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Despite ongoing hostilities and major disruptions to maritime activity, dozens of vessels — including oil tankers — have continued to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since the war with Iran began, allowing Tehran to keep exporting significant volumes of crude even as much of the waterway remains restricted, according to shipping and trade data.

A large portion of these crossings involved so-called “dark” vessels operating without standard tracking, likely to avoid Western sanctions and scrutiny, according to maritime analytics firm Lloyd’s List Intelligence. More recently, ships connected to countries such as India and Pakistan have also managed to navigate the strait, following stepped-up diplomatic efforts.

With oil prices surging past $100 per barrel, President Donald Trump has urged allies and trading partners to deploy naval forces to reopen the critical route, aiming to bring down soaring energy costs.

Since early March, when the conflict began, most commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz — a vital global artery that carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply — has largely come to a halt. Around 20 vessels have reportedly been attacked in the area during this period.

Even so, Iran has continued exporting substantial amounts of oil, with estimates from analytics firm Kpler placing shipments at more than 16 million barrels since the beginning of March. Due to sanctions and geopolitical considerations, China has remained the primary buyer of Iranian crude.

There has been “continued resilience” in Iran’s oil export volumes, said Kpler trade risk analyst Ana Subasic.

Iran has also managed to maintain revenue from these exports while keeping its supply routes intact, partly by leveraging its control over the strategic chokepoint, said Kun Cao, client director at consulting firm Reddal.

Shipping data appears to support these export estimates.

Between March 1 and 15, at least 89 vessels — including 16 oil tankers — transited the strait, according to Lloyd’s List Intelligence. This is a sharp decline from the typical 100 to 135 daily crossings before the war. Of those ships, more than 20 percent were believed to be linked to Iran, with others associated with countries such as China and Greece.

Additional vessels have also been able to pass through.

One example is the Pakistan-flagged crude tanker Karachi, operated by the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation, which successfully moved through the strait on Sunday, according to Lloyd’s List Intelligence.

A spokesperson for the Pakistan Port Trust, Shariq Amin, declined to specify the exact route taken by the MT Karachi but said the vessel was expected to arrive safely in Pakistan.

Two India-flagged liquefied petroleum gas carriers — Shivalik and Nanda Devi — owned by the state-run Shipping Corporation of India, also transited the strait around March 13 or 14, according to the same data. LPG serves as a key household fuel for millions in India.

India’s foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, told the Financial Times that the vessels were able to pass following discussions with Iran. Iraqi officials have also reportedly engaged in talks with Tehran to secure passage for their oil tankers.

According to Richard Meade, editor-in-chief of Lloyd’s List, these movements may be occurring “with at least some level of diplomatic intervention,” suggesting Iran may have established “effectively created a safe corridor” along parts of the route, particularly near its coastline.

Some ships traveling near or through the strait have reportedly identified themselves as linked to China or staffed entirely by Chinese crews to reduce the likelihood of being targeted, according to earlier analysis from MarineTraffic. Analysts say this reflects reliance on China’s relatively closer ties with Iran.

Oil prices have climbed more than 40% since the conflict began, surpassing $100 per barrel. Iran has warned that it may block “even a single liter of oil” bound for the United States, Israel, or their allies from passing through the strait.

In an effort to stabilize markets, the United States has allowed Iranian oil tankers to continue transiting the waterway. “The Iranian ships have been getting out already, and we’ve let that happen to supply the rest of the world,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with CNBC on Monday.

Although U.S. forces have targeted Iranian military sites on Kharg Island — a key hub for oil exports — President Donald Trump has indicated that Iran’s oil infrastructure has largely been spared for now.

The continued movement of ships suggests the strait has not been entirely shut down, but rather controlled in a selective manner. As Kun Cao explained, “It is better understood as closed selectively against some traffic, while still functioning for Iranian exports and a narrow set of tolerated non-Iranian movements.”

Still, analysts warn that Iran could tighten restrictions further if it seeks to drive up global energy prices. Strategists at ING, including Warren Patterson and Ewa Manthey, noted that if Tehran aims to “inflict pain through higher energy prices, the number of tankers it allows through the Strait of Hormuz may be very limited,” according to a recent research note.

{Matzav.com}

Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania said Tuesday that he is puzzled by the lack of backing from fellow Democrats for President Donald Trump’s military actions against Iran, arguing that more members of his party should stand behind efforts to defend Israel and confront Tehran’s threats.

Speaking on Fox News Channel’s “Hannity,” Fetterman said his position has left him largely alone within his party, even as he believes the issue is clear-cut. “I mean, like for me, like I am the only Democrat like that is absolutely fully supportive of what the president has done, you know, with Epic Fury,” Fetterman said. “And that’s isolated me as — in my party. But for me, generation now, we are losing generations in my party to supporting Israel and you know, really the nation. They’re the only nation in the region that has the kind of values that we as a Democrat, we want to live under that.”

He added that his stance is driven by principle rather than political calculations. “So, for me, I don’t follow the polls, you know?” he continued. “I’m going to follow the moral clarity of Israel, and I’ll be the one Democrat to celebrate, you know, continue to eliminate, you know, leadership that just — a couple weeks ago just executed thousands and thousands of their own young people there.”

Host Sean Hannity responded by pointing to historical lessons he believes support Trump’s approach. “You know, I think the president is leading on the lessons of history. One lesson, Reagan, peace through strength. A second lesson is the last century between Mao, China; Stalin, Russia; Pol Pot, the killing fields; Tojo, Japan; Hitler, Nazi Germany; Mussolini, fascism. That if we don’t act when we have a chance and preemptively when you see an emerging threat, you risk potentially millions of lives. Last century, we lost 100 million. And the third thing I think the president learned actually from Afghanistan and Iraq, and that is no long, protracted wars. Go in, get your business done, and then it will be up to the people of Iran, and hopefully, they’ll seize the moment.”

Fetterman agreed, saying the focus should be on dismantling a dangerous regime that has long posed a global threat. “Yeah. Disarm a toxic and incredibly destructive regime. You know, that’s been the problem for not just the region, but for the entire world. Every single Democrat in my party has said, ‘We must never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear bomb.’ Every single president, the last three or four have all had that same problem, and they were unable to just deal with it head on.”

He praised Trump’s decision to act decisively. “But now, President Trump did that and exactly the right thing to do,” he continued. “And you know, right now, we’re three weeks into this. I don’t understand why a single Democrat that I know isn’t publicly just praising this and saying, ‘Hey, you know, what’s happening now is making the world more safe and the region more safe.’”

Fetterman also took aim at allied countries that have not contributed to efforts to secure key global shipping routes. “And, I want to call out our allies that are unwilling to help the Americans to open up the straits,” Fetterman added. “You know, like, hey, does your country use oil? Yeah. Well, then that makes you part of — that’s a necessary part of this solution. I can’t imagine why they would turn their back on an America, but also remind them when America always stands up and stands with you when you’re confronted by this kinds of evil.”

{Matzav.com}

A dramatic video showing Hatzalah volunteers working to save the life of a non-Jewish cyclist struck by a truck has drawn widespread admiration across social media platforms.

The footage, captured on a Borough Park street in Brooklyn, quickly gained international attention.

The video depicts the moments after a non-Jewish cyclist was severely injured when a truck ran him over. A Hatzalah volunteer who was nearby immediately began performing intensive life-saving measures.

WATCH:

Brooklyn: 16th Avenue & 49th Street, a fatal collision claimed the life of a bicyclist Wednesday afternoon in Borough Park.

Police responded to a 911 call for a vehicle collision at 16th Avenue and 49th Street, within the confines of the @NYPD66Pct. According to the @NYPDnews, a… pic.twitter.com/5EyPETf8Dh

— NYC Scoop (@NY_Scoop) March 17, 2026

Within moments, additional frum volunteers arrived on the scene carrying advanced medical gear, all responding in their capacity as unpaid emergency responders. Despite their efforts, hospital staff later determined that the victim had not survived.

The clip prompted questions from viewers unfamiliar with Hatzalah’s role. One user wrote: “A dumb question from someone who isn’t from New York: does Hatzalah also treat non-Jewish patients?”

Responses came swiftly, reflecting positively on the Jewish community. “They treat everyone regardless of race or religion. They are a volunteer emergency service funded by donations from the Jewish community, and they are truly some of the most selfless and kind people. They will drop everything in a moment to save your life.”

Another commenter expressed strong emotion, writing: “Amazing work by dozens of Jewish volunteers trying to save the life of a complete stranger. All the equipment and ambulances were paid for by Jewish donations. This is what American pride looks like.”

Many of the reactions emphasized the distinct role the chareidi community plays in New York City, with users also noting that Hatzalah provides its services free of charge, unlike many private ambulance providers in the U.S.

One widely shared comment read: “A wonderful display of Jewish values. This is what makes New York a great city,” as the post continued to gather thousands of likes.

{Matzav.com}

Dear Matzav Inbox,

I’m going to say something that a lot of people are thinking, but not enough are saying out loud.

What in the world is going on with these weddings lately?

Every single week, or several times a week, it’s another over-the-top, out-of-control production. Not a chasunah. A production.

Massive floral arrangements that look like someone decided to recreate Gan Eden for one night. Imported singers flown in from Eretz Yisroel like it’s some international music festival. Zanvil and Motty Steinmetz might as well move to the US at this point. Massive bands, lighting that belongs at a concert, ice sculptures, desserts that look like museum pieces. What are we doing?

Since when did a wedding turn into this?

And don’t tell me “it’s for the simcha.” It’s not. Let’s be honest for five seconds. It’s not about simcha anymore. It’s about showing. It’s about topping the last wedding. It’s about, “Did you see what they did?” and making sure the next guy says that about you.

And the craziest part? The next day, no one cares.

No one remembers your flowers. No one remembers your lighting. No one remembers which singer you flew in or how many vocalists your Tzefardeia Choir had. People barely remember what they ate. By the next morning, it’s already over. Done. Finished.

But you know what’s not finished?

The bill.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars. Gone. For a few hours of noise and lights and fake “wow.”

And let’s call it what it is—it’s sick. Sick. Sick.

Not just “a little too much.” This is a full-blown, out-of-control sickness that keeps getting worse every single day.

There’s even a WhatsApp status dedicated solely to tracking weddings made by “moguls.” You can’t make it up.

And all this is happening while people in our community are choking on tuition bills, juggling credit cards, figuring out how to pay rent, how to marry off children, how to survive.

Do we not see the insanity?

You have families sitting at a wedding like this, smiling, clapping, pretending everything is normal, while inside they’re thinking, “Have we lost our minds?”

The pressure this creates is unbelievable.

More debt. More stress. More people trying to keep up with something that shouldn’t have started in the first place.

For what?

So that for one night, people should say “wow”?

A wedding is supposed to be about building a bayis ne’eman b’Yisroel. About a chassan and kallah starting their lives together. About something real. Something meaningful.

Not this circus. Not this fake-ness.

Not this endless one-upmanship where each wedding has to be bigger, louder, more expensive, more “insane” than the last.

At some point, someone has to say enough.

Because right now, it’s just getting more and more extreme. There’s no limit anymore. No sense of normal. No sense of “this is enough.”

And the saddest part? Some people actually walk out thinking this is what a wedding is supposed to be.

It’s not.

It never was.

And if we don’t start saying that out loud—and actually meaning it—then just wait. The next round will be even crazier.

And the one after that?

Even worse.

Sincerely,

Not a Mogul, But a Regular Guy Saying the Truth

To submit a letter to appear on Matzav.com, email MatzavInbox@gmail.com

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Israel is reportedly moving toward a large-scale ground operation in southern Lebanon aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s arsenal and pushing the terror group farther from the border, as the conflict has already forced more than one million Lebanese civilians from their homes.

Two weeks ago, Israel called on residents living south of the Litani River—roughly one-eighth of Lebanon’s territory—to evacuate the area. While hundreds of thousands complied, others chose to remain, including some Christian communities that sought to stay out of the fighting. Hezbollah fighters have often positioned themselves near such villages, using them as areas less likely to be targeted.

Lebanon’s Ministry of Social Affairs announced Monday that the number of displaced people has surpassed one million, with more than 132,000 officially registered as refugees. The mass movement of civilians has extended as far as the outskirts of Beirut.

“Before this attack we were ready for a ceasefire in Lebanon, but after it there is no way back from a massive operation,” an Israeli official said, referring to the barrage of more than 200 rockets fired by Hezbollah at northern Israel last Wednesday in coordination with Iran.

The Israel Defense Forces warned Tuesday that Israeli residents should brace for intensified rocket fire from Lebanon. According to the IDF, Hezbollah had been preparing to launch as many as 600 rockets in a coordinated strike, but Israeli preemptive actions destroyed a significant portion of the group’s launch capabilities.

The military has also faced criticism for not alerting civilians ahead of last week’s heavy rocket attack. Officials responded that providing advance warning would have compromised sensitive intelligence and allowed Hezbollah to adjust its plans, whereas the lack of warning enabled Israel to strike a substantial number of launchers both before and after the assault.

Under the ceasefire that ended the previous round of fighting in 2023—when Hezbollah joined Hamas in the Gaza war—the Lebanese army was obligated to disarm Hezbollah and prevent it from maintaining large rocket stockpiles near Israeli communities. The recent attacks suggest that commitment was not fulfilled.

Israel has repeatedly faulted Lebanon for failing to enforce that agreement, and the scale of Hezbollah’s recent rocket fire has reinforced those concerns. As a result, Israeli officials have shown little interest in new ceasefire proposals from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, expressing doubts about his ability to carry out promises to dismantle Hezbollah’s military infrastructure.

In recent days, Aoun and other Lebanese leaders have spoken more openly against Hezbollah, criticizing the Iran-backed group for dragging Lebanon into another destructive conflict. Despite the stronger rhetoric, Israeli officials remain unconvinced that the Lebanese government will take meaningful action.

“This is only the beginning, and the Lebanese government and the Lebanese state will pay an increasing price through damage to Lebanese national infrastructure that is used by Hezbollah terrorists,” Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Saturday.

“The Lebanese government, which misled and did not fulfill its commitment to disarm Hezbollah, will pay increasing prices through damage to infrastructure and the loss of territory, until the central commitment of disarming Hezbollah is fulfilled,” he said.

The IDF confirmed Tuesday that it has already begun what it described as “limited and targeted ground operations” inside Lebanon, including strikes on “key Hezbollah strongholds.”

“This activity is part of broader defensive efforts to establish and strengthen a forward defensive posture, which includes the dismantling of terrorist infrastructure and the elimination of terrorists operating in the area, in order to remove threats and create an additional layer of security for residents of northern Israel,” the IDF said.

According to the military, Hezbollah has deployed hundreds of fighters from its elite Radwan Force, trained to operate in small, mobile units designed to evade Israeli airstrikes. Israeli media reports indicate that three full IDF divisions are advancing into southern Lebanon to confront them.

Lebanese authorities say at least 886 people have been killed in Israeli strikes so far, including 111 children. The IDF reported that two Israeli soldiers have died in ground combat. Reports also indicate that several Lebanese paramedics were killed while responding to strike sites, though Israel has accused Hezbollah of using ambulances to transport fighters.

A report from The Washington Post on Wednesday indicated that frustration with Hezbollah is growing within Lebanon, including among Shiite communities that the group claims to represent.

The backlash may weaken Hezbollah’s standing as a political force, potentially reducing its support base. In an unusual move earlier this month, its ally, the Amal Movement, voted—symbolically—to ban Hezbollah’s armed activities within Lebanon.

Some Lebanese Shiites told The Washington Post they were stunned by Hezbollah’s decision to involve the country in Iran’s war, particularly during the month of Ramadan, without regard for the civilian population. Even some longtime supporters voiced anger, saying the group appeared to be acting as an arm of Iran rather than representing Lebanese interests, as it has claimed in past conflicts.

Others pointed out that even Hamas has not joined Iran’s current confrontation, with the group instead urging its “brothers in Tehran” to stop launching attacks on neighboring countries.

{Matzav.com}

The chief rabbi of Bnei Brak, Rav Shevach Tzvi Rosenblatt, is in very serious condition after undergoing emergency surgery, prompting widespread calls for tefillah on his behalf.

Rav Rosenblatt, who serves as the rav of Bnei Brak and is a member of the Badatz Shearis Yisroel, is currently hospitalized at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer, where his condition has been described as extremely critical.

Earlier today he underwent an urgent surgical procedure, after which doctors classified his situation as very serious.

Across batei medrash and yeshivos, tefillos are being recited for his recovery.

All are asked to daven for the recovery of Rav Shevach Tzvi ben Dina Miriam.

{Matzav.com}

Iran issued a sharp warning Wednesday that key energy facilities across the Persian Gulf could come under attack following an Israeli strike on its South Pars gas field, a move that has heightened regional tensions and sent shockwaves through global energy markets, according to Bloomberg.

Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that installations in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have been designated as “legitimate targets” in retaliation for the strike.

In a separate report, the Fars news agency stated that attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure “will not go unanswered.”

The threats follow reports that Israel carried out a strike on the South Pars gas field, one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world, jointly shared by Iran and Qatar. An Israeli official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the operation took place.

Qatar strongly denounced the strike, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari describing it as a “dangerous and irresponsible step” in a statement shared on social media.

Oil markets reacted immediately to the escalation. Brent crude prices rose above $108 per barrel after Iran’s warning, continuing a sharp climb that has seen prices jump nearly 50% since the conflict began on Feb. 28, when U.S. and Israeli forces launched coordinated attacks on Iran.

The ongoing fighting has already disrupted energy production in the region, especially near the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil. Some producers in the area have scaled back output due to growing security risks.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday again urged U.S. allies to play a larger role in protecting the strategic waterway, voicing frustration over what he sees as insufficient international involvement.

At the same time, Iran launched a new round of missile and drone strikes targeting the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, while also hitting Tel Aviv, where officials reported two deaths. The attacks came after Tehran confirmed the killing of senior security official Ali Larijani.

Iranian military officials have pledged to avenge Larijani’s death, as well as the killing of Gholamreza Soleimani, the commander of the Basij paramilitary organization.

Israeli officials also reported that Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmaeil Khatib, has been killed during the conflict.

The United States has stepped up its military campaign, confirming that it used 5,000-pound bunker-busting bombs against Iranian missile sites near the Strait of Hormuz late Tuesday. The strikes are part of broader efforts to restore safe passage for commercial shipping through the area.

Despite the escalation, Iran’s oil exports appear to be continuing largely uninterrupted. Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains close to normal levels, and loading operations at Kharg Island, one of Iran’s main export hubs, have proceeded without significant disruption.

Major international carriers are continuing to halt service to Tel Aviv as the conflict with Iran intensifies, with Delta Air Lines announcing it will pause all flights to Israel through June 1, shortly after United Airlines said it would suspend its service until June 15.

Other airlines have followed suit, with flyDubai confirming that it is canceling all routes to Israel until April 30.

The Lufthansa Group — including Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings, and Lufthansa — has also extended its suspension of Tel Aviv flights through April 2. Meanwhile, Hungary’s low-cost carrier Wizz Air stated it will not resume service to Israel until at least April, with reports indicating that some scheduled April flights have already been scrapped.

British budget airline easyJet has taken an even longer view, canceling all flights to Israel for the foreseeable future and not expecting to return to Tel Aviv before October.

Currently, foreign airlines are unable to operate at Ben Gurion Airport due to a NOTAM issued by Israel’s Civil Aviation Authority, which significantly limits activity in the country’s airspace. In addition, both the EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have issued advisories cautioning against flights in the region.

flyDubai, in particular, has been affected by the deteriorating security situation in the Gulf. Dubai’s airport has recently come under threat from Iran and has even been targeted by suicide drones.

Although Israel’s Transportation Ministry granted flyDubai special authorization to land and conduct rescue operations to bring Israelis home, the airline ultimately decided not to restart its flights.

{Matzav.com}

Senior leaders of the American intelligence community, including top officials from the FBI and CIA, testified Wednesday before the Senate Intelligence Committee, offering an updated overview of global security threats.

Their assessment indicated that the number of missiles worldwide capable of striking the United States is projected to surge significantly, climbing from roughly 3,000 today to more than 16,000 by 2035.

During the session, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard discussed Iran’s condition following months of conflict, explaining that while the regime remains in place, its military effectiveness has been heavily diminished. “The regime in Iran appears to be intact but largely degraded by Operation Epic Fury. Its regional power projection capabilities have been destroyed, leaving limited options,” Gabbard noted. She added that if the regime survives the current conflict, it will need many years to restore the missile and UAV arrays that have been severely damaged.

Gabbard also addressed Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, stating that its uranium enrichment sites were completely wiped out during last June’s war and that there is currently no indication Tehran is working to rebuild them.

Despite these setbacks, U.S. intelligence officials cautioned that Iran and its allied groups still pose an active threat across the region. “Iran and its proxies remain capable of and continue to attack US and allied interests in the Middle East. If a hostile regime survives, it will seek to begin a years long effort to rebuild its missiles and UAV forces.”

New details disclosed Wednesday show that three privately owned passenger planes sustained damage in recent days after missile fragments fell onto Ben Gurion International Airport.

One of the aircraft caught fire following the impact, causing significant destruction, while the other two planes were found with punctures from the debris.

In response to the exposed weaknesses in the airport’s defenses, Israel’s Transportation Ministry is now weighing whether to scale back the number of passengers permitted on departing flights, after having previously raised the limit to 120.

In the city of Tuyserkan in western Iran stands a historic mausoleum that, according to longstanding tradition, marks the kever of the novi Chavakuk, one of the Trei Asar.

The site has been revered for generations by both the Jewish community of Persia and local Shiite Muslims, and is officially listed as monument number 969 on Iran’s national heritage registry.

Chavakuk lived during the time of the first Beis Hamikdash, in the days of King Menasheh ben Chizkiyahu of Yehudah. His nevuah grapples with a profound question: how ra and resha can prevail in the world of Hakadosh Baruch Hu.

According to Persian tradition, Chavakuk served as a guardian of the Beis Hamikdash and was taken captive by the Babylonians following the destruction of Yerushalayim. That same tradition maintains that he later passed away in Persia and was buried in Tuyserkan.

The present structure dates back to the Seljuk period in the 13th century. However, local traditions indicate that the site had already been associated with his kever long before the rise of Islam.

The building is constructed of brick in an octagonal shape, standing 12 meters tall, and topped with a distinctive cone-shaped dome rising another seven meters. A striking and unusual feature is the presence of Magen Dovid designs engraved into the exterior walls, incorporated as part of the structure itself. The actual kever is located in an underground crypt beneath the dome.

In 1372, antiquities thieves broke into the compound and dug tunnels in search of valuables. During the investigation that followed, the underground crypt was uncovered. Local accounts relate that the body of the novi was found intact and preserved.

Over the years, the site has undergone multiple restorations, and in the 20th century it was formally designated as a national monument. In 1960, the Iranian government even issued a commemorative postage stamp honoring the site.

The exact location of the kever of Chavakuk remains a matter of dispute. Tanach does not specify where he was buried, and a number of differing traditions have developed. As early as the fourth century, Eusebius of Caesarea recorded that the kever was located 12 mil from Beit Guvrin, south of Beit Shemesh. Professor Zev Vilnai suggested this might refer to the village of Jaba in the Gush Etzion region, near ruins known as Lavik. However, Eusebius himself writes that the site was at a place called Ein Ke’ilah, identified today with Khirbet Qila near the Beit Guvrin–Chevron road.

This may correspond to the biblical Ke’ilah, the city that Dovid Hamelech saved from the Pelishtim, as described in Sefer Shmuel, and listed among the cities of the lowlands of Yehudah in Sefer Yehoshua. In the fifth century, the bishop of Beit Guvrin claimed to have discovered the remains of Chavakuk at that location.

In the 12th century, Peter the Deacon wrote that the kever was located at a place called Jakuk, also near Beit Guvrin.

At the same time, a strong mesorah among the Yidden of Eretz Yisroel places the kever in the Lower Galilee. That site is situated near Route 65, south of the Kadarim junction and west of the modern community of Chukok, whose name itself is derived from the biblical Chukok. The nearby Arab village of Yakuk preserved the ancient name as well.

As early as 1210, Rav Shmuel bar Shimshon wrote during his aliyah l’regel: “We found the kever of Chavakuk in the village of Chukok.” Many other travelers later recorded visiting the site, including Rav Yaakov Hashaliach, Rav Menachem HaChevroni, Rav Ehstori HaParchi in his sefer Kaftor VaFerach, and Rav Yitzchak ben Alfra.

From the 11th century onward, Jewish travelers frequently referenced Chukok in connection with the kever of Chavakuk, and Rav Ehstori HaParchi even identified remains of an ancient beis knesses there.

The current tziyun at that location is a stone structure topped with a blue dome, surrounded by ancient oak trees.

Until today, Iranian Jews  continue to travel to Tuyserkan to daven at the kever. The site stands as a powerful reminder of the long-standing presence of Yidden in Persia—dating back to Golus Bavel—a presence whose traces remain visible in the kivrei nevi’im, ancient batei knesses, and a small but steadfast kehilla holding on to its identity under the Islamic regime.

As the U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran approaches the three-week mark, polling data continues to show overwhelming support for President Donald Trump’s decision to launch Operation Epic Fury among his MAGA base and strong backing among Republicans, with a new survey indicating that most likely voters believe the operation is achieving its goals.

According to a Rasmussen Reports poll released this week, 61 percent of likely voters say the military effort against Iran has been successful so far, including 35 percent who describe it as “very successful.”

The survey also highlighted how closely the public is following developments, with 81 percent of respondents saying they have been paying attention to the situation, including 49 percent who said they have been tracking it “very closely.” Among that group, support rises to 66 percent.

Backing for the operation is especially high among Republicans and supporters of Trump.

Among Republicans, 81 percent say the operation has been successful, compared with 56 percent of independent voters and 45 percent of Democrats.

Among those who voted for Trump in the 2024 election, 83 percent say the operation is succeeding, while just 40 percent of those who supported then-Vice President Kamala Harris say the same.

The results come as critics from across the political spectrum have attempted to portray the operation as divisive or out of alignment with Trump’s supporters, a claim that polling has repeatedly contradicted since the campaign began.

Even CNN acknowledged that reality on Tuesday.

Speaking on CNN News Central, data analyst Harry Enten pointed to multiple surveys showing overwhelming backing within Trump’s base, stating, “Look at this — nearly nine in ten, 89 percent approve of the U.S. military action in Iran. That is the MAGA GOP base.”

“Just nine percent disapprove of it,” Enten added. “This is tremendously popular among the Republican base.”

Referencing recent CNN and NBC polling, Enten said the data indicates Trump’s core supporters remain firmly behind the military campaign, despite a limited number of prominent critics.

Additional polling has shown similar trends across multiple surveys conducted since the operation began.

An Economist/YouGov poll carried out in recent days found that 87 percent of MAGA supporters approve of Trump’s handling of Iran, while other surveys have placed support as high as 91 percent among voters aligned with the MAGA movement.

Polling has also examined public opinion on Trump’s decision to initiate military action following the breakdown of negotiations with Iran.

A McLaughlin & Associates survey released last week found that 51 percent of likely voters support Trump’s use of the U.S. military to dismantle Iran’s nuclear missile program and its backing of terrorism, compared with 41 percent who oppose it.

Support increased further when respondents were reminded of Iran’s long history of hostility toward the United States.

When asked whether military action against Iran and its leadership was necessary to protect American lives now and in the future, 57 percent agreed, while 33 percent disagreed.

Support rose to 87 percent among voters planning to support Republican candidates for Congress, while even among undecided voters, a majority—51 percent to 29 percent—backed the position.

Among independents, 46 percent agreed that the action was necessary, compared with 40 percent who disagreed.

Recent commentary across a range of outlets has pointed to a disconnect between claims of division within Trump’s base and polling that continues to show broad support for the operation.

An opinion piece published Monday by Al Jazeera, titled “No, MAGA is not divided on the Iran war,” argued that Trump’s supporters remain largely unified despite a small number of vocal critics, while noting that polling continues to demonstrate consistent backing.

Similarly, a Wall Street Journal opinion article published Tuesday titled “MAGA Isn’t Really Against the Iran Operation,” by Vandenberg Coalition senior policy director Corban Teague, cited polling conducted with TargetPoint showing that 84 percent of Trump voters overall—and 94 percent of those identifying specifically as MAGA—support U.S. military action against Iran.

Teague argued, based on his own survey data, that claims of a broader split within Trump’s base are not supported by the numbers.

{Matzav.com}

As the “Operation Roaring Lion” war continues, thousands of working Israeli women are facing complicated financial and legal questions, particularly those returning from maternity leave. The issue came into focus during a tense exchange between Tzvi Tessler and a caller named Chava on the program “Osim Seder” on Radio Kol Chai.

Chava, who works at a daycare and was scheduled to return from maternity leave just as the fighting began, described her frustration navigating the system. “How do I prove to them that I was supposed to return from maternity leave so they should recognize me for that?” she asked, voicing the concern of many women whose income has been disrupted between the end of maternity leave and the shutdown of workplaces.

During the broadcast, it was explained that eligibility for unemployment benefits under unpaid leave hinges on what is known as the “14-day rule.” According to current guidelines, an employee must be absent from work for at least two consecutive weeks starting from the official date she was meant to return. “You need to complete two weeks from the date you were supposed to return in order to qualify for unemployment benefits,” the experts explained. For mothers returning to closed daycare centers, this creates a race against time in dealing with the National Insurance system.

The discussion outlined two primary options for affected workers. One is to request that the employer formally place them on unpaid leave for at least 14 days. The second, more complex approach, is to ask the employer to continue paying a regular salary, with the expectation that the state may later reimburse the employer for those payments. “Tell the daycare: pay me a regular salary, in the hope that there will be compensation from the state,” was suggested during the program, though it was noted that this depends on the business’s financial status and eligibility for reimbursement.

Chava also recalled financial difficulties from a previous military operation, when confusion over payroll led to demands for repayment. “In the previous war the daycare paid us… and said that once the state reimburses them, we would pay them back,” she said. The overlap between maternity leave and wartime disruptions, combined with unclear eligibility periods, can create salary discrepancies that end up hurting young mothers at a particularly vulnerable time.

Host Tzvi Tessler pledged to continue addressing the issue, including working with the organization Koach LaOvdim to find solutions. For now, many are waiting to see whether the Finance Ministry will introduce a framework that takes into account the unique challenges faced by women returning from maternity leave during an emergency.

{Matzav.com}

Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) on Tuesday offered a limited explanation for his social media post that appeared to connect New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani (D) to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, while also minimizing concerns about whether the remarks were offensive.

During an interview, DC News Now’s Reshad Hudson asked Tuberville to clarify a post he shared last Thursday on X. In that post, Tuberville reposted an image showing the World Trade Center under attack on 9/11 alongside a photo of Mamdani hosting a Ramadan iftar at City Hall, accompanied by the caption, “The enemy is inside the gates.”

Tuberville responded with a laugh before saying, “I just go by his rhetoric.”

“He’s made a lot of statements about his stance with Islam and radical Islam, all the things that go along with what he preaches every day,” he continued. “And I’m just kind of repeating what he’s saying.”

He went on to stress that the country should avoid division, adding, “we don’t need a division in this country. We need everybody to go with the Constitution, understand we have moral values. And if we all stick with those –– I don’t care if you’re Muslim or Catholic or Baptist, it makes no difference.”

“We need to make the country better; we don’t need to divide it. That’s what he’s doing in New York,” he claimed without providing an example.

When asked whether Muslim residents in Alabama might have found the post offensive, Tuberville said he has “got some great Muslim friends” and noted that he had spoken with “two Iranians in Alabama this past week about the war. Obviously, they’re Muslim.”

He then added, “if you teach and preach Sharia law, if you bow down to the Quran, it teaches death to Americans. That don’t fly with me, OK?”

Tuberville reiterated that he is not concerned with individuals’ religious affiliations, emphasizing, “Hey, you come be part of our country [and] don’t try to divide people, don’t try to push your culture — we already have a culture — [then] I’m all for you.”

The post drew significant backlash, coming amid a surge of heated anti-Muslim rhetoric from some Republican lawmakers during the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran’s Islamic regime. Comments from figures such as Reps. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) and Randy Fine (R-Fla.) have sparked calls for formal censure, with a censure motion already filed in Ogles’ case.

Mamdani responded directly to Tuberville’s original post, writing, “Let there be as much outrage from politicians in Washington when kids go hungry as there is when I break bread with New Yorkers.”

Other officials issued even sharper criticism. California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) described Tuberville as a “racist piece of [garbage].”

“Blatantly racist. Wildly Islamophobic. Republicans aren’t even trying to hide their true colors,” Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) wrote in a post on X. “Hate against one is hate against all, and we only conquer vile hate [by] uniting together as a nation of and for all people.”

Israel confirmed Wednesday that it carried out a targeted strike in Tehran that resulted in the death of Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmaeil Khatib, marking another high-level hit against senior figures in the Iranian regime.

An Israeli official said the Israeli Air Force launched the operation Tuesday night in an attempt to assassinate Khatib, which Israeli leaders now say was successful.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the outcome, stating that Khatib had been “in charge of the Iranian regime’s mechanisms for murder and internal repression, and of advancing external threats.”

“Israel’s policy is clear and unambiguous: No one in Iran is immune, and they are all targets.”

The IDF released a statement detailing the operation, saying: “Overnight (Wednesday), the Israeli Air Force, acting on IDF intelligence, eliminated the Iranian terrorist regime Minister of Intelligence, Esmaeil Khatib, in a targeted strike in Tehran.”

“Khatib had been appointed Minister of Intelligence by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in 2021. In his role, Khatib oversaw the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence, the Iranian terrorist regime’s primary intelligence organization, which also played a key role in supporting the regime’s repression and terrorist activities.

“The Iranian Ministry of Intelligence possesses advanced intelligence capabilities, overseeing surveillance, espionage, and the execution of covert operations worldwide, particularly against the State of Israel and Iranian citizens.

“As the Intelligence Minister, Khatib played a significant role during the recent protests throughout Iran, both with regards to the arrest and killing of protestors as well as shaping the regime’s intelligence assessment. Similarly, he operated against Iranian citizens during the Mahsa Amini protests (2022-2023).”

The military added that Khatib had also been involved in directing operations beyond Iran’s borders, noting, “In addition to his activities targeting the State of Israel, Khatib led the Ministry of Intelligence’s terrorist activities against Israeli and American targets around the world, as well as activities directed against targets within Israel during Operation Roaring Lion.”

The IDF further outlined his background, stating, “Khatib previously held several key roles within the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), primarily holding intelligence positions, where he served as a significant source of knowledge.”

According to the statement, his death is part of a broader campaign targeting senior Iranian leadership. “His elimination joins dozens of other eliminations of senior commanders of the Iranian terrorist regime throughout the operation, including senior figures in the Ministry of Intelligence, and significantly degrades the regime’s command and control structures.

“The IDF will continue to operate against Iranian terror regime commanders.”

{15}

Sicko commentator Candace Owens is facing widespread criticism after a video surfaced in which she refers to Daily Wire co-founder Ben Shapiro using harsh and dehumanizing language, including calling him a “maggot,” a “worm,” and a member of a “different species” that is “not human.”

The comments appear in a video of about 70 seconds that has been widely shared on X, emerging amid a growing public dispute between Owens and Shapiro. The tensions between the two have escalated in recent months, particularly following the killing of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

Demonic grifter Candace Owens goes full Neo-Nazi, referring to Ben Shapiro as a "maggot" and a "worm" and saying that he is a different "species" that is not human

She is doing this because she is trying to create a mental justification for one of her lunatic followers to harm… pic.twitter.com/pYjyqqzNbG

— Ian Miles Cheong (@ianmiles) March 17, 2026

Owens has repeatedly accused Shapiro of using Kirk’s legacy for personal or institutional advantage within Turning Point USA (TPUSA), and in prior remarks she has described him as a “maggot rotting on a corpse.”

The clip gained further attention after being highlighted by Ian Miles Cheong, a well-known conservative commentator on X, whose post drew tens of thousands of views. Cheong characterized Owens’ rhetoric as “full Neo-Nazi” and alleged that her statements were aimed at creating a “mental justification” for potential violence against Shapiro by one of her supporters.

{Matzav.com}

Thousands of participants in the popular Daf Yomi shiur delivered by Reb Eli Stefansky were surprised this week when he introduced a newly published book about the Ribnitzer Rebbe and shared a personal story about himself that had remained unknown for decades.

During the shiur, Eli presented the new Hebrew book, “The Ribnitzer,” which recounts the life and wonders of the revered tzaddik, Rav Chaim Zanvil of Ribnitz. He noted that the book includes a personal account involving him, immediately sparking curiosity among the many listeners.

The story describes how Eli’s father, Rav Yaakov Dovid Stefansky—an accomplished talmid chochom and close talmid of Maran Rav Shach zt”l—would go out of his way to visit the Ribnitzer Rebbe late at night. During those visits, the Rebbe would seat young Eli on his lap while reciting Tehillim.

On one of those late-night visits, the Ribnitzer Rebbe made a striking statement that became well known within the family: “This child will grow to become one of the gedolei hador.” The words, spoken by a tzaddik renowned for his far-reaching vision, accompanied Eli throughout his life.

Addressing the story during this week’s shiur, Eli responded with a sense of humor. He told his audience that, in his view, it would be excessive—and even foolish—to claim that he is a gadol hador.

“The Rebbe knew that one day I would have the zechus to establish the largest Daf Yomi shiur in the world,” said Eli. “Although I am not a gadol hador in any way, every single day I am in contact with thousands of Yidden who are learning Torah from me.”

A senior Israeli Home Front Command official warned Tuesday that traditional large gatherings during Pesach, including tishen, may not be permitted if the current security situation continues, as concerns grow over a potential escalation from Hezbollah.

Col. Yehonatan Raz, commander of the Ganim district in the Home Front Command, issued a clear message to residents in central Israel, stressing the need for heightened vigilance.

“The war is not over. We are striking our enemies with chasdei Shamayim, but we must remain alert. As part of the threat, we are likely to face significant rocket fire from Lebanon, and therefore we have instructed local authorities that tonight requires greater caution than usual,” he said.

While attempting to reassure the public, Raz emphasized the importance of preparedness and public cooperation.

“Although the enemy’s capabilities toward central Israel are more limited, it is still important to be prepared. We will do everything possible to respond quickly and handle any incident, but the public must be familiar with the guidelines and follow them,” he said in an interview with Yaakov Grodka on Kol Barama.

Raz also revealed a striking detail about the situation in Bnei Brak, noting that many residents may be unaware of the extent of the danger.

“The public in Bnei Brak may not realize this, but dozens of explosive fragments from missile warheads have already fallen within the city. The great miracle we saw on Rechov Yerushalayim, where an entire family was saved by entering a protected space, proves that the discipline of the tzibbur chareidi saves lives,” he said.

Looking ahead to Pesach, and in light of fears of further escalation on the northern front in addition to the ongoing war with Iran, Raz made clear that the Home Front Command will not take unnecessary risks.

“We are in close contact with the city leadership, as well as with the courts and chassidic communities. If we are placed under ‘Level 3’ restrictions, we will not be able to allow large gatherings and tishen as we have known them. We are working with planning teams to find alternative solutions, similar to what was done during the coronavirus period,” he said.

Raz also praised the preparedness of the Bnei Brak municipality, highlighting significant investments made in recent years.

“The Bnei Brak municipality has invested enormous resources in technology and training since the previous operation. We are prepared for any scenario, including the possibility of increased Hezbollah attacks. Residents need to exercise greater caution tonight than ever, and we will do everything to protect them,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

A large-scale emergency preparedness drill conducted by the Bnei Brak municipality on Tuesday abruptly became a real-time incident when a live siren was triggered in the city, forcing officials and rescue teams to shift instantly from simulation to actual emergency response, Matzav.com has learned.

The area surrounding Bnei Brak City Hall appeared early in the day like a full-scale disaster scene. Dozens of emergency vehicles, rescue personnel, and municipal security teams were deployed as part of a major exercise simulating a direct missile strike in one of the city’s densely populated areas. Within minutes, however, the planned scenario gave way to a real and tense situation.

In the middle of the drill, as crews were practicing evacuations and treating simulated casualties amid mock destruction, a real siren suddenly sounded across the city. The staged chaos immediately stopped, replaced by focused, operational alertness. Mayor Chanoch Zeibert, together with senior municipal officials and professional teams, quickly moved into a protected municipal shelter and fortified command center.

From the city’s advanced command center, teams managed what effectively became a dual situation—closely monitoring real-time developments following the siren while continuing to oversee the ongoing drill scenario. The rapid transition from routine exercise to live emergency highlighted the city’s high level of preparedness.

During the incident, Home Front Command chief Maj. Gen. Shay Kalper arrived unexpectedly at the command center and observed operations firsthand. He praised the city’s handling of the situation, telling those present: “In this war, the home front is the frontline. The role of the command center is to take care of the citizens here so that the fighters at the front can operate with peace of mind. Bnei Brak is demonstrating today an exceptionally high level of readiness.”

Mayor Zeibert briefed the general on the city’s unique challenges, emphasizing its dense population and large number of children, and outlined a series of practical solutions aimed at saving lives during real emergencies.

After the situation stabilized and operations returned to routine, Kalper and Zeibert—joined by Acting Mayor Menachem Shapira, Deputy Mayor Elharar, Municipal Director General Ehrenstein, and Emergency and Security Department head Chaim Nogelblat—conducted a field tour along Jerusalem Street, where a previous strike had occurred.

The delegation entered residential buildings, visited damaged apartments, and spoke with residents who had narrowly escaped harm during earlier incidents. The direct interaction between officials and residents underscored the critical importance of preparedness, awareness, and access to protected spaces.

Security officials and Home Front Command representatives expressed strong satisfaction at the conclusion of the drill. “Today we saw that in Bnei Brak, emergency preparedness is not just talk, but a well-oiled system that functions under fire,” professionals involved in the exercise said.

{Matzav.com}

In a ruling that could influence how traffic violations are handled during wartime, an Israeli traffic court judge accepted the defense’s argument that security conditions can serve as a mitigating factor, reducing the driver’s license suspension to just 20 days.

The incident took place on Route 1 during the afternoon hours amid “Operation Roaring Lion.” The driver was caught traveling at 157 km/h—approximately 75% above the legal limit of 90 km/h. During the trip, two sirens sounded, and the driver pulled over each time. However, in the intervals between the sirens, while traveling on an open road without access to a protected shelter, he accelerated in an effort to reduce his exposure time.

Attorney Ilon Oron, a former chairman of the National Traffic Committee of the Israel Bar Association and author of a leading traffic law encyclopedia, represented the driver. He argued that during a state of emergency, standard traffic law criteria should not be applied in the usual manner. According to the defense, the repeated sirens created a situation in which the driver, attempting to reach safety quickly, was not fully aware of his speed.

The defense further contended that a distinction must be made between reckless driving stemming from disregard for safety and increased speed driven by a genuine sense of danger, urging the court to take that difference into account.

Prosecutors opposed the argument, maintaining that speed limits must be enforced even during emergencies, particularly in cases involving a driver with a problematic traffic record. Nevertheless, the judge sided with the defense, ruling that the security circumstances warranted consideration and ultimately imposing a 20-day license suspension despite the driver’s prior record.

{Matzav.com}