Matzav

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu said Thursday night that Israel’s controversial draft law remains on the government’s agenda and will be brought forward once the current war ends, explaining that the legislation has only been postponed due to the ongoing conflict.

Netanyahu made the remarks during a press conference — his first since the war with Iran began 13 days ago — where he addressed questions about the regional military campaign, the security situation along Israel’s northern border, and political issues at home.

The prime minister said that Israel and the United States have achieved significant successes in the conflict, strengthening Israel’s position both regionally and internationally. He noted that following Operation “Am KeLavi,” he and President Donald Trump warned the Iranian regime not to attempt to rebuild its missile and nuclear programs.

According to Netanyahu, despite those warnings, Tehran moved quickly to restore its capabilities and worked to conceal development facilities deep underground and beneath mountainous terrain. He said that had Israel not acted when it did, those capabilities could soon have become immune to military strikes.

Netanyahu also addressed the succession of Iran’s supreme leader, referring to Mojtaba Khamenei, who assumed the position after his father’s death. The prime minister described him as “a puppet of the Revolutionary Guards who cannot show his face in public,” adding that he would not “take out a life insurance policy on any of the leaders of the region.”

Discussing the internal situation in Iran, Netanyahu said Israel is working to create conditions that could allow the Iranian people to overthrow the regime. At the same time, he acknowledged that it is impossible to predict whether such a development will occur in the near future. “Ultimately it depends on the Iranian people,” he said.

The prime minister added that Israeli forces continue to strike the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Basij militia while simultaneously working to strengthen regional alliances. According to Netanyahu, the conflict is already reshaping the strategic reality in the Middle East, noting that “this is not the same Iran and this is not the same Middle East.”

Turning to Hezbollah’s continued rocket fire from Lebanon, Netanyahu said Israel had previously removed a major threat along its northern border but emphasized that the group still retains what he called “residual firepower.” He said Israel has warned the Lebanese government that if it does not act against Hezbollah, Israel will do so itself.

Netanyahu was also asked about remarks made by President Trump regarding President Isaac Herzog in connection with the issue of a potential pardon in Netanyahu’s ongoing trial. The prime minister said he respects every president and does not intend to comment on statements made by an American president on the matter. Nevertheless, he reiterated his belief that the proceedings against him constitute a “politically motivated trial” and said the case should be brought to an end.

Concluding his remarks, Netanyahu addressed the ongoing political dispute over Israel’s draft law and emphasized that the government has not abandoned the legislation.

“We have not given up on the draft law,” Netanyahu said. “We have set aside all of our legislative initiatives. I hope we will be able to complete the term of this government and pass a draft law that is a very responsible law.”

{Matzav.com}

The name of habochur Yehuda Chayon drew widespread attention this past week after it became known that prison authorities prevented him from hearing the laining of Parshas Zachor.

Tonight, following his release, dozens of bnei yeshiva gathered in Bnei Brak to welcome him home with a spirited reception combined with a delayed Purim celebration.

Two weeks after he had been imprisoned — and a week after Purim had already passed — the bnei yeshiva refused to allow their friend to miss the joy of the day. They organized an evening of dancing, singing, wine, and costumes in honor of the bochur who had just been released from the military prison.

As previously reported, Yehuda’s case became a major topic of discussion when it was revealed that prison authorities barred him from hearing Parshas Zachor. The incident sparked strong reactions among representatives of the tzibbur hachareidi, who voiced sharp criticism over the decision.

Following his release Thursday evening, his friends in the yeshiva resolved that he should still experience the simcha of Purim properly.

The celebration took place in the bais medrash Hameir La’aretz on Jabotinsky Street in Bnei Brak. The gathering began with words of bracha delivered by the mashpia, Rav Nota Paneth. After his heartfelt remarks stirred the assembled crowd, the participants broke out into lively dancing.

Costumes appeared, bottles of wine were opened, and the hall filled with spirited singing of Purim songs.

During the height of the celebration, the bochur publicly burned his draft order. Prior to the event, he had visited the homes of several Gedolei Yisroel to receive their brachos following his release.

{Matzav.com}

A joyous engagement was celebrated this evening in Tzefas for the youngest son of the renowned mashpia, Rav Elimelech Biderman. The chosson, Shlomo Biderman, a distinguished talmid in Yeshivas Tchernobyl in Elad, became engaged to a granddaughter of the Lelov and Dzhikov Vizhnitz dynasties.

The kallah is a granddaughter of the Lelover Rebbe and the daughter of his son, Rav Michael Eliezer Biderman, who is a son-in-law of the Dzhikov Vizhnitz Rebbe.

This engagement marks the third time that Reb Meilech has become related through marriage with the Dzhikov Vizhnitz Rebbe. The first time occurred when the Rebbe’s son, Rav Levi Yitzchok Adler — who serves as rav of the Dzhikov Vizhnitz community in Bnei Brak and leads the Imrei Naftali bais medrash — married a daughter of Reb Meilech. The second time was when the Rebbe’s grandson, the son of his son-in-law Rav Yisroel Lemberger of Makava, married another daughter of Reb Meilech.

In addition, this engagement represents a second marriage connection between the grandchildren of the Lelover brothers, the Rebbes Rav Shimon of Lelov and Rav Alter of Lelov. The mechutan, Rav Michael Biderman, is also related by marriage to Rav Sholom Sofer, who is a brother-in-law of Reb Meilech.

The l’chaim celebration was held this evening in Tzefas at the home of the mechutan, Rav Michael Eliezer Biderman.

{Matzav.com}

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani responded sharply after facing a wave of criticism and hostile comments following his decision to host an “iftar dinner” at City Hall, pushing back against remarks from a U.S. senator who referred to him as “the enemy inside.”

Mamdani, who earlier this year became the first Muslim mayor of New York City, organized the iftar gathering as part of the Muslim month of Ramadan. The evening meal, which marks the daily breaking of the fast at sunset, brought together community members and local leaders at City Hall for what the mayor described as a celebration of the city’s diversity.

The event quickly became the subject of controversy online and in political circles after critics attacked the mayor for hosting the Ramadan gathering in a government building. The backlash intensified when Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville posted on social media, “The enemy is inside the gates,” a remark widely understood as referring to Mamdani.

The mayor responded publicly to the criticism, arguing that political leaders should direct their outrage toward more pressing problems rather than a communal meal during Ramadan.

“Let there be as much outrage from politicians in Washington when kids go hungry as there is when I break bread with New Yorkers,” Mamdani wrote.

Some critics objected to the symbolism of the event or mocked images of the mayor sitting on the floor while eating with guests, while supporters defended the gathering as a normal expression of religious and cultural tradition in a city known for its diversity.

The controversy surrounding the iftar comes amid a series of political disputes involving Mamdani since he assumed office. His tenure has already drawn national attention due to his progressive agenda and his outspoken positions on international and domestic issues.

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{Matzav.com}

A senior diplomatic source in the Middle East said Thursday that the United States wants the current military campaign against Iran brought to a close quickly and has given Israel roughly one week to wrap up the operation.

Speaking in an interview with Yisroel Hayom, the official said Washington is eager to end the conflict and has set a short timetable for its conclusion. According to the source, the Iranian regime itself is unlikely to fall, since that would require either a ground invasion or a renewed wave of mass protests within Iran — developments that currently appear unlikely.

The official described what he said is a significant difference in outlook between Jerusalem and Washington. While Israeli leaders view the war as a major strategic success and are celebrating the achievements, officials in the United States are primarily concerned about the rising cost of oil and the broader economic implications of a prolonged conflict.

The source also addressed the situation in Lebanon and the status of Hezbollah, saying that despite Israel’s elimination of the group’s previous secretary-general, Hassan Nasrallah, the organization itself remains intact. The same, he said, is true for Hamas.

According to the official, Israel is making a mistake by not capitalizing on its military successes through diplomatic channels. He suggested that regional Arab countries could help facilitate such a process, though he noted that the matter is highly sensitive.

Turning to the issue of Qatar, the source said that Arab countries now increasingly view the Gulf state as a partner rather than a problematic actor. He said this represents a significant shift from the past, when Qatar was often accused of playing a “double game.”

The change, he explained, stems largely from Qatar’s mediation role in negotiations related to the hostages and from the role President Donald Trump has allowed the country to play in developments connected to the Gaza Strip.

The source also criticized Israel’s government, arguing that certain hardline elements within the coalition are using the war with Iran to advance policies on the ground in Judea and Samaria that involve pushing Palestinians out of certain areas.

According to the official, these steps risk undermining an opportunity to calm tensions throughout the region — including in Gaza — and to pursue diplomatic initiatives following Israel’s military gains.

{Matzav.com}

A dramatic incident unfolded over western Iraq after the United States lost a KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft during an operational mission. Rescue teams are currently operating in the area where the aircraft went down during Operation Epic Fury. U.S. Central Command clarified that the incident was not the result of enemy fire and confirmed that another aircraft involved in the event landed safely.

According to a report released by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the American KC-135 refueling plane was lost while operating in friendly airspace over western Iraq.

The incident occurred as part of Operation Epic Fury. Officials reported that two aircraft were involved in the event. While the first aircraft crashed inside Iraqi territory, the second aircraft connected to the incident managed to land safely.

The U.S. military stressed in an official statement that the crash was not caused by hostile fire, nor was it the result of accidental fire from friendly forces. Rescue and recovery efforts are currently underway at the scene, and additional information about the circumstances surrounding the incident has not yet been cleared for release.

CENTCOM stated that it is aware of the loss of the American KC-135 refueling aircraft. Representatives added that they are asking for continued patience as authorities gather more details and work to provide clarity for the families of the service members involved. Additional information is expected to be released as developments emerge on the ground.

In addition to the likely loss of life in the incident, the aircraft itself is valued at approximately $62.2 million per unit.

{Matzav.com}

A new analysis by researchers at the Jewish People Policy Institute (JPPI) concludes that media outlets connected to Qatar have overwhelmingly portrayed the war with Iran in a negative light, frequently criticizing U.S. policy and the Trump administration despite Qatar’s close military cooperation with Washington.

The study focused on Qatar, a major strategic player in the Middle East that hosts the largest American military installation in the region, Al-Udeid Air Base. The United States relies on the base as a central hub for its operations against Iran.

Although the Qatari government publicly positions itself as a partner of the United States, the English-language broadcaster Al Jazeera — widely seen as aligned with the Qatari regime — has aired repeated anti-war messaging. Its digital platform AJ+, which attracts a global audience of millions, has similarly promoted content critical of the conflict while directly and indirectly targeting President Donald Trump and members of his administration.

Researchers reviewed dozens of English-language opinion pieces, news analyses, and videos published between January 28 and March 8, 2026, both before and after the war began. According to the findings, the content consistently delivered harsh criticism of the military campaign while largely ignoring the role played by Gulf states, including Qatar itself, in hosting and protecting American military installations.

Some of the material went further, suggesting that the conflict was being used to divert attention from domestic controversies in the United States, including the Jeffrey Epstein case. Other commentary characterized the war as illegitimate or unlawful, while several pieces connected the campaign to broader ideological themes such as “white supremacy and capitalism.”

To conduct the study, analysts examined Al Jazeera’s English-language articles and opinion columns using artificial intelligence tools designed to measure sentiment in media coverage. The researchers compared two separate periods — the weeks leading up to the war, when discussions centered on the possibility of conflict, and the weeks following the outbreak of hostilities.

During the period before the war began, roughly one month of publications were analyzed. The study found that 77.8 percent of the content was categorized as strongly negative toward the war, while another 5.6 percent was considered moderately negative. In total, 89 percent of the coverage reflected an unfavorable stance toward the conflict.

After the fighting started, the tone of the coverage became even more critical. The analysis found that 85.3 percent of the articles and commentaries were rated as very negative, with an additional 5.9 percent classified as negative. Altogether, 91.2 percent of the material published during the war expressed a negative view of the campaign, with most of it sharply critical.

The results were even more striking on AJ+, Al Jazeera’s digital platform aimed at younger audiences and social media users. According to the study, 95.2 percent of the content examined there was labeled “very negative” toward the war and included direct personal criticism of President Trump. Researchers also noted that none of the sampled videos portrayed the war positively or attempted to justify it, while only limited mention was made of Iranian attacks targeting Gulf countries.

Lt. Col. (res.) Or Hurwitz, a Senior Fellow at JPPI and a former senior officer in Israeli Military Intelligence, commented on the findings and the broader regional implications.

“Qatar has experienced firsthand the Iranian threat during the current war. Its longstanding strategy of attempting to ‘live alongside tigers’-pursuing reconciliation while maintaining strategic relationships with terrorist organizations and extremist actors-has not protected it. At the moment of truth, this approach failed to prevent Iran from harming Qatar itself and directly threatening its sovereignty. This development joins the Israeli strike in Doha several months ago, which also demonstrated the limits of Qatar’s attempt to ‘dance at two weddings.’”

Hurwitz suggested that the conflict may nevertheless open the door to potential changes in Qatar’s regional policies.

“Qatar is an actor driven primarily by survival in a complex regional environment rather than by ideology. The current war may therefore create a unique window of opportunity for a strategic shift in Qatari policy after the conflict. Such a shift could include a harder stance toward Iran and Sunni terrorist organizations, a reassessment of Al Jazeera’s editorial guidelines, and perhaps even gradual changes in Qatar’s posture toward Israel. The path forward is uncertain and complex, but the possibility for change now exists-particularly if it is supported by American engagement and strategic assistance.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu held his first press conference since the war began on Thursday evening, addressing the public through a video conference appearance in which he discussed the fighting with Hezbollah, Israel’s broader campaign against Iran and its proxies, and questions surrounding his ongoing trial.

During the briefing, Netanyahu focused heavily on Hezbollah’s ongoing attacks against Israel and issued a stern warning to the Iranian-backed terror group, declaring that it would face serious consequences for its actions. He said Hezbollah’s aggression would come at a steep cost.

“This is no longer the same Iran, this is no longer the same Middle East, and this is also not the same Israel. We initiate and attack with force. Trump and I talk almost every day, exchange ideas and advice, and decide together,” Netanyahu said.

The prime minister asserted that Israel’s military campaign has dealt significant blows to both Iran and Hezbollah, portraying the current conflict as a turning point that is reshaping regional dynamics and strengthening Israel’s strategic position.

“We are crushing Iran and Hezbollah,” Netanyahu declared, adding, “We are becoming a regional power. Our roar is growing louder. We have achieved enormous achievements that are changing the balance of power beyond the Middle East.”

Turning specifically to the northern front, Netanyahu said Hezbollah has already felt the impact of Israel’s military actions and warned that further retaliation is inevitable.

“Hezbollah feels the comfort of our arm and will pay a very heavy price for its aggression.”

Asked about the continuing threat posed by Hezbollah and earlier claims that the group had been weakened in prior fighting, Netanyahu explained that although Israel had dealt the organization severe damage, it still retains some remaining capabilities.

“We talked then about 150,000 rockets and missiles, about the destruction of the towers in Tel Aviv, about the eyes of ruins in the rest of the country, and about 15,000 to 20,000 dead. All of this did not materialize because we dealt them a tremendous blow, but that does not mean that they did not have any residual fire left.”

The prime minister said Israel’s strength is steadily increasing while its adversaries grow weaker as the conflict continues.

“Threats come and go, but we are strengthening our power compared to what was here,” the prime minister added. “Tomorrow they will be even weaker – both Iran and Hezbollah. We are changing the Middle East. Both against enemies and against friends. Israel is stronger than ever, the whole world understands that.”

Netanyahu also addressed the recent development in Iran following the assassination of the country’s longtime supreme leader, referring to the appointment of Ali Khamenei’s son as the new leader. He criticized the transition and suggested the Iranian public may soon have an opportunity to challenge the regime.

“We have eliminated the old dictator, and the new dictator, the puppet of the Revolutionary Guards, cannot show his face in public. I say to the people of Iran: The moment is approaching when you can embark on the path of freedom. It is in your hands.”

At the same time, Netanyahu acknowledged that the future of Iran’s leadership is uncertain and said Israel cannot guarantee that the regime will ultimately collapse.

However, he added that he cannot guarantee “that the Iranian regime will collapse, if we join forces, we will repel the enemies time and time again.”

Looking ahead to the continuation of the conflict, Netanyahu hinted that additional military developments may still lie ahead and expressed confidence in Israel’s strategic position.

The Prime Minister promised that “many more surprises are expected in the campaign. We have the upper hand, much more than we expected.”

Netanyahu was also questioned about reports that he had requested a pardon in his criminal trial. Responding to the issue, he sharply criticized the legal proceedings against him.

Netanyahu was asked about the request for a pardon in his trial and replied, “This is a trial that should never have come to pass and was overturned after the terrible things that happened in it were discovered – blackmail with threats, bedbugs and the use of spies, where has such a thing been heard of?”

When asked whether he had asked President Donald Trump to intervene on his behalf regarding a possible pardon, Netanyahu denied making such a request.

“I did not ask Trump for any request regarding the pardon. Trump has the right to speak his mind and he speaks from his heart.”

{Matzav.com}

KOA Kosher Supervision has issued a kashrus alert informing the public that several Krispy Kreme locations in New York and New Jersey are no longer under its kosher certification.

The locations listed in the alert include four stores in New York and three in New Jersey.

The New York locations are:

994 6th Ave., New York, NY
Fulton Center – 200 Broadway, New York, NY
371 E. Fordham Rd., Bronx, NY
22-02 31st St., Queens, NY

The New Jersey locations are:

96 Christopher Columbus Dr., Jersey City, NJ
1900 Shorrock St., Lakewood, NJ 08701
Liberty Commons – 51 NJ-17, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

KOA emphasized in the notice that the change in certification status was not the result of any kashrus-related concerns.

“NOTE: This decision was NOT based on any Kashrus issues,” the alert stated.

Rabbi Isamar Isaacson of KOA Kosher Supervision can be contacted for further information at 732-556-7576.

{Matzav.com}

: Sen. John Fetterman Says Israel Should Target Iran’s New Supreme Leader

Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania said Wednesday that Israel should move to eliminate Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, following the recent escalation between Israel, the United States, and Iran.

Speaking during remarks about the conflict, the Democratic senator said Israel should also take action against Iran’s current leader after the death of his predecessor.

“Well, they should kill him, too – hopefully he is significantly wounded,” Fetterman said Wednesday.

The comments come after Israel and the United States carried out a joint military strike on Iran last month amid growing concerns over Tehran’s missile capabilities.

During that operation, Iran’s longtime supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed. Following his death, leadership of the country passed to his son, Mojtaba Khamenei.

Fetterman also expressed support for targeting the leadership of other Iran-aligned militant groups in the region, including Hezbollah and Hamas.

“I mean, I’m always going to support that,” he said, according to The Hill newspaper.

While voicing support for aggressive action against Iran and its allies, the senator said he would draw the line at deploying American ground forces as part of the conflict.

At the same time, Fetterman questioned why some members of his own party have been less supportive of the United States taking action against Iran.

“I would just like to remind everybody watching that every single Democratic presidential candidate always identified that Iran is a top, top security issue,” Fetterman said.

“And every single Democrat in the Senate and in the House, you know, says we can never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear bomb. And Kamala Harris, when she was running just back in ’24, she identified Iran as her top, top international concern.”

{Matzav.com}

A tragic accident occurred Thursday evening in the city of Rechovot when a 17-year-old girl was struck and killed by a private vehicle while running toward a protected shelter during a missile alert.

According to witnesses at the scene, the teenager began running toward a nearby protected area after a siren sounded when she was hit by a passing car. Emergency personnel who arrived shortly afterward attempted to assist her but were forced to pronounce her dead at the scene.

The incident took place on Menachem Begin Street near the city’s Science Park. At 9:42 p.m., the Magen David Adom dispatch center in the Ayalon region received a report that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle.

Paramedics who rushed to the location found the girl suffering from severe multi-system injuries.

Despite conducting medical examinations at the scene, the paramedics were unable to save her life and had no choice but to declare her death.

MDA paramedic Shila Alfasi described what rescuers encountered when they arrived.

“We saw the girl lying on the road unconscious and suffering from severe multi-system injuries. We were told she had been struck by a vehicle. We carried out medical examinations, but she had no signs of life and we had no choice but to pronounce her dead.”

Volunteers from United Hatzalah who responded to the emergency also confirmed that the incident was a fatal accident involving a young pedestrian.

Yosef Chaim Maluka, a United Hatzalah medic who was among the first to reach the scene, said: “We were told at the scene that a pedestrian had been struck by a private vehicle. Passersby said that while she was on her way to a protected shelter following the sirens, she was hit by the car. Sadly, her death was pronounced at the scene due to the severe nature of her injuries.”

Israel Police later announced that traffic investigators from the Central District have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident. According to police, the crash occurred in the Science Park area of Rechovot and involved a private vehicle and a pedestrian. Medical personnel pronounced the teenager dead at the scene, and authorities are continuing to examine the details of the incident.

{Matzav.com}

Even as the world remains tense and the war continues, thousands of chassidim traveled to the town of Lizhensk in Poland for the annual hilula of the Rebbe Reb Elimelech of Lizhensk on the 21st of Adar.

As in centuries past, the day drew large crowds who came to daven, cry, and pour out their hearts at the tziyun of the tzaddik.

The event was organized by the dedicated volunteers of Hachnasas Orchim Lizhensk, who once again ensured that the thousands of visitors were warmly welcomed and cared for in a dignified and generous manner.

Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing war, the organizers traveled from Eretz Yisroel, reaching Poland through Sharm el-Sheikh in order to prepare for the massive influx of visitors.

Large tents were erected throughout the area to accommodate the many participants who arrived from around the world. Inside the tents, guests were served meals and refreshments, while additional stations provided cakes and hot beverages.

Throughout the day and night, makeshift shtieblach remained filled with people engaged in constant tefillah.

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Federal authorities are warning about the possibility that Iran could attempt a drone attack against targets in California, according to a newly surfaced alert sent to law enforcement across the state. Security experts say the threat highlights growing concerns that the United States may not be adequately prepared for such an attack.

An FBI bulletin circulated to police agencies in California cautioned that Iran may have explored plans to launch drones from a vessel positioned off the American coastline. The alert, which became public on Wednesday, outlined intelligence suggesting the possibility of a surprise strike under certain circumstances.

The FBI notice stated: “We recently acquired information that as of early February 2026, Iran allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified vessel off the coast of the United State Homeland, specifically against unspecified targets in California, in the event that the US conducted strikes against Iran.”

Brett Velicovich, a former U.S. Army intelligence and special operations soldier who previously used drones in missions targeting ISIS and other terrorist organizations, said Iran possesses the technical capability, operational knowledge, and incentive to attempt such an attack.

Velicovich said the warning distributed by the FBI demonstrates how seriously federal officials are treating the threat, adding that adversaries may already be exploring ways to deploy drones toward the California coast.

“We’re extremely vulnerable to drone attacks,” Velicovich said. “We’re not prepared for this.”

According to Velicovich, Iran is believed to possess large numbers of attack drones that can be remotely operated from long distances and can travel hundreds of miles before reaching their intended targets.

“These are long-range, one-way attack drones that are extremely capable and can be sent in swarms,” explained Velicovich, who in July was praised by President Trump as one of the nation’s foremost experts in drone warfare.

Velicovich noted that drones could potentially be launched from ships at sea, a scenario referenced in the FBI alert. He added that such operations might even be carried out using unmanned vessels designed to deploy drones remotely.

“You don’t even need a human anywhere near this,” he said. “You can launch these things over Starlink from a boat 1,000 miles away.”

The expert also warned that Iran’s ties to criminal networks and partners in Mexico and parts of South America could provide additional launch points closer to the U.S. border.

Velicovich said Iran’s “strategy is to sow fear” with drone attacks, striking crowds of people or important infrastructure for maximum horror.

“It’s population centers, infrastructure, ports, locations that can disrupt the economy,” he said. “This is an issue that deserves national attention.”

He noted that possible targets could include major public venues and critical facilities such as stadiums, hotels, office towers, government buildings, and military installations.

Velicovich, who later established a drone manufacturing company called Powerus, said drones used in such attacks could carry explosive payloads and navigate precisely to their targets using GPS coordinates.

He emphasized that protecting against these threats would require multiple layers of defensive measures.

Among the methods used to counter drones are missiles designed to shoot them down, electronic jamming systems that interfere with their navigation and communications, and laser systems capable of disabling their electronics.

“There’s no one single solution” against drone attacks, said Velicovich. “You have, like, literally, guys with machine guns trying to shoot them down.”

Velicovich said the FBI was correct to notify both law enforcement and the public about the potential risk.

“Somebody has credible intelligence that this is a real threat,” Velicovich said. “So they have a duty to warn the American people, and they have a duty to warn local law enforcement to be on the lookout.”

Authorities in California say they are monitoring the situation closely. The Los Angeles Police Department issued a statement saying it continues to coordinate with federal and state partners as tensions in the Middle East remain high.

“We want to reassure every Angeleno that we continue to coordinate with all of our Federal, State, and local partners for intelligence and information sharing during the ongoing Middle East conflict. We share this information in real time, assess every credible lead, and adjust our posture as needed to ensure the safety of our City.

“At this time, there are no known or specific threats to Los Angeles. The LAPD remains prepared and committed to maintaining public safety from all potential threats.”

{Matzav.com}

The United States appears poised to introduce its Cold War–era B-52 heavy bombers into the conflict with Iran as military officials warn that the next phase of the campaign could bring the most powerful wave of attacks yet. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that Tuesday could mark the most intense stage of the war so far.

Despite being designed more than seven decades ago, the B-52 Stratofortress remains one of the most powerful aircraft in the American arsenal and has played a role in nearly every major U.S. conflict since the Vietnam War.

Three of the bombers landed Monday at RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom, a base frequently used by the U.S. Air Force for heavy bomber operations. The aircraft are expected to participate in large-scale bombing missions targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure after American and Israeli forces established control of Iranian airspace.

The arrival of the B-52s marks the first time the aircraft have been deployed as part of the current war against Iran. Hegseth said the 11th day of the campaign would bring the “most intense day of strikes” so far against the Islamic Republic.

“We are winning with an overwhelming and unrelenting focus on our objective,” Hegseth told reporters at the Pentagon.

The B-52 Stratofortress first entered service in 1952 as a strategic bomber built to deliver nuclear weapons over long distances against the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

It remains one of the oldest aircraft designs still operating within the U.S. military.

Over the decades, however, the aircraft has been continually upgraded so that it can deploy modern weapons and advanced targeting systems.

A B-52 can carry as much as 70,000 pounds of ordnance, including nuclear warheads, cruise missiles, and heavy conventional bombs.

The aircraft can also deliver the 30,000-pound Massive Ordnance Penetrator bunker-buster, a weapon designed to blast through deep underground fortifications such as the subterranean facilities believed to house elements of Iran’s nuclear program.

Together with the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, the B-52 forms a key element of the United States’ nuclear triad, the strategic system designed to ensure nuclear retaliation capability from land-based missiles, submarine-launched weapons, and long-range bombers.

Although originally developed for nuclear deterrence during the Cold War, the B-52 gained widespread recognition during the Vietnam War, particularly in Operation Linebacker II, when the aircraft dropped more than 15,000 tons of bombs during the campaign.

The bombers were again used during Operation Desert Storm in the early 1990s, carrying out strikes against Iraqi military facilities and hardened underground targets.

In more recent years, the B-52 has played a role in U.S. military operations across the Middle East. During the fight against ISIS in Syria and Iraq, the aircraft flew roughly 1,800 combat missions targeting terrorist positions.

Following those operations, the United States frequently deployed B-52 bombers abroad as a show of force against geopolitical rivals. Missions over Europe were often intended as demonstrations of military strength toward both Iran and Russia.

The long-range bombers have also been used for patrol operations in other regions. In recent months, they were deployed along the Venezuelan coastline shortly before the capture of the country’s former president, Nicolas Maduro.

More than 740 B-52 aircraft were originally built for the U.S. military, though only 58 remain active in service today.

{Matzav.com}

A Western intelligence official says Russia is helping Iran refine drone warfare methods based on tactics used during the war in Ukraine, raising concerns that those techniques could be deployed against the United States and its allies in the Middle East.

The official, speaking to CNN on the condition of anonymity, said Moscow’s involvement appears to be expanding. What previously consisted of broader intelligence cooperation is now believed to include more direct operational guidance on how to conduct drone attacks.

“What was more general support is now getting more concerning, including UAS targeting strategies that Russia employed in Ukraine,” the official told the outlet on condition of anonymity, referring to unmanned aircraft system.

The concerns center largely on Shahed drones, an Iranian design that Russia has manufactured in large numbers for use in its campaign against Ukraine. According to the report, these drones have performed better than anticipated when confronting air-defense systems used in Gulf countries.

While the intelligence official did not describe the specific methods Russia may be sharing, Moscow has relied on coordinated waves of Shahed drones in Ukraine, launching large numbers simultaneously and often altering their flight paths to complicate interception.

At times, Ukrainian forces have faced massive drone assaults involving more than 1,000 aircraft in a single night.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on X Wednesday that “Russia has started supporting the Iranian regime with drones.”

“It will definitely help with missiles, and it is also helping them with air defense,” Zelenskyy said.

CNN has previously reported that Russia provided Iran with satellite imagery gathered from Moscow’s own space-based surveillance network.

It remains unclear what Russia may be receiving from Iran in exchange for the assistance. Russian officials have rejected claims that intelligence cooperation is taking place.

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said Tuesday that Russia denied the allegations and that the United States was taking Russia “at their word.”

Ukraine has also taken steps to counter the spread of the drone threat beyond its own battlefield. Officials in Kyiv have dispatched specialists in drone interception to Gulf states in order to help develop defenses against Shahed drones, which are estimated to cost about $30,000 each.

Ukrainian engineers have also created smaller interceptor drones that cost roughly $5,000 and can be manufactured quickly in large quantities.

The growing military cooperation comes as the expanding conflict in the Persian Gulf creates new strategic opportunities for Russian President Vladimir Putin. While Iran has long been an ally of Moscow, the regional instability also allows Russia to shift international attention away from the war in Ukraine while advancing broader geopolitical objectives.

Putin and President Donald Trump spoke by phone on Monday for the first time since December, discussing both the Gulf conflict and the war in Ukraine.

Trump has already suggested he may soften oil sanctions on Russia to help ease global energy prices.

The Western intelligence official also said they were “really concerned” by Iran’s use of mines in the Strait of Hormuz, along with sea-drone attacks and other low-tech assaults using traditional dhow fishing boats against U.S. naval forces.

Iran claimed it had struck the USS Abraham Lincoln early in the conflict, but the United States denied it.

“The Lincoln was not hit,” CENTCOM said on X at the time. “The missiles launched didn’t even come close.”

The intelligence official added that Chinese support for Iran was troubling as well, though they declined to provide further details.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump said Thursday that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains a far greater priority than concerns about rising oil prices, stressing that security and stability in the Middle East outweigh short-term fluctuations in energy markets.

Trump acknowledged that the ongoing war with Iran has caused turbulence in global oil prices, but argued that preventing Tehran from developing nuclear weapons must take precedence.

“The United States is the largest Oil Producer in the World, by far, so when oil prices go up, we make a lot of money,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

“BUT, of far greater interest and importance to me, as President, is stopping an evil Empire, Iran, from having Nuclear Weapons, and destroying the Middle East and, indeed, the World.”

“I won’t ever let that happen!” Trump added.

Energy markets have been volatile since Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel began Operation Epic Fury, a campaign targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and missile infrastructure.

Oil prices climbed sharply earlier in the week, briefly approaching $120 per barrel amid fears that fighting could threaten oil shipments from the Persian Gulf, a region responsible for a significant share of the world’s energy supply.

Despite the market swings, Trump said the United States is in a strong position to handle potential disruptions because of its role as the world’s leading oil producer.

As part of efforts to limit price increases, Trump said he is prepared to release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve if needed to help bring down fuel costs for Americans.

“Well, we’ll do that and then we’ll fill it up,” Trump told WKRC-TV during a visit to Thermo Fisher Scientific in Cincinnati.

“I filled it up once, and I’ll fill it up again, but right now we’ll reduce it a little bit, and that brings the prices down.”

In addition to U.S. actions, the International Energy Agency announced plans to release 400 million barrels of oil from emergency stockpiles. The move represents the largest such release in the agency’s history and is intended to prevent major disruptions to the global energy supply during the conflict.

Oil markets have shown signs of calming. Brent crude was trading near $93 per barrel in after-hours trading Wednesday, significantly below the peak reached earlier in the week.

Trump has repeatedly pointed to American energy production as a strategic advantage, arguing that domestic oil output provides the United States with flexibility during international crises.

During his first term, Trump sought to replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve after oil prices collapsed during the COVID-19 pandemic, though congressional Democrats blocked funding for the purchase.

The reserve currently contains about 416 million barrels of oil. That figure is well below the 638 million barrels stored when Trump left office in 2021, after the Biden administration drew down supplies in an effort to reduce rising fuel prices.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump sharply criticized California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday, saying comments the Democrat made during a recent book tour stop have effectively eliminated any chance he has of becoming a future presidential nominee.

Posting on Truth Social late Wednesday night, Trump took aim at Newsom’s recent media appearances tied to the promotion of his memoir, arguing that the governor’s own words had badly damaged his political standing.

“Gavin Newscum’s interview weeks ago was, perhaps, the most self-destructive interview I’ve ever seen,” Trump wrote. “In one fell swoop, he took himself out of even being considered as the Presidential Nominee of the Crazy Democrats.”

Trump went on to say that Newsom hurt himself politically by openly discussing his academic struggles and personal challenges, including dyslexia.

“He said, in a speech, he was dumb, had low Boards, can’t read, has dyslexia, and has a mental disorder — A Cognitive Mess!” Trump wrote. “This was a politically suicidal act.”

Trump concluded his post with a blunt assessment of Newsom’s political future.

“He is no longer a viable Presidential Candidate!”

The criticism followed controversy surrounding remarks Newsom made during a weekend appearance in Atlanta while promoting his upcoming memoir, Young Man in a Hurry.

During the event, the California governor tried to connect with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and others in attendance by speaking candidly about the academic struggles he faced earlier in life.

“I’m not trying to impress you, I’m just trying to impress upon you, I’m like you. I’m not better than you. I’m a 960 SAT guy,” Newsom said.

He also told attendees, “You’ve never seen me read a speech because I cannot read a speech,” referencing his struggles with dyslexia.

The remarks quickly drew backlash online, with critics accusing Newsom of making comments that were racially insensitive.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, wrote on X that the comments reflected the “soft bigotry of low expectations,” while Rep. Randy Fine, R-Fla., called the remarks “disgusting.”

Rapper Nicki Minaj also weighed in, writing on X that Newsom’s “way of bonding with black ppl is to tell them how stupid he is & that he can’t read.”

Data from the College Board’s 2024 report, cited by the New York Post, shows that the average SAT score for Black students is 907 out of 1,600, compared with 1,083 for white students.

A short video clip of Newsom’s remarks spread widely across social media platforms, prompting further criticism from conservative commentators and political figures.

Newsom later responded by sharing a longer version of the exchange on X and defending the comments by highlighting his lifelong difficulty with dyslexia.

“My mom didn’t want my dyslexia to hold me back,” Newsom wrote.

Even so, some critics argue that the controversy could complicate Newsom’s efforts to build national recognition as he positions himself for a possible presidential campaign in 2028.

The governor’s book tour has taken him to several states, including South Carolina, an early presidential primary state. Political observers widely see the tour as part of an effort to lay the groundwork for a future White House run.

{Matzav.com}

The financial toll of the United States’ military campaign against Iran is mounting quickly, with the overall cost already reaching into the tens of billions of dollars, according to information shared with Congress and economic projections. The growing price tag is adding pressure to Washington’s budget outlook at a time when federal deficits and national debt are already climbing.

During a classified briefing on Capitol Hill, Pentagon officials informed lawmakers that the conflict had already cost more than $11.3 billion within the first six days of fighting. The figure was disclosed in several reports citing individuals familiar with the closed-door discussion.

That estimate, initially revealed by The New York Times and later verified by NBC News, accounts primarily for direct operational costs and does not factor in additional expenses such as the military buildup that took place before the attacks or longer-term costs tied to sustaining the campaign.

Some lawmakers believe the true cost is already higher than the early projections.

Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., said the current estimate likely understates the true cost of the conflict.

“I expect that the current total operating number is significantly above that,” Coons told reporters, noting that the initial figures largely focus on replacing munitions used during the first wave of attacks.

The opening phase of the operation relied heavily on sophisticated weapon systems, including AGM-154 glide bombs, which defense experts say cost between $578,000 and $836,000 per unit.

Outside analysts say the daily expense of the war is substantial and continuing to rise. Some estimates place the ongoing cost between $800 million and $1 billion per day, depending on the intensity of military operations.

Financial experts warn that the total bill could climb sharply if the war continues for several more weeks.

Researchers working with the Penn Wharton Budget Model estimate that a conflict lasting two months could add approximately $65 billion in new expenses for American taxpayers, according to a report by Fortune. Those costs would come at a time when federal finances are already under significant strain.

Earlier this year, projections from the Congressional Budget Office indicated that the federal deficit could reach 6.5 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product by 2035, while national debt could grow to roughly 120 percent of GDP—levels that many economists say would be difficult to sustain.

Debt service is already a major burden on the federal budget. Interest payments alone now account for nearly 20 percent of government spending, making additional borrowing increasingly expensive.

If the military campaign continues, lawmakers may need to approve a supplemental spending package to pay for the ongoing operations.

Members of Congress from both parties have already begun asking how long the conflict is expected to last and what the administration’s long-term strategy will be.

Some Republicans are calling for expanded production of military munitions to ensure the United States maintains sufficient stockpiles, while others are hesitant to authorize funding that could support a prolonged and open-ended war.

The growing costs are arriving at a time when federal finances are already under pressure from rising entitlement obligations and higher interest payments on the national debt.

On the battlefield, the situation remains unsettled.

The war has now entered its second week, with military activity continuing across the region and tensions rising near the Strait of Hormuz, a key passageway for global oil shipments.

President Donald Trump has suggested the war could end soon, though he has also acknowledged that the conflict could continue depending on developments on the ground.

{Matzav.com}

Authorities say the individual who deliberately drove a vehicle into the entrance of a school building at a Jewish synagogue in Michigan has died following a large law enforcement response that included reports of gunfire.

Police rushed to Temple Israel in West Bloomfield on Thursday after receiving reports of an “active shooter.” Law enforcement sources told The Post that investigators believe the driver intentionally crashed a car into the building.

The collision occurred shortly before 1 p.m. and triggered a fire as emergency responders flooded the scene at the synagogue, according to law enforcement officials.

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Witnesses at the location said they heard gunshots immediately after the vehicle struck the structure, WDIV reported.

It remained unclear in the immediate aftermath whether the gunfire came from the suspect or from responding officers. Authorities also had not confirmed whether anyone else was injured during the incident.

Helicopter footage broadcast by local media showed smoke rising from the building following the crash.

Parents of children enrolled at the synagogue’s preschool received a message informing them that all students and staff were safe after the incident.

Several nearby schools also initiated lockdown procedures as a precaution following the reports of the attack.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that federal agents joined local authorities at the scene after what he described as “the apparent vehicle ramming and active shooter situation.”

Police have so far characterized the situation as an “active situation” and urged residents to avoid the area while the investigation continues.

“We are aware of an active security incident at Temple Israel,” the Jewish Federation of Detroit said in a statement.

“Law enforcement are responding. Our Jewish agencies are currently in precautionary lockdown. We ask community members to stay away from the area at this time.”

Temple Israel is located in Oakland County, Michigan, a region outside Detroit that is home to one of the largest Jewish populations in the United States outside the New York metropolitan area.

The synagogue sits roughly 20 miles north of Dearborn, a city known for having the largest Muslim and Arab population in the country.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Minister for the Development of the Negev and the Galilee and National Resilience, Yitzchok Shimon Wasserlauf of the Otzma Yehudit party, narrowly escaped injury on Thursday when a missile launched by the Hezbollah terror organization struck just a few feet from where he was standing.

The incident took place while Wasserlauf was on an official visit to communities along Israel’s northern border. As the minister and his team traveled between towns, a warning siren sounded. They managed to reach only limited cover before a missile slammed into a nearby field. Despite the powerful blast and flying shrapnel, no one in the group was injured.

Shortly afterward, Wasserlauf described the frightening moment in a post on X. “A work day in the north visiting as many local authorities to meet their needs. And then another siren. A few seconds passed and the impact came, ten meters from us. Everything shook. Thank G-d we weren’t harmed. We’re getting our heart rate back down.”

Following the incident, the minister said the attack illustrated why Israel must press forward with its military campaign until Hezbollah is decisively defeated. “This is the reality of the residents of the north over the past two weeks. This is the reality that will continue if we don’t defeat Hezbollah and its main boss, Iran, once and for all. If we won’t do this now, we will go back to this reality in another year or two.”

Despite the close call, Wasserlauf said he intends to continue visiting northern communities as part of his duties. “I’m proud of the residents of the Galilee and particularly the residents of the confrontation line who show extraordinary determination. You are the strength for victory,” he concluded.

{Matzav.com}