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Israeli Defense Minister Yisroel Katz has instructed the Israeli military to show detained pro-Palestinian activists a graphic film documenting the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7, 2023. According to a statement from his office, the decision is intended to confront the activists with the brutal reality of the terror group they sought to support by challenging Israel’s naval blockade on Gaza.

The 43-minute film, compiled by the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, contains unedited, extremely graphic footage of the massacre. Many of the scenes were captured by the attackers themselves via body cameras and include images of civilians being murdered and their bodies desecrated.

“It’s appropriate that Greta the antisemite and her Hamas-supporting friends should see exactly who is the terror group Hamas that they support and act on behalf of, what atrocious acts they carried out on women, the elderly and kids, and who Israel is fighting for its defense against,” Katz said in the statement, referring to Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, the most prominent of the twelve individuals on board the vessel intercepted by the IDF.

Katz has instructed that the activists be shown the video upon their arrival in Ashdod, the port to which their ship is currently being towed after being seized near the Gaza coastline.

He commended the IDF soldiers involved in the operation for executing the takeover efficiently. Prior to the boarding, video footage showed that the activists intended to stage a nonviolent protest rather than resist physically.

The film, titled Bearing Witness, has been presented in closed viewings to journalists and opinion leaders around the world as part of Israel’s ongoing effort to raise awareness of Hamas’s crimes. While many have responded with shock and support, the graphic nature of the footage has stirred debate over its use.

In a related development, Israel’s Foreign Ministry released a photo of Greta Thunberg wearing her well-known frog hat, smiling as she accepts a sandwich from an Israeli soldier. The ministry noted that the activist is “safe and in good spirits.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Amazon said Monday that it will spend $20 billion on two data center complexes in Pennsylvania, including one it is building alongside a nuclear power plant that has drawn federal scrutiny over an arrangement to essentially plug right into the power plant. Kevin Miller, vice president of global data centers at Amazon’s cloud computing subsidiary, Amazon Web Services, told The Associated Press that the company will build another data center complex just north of Philadelphia. The announcements add to the billions of dollars in Big Tech’s data center cash already flowing into the state. Since 2024 started, Amazon has committed to about $10 billion apiece to data center projects in Mississippi, Indiana, Ohio and North Carolina as it ramps up its investment in infrastructure to compete with other tech giants to meet growing demand for artificial intelligence products. The rapid growth of cloud computing and artificial intelligence has fueled demand for data centers that need power to run servers, storage systems, networking equipment and cooling systems. The majority owner of the Susquehanna nuclear power plant, Talen Energy, announced last year that it had sold its data center to Amazon for $650 million in a deal to eventually provide 960 megawatts. That’s 40% of the output of one of the nation’s largest nuclear power plants, or enough to power more than a half-million homes. However, the arrangement between Talen and Amazon — called a “behind the meter” connection — has been held up by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in the first such case to come before the agency. It has raised questions over whether diverting power to higher-paying customers will leave enough for others and whether it’s fair to excuse big power users from paying for the grid. (AP)

During an appearance on CNN’s Newsroom on Sunday, Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA) lashed out at President Donald Trump over his decision to deploy National Guard forces to Los Angeles, denouncing him in harsh terms.

Waters expressed strong disapproval of the federal move, questioning the purpose of having armed troops present during protests. “They will end up being used. I don’t know why we have guns. What are those guns for? Are they to shoot protesters? I mean, there’s no reason to be here with the National Guard. The President of the United States is a cruel, dishonorable human being who would just as soon they shoot somebody down. But I don’t want that to happen. I want the elected officials to do everything that we can to dissuade them.”

CNN correspondent Kyung Lah underscored the tension on the ground in Los Angeles, pointing to the volatile atmosphere following the arrest of illegal immigrants by ICE on Friday and the subsequent military deployment. “Here’s the concern. It’s the cauldron that has been created today by the deployment of the National Guard, by how people are feeling about these ICE arrests that occurred on Friday, what that clash could mean today here on the streets of Los Angeles.”

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

Transportation Minister Miri Regev said on Monday that the government is planning to fire Attorney General Gali Baharav-Mirara even if the Supreme Court rules that it is “illegal.” Speaking in an interview with Ynet, Regev responded to a question about the government’s approval of a new procedure to fire the Attorney General:  “Isn’t establishing a committee now changing the rules of the game?” Ynet asked “Not at all,” Regev responded. “The government that approved the committee can also be the government that cancels the committee.” Ynet: This is a committee that is sold in advance. Its results are known. Regev: “Baharav-Miara will come, express her positions clearly, and then the committee’s recommendations will reach the government. The Attorney General does not have the government’s trust. There is not a single minister, including the minister who appointed her in the previous government, Gideon Sa’ar, who thinks she should stay. I suggest she do what is right to do because we have no ability to work with her.” Ynet: Regarding the question of what the government will do if the Supreme Court says: ‘You are acting illegally and I am halting the decision.’ Regev: “We are acting very legally, and I suggest the Supreme Court not to pull the rope too much. Because if it says no, then there will be a situation where we will definitely say enough is enough. That is, we will not respect the Supreme Court’s ruling, definitely.” Ynet: A senior minister says that we will not respect the Supreme Court’s ruling. This is a slippery slope, a dangerous event. Regev: “The Supreme Court does not respect the government’s decisions. The Supreme Court does not stand by the very clear division between the judicial authority, the executive authority, and the legislative authority. The Supreme Court has taken for itself too many powers of the Knesset and the government. I suggest the Supreme Court return to its traditional role, that is, to allow the government to perform its function as we were elected by the public.” Ynet: “Will General David Zini be appointed as the head of the Shin Bet?” Regarding the question of the investigation against the Prime Minister’s aides and the Attorney General’s claim of Netanyahu’s alleged conflict of interest on the issue of appointing the next Shin Bet chief, Minister Regev said: “The Prime Minister is not a suspect in the case. It is not related to him. There is an investigation of his advisors, who still do not know how it will end. The government has approved the appointment of the next Shin Bet chief and he will be the next Shin Bet chief.” (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

Democrats have now coalesced around a common narrative to explain the escalating unrest in Los Angeles: that Trump is to blame. They point fingers at his decision to arrest illegal immigrants, deploy the California National Guard, and take steps to enforce federal laws that have long been on the books.

Notably absent from the conversation is any admission of fault by California’s elected officials, nearly all of whom are Democrats. None have voiced support for the police under siege, nor have they taken responsibility for the destruction of public property or the attacks on law enforcement.

Governor Gavin Newsom has largely taken to social media throughout the weekend, using the platform to lash out at Trump. He has also spent time arguing with users online over whether viral footage of police cruisers in flames comes from the current anti-ICE protests or from the 2020 Black Lives Matter riots — both of which occurred while he held office.

In an appearance on MSNBC — the only channel where such claims go unchallenged — Newsom insisted that Trump “manufactured” the entire crisis.

This blame-shifting approach is nothing new for Democrats in California. Back in 2016, when a mob in San Jose assaulted Trump supporters following a campaign rally, the city’s Democratic mayor also faulted Trump for the violence, rather than those who carried it out.

Whether this strategy is convincing the public remains to be seen, but party leaders appear determined to stay on message.

{Matzav.com}

Russia launched almost 500 drones at Ukraine in the biggest overnight drone bombardment of the three-year war, the Ukrainian air force said Monday, as the Kremlin presses its summer offensive amid direct peace talks that have yet to deliver progress on stopping the fighting. Despite the difficulties in reaching a ceasefire, Russia and Ukraine swapped another batch of prisoners of war Monday. In addition to the 479 drones, 20 missiles of various types were fired at different parts of Ukraine from Sunday to Monday, according to the air force, which said the barrage targeted mainly central and western areas. Ukraine’s air force said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed 277 drones and 19 missiles, claiming only 10 drones or missiles hit their targets. Officials said one person was injured. It was not possible to independently verify the claims. A recent escalation in aerial attacks has coincided with a renewed Russian battlefield push along eastern and northeastern parts of the roughly 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) front line. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said late Sunday that in some of those areas, “the situation is very difficult.” He provided no details. Ukraine is short-handed on the front line against its bigger enemy and needs more military support from its Western partners, especially air defenses. But uncertainty about the U.S. policy on the war has fueled doubts about how much help Kyiv can count on. Ukraine has produced some stunning counter-punches, however. Its June 1 drone attack on distant Russian air bases was unprecedented in its scope and sophistication. Russia intensifies its attacks The Ukrainian General Staff said special operations forces struck two Russian fighter jets stationed at the Savasleyka airfield in Russia’s Nizhny Novgorod region located about 650 kilometers (about 400 miles) northeast of the Ukrainian border. The statement did not say how the planes were hit and there was no immediate comment on the claim from Russian authorities. Some Russian war bloggers said there was no damage to the warplanes. Russian officials have said the recent intensified assaults are part of a series of retaliatory strikes for Ukraine’s drone attack on air bases that were hosting nuclear-capable strategic bombers. A strike on a Ukrainian air base in Dubno, in the western Rivne region, was one such response, the Russian Defense Ministry said Monday. Two recent rounds of direct peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul have yielded no significant breakthroughs beyond pledges to swap prisoners as well as thousands of their dead and seriously wounded troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated he will keep fighting until his conditions are met. Russia and Ukraine exchange more POWs The exchange of hundreds of soldiers and civilians has been a small sign of cooperation in otherwise failed efforts to agree on a ceasefire. More prisoners were swapped Monday in a staggered process taking place over the coming days, Zelenskyy and the Russian Defense Ministry said, although neither side said how many. Those who were swapped included wounded soldiers, as well as those under 25, Zelenskyy said. “The process is quite complicated, there are many sensitive details, negotiations continue virtually every day,” he added. In the Chernihiv region of northern Ukraine, dozens of anxious relatives gathered outside a hospital and formed a human corridor to see whether their loved ones were among those freed. Many held up photos of sons, husbands and brothers in hopes that someone might recognize them and offer any news. […]

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In the early hours of Monday, Israeli naval forces from the elite Shayetet 13 unit boarded and took control of the vessel “Madleen,” a boat operated by pro-Palestinian activists attempting to challenge Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza. The interception occurred without any physical resistance, and all those on board were detained peacefully. The vessel is currently being escorted to Ashdod.

The activists — a group that includes notable figures such as Greta Thunberg, actor Liam Cunningham, and European Parliament member Rima Hassan — were part of a publicized mission that Israeli officials dismissed as a political stunt. “The ‘selfie yacht’ of the ‘celebrities’ is safely making its way to the shores of Israel. The passengers are expected to return to their home countries,” stated the Foreign Ministry.

According to the Ministry, the aid on board was minimal and symbolic, and the operation was designed primarily for media attention. “While Greta [Thunberg] and others attempted to stage a media provocation whose sole purpose was to gain publicity — and which included less than a single truckload of aid — more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel within the past two weeks, and in addition, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza,” the Ministry emphasized.

Israeli authorities stressed that legitimate humanitarian efforts are regularly coordinated and effective, in contrast to unauthorized efforts like the “Madleen” voyage. “There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip — they do not involve Instagram selfies. The tiny amount of aid that was on the yacht and not consumed by the ‘celebrities’ will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels,” the Ministry noted.

As the operation unfolded, Israeli officials released a video showing the activists being given food and water following their detention. “All the passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water. The show is over,” read an update from the Foreign Ministry.

Prior to the Navy’s intervention, the activists had reported signs of distress, including a warning alarm sounding on board and alleged interference by drones. The flotilla’s Telegram account posted: “An alarm was sounded on deck, and life jackets are ready in case of an attempted takeover of the ship.” A short while later, another message read: “The vessel that approached us has left. All eyes on deck, all eyes on Gaza.” The group later admitted the alarm was false.

The activists further alleged that drones had encircled their ship and released a white irritant, but Israeli officials dismissed the entire mission as illegal and misleading. “The maritime zone off the coast of Gaza is closed to unauthorized vessels under a legal naval blockade, consistent with international law,” the Foreign Ministry reiterated. “The yacht is claiming that it is delivering humanitarian aid. In fact, it is a media gimmick for publicity (which includes less than a single truckload of aid) — a ‘selfie yacht’.”

They went on to explain that real assistance is being provided daily through sanctioned channels. “Humanitarian aid is delivered regularly and effectively via different channels and routes, and is transferred through established distribution mechanisms. Over the past two weeks, more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza.”

The Ministry also highlighted the risk posed by unauthorized sea travel toward Gaza, noting the area’s volatile security conditions. “The Gaza maritime zone remains an active conflict area, and Hamas has previously exploited sea routes for terrorist attacks, including the October 7th massacre. Unauthorized attempts to breach the blockade are dangerous, unlawful, and undermine ongoing humanitarian efforts,” it said. “We call on all actors to act responsibly and to channel humanitarian aid through legitimate, coordinated mechanisms, not through provocation.”

At an earlier stage, the Israeli Navy had used civilian communication channels to contact the “Madleen” and instructed the vessel to alter its course. “The Israeli Navy is currently communicating with the ‘selfie yacht’. Using an international civilian communication system, the Israeli Navy has instructed the ‘selfie yacht’ to change its course due to its approach toward a restricted area,” the Ministry disclosed.

Defense Minister Israel Katz had ordered a firm stance on the flotilla. He directed the military to block the vessel from entering Gaza waters and authorized “any operational measures deemed necessary.” “The State of Israel will not allow anyone to violate the maritime blockade on Gaza, which exists primarily to prevent the transfer of weapons to Hamas — a murderous terrorist organization that holds our hostages and commits war crimes,” Katz declared.

He added, “I have instructed the IDF to ensure that the ‘Madleen’ flotilla does not reach Gaza. To the antisemitic Greta and her Hamas-propaganda-spreading friends, I say this clearly: you’d better turn back — you will not reach Gaza. Israel will act against any attempt to break the blockade or support terrorist organizations — by sea, air, or land.”

In anticipation of the flotilla’s approach, Israel’s defense forces conducted simulations to prepare for potential confrontations at sea. Navy personnel were briefed on protocols: if the ship’s operators agreed to reverse course, they would be allowed to depart; if not, Shayetet 13 was to board the vessel and redirect it to Ashdod.

{Matzav.com}

Just a few miles from the Gaza border, the city of Sderot has opened a new center devoted exclusively to commemorating the atrocities committed during the Hamas-led massacre on October 7.

The memorial, established by the ISRAEL-is organization in cooperation with Sderot’s municipal government, was created to serve as a permanent reminder of that horrific day and to preserve firsthand accounts from those who survived the attack.

Built in a location that itself was a target of the brutal assault, the center immerses visitors in the tragic events through a powerful guided experience. The tour features recorded testimonies captured as the events unfolded, a viewing platform facing Gaza, and a virtual reality segment that tells the stories of five survivors in vivid, personal detail.

This endeavor is part of the Tell to Survive project, which was designed to allow people — both from within Israel and from around the world — to engage directly with the narratives of the victims and survivors. The exhibition integrates cutting-edge media, including interactive elements and audio storytelling, to ensure a visceral connection to the events of that day.

The program is overseen by Stephen Smith, a documentary filmmaker renowned for his work chronicling the testimonies of Holocaust survivors. His focus has now shifted to preserving the experiences of those who endured the trauma of October 7.

Founded in 2017, ISRAEL-is is a nonprofit group dedicated to grassroots advocacy on behalf of Israel. The organization collaborates with the IDF, Israeli universities, and international communities, aiming to present Israel’s story in a candid, educational, and impactful manner to audiences around the globe.

{Matzav.com}

American officials are currently weighing the possibility of cutting their backing for UNIFIL, the United Nations peacekeeping mission stationed in southern Lebanon, in an effort to reduce the financial burden associated with maintaining the force, Yisroel Hayom reported on Sunday night. Later in the day, American sources confirmed to The Times of Israel that this potential move is under serious discussion.

If the United States does decide to withdraw its support from UNIFIL, Israel is expected to support the decision, Yisroel Hayom noted. This support stems both from Israel’s interest in standing with the administration of President Donald Trump and from its military’s current working relationship with the Lebanese army, which has improved since the ceasefire that took effect last November.

The report explained that the presence of the Lebanese Armed Forces in the south of the country has shown tangible success in limiting Hezbollah’s ability to regroup and rearm. Because of this, many of UNIFIL’s roles are now considered unnecessary or overlapping with the Lebanese military’s efforts.

Sources familiar with the discussions told The Times of Israel that Washington has not yet reached a final decision. However, the administration is pushing for serious changes within UNIFIL. If these reforms are not forthcoming, pulling support remains a real possibility.

Since UNIFIL operates under a UN Security Council mandate that must be renewed yearly, the U.S. could effectively end the mission by vetoing the upcoming renewal resolution, which is expected to be presented in August.

UNIFIL has had a presence in southern Lebanon since 1978, originally set up to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli forces following a military conflict between the two countries. Its scope significantly widened after the 2006 Second Lebanon War.

After the 2006 war, the Security Council passed Resolution 1701, which expanded UNIFIL’s authority and allowed peacekeepers to deploy along the Israeli border. Their mission included assisting the Lebanese military in asserting control over the southern region of the country, something it had not done in decades.

Resolution 1701 also demanded a full end to hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah and called for Hezbollah’s disarmament. Since then, the UN has extended UNIFIL’s mandate on a yearly basis, though critics continue to question how effective the force has actually been in achieving its objectives.

After more than a year of fighting with Hezbollah—punctuated by intense conflict over a two-month span—a ceasefire was established. In the aftermath, the Lebanese army deployed to southern Lebanon to implement the terms outlined in Resolution 1701.

The resolution stipulates that Hezbollah must move its forces to the north of the Litani River, a distance of roughly 30 kilometers from the Israeli border, and must dismantle any military positions in southern Lebanon.

Speaking to The Wall Street Journal last month, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam claimed that his government had already fulfilled 80 percent of its goals when it came to disarming Hezbollah and other militias operating in the south.

Despite this, the IDF has continued its campaign of precise attacks targeting Hezbollah figures and infrastructure, citing ongoing violations of the ceasefire. According to IDF data, more than 180 members of Hezbollah have been eliminated in the process.

{Matzav.com}

Shas party leader Rav Aryeh Deri paid a visit on Sunday to the Or Chaviv shul in Yerushalayim, just hours after a devastating blaze that investigators say was deliberately set.

He was joined by the Rishon LeTzion, Rav Yitzchak Yosef, and together they surveyed the damage alongside senior members of the police and the Shin Bet.

“There is no greater hate crime than this. To come and burn a shul – this is an unforgivable act,” Rav Deri said, clearly shaken. “We saw the burned seforim, and it’s a great miracle that the Aron Kodesh and Sifrei Torah were spared. It breaks the heart.”

According to Rav Deri, the police and Shin Bet told him they’re closing in on the perpetrators and are hopeful that arrests will be made within a short time. But more than the technical side, he spoke about the spiritual and societal breakdown reflected in such an act. “Beyond the investigation, there is a clear message: enough with the hatred, enough with the incitement. Look where this kind of discourse leads. It’s not just about debates in television studios—ultimately, there are extremists who act on these messages and commit terrible crimes.”

He stressed how close the tragedy came to being even worse. “We could have come here today to find no shul and no Sifrei Torah, God forbid. It’s a great miracle the firefighters arrived quickly and managed to extinguish the fire.”

Calling for national introspection and an end to the toxic climate that allows such violence to take root, Rav Deri said: “Words can kill. Imagine if such an event had occurred in France or any other country—we would be outraged. We must not accept this kind of reality in the State of Israel.”

Security forces are continuing to investigate the attack and are reportedly pursuing several leads.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee head Yuli Edelstein has indicated he would be open to removing a proposed penalty in the current conscription bill that would strip property tax discounts from members of the ultra-Orthodox community who avoid military service—so long as other punitive measures in the legislation remain intact, according to a Channel 12 report.

The remaining sanctions expected to stay in the draft law include eliminating subsidized public transportation for draft evaders, rescinding tax breaks for employed women married to them, excluding them from eligibility in the national housing lottery, and cutting off access to government-funded daycare and academic tuition assistance. Additionally, the bill aims to block those who refuse to serve until age 29 from acquiring driver’s licenses or leaving the country, and subjects them to possible arrest.

Edelstein has consistently vowed that any legislation his committee passes will impose penalties on those who avoid the draft. That stance has sparked sharp backlash from ultra-Orthodox parties, who have warned that they might dismantle the coalition government in response.

A representative from Degel HaTorah, a faction within the United Torah Judaism alliance, told Channel 12 News: “As of now, everything is up in the air. We want clear agreements.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

The Zakan Roshei Yeshiva, Hagaon HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky is now seated at the dais at the maamad Adirei Hatorah.

Activists aboard the ship “Madleen,” currently en route to the Gaza coastline in an effort to challenge Israel’s naval blockade, reported early Monday that a security alert was triggered on board. However, they later clarified that the alarm was ultimately a false one.

According to a message shared in the flotilla’s Telegram channel, “An alarm was sounded on deck, and life jackets are ready in case of an attempted takeover of the ship.” A follow-up message soon after stated, “The vessel that approached us has left. All eyes on deck, all eyes on Gaza.”

Responding to the situation, Israel’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement reiterating the legal status of the blockade. “The maritime zone off the coast of Gaza is closed to unauthorized vessels under a legal naval blockade, consistent with international law,” the statement read.

The Ministry dismissed the flotilla’s stated mission as disingenuous. “The yacht is claiming that it is delivering humanitarian aid. In fact, it is a media gimmick for publicity (which includes less than a single truckload of aid) – a ‘selfie yacht’.”

The statement emphasized that aid efforts are already in place and functioning effectively. “Humanitarian aid is delivered regularly and effectively via different channels and routes, and is transferred through established distribution mechanisms. Over the past two weeks, more than 1,200 aid trucks have entered Gaza from Israel. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has distributed close to 11 million meals directly to civilians in Gaza,” the Ministry asserted.

Citing security risks, the Ministry warned of the potential danger the flotilla presents. “The Gaza maritime zone remains an active conflict area, and Hamas has previously exploited sea routes for terrorist attacks, including the October 7th massacre. Unauthorized attempts to breach the blockade are dangerous, unlawful, and undermine ongoing humanitarian efforts,” it stated.

Officials concluded with a call for responsibility. “We call on all actors to act responsibly and to channel humanitarian aid through legitimate, coordinated mechanisms, not through provocation.”

The “Madleen” flotilla includes a number of well-known progressive figures. Among them are environmental activist Greta Thunberg, actor Liam Cunningham of “Game of Thrones” fame, and Rima Hassan, a member of the European Parliament from France.

Defense Minister Israel Katz has directed the IDF to block the ship’s progress using all necessary force. He stressed that the vessel must not be permitted to arrive in Gaza.

“The State of Israel will not allow anyone to violate the maritime blockade on Gaza, which exists primarily to prevent the transfer of weapons to Hamas—a murderous terrorist organization that holds our hostages and commits war crimes,” Katz said.

“I have instructed the IDF to ensure that the ‘Madleen’ flotilla does not reach Gaza. To the antisemitic Greta and her Hamas-propaganda-spreading friends, I say this clearly: you’d better turn back—you will not reach Gaza. Israel will act against any attempt to break the blockade or support terrorist organizations—by sea, air, or land.”

In anticipation of the flotilla’s approach, the Israeli Navy has held drills simulating an interception. As the vessel nears Israeli waters, naval teams plan to make contact with those on board and notify them of their unauthorized entry.

Sailors have been instructed that if the crew agrees to retreat, they will be allowed to do so peacefully. Should they refuse, the elite Shayetet 13 commandos will board the vessel and escort it to the port city of Ashdod.

{Matzav.com}

Negotiations over a potential hostage deal between Israel and Hamas have stalled again, according to two individuals with direct knowledge of the talks. Their comments follow recent signals of cautious hope from mediators, who believed Hamas might be softening its stance toward the proposal brought forward by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff.

During a meeting in Washington last week with families of hostages, Witkoff expressed confidence that a significant breakthrough could be achieved ahead of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, which began on Friday, a person present at the meeting reported. Yet even if that optimism had translated into an agreement, further indirect talks would have been required to iron out remaining issues, including the scope and timeline of Israel’s proposed military pullback.

An Arab official involved in the mediation effort said that Hamas is refusing to proceed unless the proposal includes more explicit guarantees that Israel will not resume military operations if a permanent ceasefire is not finalized within the 60-day timeframe outlined in Witkoff’s plan for a truce and phased hostage release.

Witkoff’s proposal currently allows Israel to restart military action if negotiations on a permanent truce fail after two months. The U.S. envoy has reportedly pushed mediators to pressure Hamas to accept this flexibility, promising that Washington would ensure the transition from temporary to permanent ceasefire once a deal is underway, the Arab official explained.

But Hamas remains skeptical, citing Israel’s decision to resume combat operations in March despite prior agreements that included a commitment to negotiate a permanent ceasefire following a truce in January, the Arab official continued.

The same official criticized the U.S. for deferring too much to Israel’s refusal to agree to an initial temporary ceasefire, arguing that American officials should apply more forceful pressure on the Israeli government to adjust its position.

“If Israel agreed to a permanent ceasefire, [it] could get all of the hostages back at once,” the Arab official said. “Instead [it’s] trying to fight until the last Hamas fighter, and this will never end.”

When asked whether Hamas should also face increased pressure, the official maintained that mediators have been actively engaging the group, which has already indicated willingness to accept a temporary arrangement. However, he acknowledged that the language Hamas is demanding would effectively turn any temporary truce into a long-term one by making it difficult for Israel to resume fighting.

Despite the impasse, a second person familiar with the situation confirmed that mediators are still trying to persuade Hamas to revise its response to Witkoff’s plan, which the envoy dismissed as “unacceptable” when first received late last month.

Witkoff has continued to call on Hamas to accept the framework he proposed, so the parties can begin proximity talks to resolve final disagreements.

If Hamas shows sufficient signs of movement toward compromise, Witkoff might travel to the region to help seal the agreement, the second source said. However, mediators are reluctant to green-light the trip unless they believe the chances of concluding a deal are strong.

{Matzav.com}

As tensions intensify over the draft law crisis threatening to fracture Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s sixth government, new efforts are underway to prevent the withdrawal of chareidi parties from the coalition. In a high-stakes meeting Thursday between Netanyahu, Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chairman MK Yoel “Yuli” Edelstein, and former minister Ariel Attias, no resolution was reached.

But now, according to sources close to the Prime Minister, a compromise proposal has been floated to delay the implementation of controversial sanctions against Torah learners by several months. This delay would come after the passage of the draft law and is intended to ease the mounting pressure on coalition partners.

Initially, Netanyahu’s office downplayed the threats by chareidi factions to quit the government, but once it became clear that the ultimatum was real and imminent, last-ditch efforts were launched to keep the chareidi parties in the coalition at least through the end of the Knesset’s summer session.

Despite these attempts, Thursday’s hours-long meeting reportedly ended without agreement, despite a late-night statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office implying progress.

As reported extensively here, Edelstein remains firm on his stance. Sources close to him reiterated on this Sunday evening, “The sanctions will take effect from the first minute. Even from a technical standpoint, there is no other possibility.”

Meanwhile, chareidi political insiders have grown weary of Netanyahu’s repeated promises. Askanim remarked, “If by Wednesday there is no finalized, mutually agreed draft law, we will vote to dissolve the Knesset. Enough with the endless talk of ‘significant progress.’”

Particular attention is being paid to United Torah Judaism. While Minister Yitzchok Goldknopf is reportedly set to resign imminently following directives from the Gerrer Rebbe, Netanyahu’s main efforts are currently aimed at retaining the support of the other UTJ faction, Degel HaTorah.

Within Shas, as well as Degel HaTorah, there currently appears to be no immediate interest in quitting the coalition. However, there is growing consensus that if the draft law doesn’t pass or at least show tangible movement, remaining in the government may be pointless.

Channel 12 reported tonight that in addition to the sanctions first revealed earlier here on Matzav.com, the Finance Ministry is holding a broader set of financial penalties that could be imposed on the olam haTorah without requiring additional legislation. These include the cancellation of mortgage subsidies, cuts to after-school program discounts, removal of reduced fares for public transportation, and elimination of discounts on municipal property tax and National Insurance payments.

{Matzav.com Israel}

The nosi of the Great Rabbinical Court, Rishon L’Tzion Rav Dovid Yosef, issued a forceful rebuttal on Sunday evening following allegations raised earlier by Rav Kalman Ber regarding political interference in the appointment of dayanim. Rav Yosef firmly rejected the claims of improper influence and emphasized his personal responsibility for all judicial appointments.

“If someone feels threatened, let them say so,” declared Rav Yosef in a public statement. “I am the President of the Great Rabbinical Court and I personally take full responsibility for every appointment. No unworthy dayan will be appointed to the Great Rabbinical Court … I guarantee that. I am familiar with the rulings of every candidate, and I have thoroughly studied the character of each one. These are individuals of outstanding caliber.”

The controversy erupted earlier in the day after recordings were released in which Rav Kalman Ber claimed that appointments to the Great Rabbinical Court had been made under political pressure, and even threats, allegedly from Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich. In response, new recordings emerged of Rav Yosef speaking at a judicial appointments committee meeting, where he categorically dismissed the accusations.

During his remarks, Rav Yosef detailed the seven candidates he supports for promotion, praising their qualifications, scholarship, and judicial records:

• Rav Avraham Shalosh, Raavad of Haifa – “A brilliant young talmid chacham, appointed temporarily purely on merit.”

• Rav Dovid Berdugo, dayan in Yerushalayim – “28 years of judicial experience, with unique contributions to halachic rulings.”

• Rav Tzvi Yehuda Ben Yaakov – “Among the most senior dayanim, already served a temporary term on the Supreme Rabbinical Court.”

• Rav Shneur Pardes, Raavad of Netanya – “A powerhouse in Torah, known for his precise rulings that have stood up on appeal.”

• Rav Meir Freiman, Av Beis Din of Yerushalayim – “I met him only recently, but he has proven to be one of the most outstanding dayanim.”

• Rav Yigal Lerer – “A veteran in the system, whose Torah greatness is exceptional.”

• Rav Moshe Amsalem – “A true reformer in the dayanus world. His judgment is particularly impressive.”

In addition, MK Penina Tamano-Shata, who was mentioned in the leaked recordings as someone who allegedly faced political threats, also dismissed the claims. “There were no threats. If someone feels threatened, they should speak up,” she said.

Regarding Rav Kalman Ber’s assertion that the Dati Leumi community was not consulted during the process, officials involved in the rabbinic appointments deal stressed that the moves were coordinated with leading rabbinic figures. Among them were Rav Yaakov Shapiro, Rosh Yeshiva of Mercaz HaRav and a senior figure in the religious Zionist Torah world, as well as numerous other prominent rabbanim and dayanim.

{Matzav.com Israel}

Aura, a real estate development firm, confirmed to Arutz Sheva–Israel National News that human remains were extracted from one of its construction sites in Yehud, located in central Israel. The company emphasized that the removal was conducted in strict accordance with halacha (Jewish law) and under the guidance of an Orthodox rabbi with expertise in these matters.

This acknowledgment followed a decision by the Israel Antiquities Authority to file a complaint with the police and freeze construction activities. The suspension came after unauthorized individuals entered the site during the night, removed human remains, and took archaeological artifacts—an act considered a serious breach of Israeli law.

The Antiquities Authority reported that those involved were acting on behalf of Aura. It expressed deep concern over the incident, declaring, “The Antiquities Authority sees this incident with great severity. Antiquities are the heritage of us all.”

The disputed project is part of a major redevelopment initiative in Yehud involving the demolition of ten aging buildings and the planned construction of 444 new residential units. For weeks, radical chareidi demonstrators have protested at the site, alleging the presence of Jewish graves beneath the area designated for development.

In response to the Antiquities Authority’s actions, Aura rejected the legality of the stop-work order, calling it an unjustified concession to extremists. The company insisted it had complied fully with the terms set by the authority and pointed out that the bones discovered did not meet the legal criteria to be defined as antiquities, thereby rendering the order invalid in their view.

Aura further claimed that the halt in construction has inflicted significant financial losses and accused the Antiquities Authority of failing to honor its commitments. The company warned that if the construction ban is not lifted, it will consider taking legal measures.

The company confirmed that human remains were found at the site, explaining, “Since the remains were not removed, and in order to avoid further delays to the construction and to ensure the respectful handling of the remains in accordance with halacha, our company engaged a recognized Orthodox rabbi and a professional experienced in this field, including with the ZAKA organization. Indeed, on Friday and Saturday night, work began to remove the remains, with coordination as required with the Chevra Kadisha to ensure burial in a recognized cemetery according to halachic law. It should be noted that our company even purchased burial plots for this purpose. All actions were carried out according to the professional guidance of the rabbi and the expert present on site.”

Tensions escalated further late Thursday night when dozens of chareidi rioters stormed the homes of Aura’s senior executives in Tel Aviv. They vandalized property, hurled bags of excrement, and physically assaulted members of CEO Yaakov Atrakchi’s family. The deputy CEO’s home was also targeted with similar acts of destruction.

Aura denounced these attacks as “a dangerous escalation” and revealed that only a week earlier, the graves of Atrakchi’s parents had been desecrated. The company also criticized law enforcement, claiming the police had received prior warnings about the planned assaults but failed to intervene.

{Matzav.com Israel}

On Sunday, Transportation Minister Miri Regev granted an official Israeli trade license to Tus Air, a Cypriot airline, marking a significant step in expanding Israel’s aviation network.

With this authorization in place, Tus Air is now positioned to begin operating new flight routes connecting Israel to multiple destinations, including those beyond Europe. The airline will also be formally recognized as part of the group of Israeli-licensed carriers.

Minister Regev commented on the development, saying, “This is consumer and strategic news that will contribute to expanding competition, grow the number of destinations, and lead to a decrease in airfare. This is the second carrier to join the Israeli fleet.”

Tus Air is expected to complete the final stages of its operational certification shortly. Once approved, it will join the ranks of Israeli carriers such as ELAL, Israir, and Air Haifa—a new airline that began service in 2024 and operates flights from Haifa to both domestic and international locations.

{Matzav.com Israel}