Matzav

President Donald Trump touted a program during his State of the Union address Tuesday that created investment accounts for children born during Trump’s second term seeded with $1,000 per child from the federal government.

Republicans created the program, officially dubbed “Trump accounts,” through the GOP tax-and-spending law last summer.

“Tax-free investment accounts for every American child. This is something that’s so special,” Trump said during the speech.

He claimed the accounts “could grow to over $100,000 or more” by the time the child turns 18 years old.

Here’s what you need to know about the program:

Young children are eligible
Children born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028, are eligible for the accounts, which are a type of traditional IRA that allows for investments in index funds.

They must be U.S. citizens and have a valid Social Security number. The account would receive a one-time contribution of $1,000.

Children born before Jan. 1, 2025, but who are not yet 18 years old can also open accounts, but they would not receive the federal seed money.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said last week that families had already applied to open some 3 million accounts, though the program doesn’t officially begin until this summer.

How they work
Parents can file to open the accounts beginning this tax filing season using IRS Form 4547, named for Trump’s presidential terms.

The authentication process begins in May, and the administration says the seed money would be available in accounts July 4. The child would own the account, while the parent can act as a custodian until they turn 18.

Withdrawals would be taxable until they reach retirement age, unless the beneficiary is using the money for education, a first-time home purchase, birth or adoption costs, or medical expenses.

Who can contribute
In addition to the federal seed money, any adult can contribute to the accounts up to $5,000 annually.

Employers can also contribute to their employees’ children’s accounts up to $2,500 per year per employee as part of the $5,000 annual limit.

But states, local governments and nonprofit organizations can also contribute to the accounts, and doing so does not count toward the annual cap.

Trump calls on billionaires and companies to give
Late last year, the administration called upon ultra-wealthy people to donate to the program.

Dell Technologies founder and CEO Michael Dell and his wife, Susan, have said they would contribute $6.25 billion.

Billionaire investor Ray Dalio has said he would contribute $250 per account for babies in his home state of Connecticut, an approximately $75 million donation.

BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, as well as BNY, Charles Schwab, SoFi and Charter Communications have also announced programs to match employees’ contributions to the accounts.

(c) 2026, The Washington Post 

President Donald Trump, in his State of the Union address Tuesday night, suggested a major new retirement benefit for tens of millions of American workers, embracing an economic policy that proponents say could bolster the federal retirement safety net.

Speaking to congressional lawmakers, Trump pledged to extend to private-sector workers the same type of retirement plan already available to federal employees. He also said the government would kick in up to $1,000 per year to their accounts, presumably in matching benefits. Roughly 54 million workers in the private sector have no workplace retirement benefits and do not benefit from stock market gains, according to research cited by the Economic Innovation Group, a Washington-based think tank, as part of what some experts have termed a “retirement crisis” in America.

“Half of all of working Americans still do not have access to a retirement plan with matching contributions from an employer,” Trump said. “To remedy this gross disparity, I’m announcing that next year, my administration will give these often forgotten American workers – great people, the people that built our country – access to the same type of retirement plan offered to every federal worker. We will match your contribution with up to $1,000 each year.”

The announcement was celebrated by Trump supporters as a major new economic policy heading into the 2026 midterm elections, but critics pointed out some problems with Trump’s pledges, and are skeptical it will substantially boost savings for working-class Americans.

The most obvious challenge is that it’s not clear how much Trump can do on his own. Under existing authorities, the administration can create portable retirement accounts – modeled on the Thrift Savings Plan used by federal employees – and make them available to workers who currently lack a workplace plan. But the government cannot compel employers or workers to automatically enroll, nor can it unilaterally appropriate funds to provide a universal $1,000 match to all eligible workers.

Instead, the administration can facilitate take-up of a benefit that already exists. The bipartisan Secure 2.0 bill, signed by President Joe Biden in 2022, created a “Saver’s Match” – a federal contribution of up to $1,000 annually for qualifying workers who put $2,000 in an eligible retirement account. One problem has been that many eligible workers have had nowhere to put their contributions. Trump’s executive action could create additional account infrastructure, but eligibility would still be constrained. Only workers who make less than $25,000 per year, or roughly $41,000 for couples, are eligible.

More impactful would be if Trump’s comments spur congressional action. A White House official suggested that the administration will support bipartisan legislation to automatically enroll eligible workers in federal accounts, provide the $1,000 federal match for low- and moderate-income workers, and make those accounts portable across jobs. One bill is backed by a coalition that spans Charles Schwab, AARP, DoorDash and Uber.

White House economist Kevin Hassett has backed a similar kind of approach. Of the more than $200 billion in annual income tax expenditures related to retirement savings, less than 1 percent flows to workers in the bottom income quintile, according to the Economic Innovation Group. This would move some of those benefits down the income distribution.

“Since we’ve had the 401(k) system this has always been the problem: A huge share of the workforce has not been participating and doesn’t have access to these benefits. Closing that gap is a big first step,” said John Lettieri, co-founder of the Economic Innovation Group. “It’s a long-run exercise to get people into the market, engaged in long-term savings and investment behavior with matching benefits. That’s a proven way of building wealth over time, including for low-income savers.”

That said, there are reasons to doubt that even the legislation being debated in Congress would do much to increase retirement security for low-income workers. Low-income Americans often do not have enough to live on already, much less an extra $2,000 per year to put into retirement accounts, said Matt Bruenig, founder of the People’s Policy Project, a left-leaning think tank.

The Survey of Consumer Finances suggests that fewer than 12 percent of people who earn below $43,000 save for retirement.

“Almost no low-income people have retirement accounts. This is not because they are disallowed from having them,” Bruenig said. “It’s because they can barely pay their bills. Nothing in the president’s plan changes that.”

(c) 2026, The Washington Post 

A heavy cloud of mourning descended upon the Vizhnitzer kehillah in Montreal with the news of the petirah of Rav Asher Greenfeld zt”l, who served for four decades as the rav and av beis din of Vizhnitz in Montreal. He was 82.

The levayah is scheduled to take place today at 5:30 p.m. at Beis Medrash Imrei Chaim-Vizhnitz in Montreal. His aron will be brought to Eretz Yisroel, where the levayah will be held on Friday. He will be laid to rest in the Vizhnitzer beis hachaim in Bnei Brak.

Rav Greenfeld was a living symbol of hasmadah and unwavering shteiging in Torah. His vast bekius and iyun in Shas and poskim, acquired during his formative years in the great yeshivos and refined throughout his life, established him as a respected talmid chochom and marbitz Torah who raised many talmidim. He was renowned as a peh mapik margoliyos, an exceptional darshan who illuminated aggadah and maamarei Chazal with sweetness and clarity, inspiring his listeners with depth and warmth.

In every fiber of his being, Rav Greenfeld was a devoted chassid, deeply connected b’lev v’nefesh to the holy chain of Vizhnitzer tzaddikim. The fire of chassidus burned within him in his tefillos and hanhagos, and he served as a living example of total hisbatlus to the tzaddikei hador.

Beyond his gadlus baTorah, Rav Greenfeld possessed an expansive Jewish heart that beat constantly for others. He was a true baal chesed, tirelessly assisting almanos, yesomim, and brokenhearted individuals. His tzedakah was most often given quietly, with extraordinary sensitivity to the kavod of the recipient. Those close to him would say that there was no lack that did not find an address by him and no tear that did not find comfort.

Rav Greenfeld was born on the fourth of Adar in 1944 into a home steeped in Torah and mesirus nefesh. He was named after his grandfather, Rav Asher of Ober-Epsach. From his earliest years, he was bound with a deep spiritual kesher to the Vizhnitzer dynasty.

As a young child living with his family in Switzerland, he merited a rare experience when the Vizhnitzer Rebbe, the Imrei Chaim, came to raise funds for the establishment of Kiryat Vizhnitz in Bnei Brak. The Rebbe stayed in the Greenfeld family’s modest two-room apartment. Despite the cramped quarters, Rav Greenfeld’s father, Reb Baruch Greenfeld, joyfully gave up an entire room for the Rebbe, while the family crowded together for two weeks. That mesirus nefesh and hiskashrus were etched into the young boy’s soul and shaped the course of his life.

Rav Asher merited to sit on the Rebbe’s lap during that visit. The Rebbe remarked with affection that when he himself had been young, he sat on the lap of Rav Asher of Ober-Epsach, saying, “When I was small and you were big, I sat on your knees; now that you are small and I am big, you sit on mine.”

In his bochur years, Rav Greenfeld learned at Yeshivas Chachmei Lublin in Bnei Brak. He was distinguished by his diligence and refinement, but above all by his deep hiskashrus to his rabbeim. He did not miss a single tish of the Imrei Chaim and later forged a particularly close bond with the Rebbe’s son, the Yeshuos Moshe, who served as rav of the neighborhood at the time.

Rav Greenfeld was among the select few who remained after the tish to participate in the late-night bateh conducted by the Yeshuos Moshe in the shul, where he absorbed the inner teachings of chassidus and the depth of Aggadah. Over time, he became one of the Rebbe’s closest and most trusted talmidim. The Yeshuos Moshe would say affectionately that the name Asher was an acronym for “Ratzon Avinu Shebashamayim.”

In 1986, at the behest of the Yeshuos Moshe, Rav Greenfeld undertook a great shlichus: to relocate to Montreal and lead the developing Vizhnitzer kehillah there. With remarkable hisbatlus and mesirus nefesh, he accepted the mission, initially traveling alone and leaving his family in Eretz Yisroel during the first year.

In Montreal, he founded the kollel that became the vibrant spiritual heart of the community. For 40 years he stood at its helm, teaching Torah and raising generations of talmidim. In addition to serving as rosh kollel, he functioned as rav of the kehillah, guiding his flock with chochmah, tevunah, and an ayin tovah.

His relationship with the members of the kehillah was personal and heartfelt. From small children to respected elders, each felt a genuine closeness to him. He loved every Yid with sincerity, and that love was returned in full.

Upon the histalkus of the Yeshuos Moshe in 2012, Rav Greenfeld was shattered with grief. Yet even in his pain, he demonstrated complete hisbatlus to the continuation of the dynasty’s leadership, publicly affirming his allegiance to the new Rebbe and strengthening the kehillah with clarity and resolve.

Rav Greenfeld was held in high esteem by gedolei Yisroel of his generation. He maintained close ties with Rav Shmuel Wosner and with the Skverer Rebbe, who received him with special honor. He was often welcomed for extended yechidus, where they discussed Torah, stories of tzaddikim, and matters of chizuk hadas.

His mastery of Torah was extraordinary. Shas Bavli and Yerushalmi were clear to him, as were Tanach and the words of Chazal. He delved deeply into Toras hachassidus and pnimiyus haTorah, extracting pearls of machshavah and guidance. His drashos combined depth, clarity, and fiery hislahavus, making him one of the most sought-after speakers among Vizhnitz chassidim. He addressed major gatherings, including global hisvaaduyos and memorial asifos honoring his Rebbe.

Rav Greenfeld was equally known as an amud hachesed. Large sums of tzedakah passed through his hands and were distributed quietly. When the kollel faced financial crisis, he once mortgaged his private home to ensure the avreichim could continue learning without worry. For him, personal assets were merely tools in the service of Klal Yisroel.

Each year before Pesach, he organized extensive maos chittim distributions for dozens of families, ensuring that the assistance was given with maximum discretion and dignity. At fundraising events, after delivering stirring words, he would often conclude with a gentle smile and declare by example, contributing a substantial amount himself to encourage others.

Rav Greenfeld leaves behind a dor yesharim, children and grandchildren who are engaged in Torah, chinuch, and askonus.

Yehi zichro baruch.

{Matzav.com}

An Israeli woman of Turkish descent who had recently completed her military service was detained in Turkey on allegations of “service in a foreign military” and later released following diplomatic efforts involving Israeli officials and assistance from the United States.

The young woman had traveled to Turkey to visit her parents when she was taken into custody. According to reports, Islamist groups in the country publicized her personal details and filed a complaint with authorities, urging them to block her from leaving Turkey.

She was held for several days before authorities decided to transfer her to house arrest.

Channel 12 reported that Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar stepped in shortly after her detention, acting swiftly and coordinating parallel efforts to obtain support from the U.S. administration. Both sides worked to marshal the necessary channels to secure her release.

After sustained behind-the-scenes activity, the woman was released in what was described as a discreet and dramatic operation. She was placed on a flight back to Israel through a third country and accompanied by Israeli representatives during her return.

{Matzav.com}

The New York Times did not feature President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on the front page of its Wednesday print edition, instead leading with other domestic and international stories.

Although the paper’s well-known slogan proclaims it publishes “All the News That’s Fit to Print,” the most prominent headline across the top of the page focused on technology and global supply chains: “Reliance on Taiwan Chip Endangers U.S. Economy.”

Also displayed prominently on the upper portion of the front page was a large photograph of a Ukrainian soldier accompanying a report on the ongoing war with Russia, along with coverage of developments in Mexico following the death of cartel leader Nemesio Ruben Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.”

The only clear reference to the president appeared in a smaller sub-headline connected to the Mexico article, which included the name “Trump,” just hours after he had delivered a nationally televised address to Congress.

Additional front-page stories included “Epstein Sought Customs Perks For Private Isle,” focusing on late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein; “They’re for ICE, But Go NIMBY on Warehouses,” examining opposition to the Department of Homeland Security’s use of warehouse facilities for illegal immigrants; and “A.I. Literacy Test: Don’t Let It Think for You.”

Another eleven articles were previewed at the bottom of the page, none of which addressed Trump or his speech.

The absence of coverage stood in contrast to the length and breadth of Trump’s Tuesday night remarks, which lasted more than an hour and outlined his administration’s priorities on border security, economic performance, energy production and America’s standing abroad.

During the address, Trump pointed to what he called record improvements in immigration enforcement, asserting that unlawful border crossings had dropped sharply since his return to office.

He reiterated his demand for stricter immigration measures and greater resources for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, drawing sustained applause from Republican lawmakers present in the chamber.

Turning to the economy, Trump cited higher wages, slowing inflation and a rallying stock market as proof that his policies are working.

He attributed those developments to tax reductions, regulatory rollbacks and increased domestic energy output, which he said have encouraged investment and bolstered the strength of the U.S. dollar.

On foreign affairs, the president reaffirmed support for Israel, described ongoing efforts to help end the war in Ukraine and emphasized a doctrine of “peace through strength” aimed at deterring adversaries including China and Iran.

While television networks and cable news channels led their coverage with highlights and analysis of the speech — and critics rapidly fact-checked portions of it — the Times’ choice not to prominently feature the address drew reaction from conservative commentators online.

Backers of the president argued that overlooking a State of the Union speech reflects what they see as a pattern of media bias against Trump and his policies.

Others responded that print newspapers frequently emphasize investigative reporting and international developments on their front pages, particularly when speeches receive widespread digital and broadcast attention.

{Matzav.com}

House Speaker Mike Johnson said he came close to having Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib removed from the House chamber after they repeatedly interrupted President Donald Trump during his State of the Union speech.

In an interview with Fox News, Johnson described the outbursts as inappropriate and said he weighed whether to take disciplinary action as the disruptions unfolded.

“It was shameful, really. I came this close to stopping them; we could have probably ejected them from the floor. [But] I thought, let their actions speak for themselves,” he tells Fox News.

During the address, Omar and Tlaib repeatedly shouted at Trump from the chamber floor, accusing him of dishonesty and responsibility for American deaths. They called him a “liar” and alleged that he had “killed Americans.”

Johnson said that while he ultimately chose not to intervene, the option of removal was seriously considered.

“If they’d gone a step further, we probably would have ejected them,” Johnson says. “But I think it was good for them to be there. I think it’s good for the American people to see the shame that they’ve brought upon their parties and upon themselves. And what a stark contrast between them and between the Republican Party.

“We’re on the right side of common sense, on law and justice, on security and American dominance and strength, and the Democrats stand for exactly the opposite of all that.”

{Matzav.com}

[Video below.] Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana awarded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi the newly created Medal of the Knesset in recognition of what he described as Modi’s “significant contributions to the State of Israel and the Jewish people,” following the Indian leader’s address to the Israeli parliament.

Ohana presented the medal after Modi spoke before the Knesset plenum, where he highlighted the growing partnership between New Delhi and Yerushalayim and emphasized expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

According to the Knesset spokesperson’s office, Modi was chosen for the honor because he “significantly strengthened the ties between India and Israel and deepened the strategic cooperation between the countries.”

The statement further noted: “During his tenure, cooperation in the fields of security and technology expanded, including joint security technological developments, innovation and cyber. He worked to deepen the political and cultural connection, and strengthened Israel’s position as India’s central partner in the Middle East.”

Calling the ceremony a milestone event, Ohana said, “This is a historic moment for the Knesset and for the entire State of Israel.” He added, “The awarding of the decoration to Prime Minister Modi expresses our deep appreciation for his work to create a strategic alliance between Israel and India. His policy is an expression of a courageous, consistent and sincere friendship with the State of Israel, and of a firm stand by its side even in complex and challenging times.”

During his remarks, Modi pointed to the economic potential of both nations. He stated that India “will soon be among the top three economies globally,” while noting that “Israel is a powerhouse of innovation and technology leadership.”

“We are committed to expanding trade, strengthening investment growth and promoting joint infrastructure development,” he said, adding that the two countries “are working hard to negotiate an ambitious Free Trade Agreement. It will unlock the vast untapped potential in our trade relationship.”

India’s government announced that negotiations on a proposed India-Israel free trade agreement had begun in New Delhi on Monday. Officials said total merchandise trade between the two nations reached $3.62 billion in 2024-2025.

Modi also referenced Israel’s influence on Indian agriculture, saying that “India’s parliamentary debates of the 1950s are witness to their admiration for Israel’s effort to develop agriculture in the desert. The Kibbutz movement of Israel inspired our leaders.”

“Israeli expertise in precision irrigation and water management has already transformed agricultural practices in India,” he said.

He further revealed a new step in parliamentary cooperation, telling lawmakers: “I’m happy to inform this august house that the Indian parliament has set up a parliamentary friendship group for Israel.”

Addressing what he described as shared values between the two civilizations, Modi pointed to “philosophical parallels” between Jewish and Hindu traditions. “The [Jewish] principle of Tikkun Olam speaks of healing the world. In India, [the Sanskrit phrase of] Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam affirms that the world is one family. Both ideas… ask societies to act with compassion and moral courage,” he said.

“Judaism emphasizes halacha, guiding everyday conduct through law and practice,” he continued, while “Hindu philosophy speaks of Dharma, the moral order that shapes duty and right action. In both traditions, ethical life is lived through action, and faith is expressed through conduct.”

Modi concluded by underscoring the broader impact of the bilateral relationship. “Our strong partnership not only serves national interests, but also contributes to global stability and prosperity. Let us ensure that the friendship between India and Israel remains a source of strength in an uncertain world,” he said.

He ended his speech with the rallying calls “Am Yisrael Chai” and “Jai Hind,” meaning “Long live India,” prompting sustained applause and chants of “Modi! Modi!” from members of the packed chamber.

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

[Video below.] Vice President JD Vance cautioned Iran to treat Washington’s warnings of possible military action “seriously,” speaking one day after President Donald Trump used his State of the Union address to outline what he described as escalating dangers posed by Tehran.

In an interview with Fox News, Vance said the administration’s preference remains a diplomatic resolution but stressed that the president retains additional options if talks fail.

According to Vance, Trump intends to pursue a negotiated outcome first. However, he emphasized that the president also has the authority to act militarily if necessary.

“You can’t let the craziest and worst regime in the world have nuclear weapons,” says Vance.

He added that the administration is prepared to ensure Iran does not obtain nuclear arms. “The president has a number of other tools at his disposal to ensure this doesn’t happen. He’s shown a willingness to use them, and I hope the Iranians take it seriously in the negotiations tomorrow because that’s certainly what the president prefers.”

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

Police in Bnei Brak and Ramat Gan carried out a pre-Purim enforcement operation targeting the illegal sale of fireworks and explosive devices, arresting three suspects and seizing dozens of prohibited pyrotechnic items.

As part of operational preparations for the upcoming Yom Tov of Purim, officers, together with additional enforcement agencies, conducted a focused effort to uphold laws banning the sale and distribution of dangerous toys and explosive materials.

During the operation, three individuals were taken into custody on suspicion of selling and possessing banned items. Authorities confiscated dozens of pyrotechnic products, including firecrackers, fireworks and other explosive devices.

Police stated that officers from the Dan District, working in coordination with municipal enforcement and security units, will continue firm action to prevent and combat criminal activity, maintain public order, address “quality of life” offenses and noise disturbances, and provide a swift and professional response to any unusual incident, while also strengthening residents’ sense of personal security.

Law enforcement officials also urged the public to refrain from using firecrackers and similar explosives, citing consideration for combat veterans living among the community and the need to prevent panic and anxiety, particularly during this sensitive security period.

“Israel Police wishes the public a happy Purim and calls on everyone to remain vigilant. In any case of suspicion regarding individuals, vehicles or suspicious objects, contact the 100 emergency hotline to enable a rapid and effective response,” police said in a statement.

{Matzav.com}

This past Shabbos, the city of Stamford, Connecticut, was transformed into a migdalor of Torah with the hosting of the 30th annual Dirshu Convention. The massive Maamad was held this year under the banner of three decades of Harbotzas Torah, bringing together thousands of Chavrei Dirshu who traveled from across the United States and North America.

The town was filled with thousands of Yungeleit, maggidei shiur, members of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, and prominent Roshei Yeshiva. They gathered for a Shabbos of spiritual elevation at the “Armon” hotel complex, which was entirely dedicated to the convention. To accommodate the overwhelming demand, the Marriott hotel—located a 40-minute walk away—was also chartered for the overflow of attendees. The main tefillos and gatherings took place in a massive, magnificent tent erected in the hotel courtyard to serve as the central Heichal HaTefillah. 

The participants were zocheh to bask in the presence of Gedolei U’Meorei HaDor shlit”a, who made the effort to attend and provide chizuk to the lomdei Torah.  Among the Gedolim gracing the event were:

Horav Yeruchem Olshin shlit”a, Rosh Yeshiva of Beis Medrash Govoha, Lakewood. Horav Yitzchok Sorotzkin shlit”a, Rosh Yeshiva of Telshe and Mesivta of Lakewood. Horav Dovid Goldberg shlit”a, Rosh Yeshiva of Telshe. Horav Hillel David shlit”a, Rav of Kehal Shaarei Torah. Horav Yechiel Michel Steinmetz shlit”a, Dayan of Skver Boro Park. Horav Chaim Mordechai Ausband shlit”a, Rosh Yeshiva of Ateret Shlomo, who traveled from Eretz Yisrael as a special guest. 

Dozens of other Rabbonim and Dirshu representatives from across America and Europe also attended the Maamad. Throughout the Shabbos, various Shiurei Iyun and Halacha were delivered, with marei mekomos distributed to the Chavrei Dirshu for in-depth preparation. The Nasi and founder of Dirshu, Horav Dovid Hofstedter shlit”a, also addressed the massive crowd. Additionally, specialized panels and sessions were held for maggidei shiur to discuss methods for deepening Halacha knowledge among bnei Torah. 

On Motzei Shabbos, a vital Chinuch panel addressed burning contemporary issues, including maintaining the independence of traditional Chinuch from external interference. The panel featured Rav Ausband, Horav Eitan Feiner shlit”a (Rav of Kehal Tifereth Israel), and Horav Shlomo Cynamon shlit”a (Rav of Kehal Bnei Torah and Rosh Kollel Dirshu of Flatbush)

The convention culminated in a festive Melave Malka open to the wider public, featuring stirring words from the Gedolim. The evening became a powerful display of Kiddush Shem Shamayim, as the throngs of Chavrei Dirshu united in a rikud of simcha and a shared mission to further increase the learning of Torah.

In a move with far-reaching implications for the kedushah and hanhagas hamakom at the Kosel, Knesset members voted 56–47 on Wednesday in favor of the preliminary reading of legislation granting the Chief Rabbinate full authority over tefillah arrangements at all areas of the Kosel.

The proposal immediately drew fierce criticism from “progressive” and leftist Jewish organizations, which denounced the measure as “patronizing and antisemitic.”

The bill, introduced by Noam MK Avi Maoz, seeks to counter last week’s ruling by the High Court of Justice requiring the state to proceed with upgrading the egalitarian plaza at the Kosel. That area, referred to as Ezras Yisroel, has been designated for non-Orthodox prayer services. The long-delayed renovation was part of the so-called Kosel compromise approved by Netanyahu’s government roughly a decade ago, which envisioned a pluralistic prayer platform at the site.

Under the new legislation, the two Chief Rabbis of Israel would be granted ultimate authority over Jewish holy sites, including Ezras Yisroel, and any activity conducted in opposition to their directives — such as non-Orthodox prayer services — would be defined as a “desecration.”

Current law stipulates that desecrating a holy site is punishable by up to seven years in prison.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu canceled a session of the Ministerial Committee for Legislation in what was seen as an effort to avoid official government backing of the bill and potential backlash from Diaspora Jewry. In the end, Netanyahu allowed coalition members to vote according to their own judgment. Several Likud lawmakers, among them Yuli Edelstein and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, did not participate in the vote.

After the bill cleared its preliminary stage, Maoz hailed the legislation as safeguarding the kedushas hamakom and said it would “unify the Jewish people, both those in Israel and those in the Diaspora.”

Justice Minister Yariv Levin, who also holds the religious services portfolio, voiced strong support for the proposal and urged swift passage in order to “put an end to the High Court’s interference in the management of the Kosel.”

The Shas party welcomed the bill, describing it as a necessary stand against “attempts to desecrate and violate the rules of the place that have been practiced for generations.” United Torah Judaism MK Moshe Gafni framed the measure as a defeat for the Reform Movement, which he labeled “the destroyers of the Jewish people.”

According to a Telegram post by Channel 12 journalist Amit Segal, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir told members of his Otzma Yehudit faction that the bill would strengthen Jewish control over Har Habayis. However, the legislation itself makes no mention of Har Habayis, which, despite its centrality in Yiddishkeit, is not formally defined under Israeli law as a Jewish holy site.

Following the vote — which now sends the bill to committee for further deliberation ahead of the three readings required for final passage — progressive Jewish leaders issued strong statements condemning the move as an affront to non-Orthodox Jews and Diaspora communities.

Anna Kislanski, CEO of the Israeli Movement for Progressive Judaism, declared that the bill is “patronizing and antisemitic.” She added, “The State of Israel is about to criminalize non-Orthodox Jewish prayer at the Western Wall. What hypocrisy. If such a law were to be passed in the United States, Australia or Britain, and prevent Jews from holding their prayers under threat of imprisonment for up to seven years, the State of Israel would immediately launch a fierce fight against antisemitism.”

The Women of the Wall organization described the Knesset vote as a “black day for the Jewish people,” asserting that the State of Israel had “divorced Diaspora Jewry and declared outright that they are not welcome and are not accepted in the home of the Jewish people.”

The group further warned that a government prepared to imprison women for reading from the Torah at the Kosel is “taking giant strides toward becoming Iran.”

Democrats MK Gilad Kariv, himself a Reform rabbi, sharply criticized the bill, stating: “Avi Maoz’s crazy law approved in a preliminary reading turns anyone who disobeys the Chief Rabbinate into a criminal who must be thrown in jail.” He added, “We will not allow Avi Maoz and Binyomin Netanyahu to spit in the face of our brothers around the world, who, while they are dealing with an unprecedented wave of antisemitism, are being stabbed in the back by the government and the coalition.”

World Zionist Organization Vice Chairman Yizhar Hess, formerly CEO of the Masorti movement, echoed those concerns. “Today’s approval of moving forward with legislation to imprison Jews who pray at the Egalitarian Kotel will always be remembered as a dark day in the history of Zionism and the nation-state of the Jewish people,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro is accusing Apple CEO Tim Cook of misleading the administration about shifting iPhone manufacturing out of China and into the United States, arguing that similar assurances were made during President Trump’s first term and never fulfilled.

In an interview with Miranda Devine on “Pod Force One,” set to air Wednesday, Navarro sharply criticized Cook’s approach to tariffs and overseas production. He described the Apple chief as “the king of evading tariffs.”

“We let him get away with it in the first term, because he promised he would basically bring his iPhone production here — or out of China — and he lied through his teeth,” said President Trump’s senior counselor on trade and manufacturing.

Navarro suggested that the pattern is repeating itself under Trump’s current term. “And he’s doing it again. That’s quite par for the course,” Navarro also claimed.

Devine pressed Navarro on whether American industry is seeing a revival during Trump’s second term, pointing out that Apple maintains facilities in the United States and has announced plans to grow its domestic operations.

Navarro dismissed the idea that Apple is leading a manufacturing comeback. “Not with Apple. I mean, they’re going to India, and to me, that’s not a whole lot better than being in China,” Navarro fired back. “But, that’s the exception, I think, that proves the rule.”

President Trump has also publicly criticized Cook — at times referring to him as “Tim Apple” — over the company’s decision to expand production in India rather than bring more operations back to American soil.

Last May, Trump warned Apple that it could face a 25% tariff if it failed to relocate production to the United States. Analysts have estimated that an iPhone built entirely in America could carry a price tag as high as $3,500.

Shortly after returning to the White House, Apple unveiled plans to invest $500 billion in U.S.-based projects.

In February 2025, the company announced it would enlarge its footprint “in Michigan, Texas, California, Arizona, Nevada, Iowa, Oregon, North Carolina, and Washington” and construct “a new factory in Texas.”

At the time, Apple said the initiative would create as many as 20,000 jobs in the United States.

“Apple is deeply committed to the future of American manufacturing, and we’re proud to significantly expand our footprint in Houston with the production of Mac mini starting later this year,” Cook also said in a Tuesday statement.

“We began shipping advanced AI servers from Houston ahead of schedule, and we’re excited to accelerate that work even further.”

Over the past year, Apple’s pledged investment in the United States has climbed to $600 billion.

The company has also committed that by the end of 2026, all new “cover glass for iPhone and AppleWatch” will be manufactured at a facility in Kentucky.

The administration’s tariff strategy recently faced a legal setback when the Supreme Court ruled against the use of certain emergency authorities to impose import duties. Still, Navarro indicated that the White House has alternative tools at its disposal.

The court, in a 6-3 decision, found that Trump overstepped his authority by invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to levy tariffs aimed at correcting trade imbalances.

“It did strike down the IEEPA tariffs, the emergency tariffs — it did not strike down [Sections] 232, 301, 122, 338, all the different powers that the president has been delegated by Congress and can use.”

Navarro has long criticized Apple’s reliance on Chinese manufacturing, once describing the company’s overseas production strategy as “the longest-running soap opera in Silicon Valley.”

Reiterating his argument on “Pod Force One,” Navarro underscored what he sees as the broader impact of the administration’s trade policy.

“I mean, we have, Miranda, this is like mind boggling,” he said on “Pod Force One.”

“We have $18 trillion of new investment pledged since the tariffs and because of the tariffs,” he added. “I mean, as President Trump has said, you don’t pay the tariffs if you produce here.”

{Matzav.com}

President Trump used his State of the Union address Tuesday night to warn that Iran has built missiles capable of striking American bases in Europe and the Middle East and is pursuing weapons that could eventually reach the United States, while also confirming that diplomatic talks with Tehran remain underway.

Speaking before a joint session of Congress, Trump sharply criticized Iran’s leadership and outlined what he described as escalating threats from the regime. “This is some terrible people,” Trump told lawmakers in reference to the Tehran regime, which rejected what it called “big lies” from the president. “They’ve already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas, and they’re working to build missiles that will soon reach the United States of America.”

The president said that even after U.S. forces carried out airstrikes in June on three significant Iranian nuclear facilities, Tehran continues to push forward with its atomic ambitions. According to Trump, the Islamic Republic is attempting to restart its nuclear program “all over … and are, at this moment, again pursuing their sinister ambitions.

“We are in negotiations with them,” Trump went on. “They want to make a deal but we haven’t heard those sacred words: ‘We will never have a nuclear weapon.’”

Another round of negotiations between U.S. and Iranian officials is scheduled for Thursday in Geneva, Switzerland. Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, who is leading the American delegation, drew attention last month when he told Fox News that Iran was “probably a week away from having industrial-grade bomb-making material.”

During his address, Trump also cited reports alleging that Iranian authorities killed 32,000 people during a violent crackdown on nationwide protests that erupted in December and January over the country’s struggling economy.

That number has circulated widely on social media but has not been echoed by major Western governments or international human rights organizations.

The Human Rights Activists News Agency, which gathers information through contacts inside Iran, reported Monday that slightly fewer than 6,500 demonstrators had been killed, with an additional 11,744 cases “under review.”

Referring to the unrest, Trump said: “Just over the last couple of months with the protests, they’ve killed at least, it looks like 32,000 protesters, 32,000 protesters in their own country,” the president said Tuesday night. “They shot them and hung them. We stopped them from hanging a lot of them with the threat of serious violence.”

Iran swiftly rejected the president’s claims. Esmail Baghaei, a spokesman for the country’s foreign ministry, characterized Trump’s comments as part of a “disinformation and misinformation campaign” Wednesday, saying: “Whatever [the US is] alleging in regards to Iran’s nuclear program, Iran’s ballistic missiles, and the number of casualties during January’s unrest is simply the repetition of big lies.”

Ahead of the speech, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe met with congressional leaders at the White House to discuss possible military options involving Iran.

Following that briefing, lawmakers from both parties expressed unease about the prospect of renewed conflict in the region. “This is serious, and the administration has to make its case to the American people,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) told reporters following the briefing, without elaborating on its contents.

“I’m very concerned,” added House Intelligence Committee vice chairman Jim Himes (D-Conn.). “Wars in the Middle East don’t go well for presidents, for the country, and we have not heard articulated a single good reason for why now is the moment to launch yet another war in the Middle East.”

Earlier this year, on Jan. 2, Trump warned that Iran would face bombing if it executed anti-government demonstrators. A planned strike was later put on hold after Tehran said it would cancel 800 scheduled executions, and subsequent discussions between the two sides have centered on Iran’s nuclear activities.

Meanwhile, Trump has directed two U.S. aircraft carrier strike groups to move into the region, positioning them in case military action becomes necessary.

Although the president has voiced support for regime change in Iran, it remains uncertain whether any potential American military operation would be designed to remove the country’s leadership, either by targeting senior officials or by weakening the government to pave the way for its collapse.

Earlier this week, the White House pushed back on reports claiming that Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, had cautioned Trump about the dangers of becoming entangled in a prolonged conflict in the Middle East.

Candace Owens is facing fierce criticism after promoting a forthcoming video series focused on Erika Kirk, the widow of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The preview has triggered widespread outrage, with critics accusing Owens of exploiting a grieving widow and escalating an already bitter feud.

Owens, 36, released a teaser on X for a project titled “Bride of Charlie.” The trailer begins with news footage covering Charlie Kirk’s assassination last September, then transitions to clips of Erika Kirk, 37, in the months following his death.

The preview includes pointed excerpts of Erika, who assumed the role of CEO of Turning Point USA after her husband’s killing. It also contains references to “Zionists” and Israel, adding to the controversy surrounding the production.

The trailer concludes with an image of Erika depicted wearing a crown.

Erika Kirk is scheduled to attend Tuesday’s State of the Union address as a guest of President Trump.

The trailer’s release Monday prompted immediate and emotional reactions from prominent commentators.

“Pure, unadulterated, …evil. Who in God’s name would put a woman whose husband was brutally assassinated in front of the entire world through this? I am so upset by this, I am just so deeply sorry Erika and her family have to be put through this,” media pundit Meghan McCain wrote on X.

Daily Wire founder Ben Shapiro also branded Owens as “evil” in a 10-minute video he shared on X.

“What would Charlie have to say about this? And what would he think of his so-called friends who can’t summon the courage to say it for him?” Seth Dillon from the Babylon Bee wrote on X.

When asked about the backlash, a spokesperson for Owens told The Post: “We have no comment. The series will speak for itself, and you can watch the premiere episode [Wednesday].”

In a separate statement later provided to The New York Post, the spokesperson dismissed the criticism.

“LOL. There isn’t any backlash outside of the Zionist bubble—which has no influence. People are excited to watch, and we are looking forward to presenting what we’ve discovered about Mrs. Kirk,” the spokesperson said.

Neither Turning Point USA nor Erika Kirk has publicly responded to the announcement of the series.

Since Charlie Kirk’s death at age 31, Owens has repeatedly made controversial allegations about his widow, with tensions intensifying even after the two reportedly met at a summit in December.

The renewed dispute unfolds as Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing Charlie Kirk, recently lost an attempt to remove senior prosecutors from his case.

Robinson, 22, is charged with aggravated murder in connection with the September 10 shooting at Utah Valley University in Orem and could face the death penalty if convicted.

His defense team argued that the Utah County Attorney’s Office should be disqualified from handling the prosecution because one of the prosecutor’s daughters was present in the audience when Kirk was shot. A judge rejected the request, allowing the office to remain on the case.

[COMMUNICATED]

by Rabbi Eliezer Sandler

The concept of the Yissachar-Zevulun Torah Learning Pact goes back well over 3,500 years, to the time of Yaakov Avinu and his sons. It is named for the Torah pact between two of his sons – Yissachar the scholar and Zevulun the merchant. Not only was it an equal pact but, Chazal explained, the deed of Zevulun/the Sponsor is considered even greater than that of Yissachar, because without the support of Zevulun, Yissachar would not have had the wherewithal to study Torah undisturbed.”

It is well-known that when it comes to learning Torah, people who sponsor the learning, often do so, not just as a donation. By financially supporting specific Torah scholars, they enter into a binding, written, signed and sealed learning partnership pact whereby the Sponsor (the Zevulun) is deemed by Halacha as if he personally studied the Torah completed by the Scholar (the Yissachar). (See below.) 

Thus, those who support the Talmidei Chachomim at Shas Yiden via a Yissachar-Zevulun Pact merit a portion in every daf of the entire Talmud Bavli and associated texts that they study, and complete the entire cycle in the space of ONE year. Some of the Sponsors opt to continue sponsoring repeat cycles of Shas which accrue to them.

Sar Hatorah, Maran Hagaon Harav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, Nasi Shas Yiden, emphasized: The most mehudar Yissachar-Zevulun pact to support in our times is that offered by Shas Yiden – it comprises the entire Shas, Rashi and Tosfos – all in just one year!

Rav Chaim explained why this pact with Shas Yiden is the most mehudar. Chazal say that the highest level of learning is when one understands what he is learning b’iyun u’ve’amkus. However, even higher than that is when one remembers b’al peh all what he has learned. I have farhered the Shas Yiden avreichim geonim many times and can attest ZEI KENNEN SHAS (they know Shas)!

YES! YOU CAN MAKE

The Yissachar-Zevulun Pact in Halacha

The Shulchan Aruch in Yoreh De’ah Chapter 246 regarding the efficacy of the Yissachar-Zevulun Sponsorship Pact for the Zevulun (the Sponsor) states clearly:  It is deemed as if he (the one sponsoring the learning) himself learned all the Torah studied under the pact. 

All the learning under the Shas Yiden Yissachar-Zevulun Pact is yours בעוה”ז ובעוה”ב (in both This World and the World to Come)! Concerning this, the Netziv of Volozhin comments that in Olam Habah, the Zevulun sponsor will sit together with the Gedolei Torah of the past and merit to participate in their discussions and pilpulim on all the Torah learned.

Achieve Almost 7 million Mitzvos in One Year

The Vilna Gaon in Shnos Eliyahu Pe’ah 41 states that one should hold precious every word of Torah that he learns because each word is considered a mitzvah of its own. 

Thus, since in Talmud Bavli, Rashi and Tosfos there are 6,608,891 words, that translates into almost 7 million mitzvos accruing through Yissachar-Zevulun at Shas Yiden. 

Official Shtar from Shas Yiden

Each Yissachar-Zevulun pact is confirmed by an official contract (shtar) from Shas Yiden specifying the learning of the entire Shas, and is witnessed by talmidei chachomim.

All who wish to enter into a Yissachar-Zevulun Pact for the entire Shas during ONE year should contact Shas Yiden to make arrangements: 718-702-1528.

The opportunity to complete the entire Shas has been a cherished way to honor family members and others as a prized achievement. It has also proven to be a source of comfort for mourners to obtain such a zechus for their dear ones during the year of mourning – a siyum of the entire Shas can be completed on the yahrzeit!

Yissachar-Zevulun Pact –

The legendary visionary and “Father of Yeshivos”, Reb Chaim of Volozhin, was the founder of the famous yeshiva in the town of Volozhin and the beloved talmid of the Vilna Gaon. 

Reb Chaim had an ongoing Yissachar-Zevulun pact with a local shoemaker – a man who was not learned but who dearly valued Torah learning. They had a ‘deal’ whereby the shoemaker would pay the monthly financial support needed for Reb Chaim and his family. For this financial support, the shoemaker would have an equal share in all Reb Chaim’s daily Torah study – both in the mitzvah of Torah study בעוה”ז and that the knowledge of the Torah learned would continue to be his בעוה”ב (in the World to Come).

One day the shoemaker passed away suddenly. During the shiva period, Reb Chaim was facing a perplexing halachic question and researched high and low for a solution. That night the shoemaker appeared to him in a dream and gave him the full solution that he sought. Reb Chaim was amazed and commented, “Azoi gich, Azoi Gich – So quickly, so quickly has he acquired the zchus and knowledge of the Torah that I have studied!”

In the words of Gedolei Torah:

Maran Hagaon Harav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, Nasi Shas Yiden:

“In just ONE year, through Yissachar-Zevulun at Shas Yiden, you can be zoche to the entire Shas forever – בעוה”ז ובעוה”ב (in olam hazeh and olam habah).

“Moreover, whoever supports Shas Yiden is zocheh to fulfill both Yissachar-Zevulun and support of aniyei (the poor of) Eretz Yisroel in the fullest sense of the word.

“Those who support Shas Yiden will be saved from chevlei (the travails of) Moshiach – spiritually and materially, and will be zoche to have ehrlicher bonim u’vanos yir’eishomayim ”

Maran Hagaon Harav Dov Lando, shlit”a, Rosh Yeshiva, Slabodka:

“Who compares to the Shas Yiden? Incredible talmidei chachomim geonim who raised the bar in limud Hashas b’iyun u’v’amkus. Blessed are those who enter a Yissachar-Zevulun pact with them.”

Hamashpia Hagadol Reb Meilech Biederman, shlit”a:

 “Yissachar-Zevulun at Shas Yiden – best possible deal, and in just 1 year! 100% partnership! 100% Shas x 5 times! 100% Shisha Sidrei Mishna – בעוה”ז ובעוה”ב”

Sanzer Rebbe, shlit”a:

“A first in 2000 years of Jewish history! Until Shas Yiden, never a Torah institution where ALL the avreichim metzuyonim v’geonim know the entire Shas by heart”

Harav Yaakov Hillel, shlit”a:

“Therefore, the great mitzvah to support the efforts [of the Talmidei Chachomim] with generous donations in order that they should continue diligently with their studies to enhance the greatness of the Torah and its glory. 

ShasYiden.com

A powerful and emotional story emerging from the Gra Shul in Yerushalayim Rechavia neighborhood has touched thousands after revealing an extraordinary act of quiet kindness between two elderly mispallelim — men who, it turns out, were complete strangers.

Communications adviser Yareach Toker recently shared the account after witnessing what he initially believed was a remarkable example of filial devotion during daily Shacharis. Toker, who attends the shul each day for Shacharis, noticed two older men — one about 90 years old and the other in his 70s — davening side by side.

“I see them davening every morning in such a moving way,” Toker recounted.

What he observed appeared to be an outstanding fulfillment of honoring one’s father. The younger man carefully guided the older mispallel through every stage of the davening — pointing to the place in the siddur, indicating where the minyan was up to, and turning the pages for him.

“The younger one shows the older one where to daven, where they’re up to, where the cantor is holding, points it out in the siddur, turns the page for him. I saw it once, twice, three times, and I said, ‘Wow, this is amazing! What a merit he has in honoring his father,’” Toker said in the video he later published.

But the story took a dramatic turn when Toker approached the devoted mispallel to commend him.

“I went up to him and said: ‘What a merit you have in honoring your father, fortunate are you.’ So he says to me: ‘My father is no longer here, unfortunately.’ I said to him: ‘What? So who is this elderly Jew?’ He says to me: ‘I don’t know him,’” Toker recalled.

Stunned, Toker pressed further. “What?! Every morning, I’ve seen you for weeks davening with him every single day — who is he?”

The man, Dr. Yehuda Eliezeri, an octogenarian resident of Yerushalayim, then explained how it all began.

“I’ve been davening in this shul for three years. When I arrived, I saw this elderly man sitting and davening, and he didn’t really hear the chazzan well, he didn’t understand where we were holding, so I simply showed him in the siddur.”

The elderly mispallel turned out to be Reb Asher Kestenbaum, a 97-year-old man who, without ever asking, gained a devoted companion.

For three years — through rain and summer heat alike — the two have davened together daily for an entire hour, word by word. Each morning, Dr. Eliezeri sits beside him, pointing in the siddur and turning pages. During the silent Amidah, the younger man stands while the older remains seated, guiding him through the repetition as well.

“Every day he sits next to him, points in the siddur, for an hour turns pages with him. During the Amidah he stands, and the older Jew sits, and he shows him, turns the pages during the repetition, he shows him. It’s simply moving because he doesn’t know him. He says, ‘I know who the person is, I know his name, but he’s not my father — and I simply have the privilege of praying with him every day,’” Toker said.

According to Toker, Dr. Eliezeri views the arrangement as a personal brocha. He even told Toker that they have effectively become davening partners, and that helping Reb Asher actually strengthens his own concentration and connection during tefillah.

“The Jew is already 97, may he live long, and the Jew next to him, in his 80s, is performing kindness for another elderly Jew. Mi ke’amcha Yisroel!” Toker concluded.

WATCH:

Ahead of Purim, the rabbonim of Yerushalayim’s Ramot neighborhood have released a strongly worded public letter warning residents — particularly teenagers — against disorderly conduct that has disrupted the Yom Tov in recent years. The letter includes a clear and absolute prohibition on blocking roads and interfering with buses, as well as on using firecrackers and small explosives. The rabbonim describe such actions as theft from the public and a danger to human life.

The statement urges parents and community leaders to take responsibility and prevent a repeat of past incidents. The rabbonim note with concern that in previous years, individuals deliberately obstructed traffic and harassed bus drivers, actions that ultimately led to a complete suspension of public transportation services in the neighborhood.

They write that a troubling pattern of reckless behavior on the roads has developed, including humiliating drivers and acting violently, which resulted in halted bus service and harm to many residents. The rabbonim point out that last year the situation escalated to a total shutdown of transportation due to these actions, which they warn can amount to life-threatening danger.

Their ruling is presented as unequivocal and grounded in halacha. They make clear that there is absolutely no permission to stand in the streets and disrupt traffic. Anyone who does so, they write, is stealing from and harming the public in a way that cannot be repaid. They emphasize that the joy of Purim does not override responsibility toward the broader community and that obstructing public services constitutes a serious violation.

The letter also addresses the common use of firecrackers and other small explosive devices during Purim celebrations. The rabbonim warn that causing panic or frightening others is forbidden and can sometimes result in real physical injury or damage. They call on young people to channel their holiday excitement into positive expressions of joy, increased unity and proper fulfillment of the mitzvot of the day.

The letter is signed by several leading rabbonim of the neighborhood, including Rav Moshe Druck of Ramot Bais, Rav Menachem Mendel Fuchs of Kiryat Shomrei HaChomos, Rav Yisrael Guelman of the Shaarei Tevunah community and Rav Mordechai Dovid Fliegelman.

{Matzav.com}

Amid ongoing legal uncertainty following the expiration of the draft law, the Vaad HaYeshivos has issued an unusual and strongly worded letter to roshei yeshiva and roshei kollel across Eretz Yisroel, warning that most yeshiva students between the ages of 17 and 28 may be barred from leaving Israel during the upcoming Pesach break unless their status is properly arranged.

According to the notice, if no new legislation is passed regulating the status of bnei yeshiva before the Nissan bein hazemanim period, the majority of students in that age bracket will not be permitted to exit the country.

The Vaad clarifies that any student seeking to travel abroad must contact its offices in advance for an individual review of his status, in order to avoid distress or potential complications at border control. However, due to the rapidly changing legal situation, an early check will not remain valid indefinitely. Students are therefore instructed to conduct their status verification no more than two weeks prior to their scheduled departure.

Beyond the issue of travel, the Vaad HaYeshivos emphasizes the heightened personal responsibility of every bochur and avreich during this sensitive period.

The letter stresses that although there is currently no formal legislative framework in place, this does not lessen the binding principles under which the “Toraso umnaso” designation was granted. The Vaad warns that once new legislation is enacted, authorities may review whether students maintained compliance with the established criteria, and future status determinations could depend on that record.

The central focus of the directive is the strict maintenance of uninterrupted study and the avoidance of any outside engagement beyond full-time Torah learning within the yeshiva framework. Any deviation — including extended travel abroad beyond what had previously been permitted — could, according to the attached legal opinion, lead to significant and potentially irreversible complications in the future.

In closing, the Vaad HaYeshivos calls upon institutional leaders to communicate these instructions clearly and precisely to their talmidim and kollel members in order to prevent serious consequences during this particularly delicate period.

This is not just another story; it is a real case of פיקוח נפש! The Mirrer Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Binyamin Finkel, Rav Yitzchak Ezrachi, and the “Chafetz Chaim of the Generation,” Rav Yitzchak Kolodetzky, issue a bone-shaking call: “The home is disintegrating. The medical crisis and distress have reached the level of פיקוח נפש. It is our absolute obligation to prevent the disruction of this home of קדושה and טהרה.”

Jeremy Corbyn is facing sharp criticism after circulating allegations that the Israel Defense Forces harvested organs from the bodies of Palestinian Arab women, claims that Israeli officials have strongly denied and labeled a “wild blood libel,” according to a report by the Jewish News.

The controversy erupted after Corbyn posted a video from the Instagram account of the We Are The Peace organization. In the video, he described a message he said he received from the director of Gaza’s Al Shifa hospital “last Thursday or Friday.”

Corbyn relayed that the hospital director claimed the IDF had delivered between 60 and 70 boxes allegedly containing the skulls of Palestinian Arabs as well as the bodies of women from whom organs had been removed.

Reacting to the allegations in the video, Corbyn said, “It’s hard to describe this,” before adding, “That is what is happening to the people of Palestine.”

The IDF swiftly rejected the accusations. Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani, who serves as an international spokesperson for the military, rebuked Corbyn for amplifying what he described as “a wild blood libel” and urged greater responsibility in verifying information before sharing it publicly.

“IDF soldiers haven’t been anywhere near the Shifa hospital in months! Jeremy Corbyn’s claims are completely false,” Shoshani stated.

He further emphasized that the IDF operates in accordance with international law and strict internal guidelines that forbid such actions. Shoshani also noted that any transfer of bodies back to Gaza is carried out in coordination with international bodies, including the Red Cross.

Al Shifa hospital has been the focus of intense scrutiny and disputed narratives since Israel launched its military response to the October 7 Hamas attacks. Israeli authorities have alleged that the hospital functioned as a Hamas command and control center. Its director, Dr. Mohammed Abu Salmiya, was detained in Israel for seven months in connection with those allegations, though he has denied any ties to Hamas.

Corbyn, who led the UK Labour Party from 2015 until 2020, stepped down after the party suffered its most severe electoral defeat since 1935. He has since established a new political movement together with former Labour MP Zarah Sultana.

Throughout his political career, Corbyn has drawn sustained criticism for his positions on Israel. While serving as Labour leader, he generated widespread controversy after referring to Hamas and Hezbollah as his “friends”. Though he initially declined to retract those remarks, he later distanced himself from them.

Members of Britain’s Jewish community have long expressed alarm over what they describe as Corbyn’s associations with various extremist figures and groups, including far-right Holocaust deniers, an antisemitic Christian cleric and Islamist terrorist organizations.

Following the release of a report by the Equality and Human Rights Commission, which documented numerous instances in which Labour’s leadership under Corbyn was found to have minimized, dismissed or failed to properly address complaints of antisemitism by Jewish party members — and in some cases intervened to shield political allies — Corbyn was suspended from the party.

In November 2022, Labour permanently barred Corbyn from standing as a party candidate. In the most recent general election, he ran for office as an independent candidate.

{Matzav.com}