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In a rare and stirring display, live sheep were brought into the main Bobov beis medrash in Boro Park this Chol Hamoed Pesach for a special ceremony marking the completion of Maseches Chullin by the Kinyan Torah chaburah. The centerpiece of the event was the presentation of matanos kehunah—gifts from slaughtered animals that are halachically given to kohanim—a mitzvah rarely fulfilled in modern times.

The event drew a massive crowd, so large that many attendees had to watch from an adjacent hall via live feed.

A specially constructed platform was erected in the center of the beis medrash so that all present could witness the unique proceedings.

The Bobov choir, under the direction of Reb Mordechai Wolf Landau, added a melodic backdrop to the event.

rav Aharon Zuberman, maggid shiur of the Kinyan Torah chaburah, offered a detailed and articulate explanation of each halachic step involved in the ritual, clarifying the significance and legal intricacies of the process.

The honor of presenting the reishis hagez—the first shearings of wool, one of the matanos kehunah—was given to Rav Chaim Dovid Bloom, a mashpia in the chassidus. He handed the gift to Rav Menachem Mendel HaKohen Katz, av beis din of Raslawitz in Boro Park, who graciously received the gifts, offered words of bracha, and recited Birchas Kohanim for the assembled.

Two prominent philanthropists, Rabbi Avrohom Aharon Lazar and Rabbi Avrohom Yaakov Rieger, served as representatives of the thousands of participants in the learning program and presented the additional gifts—zeroa, lechayayim, and keiva—to a group of kohanim: Rav Dovid Yehoshua HaKohen Rosengarten, Rav Ben Zion Kadrat, and Rav Avrohom Mordechai Grodzinsky, all distinguished members of the Bobover kehillah.

Later, the Bobover Rebbe led a festive tish in honor of Chol Hamoed and the siyum of Maseches Chullin, attended by thousands of chassidim. The guest speaker was Rav Yitzchok Wolpin, a noted mashpia in the Karlin-Stolin community and a rosh mesivta at Yeshivas Kedushas Tzion in Bobov.

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{Matzav.com}

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has formally submitted referrals to the Department of Justice against two individuals she says unlawfully disclosed classified information to media outlets, as the Trump administration intensifies its efforts to clamp down on leaks across federal departments.

According to Gabbard, 44, one of the suspected individuals is responsible for providing classified material to the Washington Post, while the second allegedly gave sensitive documents to the New York Times.

“A third criminal referral is on its way,” Gabbard said in a statement on Wednesday, adding that this third person is believed to have also funneled classified content to the Washington Post without authorization.

While the exact nature of the leaks has not yet been made public, Gabbard’s actions are being interpreted as a clear message to others within the government who may consider releasing sensitive data to journalists.

Investigations into internal leaks are also gaining momentum at the Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security, where some leaders are reportedly weighing the use of lie detector tests to identify those responsible.

“Politicization of our intelligence and leaking classified information puts our nation’s security at risk and must end,” Gabbard said in a statement. “Those who leak classified information will be found and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

“I look forward to working with the Justice Department and FBI to investigate, terminate and prosecute these criminals.”

Gabbard stated that those behind the leaks are attempting to sabotage President Trump’s policies and hinder his administration’s national security initiatives.

Whether or not charges will ultimately be brought against the accused individuals remains a decision for the Department of Justice.

Earlier this month, Gabbard launched a new internal unit called the Director’s Initiative Group, which is tasked with increasing transparency within the intelligence sector. A key part of the group’s responsibility is targeting the unauthorized release of classified materials.

In recent weeks, Gabbard came under fire from lawmakers on the House and Senate Intelligence Committees following revelations about a Signal messaging group she was part of that had been exposed in a leak.

The Signal chat had reportedly been established by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who unintentionally added Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, to the group.

Meanwhile, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed that U.S. forces launched airstrikes against Houthi targets in mid-March.

{Matzav.com}

China on Thursday denied U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that the two sides were involved in active negotiations over tariffs, saying that any suggestion of progress in this matter was as groundless as “trying to catch the wind.” China’s comments come after Trump said Tuesday that the final tariff rate on China’s exports would come down “substantially” from the current 145%. “China’s position is consistent and we are open to consultations and dialogues, but any form of consultations and negotiations must be conducted on the basis of mutual respect and in an equal manner,” said Ministry of Commerce spokesman He Yadong. “Any claims about the progress of China-U.S. trade negotiations are groundless as trying to catch the wind and have no factual basis.” Trump had told reporters earlier in the week that “everything’s active” when asked if he was engaging with China, although his Treasury Secretary had said there were no formal negotiations. Trump had put 145% tariffs on imports from China, while China hit back with 125% tariffs on U.S. products. While Trump has given other countries a 90-day pause on the tariffs, as their leaders pledged to negotiate with the U.S., China remained the exception. Instead, Beijing raised its own tariffs and deployed other economic measures in response while vowing to “fight to the end.” For example, China restricted exports of rare earth minerals and raised multiple cases against the U.S. at the World Trade Organization. China also made it clear that talks should involve the cancellation of all tariffs it currently faces. “The unilateral tariff increase measures were initiated by the United States. If the United States really wants to solve the problem, it should face up to the rational voices of the international community and all parties at home, completely cancel all unilateral tariff measures against China, and find ways to resolve differences through equal dialogue,” said He, the spokesman. Despite the economic measures leveled against China, Trump said Tuesday that he would be “very nice” and not play hardball with Chinese President Xi Jinping. “We’re going to live together very happily and ideally work together,” Trump said. (AP)

Whether the threat was abusive Hamas guards, hunger, illness or Israeli strikes, there were moments during Tal Shoham’s 505 days of captivity in Gaza when he didn’t think he’d be alive the next morning. There were “many times that I separated from life and … tried to accept death,” the 40-year-old Israeli, who also holds Austrian citizenship, told The Associated Press. “There are so many ways to die there.” Shoham was one of dozens of hostages released from Gaza in February as part of a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel that has since been broken. His wife, two children and three other family members were also kidnapped on Oct. 7, 2023, and were freed a month later. Shoham said he spent half his captivity in apartments and the rest in underground tunnels. He was sometimes bound, starved, beaten and threatened with death, and initially didn’t know if his family was alive. After his wife was released, Shoham said, someone identifying himself as a member of Hamas called to warn her not to talk about what she’d been through or they’d kill her husband. So as he recounted his own experience, Shoham said there were details he wouldn’t discuss, fearful of endangering remaining hostages. Shoham was kidnapped while visiting relatives in Kibbutz Be’eri. When Hamas attacked, he and his family hid in a safe room meant to offer protection from incoming rockets. But as the terrorists pried open a window and used explosives to try to break in, the family surrendered, a decision Shoham credits with saving their lives. Shoham was thrown into the back of a vehicle and taken into Gaza, not knowing what happened to his wife or children. Be’eri was among the hardest-hit communities that day. Before being separated, Shoham recalled telling his now 9-year-old son that he didn’t know if they were going to die. “I didn’t want him to hear a lie from me, if it’s the last minutes of our life,” he said. Upon entering Gaza, a terrorist jumped on the car’s roof, pointed his gun at Shoham and told him to kneel. But Shoham refused, not wanting to be killed on their terms, he said. He said the terrorist had “murder in his eyes.” Shoham was first taken to an apartment that his captors said was in northern Gaza. He spent weeks there, handcuffed and confined to a room. About a month later, he was moved to another apartment and joined by Evyatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal, hostages he would spend most of his captivity with. The two men were abducted from a music festival in southern Israel where at least 364 people were killed and dozens more taken hostage. Hearing about the conditions of their captivity made Shoham feel lucky about his own. They’d been kept in more uncomfortable zip-tie handcuffs, with plastic bags on their heads, he said, and fed one pita per day. The three lived in that apartment for months, where they endured daily beatings. Guards would taunt and humiliate them, asking how the music festival was and making shooting noises, Shoham said. Forbidden by their captors from speaking, they got to know each other through furtive whispers. To humanize himself in the eyes of his captors, and hopefully make them less likely to kill him, Shoham learned Arabic […]

South Korean prosecutors indicted former liberal President Moon Jae-in on bribery charges Thursday, saying that a budget airline gave his son-in-law a lucrative no-show job during Moon’s term in office. Moon’s indictment adds him to a long list of South Korean leaders who have faced trials or scandals at the close of their terms or after leaving office. Prosecutors allege that Moon, who served as president from 2017-2022, received bribes totaling 217 million won ($151,705) from Lee Sang-jik, founder of the budget carrier Thai Eastar Jet, in the form of wages, housing expenses and other financial assistance provided to Moon’s then-son-in-law from 2018-2020. South Korean media reported that Moon’s daughter and her husband were divorced in 2021. The Jeonju District Prosecutors’ Office said in a statement that Lee was also indicted on charges of paying bribes to Moon and committing breaches of trust. The prosecutors’ office said Moon’s former son-in-law was hired as a director-level employee at Lee’s company in Thailand even though he had no work experience in the airline industry. The office said he spent only brief periods at the company’s office in Thailand and carried out only minor duties while claiming to be working remotely from South Korea. The prosecutors’ office said it had not found evidence that Moon directly performed political favors for Lee, but that Lee, who worked on Moon’s campaign, likely expected his assistance to be repaid. Lee was later named the head of the state-funded Korea SME and Startups Agency and was nominated by Moon’s party to run for parliament while Moon was in office. A former Moon aide on personnel affairs was earlier indicted over Lee’s agency job appointment, but prosecutors said she refused to testify during questioning so they were unable to find any direct evidence that Moon helped Lee win that position. Moon’s indictment comes before South Korea elects a new president on June 3 to succeed conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was ousted over an ill-fated imposition of martial law in December. Yoon, a former top prosecutor, now stands a criminal trial on rebellion charges connection with his martial law decree. It’s unclear if Moon’s indictment will influence prospects for liberals to win back the presidency. But observers say liberal presidential aspirant Lee Jae-myung is heavily favored to win the vote as conservatives remain in disarray over Yoon’s ouster, although Lee also faces criminal trials on allegations of corruption and other charges. There was no immediate response from Moon. But his political allies at the main liberal opposition Democratic Party criticized the indictment, calling it a politically motivated attempt by Yoon supporters at the prosecution service to humiliate the former liberal leader ahead of the election. Youn Kun-young, a Democratic Party lawmaker who worked at Moon’s presidential office, accused prosecutors of trying to divert attention from Yoon’s “tragic end” by putting Moon on trial to influence the election outcome. A Democratic Party committee separately warned it would hold the prosecution service to account for its indictment. Most past South Korean presidents have been embroiled in scandal in the final months of their terms or after leaving office. In 2017, Park Geun-hye, South Korea’s first female president, was removed from office and arrested over an explosive corruption scandal. Park’s conservative predecessor Lee Myung-bak was also arrested on a range […]

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Israel’s Fire and Rescue Services reported on Thursday morning that their forces have gained control of the massive fire that has been raging since Wednesday morning in the forest areas near Beit Shemesh, in the Jerusalem hills. Over a hundred firefighting teams, aided by aircraft,  are still working to extinguish five remaining fires. However, all residents of three yishuvim near Beit Shemesh who were evacuated on Wednesday have been allowed to return to their homes and the roads in the area were reopened to traffic. “The incident is under control,”  Fire Commissioner Eyal Caspi announced: “I toured the area and was in all areas. The incident will end in the coming hours.” Many forces operated throughout the night, including KKL teams, the Nature and Parks Authority, security squads and volunteers. The Fire Commissioner praised the cooperation between all parties and emphasized their contribution to saving lives and property. It is estimated that about 10,000 dunams [2,500 acres] of forests and fields have been burned. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

HaGaon Harav Dov Landau was hospitalized on Thursday monring in  Mayanei HaYeshua Hospital for tests after suffering a fall at home overnight. The Rosh Yeshivah, 95, suffered from severe pain after the fall and was not able to attend Shacharis in the yeshivah. After arriving in the hospital, HaRav Landau underwent a series of tests and X-rays, and he remains hospitalized for medical observation for the time being. Members of his household said that the Rosh Yeshivah’s condition is good but called to the public to daven for his general well-being and a refuah sheleimah. The name for tefillah is Efraim Dov ben Devorah b’toch sha’ar cholei Yisrael. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

New Haven, CT – Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir faced a hostile reception during a visit to Yale University on Wednesday, when anti-Israel protesters threw water bottles and chanted slogans as he briefly exited a building, according to footage and statements from Ben-Gvir’s office. The incident occurred during the minister’s trip to the United States, where he was engaging in diplomatic and public engagements. Video evidence shows a group of approximately 200 protesters, some waving Palestinian flags, gathered outside the building where Ben-Gvir was located. As the minister stepped outside, accompanied by aides, the crowd began chanting anti-Israel slogans, including “Free Palestine” and “Shame on you.” Protesters then threw multiple water bottles toward Ben-Gvir and his entourage. No injuries were reported, and Ben-Gvir quickly reentered the building for safety. In response to the provocation, Ben-Gvir was seen making a V-sign toward the crowd, while one of his aides waved an Israeli flag defiantly before retreating indoors. Ben-Gvir’s office condemned the protesters’ actions, describing the incident as an attempt to intimidate and silence a senior Israeli official. “The minister will not be deterred by violent acts or provocations and remains committed to representing Israel’s interests abroad,” the statement read. Yale University issued a statement acknowledging the protest but emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of all campus visitors. Local police were present at the scene, though no arrests were reported. The incident has reignited debates about the boundaries of protest and the treatment of Israeli officials abroad, with some Jewish advocacy groups calling for stronger measures to protect visiting dignitaries. Ben-Gvir’s office stated that the minister continued his schedule undeterred, though specific details about his remaining engagements in the U.S. were not disclosed for security reasons. The episode underscores the challenges faced by Israeli officials navigating increasingly polarized environments on international stages. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

On the occasion of Yom Hashoah, President Donald Trump issued a powerful proclamation paying homage to the victims of the Holocaust and reaffirming America’s commitment to fighting antisemitism in all its forms.

“We honor the blessed memories of the six million Jewish men, women, and children who were viciously slaughtered by the genocidal Nazi regime and their collaborators,” Trump declared, opening with a solemn tribute to those murdered by the Nazis.

He recalled this year’s 80th anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation, highlighting the enduring weight of that moment in history. “We memorialized the lives of the mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, daughters, sons, grandmothers, and grandfathers whose futures were barbarically ripped away in Nazi-occupied Europe,” Trump stated.

Trump emphasized the importance of remembering the lessons of the Holocaust and preserving the testimony of its survivors. “We once again honor every Holocaust survivor who has imparted their wisdom to younger generations. Today and every day, we commit to preserving their stories.”

Reflecting on Jewish resilience, Trump pointed to the establishment of Israel as a powerful response to the horror of the Shoah. “Even in the wake of the Holocaust, a self-determined Jewish homeland rose from the ashes as the modern State of Israel,” he said.

He then turned to the urgent reality of contemporary antisemitism, connecting it to recent events. “Sadly, our Nation has borne witness to the worst outbreak of antisemitism on American soil in generations,” he warned, referencing the horrific Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. “Nearly every day following the deadly…attack on Israel, Jewish Americans were threatened on our streets and in our public square.”

Trump outlined measures he enacted to protect Jews and crack down on hate. “As President, I signed an Executive Order directing the Federal Government to use all available and appropriate legal tools to combat the explosion of antisemitic harassment in our schools and on college campuses — including through the removal of resident aliens who violate our laws,” he said.

He condemned the toxic climate found in many academic institutions. “In leftist, anti-American colleges and universities,” Trump continued, antisemitic attitudes have been given disturbing space to flourish.

The statement concluded with a call for collective remembrance and action. “We cherish the eternal memories of all those whose lives were lost to the deadly scourge of antisemitism. Above all, we vow to never forget the atrocities of the Holocaust. We declare that never again means now.”

{Matzav.com}

President Trump confirmed he was building two new flag poles on the White House lawn after the press captured him surveying the grounds Wednesday afternoon.

“We’re putting up a beautiful, almost 100-foot-tall American flag on this side and another one on the other side, two flags, top of the line,” Trump told reporters.

There are currently no freestanding flagpoles on the White House grounds, but there is an American flag flying from the top of the building.

“They needed flagpoles for 200 years. It was something I’ve often said, you know, they don’t have a flagpole per se. So we’re putting one right where you saw us, and we’re putting another one on the other side, on top of the mounds. It’s going to be two beautiful poles,” Trump added.

“Paid for by Trump,” the president added, noting they are set to arrive next week.

Watch Trump’s announcement below:

Another clip below:

{Matzav.com}

We’ll always have Kikar Hashabbos but the city’s grown There’s a new iconic intersection in Yerushalayim. It’s the vibrant crossroads of Yirmiyahu and Shamgar, where the pulse of the modern city beats strongest. Here Yerushalayim’s past meets its future. Just off this famous corner, Y38, a sophisticated residential building rises.  Designed by the renowned Feigin Architects, whose portfolio includes prestigious projects like the Waldorf Astoria, Y38 challenges conventional Jerusalem architecture while paying homage to the city’s timeless character. The striking 40-unit boutique building features a distinctive façade that harmoniously blends contemporary design with Jerusalem stone, creating an immediate visual impact. Beyond its prime location at the nexus of convenience – with dozens of shuls, bakeries, and trendy boutiques down the block – Y38 offers a living experience crafted for the discerning resident. Each of the 3-6 room apartments boasts thoughtfully designed spaces with high ceilings and full-height windows that frame Jerusalem’s famous blue skies. Large balconies, with space for a sukka, extend living spaces outdoors, while premium finishes and state-of-the-art systems elevate daily life. The building’s amenities rival those of luxury hotels, including a sophisticated business lounge, fully-equipped fitness center, relaxing spa, and a resident’s hall for celebrations. For added convenience a beautiful on-site shul and private mikvas are available all without leaving the building, while three levels of underground parking ensure seamless vehicle accommodation. Y38’s location perfectly serves the English-speaking community that has long favored this neighborhood. From Ganei Romema to Ganei Geula, Shefa and Tnvua the area has evolved into a comfortable enclave where residents connect through shared language and values, united by their love for Eretz Yisrael. The development’s innovative features include VRF air conditioning with individual room controls, smart home technology, electric underfloor heating, and charging stations for electric vehicles. Security and convenience are enhanced through motorized smart locks with multiple access options and a sophisticated intercom system. As a testament to Ir Shalem Group’s commitment to excellence, Y38 represents more than just an address – it’s a statement of arrival, a private retreat in the city’s center where modern luxury meets traditional Jerusalem living. With its perfect blend of location, design, and amenities, Y38 sets a new standard for sophisticated urban living in Jerusalem’s evolving landscape. For more information >>>

At a Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremony held at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, Abe Foxman—who once headed the Anti-Defamation League—delivered a strong rebuke of certain policies seen under the Trump administration.

“As a [Holocaust] survivor, my antenna quivers when I see books being banned, when I see people being abducted in the streets, when I see government trying to dictate what universities should teach and whom they should teach. As a survivor who came to this country as an immigrant, I’m troubled when I hear immigrants and immigration being demonized,” Foxman said, prompting extended applause from those gathered.

Foxman, who served nearly thirty years as the ADL’s leader, made these remarks during his speech at the 2025 Days of Remembrance ceremony, which was organized by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and took place in the nation’s capital.

Despite his criticism, Foxman also acknowledged the efforts by both President Biden and President Trump to confront the rising tide of antisemitism. “We live in very chaotic times, where our values, our history, our democracy are being tested. As a survivor, I’m horrified at the explosion of antisemitism — global and in the U.S. I’m appreciative of President Biden’s historic initiative on antisemitism and thankful to President Trump’s strong condemnation of antisemitism and his promise to bring back consequences to antisemitic behavior,” he stated.

Foxman turned his attention to growing hate across college campuses and around the world following the October 7 terror attack against Israel, warning of how social media platforms amplify extremist rhetoric. “We look around us and what do we see? Rampant antisemitism on college campuses and in cities worldwide in the aftermath of that horrific terror attack on our cherished Jewish state, Israel. We see social media algorithms that promote extreme views, conspiracy theories,” he said. “Online conspiracy theories are just one click away from antisemitism.”

He described how antisemitic sentiments today are surfacing in shocking new forms. “We also see forms of antisemitism that seemed unthinkable: Holocaust denial, distortion, civilization, exploitation and even glorification. We look around and see here in America antisemitism on both the far left and far right. The 20th-century history of Nazism and communism should be an alarm bell as to just how dangerous this is, and not just for us Jews, but for all of society, for all who care about democracy, individual freedom and dignity,” Foxman emphasized.

Drawing a historical parallel, Foxman warned that the current situation resembles how antisemitic ideology intensified in Europe before Hitler came to power. “Antisemitism [is] not so different from the conspiracy theories that permeated Europe for centuries, long before Hitler was born and helped make the killings of two-thirds of our people possible,” he remarked.

Also addressing the event was Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who drew sobering comparisons between the Holocaust and recent atrocities. He called the Holocaust “a failure of humanity,” placing it in the same moral category as the 9/11 attacks and the October 7 massacre in Israel.

“The Holocaust was a failure of humanity. But as we all know, no matter how hard we try, that kind of hatred continues to exist, just in many, many other forms. It shows up in different ways, and it shows up at different times,” Lutnick said.

He argued that the nature of the October 7 attack echoed past genocides. “The Oct. 7 attack,” Lutnick said, “was carried out with the same genocidal hatred that fueled Auschwitz, and it’s that same disregard for human life that fueled the Sept. 11 attacks. It’s just the same hate, it just comes at a different time with a different name.”

With visible emotion, Lutnick concluded his speech with a powerful pledge of support for Jewish communities. He declared “in very, very clear and plain language” that Trump “will never back down from defending the Jewish people, never.”

{Matzav.com}

In a powerful and emotionally charged address delivered on Chol Hamoed, the Rebbe of Shevet Levi issued a stark warning to parents, urging vigilance in guiding their children to proper chassan and kallah instructors before marriage.

The Rebbe’s remarks came during a special derashah to parents and yungeleit, delivered on the day following the tenth yahrtzeit of his grandfather, Rav Shmuel Wosner zt”l, author of Shevet Halevi.

The talk, deeply rooted in the Torah outlook of his revered grandfather, focused on foundational guidance for building a kosher Jewish home. Addressing the struggles many parents face as their children reach marriageable age, the Rebbe spoke candidly about the widespread delays in shidduchim and the growing phenomenon of older single men and women within the community.

He attributed this troubling reality in part to the sharp decline in the number of active shadchanim. “There’s a serious shortage,” he noted, “and one reason is that people don’t treat shadchanim with the respect they deserve. There’s often a dismissive attitude, and we fail to compensate them fairly.”

The Rebbe implored the public to change their perspective and elevate the status of shadchanim, both in how they are regarded and how they are remunerated. “We must give them kavod,” he emphasized, “and pay them more than what has, until now, been customary.”

Another point of concern he raised was the distorted priorities some parents have when searching for a match. “Many times,” he said, “parents are looking for a shidduch that matches their criteria—status, money, or social image—rather than what is truly suitable for their son or daughter.”

As the drashah drew to a close, the Rebbe shifted his focus to a deeply distressing matter he said had come to his attention in recent months.

“There is a breach,” he stated solemnly, “a dangerous breach. Some chassanim and kallahs are going to instructors who distort the sanctity of the Jewish home. They twist the Torah’s view—both in outlook and in halachah—to align with foreign values, Rachmana litzlan. This is not the mesorah passed down from generation to generation.”

He called upon parents to be scrupulous in verifying the credentials and yiras Shamayim of the instructors to whom they entrust their children. “It is an absolute obligation,” he stressed, “to send our children only to upright, Torah-true, G-d-fearing guides as they prepare to establish their homes.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

President Donald Trump is putting his “touches” on the White House with new flagpoles, new artwork, an overhaul of the Oval Office decor and possibly covering up the lawn in the Rose Garden. Trump, a former real estate developer and hotelier, said Wednesday that he’s adding two “beautiful” flagpoles to the grounds to fly the American flag in about a week. The Republican president recently hung new artworks featuring himself, including a rendering of him with his fist raised after last year’s attempted assassination in Pennsylvania. He has redecorated the Oval Office by adding portraits of all of his predecessors, a wall-mounted copy of the Declaration of Independence that is shielded by dark drapes and many golden accents. Trump has also talked about paving over the lawn in the Kennedy-era Rose Garden. He even remarked on the grass on Wednesday, telling reporters he recalled a recent event where “the grass was very wet and it was very hard for people to stand on the grass. They got their shoes all ruined.” All families granted the privilege of living in the White House try to find ways to leave their mark on the property, and Trump isn’t any different. Near the end of his first term, he and first lady Melania Trump unveiled a refurbished tennis court and a new pavilion on the south grounds. Michelle Obama’s vegetable garden is still producing. But Trump is a “real estate developer at heart” and is always looking to improve the White House, spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Wednesday. New flag poles Earlier Wednesday, Trump took an impromptu stroll outside toward the Pennsylvania Avenue fence with head groundskeeper Dale Haney and other staff members. Asked what he was doing, Trump said he was scoping out a location for a flagpole. He told reporters afterward that he’s installing two “beautiful” flagpoles on the grounds because “they’ve needed flagpoles for 200 years.” He said the poles would be “paid for by Trump” and could be installed as soon as next week. The American and POW/MIA flags fly on the roof of the White House every day. Trump had them lowered on Monday after Pope Francis’ death. Oval Office overhaul Trump pledged in his inaugural address to preside over a “golden age of America.” But he appears to have ushered it first into an Oval Office he has redecorated by adding golden accents to the fireplace, doorway arches, walls and other areas of the room. It hasn’t gone unnoticed. “I really must say the Oval Office has never looked better,” Paul Atkins, the new Securities and Exchange Commission chairman, said Tuesday after his ceremonial swearing-in there. “One could really describe it as glistening, and I’ve heard stories about it. It’s true. It’s the touch of a confident president, leading with optimism towards an American golden age.” Every president adjusts the office decor to their liking, often with new furniture, rugs, draperies and other items. Some hire decorators. Former President Joe Biden had one of his brothers handle it. Trump seems to have directed the process himself. “I’ve done some ‘Trump touches’ to the Oval Office,” he told the championship Ohio State football team when he invited them for a tour after he hosted the players and coaches last week. “It’s a little nicer than it used to be, I think.” New Trump art Earlier this month, Trump hung […]

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders, two outspoken critics of wealth inequality, were caught on camera stepping off a private jet while traveling for a campaign tour targeting America’s affluent elite.

Footage from Fox News shows the pair leaving a Bombardier Challenger 604 — a high-end jet valued between $5 million and $7 million, with a charter rate of around $15,000 per hour. Both politicians have been vocal opponents of private aviation and the wealthy individuals who use it.

Their flight was part of a multi-city tour branded as Sanders’ “Fighting Oligarchy” campaign, which promotes public discourse on the influence of billionaires and large corporations in American politics. According to the campaign’s official website, the events aim to “have real discussions across America,” and push back against “the oligarchs and corporate interests who have so much power and influence in this country.”

The website also includes a fundraising plea, suggesting that the campaign requires only “a modest amount of resources” to cover travel and related costs — a claim that seems at odds with the extravagance of private jet use.

In another jab at the wealthy, the campaign page declares: “Paid for by friends of Bernie Sanders (not the billionaires).”

The tour has included stops in cities like Tucson, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, Nampa, and Bakersfield, where both lawmakers have spoken out against corporate greed and economic disparity.

“We as a community must choose and vote for Democrats and elected officials who know how to stand for the working class,” AOC declared to supporters at one event.

This marks a noticeable shift in travel style for Ocasio-Cortez, who had previously flown commercial. Just last month, she was seen in a first-class seat on a JetBlue flight from JFK to Las Vegas for a campaign rally — a choice that critics mocked as contradictory for someone crusading against privilege.

A first-class ticket for that same JetBlue route later this month tops $1,100.

Sanders, too, has faced backlash for his use of private aviation. During President Trump’s 2020 impeachment proceedings, Sanders reportedly chartered a private plane to travel between campaign events.

Recent Federal Election Commission records show Sanders’ campaign shelled out over $221,000 for private jet travel during the first quarter of 2025 alone.

{Matzav.com}

A Venezuelan man accused of gang ties, who was previously removed from the United States under President Trump’s orders, was later allowed to re-enter the country through a phone app program under the Biden administration, sources informed The NY Post.

Andry Hernandez Romero, 31, was one of 260 individuals deported to a notorious El Salvador prison in March after Trump utilized the Alien Enemies Act, a law dating back to the 1700s, to bypass standard deportation procedures and send them out without a court hearing.

Romero initially entered the United States by crossing the border into Texas in July 2024 but was swiftly removed, sources said. Just weeks later, he appeared again, this time making it into California.

By August, Romero used the CBP One mobile application—a program that has since been discontinued—to gain entry into the U.S. while in California.

That particular function of the CBP One app was terminated on Inauguration Day by the Trump administration. In its place, a new application called CBP Home was introduced, designed to allow illegal entrants to voluntarily exit the country.

According to his legal team, Romero fled Venezuela because he faced persecution due to his sexual orientation and political stance. In his home country, he had worked as a makeup artist for a government-run television network, as reported by CBS News.

“And the government had found that his threats against him were credible and that he had a real probability of winning an asylum claim,” said Lindsay Toczylowski, Romero’s attorney.

A photographer at the scene of Romero’s transfer to the massive prison complex in El Salvador reported that the detainee cried out, “I’m not a gang member. … I’m a stylist,” as guards struck him and shaved his head, CBS News reported.

“It’s horrifying to see someone who we’ve met and know as a sweet, funny artist in the most horrible conditions I could imagine,” Toczylowski remarked.

U.S. immigration officials identified Romero as a suspected member of the Tren de Aragua gang, citing his two crown tattoos as evidence.

However, Toczylowski rejected that narrative, asserting that the tattoos were tributes to his family.

“These are tattoos that not only have a plausible explanation because he is someone who worked in the beauty pageant industry, but also the crowns themself were on top of the names of his parents,” she explained.

“The most plausible explanation for that is that his mom and dad are his king and queen.”

Still, Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, insisted the agency’s findings were not based solely on visible tattoos.

“This man’s own social media indicates he is a member of Tren de Aragua.”

Another alleged gang member, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was also believed to be part of MS-13, was deported alongside Romero to South America.

Although multiple courts, including the Supreme Court, ruled that Abrego Garcia had been erroneously deported due to a paperwork mishap and should be returned to the United States, the Trump administration has declined to comply.

Despite the judicial orders, the administration has not brought Abrego Garcia—who has been accused of trafficking, domestic violence, and gang involvement—back into the country.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Canada would “cease to exist” if it weren’t for the United States — comments that came just days before Canadians are set to vote in an election dominated by Trump’s remarks on the country’s economy and sovereignty. Trump reinserted himself into Canada’s election during a signing ceremony inside the Oval Office, saying Canada “would cease to exist as a country” if the U.S. stopped buying its goods. “I have to be honest, as a state, it works great,” said Trump, who previously threatened to make the country the 51st state through economic coercion. Trump reiterated his claim that the U.S. doesn’t need anything from Canada — including autos and oil. “We don’t really want Canada to make cars for us, to put it bluntly. We want to make our own cars,” Trump said. In recent weeks, Trump has dialed back his talk of Canada becoming the 51st state. He stopped saying it after a call with new Prime Minister Mark Carney last month. Trump also suggested Wednesday that he might increase import taxes on cars from Canada. Trump has a 25% tariff on autos, although there are some exemptions related to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement on trade, and automakers are seeking other policy changes to minimize the tariff burden. Trump has separate 25% tariffs on Canadian goods — ostensibly to address drug smuggling into the U.S. “I really don’t want cars from Canada,” Trump said. “So when I put tariffs on Canada, they’re paying 25%, but that could go up in terms of cars. When we put tariffs on, all we’re doing is we’re saying, ‘We don’t want your cars, in all due respect.’” Trump cautioned that he’s not currently considering additional auto tariffs, but he said there could be an increase. Carney said last week that eliminating trade barriers within Canada would benefit Canadians as he made his case to retain power ahead of an April 28 vote. Carney has set a goal of free trade within the country’s 10 provinces and three territories by July 1. Canada has long had interprovincial trade barriers. “We can give ourselves far more than Donald Trump can ever take away,” Carney said. “We can have one economy. This is within our grasp.” Carney said the relationship Canada has had with the United States for the past 40 years has fundamentally changed because of Trump’s tariffs. Trump’s trade war and threats to make Canada the 51st state have infuriated Canadians and led to a surge in Canadian nationalism that has bolstered Liberal Party poll numbers. (AP)

Iran is expanding a vast security perimeter around two heavily fortified tunnel complexes near its main nuclear site, raising fresh alarms in Washington and Jerusalem amid renewed negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. A new report from the Institute for Science and International Security, based on commercial satellite imagery taken March 29, suggests the underground sites beneath Mt. Kolang Gaz La may soon become operational. The facilities—under construction for several years—are situated near Natanz, the heart of Iran’s nuclear program. The analysis, led by institute president David Albright, highlights hardened tunnel entrances and a network of high wall panels encircling the mountain. The security perimeter on the north side connects directly to the Natanz facility, which suffered a major act of sabotage in 2020 widely attributed to Israeli intelligence. The complexes are being excavated at significantly greater depths than the Fordo enrichment facility near Qom, suggesting Iran’s intention to shield sensitive operations from potential airstrikes or sabotage. Tehran has barred United Nations nuclear inspectors from accessing the new sites, fueling concerns among Western analysts. Albright warns that the tunnels may be intended to house advanced centrifuges or components of Iran’s growing stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Such materials could be rapidly converted into fuel for a nuclear weapon, should Iran make the decision to cross that threshold. The report comes as the United States and Iran prepare for a third round of negotiations this weekend aimed at reviving restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program. Talks have resumed amid heightened regional tensions, as Israeli leaders continue to warn that time is running out to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear-armed state. Iran has publicly said that one of the tunnel complexes will house centrifuge production, replacing the sabotaged facility at Natanz. But with inspectors locked out and construction accelerating, international skepticism is mounting. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)