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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Tuesday the U.S. mission to protect commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz would be temporary and other nations would soon have to take responsibility, emphasizing that the fragile ceasefire with Iran remained in place despite attacks on U.S. ships a day earlier.

Speaking at a briefing alongside Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Hegseth said the United States had established a powerful “red, white and blue dome” over the strait as a “direct gift” to other nations to allow commercial ships to pass through.

“This operation is separate and distinct from Operation Epic Fury,” he said, using the Trump administration’s name for the war with Iran.

He described the effort to help commercial ships navigate the narrow strait as a “temporary mission” for U.S. forces. “We expect the world to step up at the appropriate time, and soon we will hand responsibility back to you,” he said.

Caine said that more than 22,500 mariners on more than 1,550 commercial ships are waiting to transit the strait and that U.S. Central Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the region, had established an “enhanced security area” on the southern side of the strait protected by U.S. forces.

Since the ceasefire was announced, Iran has fired at commercial vessels nine times, seized two, and attacked U.S. forces more than 10 times, Caine said – “all below the threshold of restarting major combat operations, at this point.”

The general characterized Iranian attacks so far as “below harassing fire right now; it feels like Iran is grasping at straws to try to do something across the southern flank” of the strait.

Hegseth added that the “ceasefire is not over.”

President Donald Trump, speaking later at the White House, declined to say what Iranian actions would constitute a ceasefire violation.

“Well, you’ll find out because I’ll let you know,” Trump said.

Trump, as he has in recent days, sought to downplay the significance of the unresolved conflict.

“You know, we had an all-time-high stock market today, despite that word, a little skirmish military,” Trump said. “I call it a skirmish because Iran has no chance.”

Caine and Hegseth said that the fast boats Iran used to try to attack the vessels were only using small arms, rifles or machine guns, but that Iran also fired small coastal cruise missiles, which did not hit the ships.

The defense secretary and general spoke to reporters just days after a deadline passed that by law required the White House to seek Congress’s authorization to continue to carry out strikes in Iran after 60 days of operations. Hegseth said that 60-day deadline did not apply because of the ceasefire.

“With the ceasefire, the clock stops,” he said. Democrats in Congress have contested the legality of that position.

Iranian officials on Tuesday accused the U.S. of violating the ceasefire and warned of it becoming bogged down in the war, now in its third month. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a post on X that events in the strait “make clear that there’s no military solution to a political crisis,” adding that the U.S. should be “wary of being dragged back into quagmire.”

“Project Freedom is Project Deadlock,” he said, referring to President Donald Trump’s name for the U.S. mission to guide ships through the strait.

Iranian Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said a “new equation” in the strait is “in the process of being solidified” in a post on X on Tuesday. “We know full well that the continuation of the status quo is intolerable for America; while we have not even begun yet,” he added.

On Monday, the U.S. said two of its destroyers, closely followed by two merchant vessels, came under attack during successful transits of the strait, which has remained effectively blocked to maritime traffic during the war.

Iran fired cruise missiles and drones at the U.S. naval and commercial vessels and sent fast boats after commercial ships, said Adm. Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command. Elsewhere in the region, the United Arab Emirates reported an Iranian assault on an energy hub that caused a fire, while Oman’s state media reported an attack in the country but did not identify a perpetrator.

South Korea said it was also investigating the cause of a fire in a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, after Trump said Iran was to blame.

Cooper insisted the U.S. had the upper hand and sought to differentiate U.S. actions from those of Iran. “The distinction from my perspective is crystal clear,” he said. “My operational assessment overall is that the U.S. military has the clear advantage.”

Trump also sought to assert U.S. military dominance following Monday’s attacks, saying that “one way or the other, we win” in comments to conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt. “We either make the right deal, or we win very easily from the military standpoint. We’ve already won that,” he said. The president also said the U.S. had “knocked out” Iran’s leadership teams since the war began. “They talk a lot differently when they’re talking to me than they talk when they’re talking to the media,” he said.

No new attacks were reported early Tuesday as Araghchi traveled to China for diplomatic talks and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned Monday’s attacks. “It is absolutely essential that the ceasefire be upheld and respected, to allow necessary diplomatic space for dialogue leading to enduring peace and stability in the region,” Sharif said in a post on X.

U.S. efforts to help commercial ships transit the strait came after Trump said Project Freedom would begin Monday, while discussions to end the war with Iran remained underway. The critical waterway carried about 20 percent of the world’s oil and gas supplies before the war began.

The president framed the mission as a humanitarian exercise, saying the U.S. had received requests for help from what he called “victims of circumstance” trapped in the area. “If, in any way, this Humanitarian process is interfered with, that interference will, unfortunately, have to be dealt with forcefully,” he said in a social media post.

Iran has repeatedly warned against U.S. intervention in the Strait of Hormuz, and negotiations to open the narrow choke point have formed a central plank of discussions between the U.S. and Iran since they agreed to a ceasefire on April 7, which largely halted the fighting. Despite exchanging proposals and holding face-to-face talks, the two sides still face key sticking points that threaten both the ceasefire and the prospect of a more lasting peace.

(c) 2026, The Washington Post · Victoria Craw, Tara Copp, Dan Lamothe

Senate Republicans late Monday proposed $1 billion to pay for new White House security measures, with lawmakers and White House officials disagreeing over whether the legislation would cover President Donald Trump’s planned ballroom.

Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, laid out a funding package for security upgrades related to the “East Wing Modernization Project,” the Trump administration’s name for its planned 90,000-square-foot project to rebuild the East Wing that Trump demolished last year.

The proposed legislative text says the money would be used for both aboveground and underground security features that the administration has declined to fully detail. The text explicitly says the money could not be used for “non-security elements” of the project, a reference to Trump’s planned ballroom.

“This bill does not fund ballroom construction,” Grassley spokeswoman Clare Slattery said in a statement. “It provides funds for Secret Service enhancements that will ensure all presidents, their families and their staffs are adequately protected.”

The legislative proposal comes amid a legal battle over whether the project can proceed, with U.S. District Judge Richard Leon last month ordering a halt to aboveground construction on the ballroom unless Congress authorizes the project, saying that work related to national security can continue. An appeals court panel has stayed Leon’s order while it considers the case.

Construction on the project continues apace. Photos taken in the past week show crews have erected a concrete structure topped with columns of exposed rebar, used to reinforce pillars that will support additional floors.

White House officials said Tuesday that the legislation, if enacted, would authorize the entire project – including the aboveground ballroom.

“Congress has rightly recognized the need for these funds,” White House spokesman Davis Ingle said in a statement, citing the high-profile incident last month when a gunman stormed through the security checkpoint outside the White House correspondents’ dinner. “The proposal would provide the United States Secret Service with the resources they need to fully and completely harden the White House complex, in addition to the many other critical missions for the USSS.”

The legislation would be included in the Senate’s planned budget reconciliation bill, which can be enacted with a simple majority, bypassing any potential filibuster and eliminating the need for Senate Republicans to court Democratic votes.

Before it advances, the Senate parliamentarian will review the White House security proposal to ensure it complies with rules limiting what can be included in reconciliation bills. Only provisions related to spending or generating revenue can be included.

The larger proposed reconciliation bill also includes $38.2 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, $26 billion for Customs and Border Protection, $1.5 billion for the Department of Justice, and $5 billion for other border security, immigration and law enforcement efforts.

It would allow the administration to use the money through the end of September 2029, ensuring the agencies are funded through the end of Trump’s term.

White House officials have previously maintained that the ballroom, which Trump has said could cost $400 million, would be entirely funded by private donors and not come at taxpayers’ expense. Republicans on Tuesday said that security measures for the project should not be the responsibility of private donors, and they expect their proposal would provide sufficient funds to secure the facility.

Trump has argued that the ballroom itself is a needed national security measure so he and future presidents can safely entertain VIP guests, a message increasingly echoed by his allies in Congress after last month’s incident. Justice Department officials last week asked Leon to dissolve his order blocking construction, citing the shooting at the correspondents’ dinner in a rambling legal filing that read like one of Trump’s Truth Social posts.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the organization that sued the administration in December to block work on the project, has been skeptical of the security rationale. Lawyers representing the National Trust, a nonprofit charged by Congress with protecting historical buildings, noted that Trump continues to live at the White House and entertain foreign dignitaries despite the administration’s claims that the current situation poses a security risk.

“Your assertion that this lawsuit puts the President’s life at ‘grave risk’ is incorrect and irresponsible,” Gregory Craig, a Foley Hoag lawyer representing the National Trust, wrote to Justice Department lawyers last week. “Simply put, this case does not jeopardize the President’s safety in any way.”

Democrats argued Tuesday that the proposal illustrates that Republicans are out of touch with voters’ needs, highlighting the broadly unpopular ballroom. Fifty-six percent of Americans oppose Trump’s decision to tear down the White House’s East Wing to make way for his planned ballroom, funded by about $400 million in private donations, while 28 percent support the project, according to a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll conducted last month.

Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), the top Democrat on the Senate Budget Committee, said in a statement that Republicans “are ignoring the needs of middle-class America and instead funneling money into Trump’s ballroom and throwing billions at two lawless agencies.”

The legal fight over the ballroom’s construction, which initially focused on whether Trump had authority to pursue the project, has increasingly revolved around arguments about national security and the president’s safety. Since litigation was filed nearly five months ago, Justice Department lawyers have argued that work must continue on national security grounds, saying that any pause could imperil Trump, his family and White House staff. They have said the proposed building is designed to defend against “hostile attacks via drones, ballistic missiles, bullets, biohazards” and other potential threats while Trump has said crews are building a “massive complex” of secure underground facilities beneath it.

Leon has been unpersuaded, ruling twice that the administration has failed to justify the national security reasons for why the ballroom is needed immediately.

(c) 2026, The Washington Post · Dan Diamond, Jonathan Edwards, Riley Beggin

Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined U.S. efforts to secure maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz during a White House press briefing Tuesday, describing a mission focused on protecting commercial vessels and rescuing thousands of civilians stranded in the region.

Rubio, who delivered the briefing in place of Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, spoke at length about “Project Freedom,” the U.S.-led initiative designed to counter Iranian threats against shipping lanes. He said the operation’s objective is “to rescue almost 23,000 civilians from 87 different countries that are trapped and left for dead in the Persian Gulf by the Iranian regime.”

He sharply criticized Iran’s actions in the waterway, calling its blockade of the strait “not just criminal,” but “desperate and destructive,” and labeling it “piracy.”

Rubio warned that the consequences extend far beyond the immediate conflict, noting that “Nations from around the world, the overwhelming majority of whom are not even engaged in any military hostilities, are now at risk, not just of losing their cargo, but the lives of their own citizens, because of this blockade,” he said, adding that ships could soon run out of basic supplies such as food and potable water.

Emphasizing the humanitarian aspect, Rubio said, “These are innocent bystanders. These are countries and ships that have nothing to do with any of this, and nonetheless, are being caught in the middle of it and being held hostage, merely because Iran can do it. Just as the regime brutally slaughtered tens of thousands of its own citizens for the crime of peaceful protest.”

He further stated that ten civilian sailors have already died due to the blockade and related attacks, and that several countries have requested U.S. assistance in freeing their vessels.

Rubio described Project Freedom as a limited military effort, saying it is a “defensive operation” in which U.S. forces will engage only if fired upon first.

Addressing regional tensions, Rubio also commented on the situation in Lebanon, stating that “there’s no problem between the Lebanese government and the Israeli government. Israel doesn’t claim that any land in Lebanon belongs to them.”

He identified the Iran-backed Hezbollah as the central issue, saying, “They terrorize and attack Israelis, but they also are inflicting tremendous damage on the Lebanese people. The reason why Lebanon gets attacked by Israel is because of Hezbollah, because Hezbollah is hiding in some house, launching rockets against Israelis.”

Rubio said Israel’s military actions are aimed at countering those threats and reiterated that the broader objective is the disarmament of Hezbollah.

{Matzav.com}

A nationwide recall has been announced for several potato chip products after concerns emerged that they may be contaminated with salmonella, a potentially dangerous bacteria.

Utz Quality Foods said it is voluntarily recalling certain Zapp’s and Dirty brand potato chips after discovering that a seasoning ingredient used in the products—containing dry milk powder—could be contaminated. The company said the ingredient was supplied by California Dairies Inc. through a third-party vendor.

Although the seasoning batches were tested and initially showed no contamination, the recall notice explained that the company is acting “out of an abundance of caution,” prompting the decision to remove the products from shelves.

At this time, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the affected products.

The recall applies to nine specific items, including various sizes of Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch, Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar, Zapp’s Big Cheezy chips, as well as Dirty brand Salt and Vinegar, Maui Onion, and Sour Cream and Onion potato chips. These items were distributed across retail stores throughout the United States.

Health officials note that salmonella is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness in the country. According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the bacteria infects approximately 1.35 million Americans each year, resulting in about 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths.

Symptoms of salmonella infection typically develop between eight and 72 hours after exposure and can include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, however, individuals may show no symptoms at all.

Doctors say most cases resolve on their own within several days to a week and do not require medical treatment. However, they warn that certain groups—including infants, young children, pregnant women, and older adults—face a higher risk of serious illness due to weaker immune systems.

While most patients recover without complications, more severe infections can occur. In such cases, the bacteria may enter the bloodstream and spread to vital organs such as the brain, heart, or lungs, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions like sepsis. Antibiotics may be used in these situations.

Health officials are advising anyone who experiences symptoms after consuming the affected products to contact their healthcare provider and report the illness to local health authorities.

The recall is part of a broader concern linked to the same dry milk powder ingredient. Recently, Ghirardelli Chocolate Company also recalled certain powdered chocolate drink mixes due to possible salmonella contamination associated with the same supplier.

Like Utz, Ghirardelli reported no confirmed illnesses tied to its products and stated that its own testing “had not identified any impacted powdered beverage mixes.” The company added, “Nothing is more important to us than the safety and quality of our products, and we’re taking this step out of an abundance of caution,” reinforcing that the recall was a preventive measure.

{Matzav.com}

An unusual and urgent meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee has raised questions about whether military action against Iran may be approaching, as tensions in the Persian Gulf continue to escalate.

According to a report by Kan News, Huckabee arrived at the Prime Minister’s Office in Yerushalayim on Sunday for what was described as a high-priority meeting. The timing of the meeting, considered highly irregular in diplomatic terms, points to the urgency of ongoing security coordination between Israel and the United States amid growing concerns over Iran.

The report, by journalist Gili Cohen, noted that holding such a meeting on a Sunday—typically a day of rest for U.S. government officials—deviates from standard diplomatic protocol. The decision to proceed regardless underscores the significance of the issues under discussion.

The talks come as both countries prepare for the possibility of renewed direct confrontation with Iran. While officials in Washington have publicly stated that recent Iranian attacks do not yet constitute “grounds for a strike” inside Iranian territory, behind the scenes the level of alert remains extremely high.

President Donald Trump reiterated in remarks from the White House that “we cannot allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons,” describing Tehran’s current military situation in stark terms.

The U.S. Embassy declined to provide details about the content of the Netanyahu-Huckabee meeting. A spokesperson stated that it is official policy not to comment on private diplomatic discussions.

The rising tensions follow a series of Iranian attacks in the Gulf. Iran reportedly launched 12 ballistic missiles toward the United Arab Emirates, along with cruise missiles and drones. Air defense systems intercepted some of the projectiles, but a fire broke out at oil facilities in Fujairah, and three Indian nationals were moderately injured.

According to additional reports, the Trump administration had opened a backchannel with Iran and informed it in advance about the planned military operation in the Strait of Hormuz. A senior U.S. official said the message was delivered on Sunday and included details about “Project Freedom,” along with a warning not to interfere with the American effort.

Despite that warning, Iran responded with force. On the first day of the operation, Iranian forces reportedly carried out multiple attacks against U.S. naval vessels and commercial ships in the strait. Israeli and American defense officials now assess that if diplomatic efforts remain stalled, further military steps could be authorized by President Trump.

A senior Israeli official told CNN that “the intention would be to carry out a short operation aimed at increasing pressure on Iran to make additional concessions in negotiations,” as coordination between Israel and the United States continues against the backdrop of intensifying tensions in the region.

{Matzav.com}

Police arrested a Tel Aviv resident in his 40s on Sunday evening on suspicion of spitting at Ehud Olmert at the Tel Aviv Cinematheque complex, in what authorities are treating as an assault.

According to initial reports, the incident occurred at the cinematheque in central Tel Aviv, where Olmert was present at the time. Officers from the Lev Tel Aviv police station responded after receiving a call to the emergency hotline, located the suspect at the scene, and took him into custody.

The suspect was detained shortly after the report was received and was transferred to a local police station for questioning as investigators work to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Under Israeli law, spitting at a person is classified as an act of assault, prompting a swift response from police units who were dispatched to the location and apprehended the suspect within the complex.

Authorities view assaults directed at public figures and former political leaders as serious offenses due to their potential impact on public order and the symbolic nature of such acts. Olmert, who served as Israel’s 12th prime minister from 2006 to 2009, frequently appears in public settings, though in this case the incident appears to have occurred suddenly in a crowded venue.

Police said the investigation remains in its early stages and that they are examining the motive behind the act, including whether it was spontaneous or premeditated, possibly linked to Olmert’s public positions. The quick arrest was intended to prevent further escalation and ensure Olmert’s safety.

A chance meeting in a Bnei Brak yeshiva between former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Reb Avraham Zarbiv has drawn attention after Bennett offered warm praise and compared the rabbi to prominent Israeli military figures, despite having recently criticized the national torch-lighting ceremony in which Zarbiv participated.

The unexpected encounter took place Monday night during a father-son event at a yeshiva high school where Bennett’s son studies. According to reports, Bennett happened to meet Rabbi Zarbiv, who had been selected to light a torch at Israel’s Independence Day ceremony, and the interaction quickly became notable for Bennett’s enthusiastic remarks.

According to journalist Michael Shemesh, Bennett spoke highly of Zarbiv’s contributions and drew comparisons to well-known figures in Israel’s military history. “You are like Ariel Sharon and like Meir Har-Zion, who changed and implemented new methods of warfare,” Bennett reportedly told Rabbi Zarbiv.

Rabbi Zarbiv, who serves as a dayan on the Tel Aviv Rabbinical Court, has become a widely recognized figure during the ongoing war. His reserve duty operating D9 bulldozers in Gaza, combined with his rabbinic role, has made him a symbol for many of the fusion between religious life and military service. During his service, he developed a combat method for demolishing structures—dubbed the “Zarbiv method”—which, according to reports, has helped save soldiers’ lives.

The meeting is particularly notable given Bennett’s recent criticism of the tone and direction of this year’s torch-lighting ceremony. He had previously pledged that “next year the ceremony will return to the people,” expressing dissatisfaction with how the state-run event was conducted. Nevertheless, when encountering one of the ceremony’s most prominent participants, Bennett chose to commend him and liken him to historic military figures.

Rabbi Zarbiv had previously made headlines for his forceful statements regarding the war in Gaza. During his service, he called “to flatten Gaza,” a remark that sparked widespread public debate. While some viewed the statement as extreme and controversial, others embraced him as a heroic figure. His selection to light a torch at the Independence Day ceremony drew criticism in parts of the international media, alongside strong support from segments of the Israeli public.

Bennett’s office responded to the reports by emphasizing the private nature of the gathering. “Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett attended a father-and-son evening with his younger son David at his school. He came as a father, not as a public figure. Journalists are expected to respect his family’s privacy.”

The event itself was part of a traditional “fathers and sons” program, where parents and students spend time learning and participating in activities together. The presence of both Bennett and Rabbi Zarbiv—each a public figure in his own right—added an unusual dimension to the evening for those in attendance.

Bennett’s comparison of Zarbiv to Ariel Sharon and Meir Har-Zion reflects his broader view of the importance of military innovation. Sharon, a former commander of Unit 101 who later served as defense minister and prime minister, was known for pioneering new combat tactics. Har-Zion, a former special forces fighter, was similarly associated with developing unconventional operational methods. Bennett’s remarks suggest he sees Zarbiv’s contributions as a continuation of that legacy.

At 52, Rabbi Zarbiv, a father of six, continues to balance his role as a dayan with active reserve duty. During the war, he documented aspects of his operational work, and some of those videos—showing him using a D9 bulldozer to demolish structures with his method—circulated widely on social media.

The encounter highlights the complexity of Israel’s current public discourse. While Bennett has taken issue with the institutions behind the torch-lighting ceremony, his personal interaction with Rabbi Zarbiv reflects a willingness to acknowledge individuals he views as embodying both religious dedication and military commitment.

{Matzav.com}

It is with great sadness that Matzav.com reports the petirah of Rav Rachamim Eliyahu Mazuz zt”l, posek of Yeshivas Kissei Rachamim, who was niftar after a prolonged illness.

Rav Mazuz was the younger brother of Rav Meir Mazuz zt”l, and is survived by his brother, Rav Tzemach Mazuz.

Throughout his life, he devoted himself with great mesirus nefesh to preserving and publishing the Torah works of his father, Rav Matzliach Mazuz Hy”d, including editing and clarifying his seforim.

Born on the 17th of Kislev 5709, Rav Mazuz displayed remarkable brilliance from a young age. He married his wife, Rebbetzin Tamar, in Cheshvan 5729. According to testimony from his brother, their father would regularly present him with complex shailos in halachah to analyze due to his deep familiarity with the works of the Acharonim and shailos uteshuvos.

Following the murder of his father, the author of Ish Matzliach, Rav Mazuz was the first in the family to leave Tunisia and make his way to Eretz Yisroel, acting on a dream his mother had. After spending approximately two and a half months in a transit camp in France and about a week at sea, the family arrived via Greece and settled in Eretz Yisroel.

He dedicated decades to editing and preparing his father’s writings for publication, including Shu”t Ish Matzliach and Matzmiach Yeshuah. As president of Machon HaRav Matzliach, he oversaw the publication of numerous seforim. He became widely known among the tzibbur for his detailed hagahos titled Ish Matzliach on the Mishnah Berurah. Even in his youth, he had already edited major works such as Vayomer Yitzchak by his rebbi, Rav Yitzchak Buchnik, and Mishpat Kasuv by Rav Yisrael Zeitoun.

For over forty years, Rav Mazuz led the kollel of Yeshivas Kissei Rachamim with a firm hand, guiding generations of avreichim, and delivering shiurim to outstanding bochurim on sugyos throughout Shas, with a deep and penetrating understanding of all the meforshim.

His unique style of writing became well known throughout the olam hahalachah. Rav Dovid Yosef once remarked: “I am very familiar with the writing style of my great father, Maran Rav Ovadia Yosef zt”l, but the only one whose writings sometimes confuse me into thinking they are my father’s is the gaon Rav Rachamim Mazuz.”

In the latter part of Cheshvan of this past year, as his condition declined, the names “Chaim” and “Shalom” were added to his name following consultation with his brother and his son-in-law, Rav Eliyahu Binyamin Madar.

At that time, Rav Dovid Yosef issued a public call, saying: “The tzibbur in Eretz Yisroel does not sufficiently recognize who the great gaon Rav Rachamim is — he is truly a continuation of his father, a giant in Torah. I see it in his notes on the Mishnah Berurah Ish Matzliach, and in the responsa Ish Matzliach that he edited. He is an extraordinary gaon whom our generation has not fully appreciated. I believe he is a talmid chacham who protects the generation, and we must all daven that Hakadosh Baruch Hu grant him a complete recovery so he can continue to spread Torah and glorify it.”

Rav Mazuz leaves behind a distinguished family who continue in his path, carrying forward his legacy in halachah and harbotzas haTorah.

The levayah will take place on Wednesday, departing from Bnei Brak and continuing to Yerushalayim, where he will be laid to rest on Har Hazeisim alongside his father.

Tehei nishmaso tzrurah b’tzror hachaim.

{Matzav.com}

A U.S.-flagged commercial ship operated by a Maersk subsidiary has made a successful journey through the Strait of Hormuz under American military escort, signaling a renewed push to reopen one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.

According to CNBC, the vessel Alliance Fairfax completed its passage on Monday without any incidents. The crew was unharmed after being stranded at sea since February 28, when hostilities involving Iran disrupted maritime traffic in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but vital corridor linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, typically handles roughly 20 percent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. However, shipping activity has been largely halted amid the fighting, leaving numerous commercial vessels unable to pass.

United States Central Command confirmed that two U.S.-flagged merchant ships have now successfully navigated the strait. U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers have been deployed in the area to shield commercial vessels and ensure continued access through the waterway.

Officials said the escorted crossings are part of a broader effort to reestablish normal shipping operations and assist vessels that had been stuck during the conflict.

Regional tensions remain elevated following recent drone and missile attacks in the United Arab Emirates, along with reports of U.S. strikes targeting Iranian vessels in the strait.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi commented on the situation, saying recent developments “make clear that there’s no military solution to a political crisis.”

He added, “As talks are making progress with Pakistan’s gracious effort, the U.S. should be wary of being dragged back into quagmire by ill wishers. So should the UAE. Project Freedom is Project Deadlock.”

President Donald Trump issued a warning that Iran would be “blown off the face of the earth” if it attacked American vessels tasked with protecting commercial shipping in the strait.

Trump also indicated that the confrontation could continue for “another two or three weeks,” pointing to mounting pressure on Iran’s energy infrastructure.

“One way or the other, we win,” Trump said, adding that the United States has already achieved major battlefield successes.

He further stated that Iran’s naval strength has been significantly weakened in recent engagements, describing what remains of its forces as limited.

{Matzav.com}

Amid ongoing attempts by thousands to reach Mount Meron despite official bans, a growing debate is taking shape over the future of the annual Lag BaOmer pilgrimage, with analysts suggesting the event can no longer continue in its traditional form.

In an interview Tuesday with i24NEWS, commentator Yechiel Galai addressed the unusual scenes unfolding since the previous day, as large numbers of chareidi participants sought to access the mountain by any means possible, including bypassing checkpoints and restrictions imposed by authorities.

Galai explained that within the chareidi community, there is a deeply rooted perception of unequal treatment when it comes to large public events. He said that many feel that when it comes to major sporting or cultural gatherings in northern Israel, the government makes extensive efforts to accommodate them even under difficult conditions, whereas the Lag BaOmer gathering in Meron—seen as the largest religious and cultural event for the chareidi tzibbur—is more quickly curtailed.

At the same time, Galai emphasized that the reality is more nuanced. A growing number of people within the chareidi community recognize the current security risks and do not believe that reaching Meron at any cost is justified. He noted that the significant expansion of decentralized Lag BaOmer events in Yerushalayim and other locations, drawing tens of thousands of participants, may point to the direction the הילולא is heading in the coming years.

Even in the absence of security concerns, Galai added, Meron itself presents inherent limitations. The mountain, its access routes, and its infrastructure are not equipped to sustainably handle the massive crowds that seek to attend each year. Combined with the rapid demographic growth of the chareidi ציבור and ongoing safety considerations, he said, there is an increasing need to rethink how the event is structured.

Galai also highlighted a growing disconnect on the ground. While authorities have officially halted bus transportation, deployed roadblocks, and banned access, the public are still managing to reach the site on foot or through indirect routes. This has created a dual reality in which official restrictions remain in place, yet thousands are still present on the mountain.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Iran should capitulate as U.S. forces continue efforts to weaken its capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump asserted that Tehran is under heavy pressure and signaled that negotiations are likely. “They play games, but let me just tell you, they want to make a deal. And who wouldn’t, when your military is totally gone?”

Trump argued that Iran’s military strength has been significantly diminished, describing its current capabilities as limited to firing “peashooters.” He also made clear that the U.S. intends to maintain its position in the region, stating that “nobody’s going to challenge the blockade” of Iranian shipping.

When asked about potential violations of the ceasefire, Trump declined to define a specific threshold that would trigger a U.S. response, even after Iran launched cruise missiles and attack drones targeting the United Arab Emirates.

Earlier in the day, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine briefed reporters at the Pentagon following recent Iranian strikes on shipping lanes and targets in the United Arab Emirates.

Hegseth described Project Freedom, the ongoing naval mission aimed at ensuring safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that it is distinct from other military operations. “This operation is separate and distinct from Operation Epic Fury. Project Freedom is defensive in nature, focused in scope, and temporary in duration-with one mission: protecting innocent commercial shipping from Iranian aggression.”

He issued a warning to Tehran, saying, “To what remains of Iran’s forces: if you attack American troops or innocent commercial shipping, you will face overwhelming and devastating American firepower,” he added. We prefer this to be a peaceful operation, but are locked and loaded to defend our people.”

Hegseth also underscored that the U.S. is asserting control over the critical waterway. “What we’re demonstrating with Project Freedom is they [Iran] don’t control the Strait. We know Iran is embarrassed by the fact that our blockade is holding, and we can run ships through – and we’re going to help the world run ships through,” Hegseth said.

Gen. Caine noted that while Iran has carried out attacks, they have not yet escalated to a level that would prompt a broader military response. He detailed the scale of U.S. operations in the region, stating, “On the surface, guided missile destroyers and other warships are detecting and defeating Iranian threats. This includes fast boats and one-way attack drones. In the air, more than 100 fighters, attack aircraft, and other manned and unmanned aircraft, synchronized by the 82nd Airborne Division are in the air 24 hours a day, providing defensive overwatch for the enhanced security area.”

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu opened his testimony in court Tuesday by sharply criticizing the timing of the proceedings, calling it “absurd” in light of the intense security and diplomatic responsibilities currently on his agenda.

At the start of his remarks, Netanyahu detailed a demanding schedule over the previous day, emphasizing the volume of high-level engagements he has been handling.

“In the last 24 hours, I spoke with four heads of state-among them President Trump, and you can imagine about what,” Netanyahu said at the start of his remarks. He added that he had also spoken with the director-general of the Peace Council regarding developments in Gaza, where, according to him, “an interesting development is unfolding.”

Netanyahu went on to note that in addition to those international discussions, he also held three separate meetings with Israel’s senior security officials, underscoring the burden of managing ongoing military and regional challenges. His comments were aimed at illustrating the difficulty of balancing such responsibilities with the demands of a court appearance.

Wrapping up his statement, the prime minister questioned the court’s priorities in scheduling the hearing at this time. “Now we are taking three hours to discuss how I responded to a headline?” he asked those present in the courtroom.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump said the conflict with Iran could continue for another two to three weeks, warning that the country is approaching what he described as a “natural explosion” tied to its oil infrastructure that could severely damage its ability to recover.

Speaking Monday during an appearance on “The Hugh Hewitt Show,” Trump said the United States currently holds a clear advantage in the fighting, pointing to both military dominance and economic pressure on Tehran.

“One way or the other, we win,” Trump said, adding that the U.S. has already achieved major battlefield successes.

Trump said Iranian naval forces have largely been neutralized, with U.S. operations targeting remaining capabilities in recent engagements.

U.S. Central Command reported that multiple Iranian boats posing threats to commercial shipping had been destroyed, highlighting American control over critical routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, according to the New York Post.

Even as fighting continues and the possibility of a ceasefire remains uncertain, Trump said the timeline favors the United States.

“We’ve taken out much of what we’d have to do, probably another two weeks, maybe three weeks,” he said, suggesting the campaign could soon reach its final stage.

Trump also repeated his position that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

“They will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, arguing that earlier agreements, including the Obama-era deal, would have accelerated Tehran’s path to obtaining one.

He added that he has received strong backing from the public during recent appearances.

In addition to military developments, Trump pointed to what he described as an impending economic crisis inside Iran, centered on its oil sector.

“In two weeks, they’re going to have a natural explosion of their oil,” Trump said, describing a scenario that could cripple Iran’s economy for decades.

At the same time, Iranian forces have continued offensive actions across the region.

According to the Post, missiles and drones were launched toward the United Arab Emirates, with some intercepted and others striking oil facilities and commercial vessels.

Trump declined to detail whether further U.S. strikes are planned, saying such information could not be disclosed.

“I can’t tell you that,” he said after Hewitt asked about future military plans, noting that revealing details would be strategically unwise.

Despite the conflict abroad, Trump pointed to strong economic performance in the United States, including a record stock market and stable oil prices, as signs of resilience.

He said global energy markets have adjusted by finding alternate routes and boosting domestic production.

“They find ways of getting it done,” Trump said of global energy markets adapting to the conflict.

As the situation develops, Trump framed the confrontation as critical to both U.S. interests and global security, emphasizing the importance of preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear power.

“We have all the cards,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

Rudy Giuliani is showing clear signs of improvement after a serious bout of pneumonia left him in critical condition, with his son Andrew Giuliani saying Tuesday that the former New York City mayor is now awake, breathing on his own, and even in good spirits.

“Good news update: Thank you for the love and support you’ve shown my Dad over the past few days,” the younger Giuliani said.

“Just yesterday he was in critical condition, so I’m incredibly grateful to share that he is now conscious, off the ventilator, and even cracking jokes.”

Giuliani, 81, was admitted to the hospital over the weekend after developing pneumonia, which was reportedly worsened by a respiratory condition linked to his exposure during the September 11, 2001 terror attacks.

According to those close to him, he had lapsed into a coma but regained consciousness on Monday.

Tom Von Essen, a longtime friend who served as New York City fire commissioner during 9/11, said Tuesday morning that Giuliani’s condition appears to be improving.

“It looks like Rudy’s has turned a corner. We hope he continues to improve,” said Von Essen, who has been briefed on his condition.

“I worry about him. What he has done for New York City and the compassion he showed 9/11 families is remarkable. I hope he has a great recovery.”

President Donald Trump on Monday declared May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month, recognizing the impact of Jewish Americans on the country’s development and unveiling plans for a nationwide Shabbos observance later in the month.

In his proclamation, Trump underscored the longstanding influence of Jewish Americans in promoting core American values such as faith, family, and liberty since the nation’s earliest days. He pointed to President George Washington’s 1790 letter to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island, in which Washington expressed hope that Jewish residents would “continue to merit and enjoy the goodwill of the other Inhabitants.”

Trump also highlighted the role of Haym Salomon, describing him as a key figure during the American Revolution who supported the Continental Congress financially and championed the cause of freedom, even after being imprisoned by British forces.

The president reiterated that his administration remains focused on addressing antisemitism, noting ongoing efforts to prosecute crimes against Jewish Americans and confront rising hostility, particularly on college campuses.

As part of events marking the United States’ 250th anniversary, Trump announced a national Shabbos to take place from sundown on May 15 through nightfall on May 16. He encouraged people across the country to take part in a time of rest, reflection, and appreciation.

“Throughout this historic year, we rejoice in the triumph of the American spirit and rededicate ourselves to the cause of liberty and justice for all,” writes Trump. “In special honor of 250 glorious years of American independence and on the weekend of Rededicate 250 — a national jubilee of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving — Jewish Americans are encouraged to observe a national Sabbath.”

The proclamation urges Americans to observe Jewish American Heritage Month through educational programs, community events, and other initiatives that highlight the importance of religious liberty and the contributions of Jewish Americans.

“Through every trial and triumph, the contributions of Jewish Americans have shaped our past, have strengthened our communities, and will continue to inspire American greatness for generations to come,” the proclamation states.

A taxpayer-funded Texas waterpark is facing criticism after promoting a Muslim-only event to mark the holiday of Eid, raising questions about access to publicly funded facilities.

Epic Waters, located in Grand Prairie, announced plans for the June 1 gathering through promotional materials that described the event as restricted to Muslim attendees in order to create a “family-friendly environment.” The event will also feature a modest dress requirement and food prepared according to halal standards.

Event notices stated that it would be “for Muslims only” and indicated that tickets would begin at $55.

Details posted on the venue’s website clarify that men and women will not be separated, but participants are expected to observe certain behavioral guidelines throughout the day.

‘Please follow the event’s modest dress code, and practice ḥayāʾ (modesty) through respectful behavior,’ the event says.

Organizers also stated that all attendees are “expected to dress in accordance with Islamic values,” with swimwear required to meet those standards.

The announcement quickly drew strong reactions online, with critics questioning whether a publicly funded facility can legally limit participation based on religion.

Commentator Dana Loesch publicly challenged the event, asking: ‘How is a taxpayer-funded, city-owned entity allowed to discriminate against non-Muslims at a public water park?’

She continued her criticism by adding: ‘There would be literal riots if Muslims were similarly excluded and we all know that’s 100% accurate.’

Conservative commentator Sara Gonzalez also raised concerns, saying she planned to contact city officials directly to inquire about the legality of the event.

As part of the promotion, Epic Waters published suggested swimwear options for women, encouraging attendees to “Explore our recommendations and get ready to make a stylish – and modest – splash!”

The examples included full-body coverings made from swimwear material, as well as similar modest options for children.

The site also features feedback from previous participants, including one attendee identified as Ahmed S, who wrote: ‘I loved the modesty and the Anasheed.’

Epic Waters, which opened in 2017 as a municipally owned recreational facility, was financed through an additional local sales tax approved by Grand Prairie voters in 2014, with the project costing approximately $88 million.

The Eid event is being organized by the East Plano Islamic Center.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has increasingly withdrawn from public view and is reportedly spending extended periods operating from secure bunker locations, according to a report citing Western intelligence sources, amid growing concern over internal threats and potential instability within the Kremlin, the Daily Express reports.

According to the report, security protocols around Putin have been significantly intensified, with the Russian leader said to have abandoned his usual residences out of concern they could be targeted, including by elements within Russia’s own political elite. The findings were published by the independent outlet Important Stories and are based on intelligence assessments from an unidentified Western agency.

“Since the beginning of March 2026, the Kremlin and Vladimir Putin have been concerned about a leak of sensitive information and, at the same time, about the risk of a plot or coup attempt against the Russian president,” the outlet reports. “In particular, he fears the use of drones for a possible assassination attempt by members of the Russian political elite.”

The report also points to rising suspicion surrounding senior figures, including Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, who is described as being “associated with the risk of a coup attempt”. Tensions reportedly escalated following the arrest last month of his former deputy, Ruslan Tsalikov, who is suspected of amassing nearly $68 million in family assets through corruption.

Shoigu’s name first surfaced in connection with alleged coup concerns in recent weeks, according to the same intelligence assessment.

Security enforcement by the Federal Protective Service has been sharply increased, with tighter controls placed on access to government facilities and the president himself.

“The FSO has significantly tightened security measures” around Putin, according to the report. “Visitors to the Presidential Administration undergo two levels of screening, including a full body search by FSO officers,” the report revealed.

Authorities have also restricted Putin’s movements, limiting the locations he visits and reportedly ending trips to familiar residences such as Novo-Ogaryovo and Valdai.

“The FSO has significantly reduced the list of locations regularly visited by the president; neither he nor his family visit their usual residences in the Moscow region [Novo-Ogaryovo] and Valdai anymore,” it states.

The report claims that since the start of the war in Ukraine, Putin has frequently relied on fortified underground facilities, particularly in southern Russia, where he is said to remain for extended periods while official communications continue through pre-recorded appearances.

“since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Putin has often taken refuge in renovated bunkers, particularly in the Krasnodar region, where he may work for weeks, while Russian media continue public communication using pre-recorded footage.”

The Krasnodar region, which has been targeted in Ukrainian drone strikes, is also home to Putin’s large Gelendzhik residence, a multi-level complex built into a cliffside.

Additional security precautions reportedly include periodic shutdowns of mobile internet across Moscow and expanded surveillance measures.

“FSO officers conduct large-scale checks using canine units and are also deployed along the Moscow River, ready to respond to possible drone attacks,” it states.

Media access has also been tightened, with security officials reportedly reviewing all public messaging about the president following what is described as a classified directive.

According to the report, individuals working closely with Putin face strict limitations, including bans on using internet-enabled mobile devices and restrictions on travel, relying instead on secure transportation arranged by state security services.

Heightened security measures have also been extended to senior military leadership following the assassination of Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov in a car bombing in Moscow late last year, an attack believed at the time to be linked to Ukraine.

The killing reportedly triggered internal tensions among top officials, leading to a contentious meeting in which senior figures accused one another of failing to prevent the breach.

The report states the meeting concluded with Putin calling for calm while directing officials to submit proposals to address the situation.

Additional protections were subsequently ordered for high-ranking generals, amid concerns over further attacks.

The report also suggests that growing security fears may be reflected in recent political signals, including the absence of State Duma deputies from invitations to the Victory Day parade on Red Square.

Roman Amin, founder of Important Stories, described the broader context behind the developments, warning of deepening internal strain within Russia’s leadership.

“The stalemate in the war in Ukraine, the painful Ukrainian drone strikes on oil infrastructure, and economic and social problems…were bound to eventually lead to a war between Russian power clans for the throne of the weakening dictator.”

Putin, he added, “who built this system of power himself, understands well what awaits him-hence the increased paranoia, the unprecedented isolation from the people and his own entourage.”

{Matzav.com}

Jonathan Pollard, who previously served 30 years in a U.S. prison, announced that he is entering Israeli politics and intends to run in the upcoming elections.

In an interview with Israel’s Channel 13 News, Pollard said he made the decision after a lengthy period of deliberation, explaining that the events of October 7 served as a turning point for him.

According to Pollard, the terror attack and the national upheaval that followed led him to conclude that he must take an active role in public affairs. He said he will run together with Nissim Lok, the father of Shani Lok Hy”d, who was murdered in the Simchas Torah massacre.

Pollard also expressed strong views regarding the future of the Gaza Strip, stating that he supports “full transfer” of the Gaza population. He argued that Israel is not winning the war and said a new leadership is needed to implement a more decisive and clearly defined policy.

Addressing Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, Pollard said he would accept any democratic outcome but stressed that the performance of the leadership since October 7 must be carefully examined. He added that while he is open to working with some political figures, he voiced strong reservations about Naftali Bennett.

Pollard said that Bennett is “right” in his criticism of Netanyahu, but maintained that Bennett’s past role in security decisions prevents him from being a partner going forward.

{Matzav.com}

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