tax rate is only 7.25%, significantly lower than neighboring states like New Jersey, which is set at 11.5%,” the lawmakers said.

Business advocates dispute that comparison, arguing that it does not account for additional levies already imposed on companies operating in the city.

They note that when other charges, including an MTA corporate surcharge, are factored in, the city’s highest combined marginal corporate income tax rate currently stands at 17.44%, exceeding New Jersey’s rate. Under Mamdani’s proposed increase, they contend, that figure would climb to 22.48%.

“I don’t think the tax conversation is productive because we are going to be 100% higher than New Jersey if we take that proposal,” Steve Fulop, the new CEO of the Partnership for The City of New York, said last week on 77 WABC’s “The Cats Roundtable” program.

“New Jersey’s current corporate tax rate is 11%. If we do what the mayor has recommended, will be at 22% — 100% over New Jersey,” he said during his appearance. “People don’t have to move to Texas or Florida. They can just move a mile away, which is a real risk for the economy here in New York.

“People want to be in New York, but you have to have an economy that’s competitive. We’re getting close to a place that it isn’t,” he said.

Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, also urged restraint, arguing that the focus should be on reducing spending rather than increasing taxes.

“Raising taxes makes New York even more expensive for people we want to come and stay here, people whose taxes support our teachers, cops, libraries, health services and more of what we all need,” Citizens Budget Commission president Andrew Rein said last week.

“New York and its localities are already top of the charts — collecting more taxes per person than anywhere else in the nation.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul, who is running for re-election to a second term, has said she does not support broad-based tax increases this year. Still, observers note that it remains unclear whether she would maintain that position if faced with pressure from members of her own party after the November elections.

Hochul is being challenged by Republican Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

{Matzav.com}

In a moment that has left many shaken and reflective, fragments from the Iranian missile that fell Sunday in a shelter adjacent to a beis haknesses in Beit Shemesh struck one of the Sifrei Torah, landing precisely in Parshas Zachor, the very parsha that Klal Yisroel read just this past Shabbos.

The parsha, which reminds us of the eternal battle against Amalek and resonates so powerfully with the story of the Megillah, carries profound relevance in these days, as we face a modern-day Persia — Iran. That the shrapnel found its way specifically to those words seemed, to many, far beyond coincidence.

Misplallelim in the beis haknesses stood in stunned silence when they discovered where the fragments had pierced. The sight of the damaged Sefer Torah, struck in the very section commanding us to remember Amalek, was viewed by many as a stirring remez min haShamayim — a call to introspection, teshuvah, and strengthened emunah.

In days when missiles fly and sirens wail, this remarkable occurrence has left the community contemplating the clear and present message: that even amid the noise of war, the Ribbono Shel Olam speaks — sometimes in ways that pierce straight to the heart of the parsha.

President Trump said Monday that he is not ruling out deploying American ground forces to Iran if circumstances require it, while asserting that the ongoing military campaign has progressed faster than anticipated, including the elimination of dozens of senior Iranian leaders.

In an interview with The New York Post, Trump addressed the possibility of sending troops, distancing himself from blanket pledges often made by other presidents. “I don’t have the yips with respect to boots on the ground — like every president says, ‘There will be no boots on the ground.’ I don’t say it,” Trump said after launching strikes Saturday to decapitate Iran’s military and political leadership. “I say ‘probably don’t need them,’ [or] ‘if they were necessary.’”

The president had told the Daily Mail on Sunday that he expected the conflict to last “four weeks or so,” but on Monday he suggested the timeline could be shorter than initially projected.

“It’s going to go pretty quickly,” he said. “We’re right on schedule, way ahead of schedule in terms of leadership — 49 killed — and that was, you know, going to take, we figured, at least four weeks, and we did it in one day.”

Trump also dismissed concerns that Iran might respond to the US action through terrorist attacks.

“We’ll take it out. Whatever. It’s like everything else, we’ll take it out,” Trump said.

Explaining his decision-making process, the president said he authorized the strike following what he described as unsuccessful final negotiations held Thursday in Geneva, citing intelligence indicating that Iran had resumed covert nuclear activity.

“We had very serious negotiations, and they were there, and then they pulled back,” he said.

“They wanted to make a nuclear weapon, so we destroyed them completely, but we found they were in a totally different site — totally different — because the sites that we took out were permanent. They tried to use them, but they were totally, as I said correctly before, obliterated, right? So then we found them working on a totally different area, a totally different site, in order to make a nuclear weapon through enrichment — so it was just time.”

“I said, ‘Let’s go.’”

Trump maintained that he is confident he made the correct call and argued that most Americans ultimately back the action, even if early polling suggests otherwise. He contended that preventing what he called “crazy people” from acquiring nuclear weapons outweighed the risks of a broader regional conflict.

A Reuters/Ipsos survey conducted over the weekend found that 27% of respondents supported the strikes, while 43% opposed them and 29% were undecided. Surveys taken before the operation indicated similarly limited backing for a potential war.

“I think that the polling is very good, but I don’t care about polling. I have to do the right thing. I have to do the right thing. This should have been done a long time ago,” Trump said.

“I don’t think the polling is low,” he went on. “Look, whether polling is low or not, I think the polling is probably fine. But it’s not a question of polling. You cannot let Iran, who’s a nation that has been run by crazy people, have a nuclear weapon.

“I think people are very impressed with what is happening, actually,” Trump insisted. “I think it’s a silent — if you did a real poll, the silent poll — and it’s like a silent majority.”

{Matzav.com}

Three American F-15 fighter jets participating in operations linked to the campaign against Iran were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses in a friendly fire incident, US Central Command confirmed early Monday.

According to a statement from CENTCOM, all six crew members aboard the aircraft successfully ejected and were recovered in stable condition.

“Kuwait has acknowledged this incident, and we are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defense forces and their support in this ongoing operation,” Tampa, Fla.-based CENTCOM went on.

Video circulating online captured the dramatic crashes, which occurred shortly after what appeared to be an Iranian drone barrage struck the US Embassy compound in Kuwait City. Earlier, the embassy had issued a stark advisory to American citizens, instructing them to stay indoors, seek shelter, and “Do not come to the Embassy.”

Footage showed flames and heavy smoke billowing from within the diplomatic compound, though no immediate casualties were reported.

Kuwait, along with several other Gulf states neighboring Iran, has come under missile and drone fire from Tehran in recent days. The strikes appear aimed at pressuring the United States and Israel to halt a military campaign that has reportedly resulted in the deaths of dozens of senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Over the weekend, three US service members stationed in Kuwait with a logistics and supply unit were killed in an Iranian strike. They were the first American fatalities since the Pentagon launched the operation known as Operation Epic Fury.

CENTCOM said it would withhold the identities of service members who were killed until 24 hours after their families were notified.

Iranian retaliatory strikes have also targeted American military installations in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain, which hosts the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet. In addition to military targets, Tehran has directed attacks toward energy infrastructure across the region.

On Monday, Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura oil refinery was targeted by drones, according to a military spokesman quoted by the state-run Saudi Press Agency. Air defenses intercepted the aircraft before they reached their objective.

Videos posted online appeared to show dense black smoke rising near the refinery site following the incident. Even when drones are successfully shot down, falling debris can ignite fires and cause injuries on the ground.

Ras Tanura, located near Dammam in eastern Saudi Arabia, is among the largest oil refineries in the world, with the capacity to process more than 500,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Saudi state television reported that operations at the facility were temporarily halted as a precaution.

Earlier the same day, falling debris from intercepted drones struck Kuwait’s Ahmadi oil refinery, injuring two workers, according to the state-run KUNA news agency.

{Matzav.com}

A sharp exchange erupted Sunday between Rep. Ilhan Omar and Rep. Nancy Mace after the South Carolina Republican suggested that Omar and Rep. Rashida Tlaib were grieving the death of Iranian Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The dispute began when Mace posted a sarcastic message online following news of Khamenei’s death. “My heart goes out to Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib tonight.

“Sending them thoughts and prayers,” she wrote in a post accompanied by a picture of Khamenei.

Omar and Tlaib, the first Muslim women elected to Congress, are members of the progressive bloc known as “The Squad.”

Omar responded forcefully on X, accusing Mace of intoxication. “I hope you aren’t drunk and took your staff’s advice, Rashida and I don’t know this man and feel confident he didn’t care about us,” she wrote.

She continued, “Please restrain [sic] from drinking too much as you have been warned from your staff and stay off social media when you are drunk. I pray in his holy month you find peace and respect for your self [sic].”

Omar’s remarks appeared to reference prior allegations made by former Mace staff members claiming she fostered a hostile work environment.

A New York Magazine article published last month alleged that Mace consumed alcohol “excessively” and required staff to make late-night liquor store runs on her behalf.

Mace has strongly denied those claims, even as several former aides have publicly supported them. She has said she suffers from hemochromatosis, describing it as a “lifelong genetic affliction that prevents me from consuming much alcohol.”

Hemochromatosis is a disorder in which excess iron accumulates in vital organs such as the heart, pancreas, and liver.

Mace fired back at Omar with a jab at her grammar, writing, “Honey, it’s ‘please refrain’ not ‘please restrain.’ This is what happens when your staff is from the Third World and can’t speak proper English,” Mace needled Omar in response.

Mace, who is running for governor of South Carolina, has praised the killing of Khamenei and supported efforts to weaken Iran’s ruling regime.

The two lawmakers have a history of public disputes on social media.

Earlier this year, Mace sought to have the House Oversight Committee issue a subpoena for records related to allegations that Omar married her brother.

On Shabbos, Omar criticized President Trump for authorizing the Operation Absolute Fury strikes against Iran, in which Khamenei was killed during joint U.S.-Israeli military action.

“The American people are sick and tired of endless wars built on false promises and paid for with innocent lives. Congress must immediately pass [the] Khanna-Massie War Powers Resolution,” Omar wrote on X.

Before the strikes took place, Omar had also expressed frustration over the timing of U.S. military actions during Ramadan.

“The US apparently loves to strike Muslim countries during Ramadan and I am convinced it isn’t what these countries have done to violate international law but about who they worship,” she wrote.

Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, runs this year from Feb. 17 through March 19.

{Matzav.com}

Iran is intensifying efforts to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most vital energy corridor, raising fears of a major supply shock that could rattle global markets, Newsmax reports. While no formal blockade has been declared, escalating warnings, vessel strikes, and maritime disruptions suggest Tehran is seeking to exert leverage in the strategic waterway without officially closing it.

If Iran were to successfully shut down the narrow passage connecting the Persian Gulf to the Indian Ocean, oil prices could surge dramatically, triggering economic turbulence worldwide.

In the past three days, Iranian authorities have broadcast warnings over marine Channel 16 telling commercial ships that the strait is “closed,” despite the absence of any internationally recognized declaration to that effect.

When vessels continued navigating the corridor, tensions rose. Since March 1, at least three ships have reportedly been hit, fueling concern that Iran may be shifting from rhetorical threats to physical enforcement.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center in Dubai confirmed that Iranian forces were issuing closure announcements but emphasized that such declarations carry no legal authority.

The Combined Maritime Forces, a multinational naval coalition headquartered in Bahrain, described the situation as “critical,” cautioning that there are “active kinetic hazard conditions” and widespread GPS interference affecting navigation.

Tracking data from the automatic identification system on March 1 indicated a sharp drop in traffic within designated shipping lanes. Many tankers were observed anchoring near Dubai, Fujairah, and Khor Fakkan rather than attempting to transit the strait.

The mounting tensions have already had real-world effects.

According to Reuters and maritime security officials, several vessels reported receiving VHF messages from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards declaring that “no ship is allowed to pass.”

Oman’s Maritime Security Centre said the tanker Skylight was struck in Omani waters near the Musandam Peninsula, injuring crew members.

Other incidents reportedly involved damage to the crude carrier MKD Vyom and the product tanker Hercules Star.

Severe GPS spoofing has further complicated maritime movement, with ships’ tracking signals appearing inaccurately on land or looping in circular patterns, creating navigational confusion.

Even in the absence of an official blockade, tanker movements have slowed significantly.

Major carriers such as Hapag-Lloyd have halted sailings through the area, while Maersk said it is coordinating closely with security partners.

The International Association of Independent Tanker Owners stated that the U.S. Navy had warned it could not guarantee safe passage throughout the broader Gulf region.

War-risk insurance rates have climbed sharply, and some insurers have withdrawn coverage entirely for voyages through Hormuz.

At its narrowest shipping point, the Strait of Hormuz measures just 21 miles across, with traffic lanes roughly two miles wide in each direction.

Yet its economic significance is enormous. In 2024, approximately 20 million barrels of oil per day passed through the strait, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. That represents about 20 percent of global oil consumption and nearly a quarter of worldwide seaborne oil trade.

The estimated annual value of oil and gas transported through Hormuz approaches $500 billion.

Liquefied natural gas shipments are equally vital. Roughly one-fifth of global LNG trade, much of it originating from Qatar, moves through the strait.

About 84 percent of crude and condensate exports and 83 percent of LNG cargoes are bound for Asian markets, particularly China, India, Japan, and South Korea.

Alternative export routes are limited. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates maintain some pipeline capacity that bypasses the strait, but those systems could not fully compensate for a complete closure.

Iraq, Kuwait, and Qatar remain largely dependent on Hormuz access for exports.

Energy markets are already preparing for volatility.

U.S. crude oil settled Friday at $67.02 per barrel, reflecting a 17 percent increase this year. Brent crude closed at $73.21, up 20 percent year to date.

Rystad Energy analysts warned that Brent could climb by as much as $20 if disruptions persist.

UBS analysts said a significant interruption might send Brent above $120 per barrel.

Prediction markets currently suggest a strong likelihood that U.S. crude could rise above $73 in the near term.

Barclays has projected that Brent could reach $100 if the disruption continues. Even a partial interruption affecting 20 percent of flows could trigger a 20 percent price increase within days.

Higher oil prices would likely reignite inflationary pressures worldwide, delay anticipated central bank rate cuts, and place strain on airlines and transportation-intensive industries. Emerging market currencies could also face renewed stress.

A sustained rise toward $100 oil would complicate Federal Reserve policy in 2026, as elevated fuel costs feed into broader inflation data.

Iran does not need to formally declare a blockade to disrupt shipping.

Its asymmetric capabilities include naval mines, fast attack craft, coastal missile systems, submarines, drone operations, and electronic warfare.

Mining the narrow shipping lanes would be particularly disruptive, requiring complex multinational efforts to clear.

Selective vessel seizures, GPS interference, and targeted strikes could effectively create conditions resembling a closure by deterring insurers and shipping companies.

Approximately 3,000 ships transit Hormuz each month. Even temporary interruptions can create immediate supply bottlenecks and rapid price swings.

However, a sustained full shutdown would also harm Iran.

Iranian oil exports use the same route, and any prolonged closure would likely provoke a strong international military response.

The United States has expanded its naval presence in the Gulf, deploying carrier strike groups, missile defense systems, and surveillance assets.

President Donald Trump said military operations will continue until American objectives are achieved, though he also signaled openness to negotiations.

The Pentagon has indicated that freedom of navigation missions will persist, and allied naval forces are escorting commercial vessels.

Historically, the United States has treated attempts to block Hormuz as a red line.

In previous crises, mine-clearing operations and naval escorts were launched quickly to maintain open transit.

Current alerts from the Combined Maritime Forces and the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations suggest coalition forces are preparing for such contingencies.

Even a partial disruption would mark one of the most severe energy supply shocks in decades.

With roughly one-fifth of global petroleum consumption passing through a single corridor, the systemic risk is immense.

Asian economies would feel the immediate impact, but consequences would ripple globally through higher fuel costs, rising freight rates, market volatility, and potential recessionary pressures if elevated prices persist.

The episode also highlights how maritime chokepoints remain powerful strategic leverage points.

Electronic interference, drone attacks, and hybrid tactics blur the boundary between harassment and outright warfare, complicating military and diplomatic responses.

For now, the Strait of Hormuz remains technically open.

But with ships damaged, insurers withdrawing, and traffic thinning, Iran appears to be pursuing disruption without a formal declaration.

In already volatile energy markets, that strategy alone may be sufficient to drive oil prices higher and intensify geopolitical tensions, bringing both economic and political risk in its wake.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump said Sunday that he acted decisively against Iran’s leadership, asserting that he moved before Ayatollah Ali Khamenei could carry out what he described as another attempt on his life.

“I got him before he got me. They tried twice. Well, I got him first,” Trump said in an interview with ABC News.

His comments come as U.S. military operations against Iran intensify and as renewed attention focuses on allegations that Tehran sought to target him during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Last year, federal prosecutors announced charges against several individuals accused of involvement in assassination schemes allegedly connected to Iran and aimed at then-candidate Trump.

The Justice Department stated that individuals linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attempted to recruit people inside the United States to execute attacks. Authorities said the alleged plans were in retaliation for the 2020 American drone strike that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.

In one instance, officials said a suspect sought to contract individuals who turned out to be undercover FBI agents in what became a law enforcement sting operation.

Prosecutors characterized the alleged activity as part of a wider Iranian effort to target both current and former U.S. officials. Iranian authorities have denied any role in the reported plots.

Trump said Sunday that the latest American military action significantly altered Iran’s leadership landscape.

He also told ABC News that individuals previously viewed as possible successors within Iran’s ruling structure had already been identified prior to the strikes but were killed during the initial phase of the assault.

“The attack was so successful it knocked out most of the candidates,” Trump said. “It’s not going to be anybody that we were thinking of because they are all dead. Second or third place is dead.”

{Matzav.com}

As security tensions intensify under Operation Roaring Lion, the Health Ministry announced sweeping new measures Sunday night, including the mass early discharge of hospital patients to create surge capacity. Community clinics will operate under emergency protocols, well-baby clinics will remain closed, and urgent care centers will significantly expand their services.

Reflecting a system-wide move to Alert Level Dalet, the ministry said hospitals are being prepared for extreme scenarios. Under the updated directives, efforts to release patients early from all hospitals will continue, and well-baby clinics will remain closed.

Continuing policies implemented over the past 24 hours, the ministry clarified that services on Monday will focus on urgent care only. Health funds have been instructed to keep open those clinics and medical facilities that comply with Home Front Command protection guidelines.

The directive states that only essential activity should take place in the community, alongside measures designed to minimize hospital visits. Health funds are required to strengthen telephone hotlines and expand remote medical services as alternatives to clinics that have been closed due to sheltering limitations.

In an effort to maintain continuity of care and prevent overcrowding in emergency rooms, health funds have been ordered to extend the operating hours of urgent care centers into the morning and afternoon, and in certain areas to run them 24 hours a day. General hospitals have likewise been directed to continue early discharge of inpatients to preserve their ability to absorb casualties, while elective and outpatient procedures are being significantly curtailed.

The measures also apply to the mental health system, where hundreds of calls have been reported to emergency hotlines, as well as to geriatric and rehabilitation hospitals, which have been instructed to create reserves of available beds. Despite the strict restrictions, the Health Ministry sought to convey cautious optimism, stating that it intends to ease some of the limitations in the coming days where possible. However, officials emphasized that all well-baby clinics will remain closed Monday, and district health offices will operate only for the most urgent cases.