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Argentine President Javier Milei Opens Israel Visit with Prayer at the Kosel

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Argentine President Javier Milei began his visit to Eretz Yisroel today with a visit to the Kosel, arriving there shortly after landing as part of his third official trip to the country since taking office.

Milei was accompanied by a senior delegation that included Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein, Presidential Secretary Karina Milei, Argentina’s ambassador to Israel Rabbi Shimon Axel Wahnish, and his wife.

He was received at the Kosel by Rav Shmuel Rabinowitz, rov of the Kosel and the mekomos hakedoshim, along with Mordechai (Suli) Eliav, director of the Western Wall Heritage Foundation. The two welcomed the president warmly and praised his unwavering support for the Jewish people and the State of Israel, noting the strong relationship he has developed with Jews and with the country in recent years.

During the visit, Milei was visibly emotional, saying that the Kosel is the most important place for him. He recited a kappitel of Tehillim together with Rav Rabinowitz and offered a special prayer for the peace of both nations and for the continued strengthening of the bond between the peoples and countries.

As in his previous visits, Milei is expected to return to the Kosel before concluding his trip,.

At the end of the visit, the president offered a personal prayer, received from Rav Rabinowitz an English edition of his sefer Avnei Derech on the Yomim Tovim, and signed the official guest book.

{Matzav.com}

Smotrich: Conquer Gaza and Settle It

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Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on Sunday outlined a hardline vision for Israel’s ongoing war efforts, urging territorial expansion and full control over Gaza during remarks delivered at a ceremony marking the reopening of Sa-Nur in northern Samaria.

Addressing critics on the left, Smotrich argued that their approach reflects a pattern of conceding gains, saying: “Those criticizing us from the left mean the final political step they are accustomed to – one of surrender and defeat that erases the military achievements.. We must be advancing a political step of victory that cements the military achievements and expands the state’s borders as defensible boundaries.”

Emphasizing his position further, he added: “Instead of handing territory to the enemy – take territory from the enemy.”

Turning to the situation in Gaza, Smotrich urged immediate action, calling on Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu to escalate the campaign. “I call on the prime minister to order the IDF to prepare immediately for the full conquest of the Gaza Strip, to establish Israeli control over all the territory of the Strip, and to establish Israeli settlement in it. Without settlement, there will be no security.”

He continued by invoking a broader historical argument, stating: “For a hundred years it has been proven – where the plow passes, the border and security follow. The war must end in an expansion of the State of Israel’s borders.”

The event also marked a return to Sa-Nur, as 16 Israeli families moved into temporary housing at the site. Among those present was Samaria regional leader Yossi Dagan, who had been removed from the settlement in 2005. Speaking at the gathering, he described the development as “a significant step – personally, nationally, and emotionally.”

Defense Minister Israel Katz also addressed attendees, focusing on military operations along Israel’s northern border. He said Israeli forces are currently operating “to a depth of 10 kilometers inside Lebanese territory in order to prevent anti-tank fire and raids on northern communities. We instructed the IDF to act with full force, from the ground and from the air, even during the ceasefire.”

Katz outlined Israel’s strategic objective in the north, saying: “The supreme goal is to disarm Hezbollah and remove the threat to the northern communities.” He added a warning that “if the government of Lebanon continues to fail to meet its commitments – the IDF will do so. We promised security to the residents of the north.”

Reflecting personally, Katz noted: “As a paratrooper, Sa-Nur base was the place where I began my path in the IDF. This is an important closing of a circle for me.”

He also announced a major investment in military infrastructure, revealing plans for a NIS 350 million initiative to relocate and strengthen IDF bases across Judea and Samaria, describing it as part of a broader effort to bolster Israel’s long-term security.

{Matzav.com}

AGE APPROPRIATE: Obama, Mamdani Sing ‘Wheels On The Bus’ With Bronx Kids During First Joint Appearance

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[Video below.] Barack Obama and Zohran Mamdani met face-to-face for the first time yesterday, visiting a childcare center in the Bronx where they spent time reading and singing with young children while also discussing the mayor’s plans for the city.

Footage from the visit showed the two leaders sharing lighthearted moments with the children at the Learning Through Play Pre-K Center in the South Bronx, reading books together and joining in a rendition of “Wheels on the Bus.”

During the visit, Obama and Mamdani also spoke with families and talked about the mayor’s goals for New York, with the mayor’s office emphasizing the importance of “giving New York’s Cutest have the strongest start possible.”

Although the two had not previously met in person, Obama had reached out to Mamdani ahead of his election, offering guidance and making himself available as a sounding board, according to The Associated Press.

Mamdani recently marked his 100th day in office and has reiterated campaign pledges, including a plan to establish five city-run grocery stores by the end of his first term on Jan. 1, 2030.

Public opinion on Mamdani’s performance has been mixed but leans positive, with a recent poll showing that 48% of respondents approve of his leadership so far, while 30% disapprove and 23% remain undecided, according to FOX 5 New York.

The same polling data indicated that 56% of residents believe the city is moving in the right direction under Mamdani, a notable increase from the 31% who expressed that view in October.

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}

“NO MORE MR. NICE GUY!” Trump’s Warning to Iran: ‘Every Single Power Plant, and Every Single Bridge’

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President Donald Trump on Sunday charged that Iran had broken the ceasefire agreement, saying Iranian forces “decided to fire bullets” in the Strait of Hormuz.

Writing on Truth Social, Trump said the gunfire targeted a French vessel and a British freighter, describing the incident as “a total violation” of the agreement.

He also noted that American officials are set to travel to Islamabad, Pakistan, for another round of negotiations, stating they are expected to arrive “tomorrow evening” for discussions.

Trump addressed Iran’s declaration that it had shut down the Strait of Hormuz, calling the move “strange” and arguing that the waterway had already been effectively closed due to a U.S. blockade. He said the situation is costing Iran $500 million each day, while the United States “loses nothing,” adding that ships are now being redirected to American ports in Texas, Louisiana, and Alaska for cargo loading.

The president also took aim at the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, saying the situation is “compliments of the IRGC, always wanting to be ‘the tough guy!’”

Trump said Washington has presented Tehran with “a very fair and reasonable deal” and voiced hope that Iran will agree to it. At the same time, he warned that rejecting the proposal would prompt the United States to strike “every single power plant, and every single bridge” across the country.

“NO MORE MR. NICE GUY!” Trump wrote, adding that it would be his “honor to do what has to be done,” and arguing that such action “should have been done to Iran… for the last 47 years.”

He concluded his remarks by declaring, “IT’S TIME FOR THE IRAN KILLING MACHINE TO END!”

The comments come as tensions remain high between Washington and Tehran, centered on control of the Strait of Hormuz and efforts to reach a broader agreement to end the conflict.

On Saturday night, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said there has been “progress” in talks with the United States, though he cautioned that a “big distance” still separates the two sides.

Trump, for his part, has said the negotiations are “going actually along very well,” while stressing that Iran “can’t blackmail us.”

Meanwhile, Iran announced that it had shut down the Strait of Hormuz and would maintain control over the critical passage until the war concludes. A regional intelligence source cited by Fox News said the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has full control of the waterway, with several ships reportedly forced to turn around.

Trump has previously signaled that he may choose not to extend the current ceasefire, indicating that while the blockade would stay in place, a breakdown in talks could lead to renewed military action.

{Matzav.com}

Iran War Negotiations Will Resume This Week, Trump Says, Despite New Attacks on Hormuz

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President Donald Trump said Sunday that his Middle East envoy will head to Pakistan to restart negotiations aimed at ending the conflict with Iran, even as fresh violence in the Strait of Hormuz casts doubt on the stability of the current ceasefire.

Speaking by phone from the White House, Trump confirmed that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to depart Sunday night and arrive in Islamabad ahead of a new round of talks set for Tuesday. “Steve’s going to be going there tomorrow night,” Trump said.

Trump added that Jared Kushner will also participate in the discussions, drawing on his experience in past Middle East negotiations. Vice President JD Vance, who led an earlier phase of talks, will not be attending this round.

The diplomatic push comes after Iran opened fire on vessels attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz on Shabbos, despite earlier claims by Iranian officials that the strategic waterway had been reopened.

When told that Qatari officials were already in Islamabad and prepared to meet him if he chose to attend, Trump did not rule out the possibility of traveling there himself if progress is made. “I would say maybe at a little bit later date. We have to see how it works out tomorrow,” he said.

Pressed further on whether he might personally join the talks, Trump said he would wait to see how negotiations unfold, adding that he would “probably come at a later date.” The call ended abruptly as Trump noted that military officials were waiting to meet with him.

Just days earlier, Trump had described what he viewed as a breakthrough, declaring that the Strait of Hormuz was “COMPLETELY OPEN AND READY FOR BUSINESS AND FULL PASSAGE” and asserting that the United States would secure all of Iran’s remaining “nuclear dust.”

At the same time, he said the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports would remain in place while both sides continue working toward a broader agreement.

Iranian leadership, however, has sent mixed signals. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi publicly stated that the strait was “completely opened” for commercial traffic, while Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf later contradicted that claim. Within a day, Iranian forces fired on multiple ships attempting to transit the chokepoint.

The conflicting statements and subsequent attacks have highlighted apparent divisions within Iran’s leadership as negotiations continue.

Reacting to the incident, Trump wrote on Truth Social: “Iran decided to fire bullets yesterday in the Strait of Hormuz — A Total Violation of our Ceasefire Agreement! Many of them were aimed at a French Ship, and a Freighter from the United Kingdom. That wasn’t nice, was it?”

He continued, “They’re helping us without knowing, and they are the ones that lose with the closed passage, $500 Million Dollars a day!” Trump added of Iran. “The United States loses nothing. In fact, many Ships are headed, right now, to the U.S., Texas, Louisiana, and Alaska, to load up, compliments of the IRGC, always wanting to be ‘the tough guy!’”

“NO MORE MR. NICE GUY,” he added.

The current two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran is set to expire Wednesday unless both sides agree to extend it. Trump has suggested an extension may not be necessary, expressing confidence that a deal is within reach.

“It will happen. One way or another. The nice way or the hard way. It’s going to happen,” Trump said in an interview with ABC News’ Jonathan Karl.

He also warned in an interview with Fox News’ Trey Yingst that if Iran does not finalize an agreement, “the whole country is going to get blown up.”

Trump has repeatedly threatened to target infrastructure, including bridges and energy facilities, if Iran refuses to comply. A central U.S. demand remains that Iran surrender what is left of its nuclear program.

While the president has emphasized negotiations as his preferred path, he has also considered military options to seize nuclear materials if talks fail. He has said the U.S. is monitoring Iran’s nuclear sites via satellite and warned that American forces possess even more advanced capabilities than those used in the early stages of Operation Epic Fury.

{Matzav.com}

Megyn Kelly Blasts Trump, Hegseth Over Religious Rhetoric: ‘Just Don’t Lie’

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Conservative commentator Megyn Kelly sharply criticized President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over recent statements and actions involving religious imagery and language, arguing that both crossed a line as tensions surrounding the Iran conflict continue.

Trump faced backlash from parts of his own base after sharing an AI-generated image on social media that appeared to portray him as Yoshka. The image was later removed, with the president saying he believed it showed him as a doctor.

Responding on her podcast, Kelly dismissed that explanation, calling it “such a … lie.”

“Take it down and just say you’re sorry or don’t say you’re sorry and take it down, but don’t try to gaslight us. We can see,” she said.

The controversy continued when Trump posted another AI-generated image, this time depicting him being embraced by Yoshka, further fueling criticism.

The dispute unfolded alongside Trump’s ongoing clash with Pope Leo XIV, who has spoken out against the military campaign in Iran and called for peace.

Kelly also took aim at remarks made by Hegseth during a press briefing, in which he compared journalists questioning U.S. military operations in Iran to the Pharisees, a Jewish group mentioned in the New Testament.

Addressing reporters, Hegseth said they “are just like these Pharisees,” adding that “politically motivated animus for President Trump nearly completely blinds you from the brilliance of our American warriors.”

During a discussion with conservative podcaster Britt Mayer, Kelly criticized the use of religious language in that context.

“Religion — obviously it’s a major part of Pete’s life, and I’m in favor of that — it doesn’t belong when you’re talking about our plans to wipe out people, including possible civilians, as President Trump continues to threaten,” Kelly said.

“These two things do not belong together, and … I’m just really uncomfortable with it,” she continued. “If [former President] Joe Biden did this through his Pentagon, I would have ripped him a new one, and therefore notwithstanding my friendship with Pete, I feel the need to register my strong objection to what he’s doing.”

Kelly’s remarks mirror criticism from Steve Bannon, who also urged Hegseth to scale back religious references in official briefings.

Speaking on his program “War Room,” Bannon argued that such comments were overshadowing key military updates.

“That’s all the mainstream media is covering right now — is Pete’s opening remark about the Gospel according to Mark and the reference to the Pharisees. … We ought to tone that down and focus, when we got the Pentagon, let’s have a military briefing,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

Body Found Off Herzliya Coast; Parents of Missing Teen Leave Shivah to Assist in Identification

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A body was discovered Sunday in the waters off the coast near Herzliya, prompting emergency crews to respond to the scene as efforts continue to identify the victim amid an ongoing search for a missing teenager.

According to initial reports, the body was located in the sea opposite the Tel Aviv shoreline and was later brought ashore near Sidna Ali Beach in Herzliya after being spotted floating in the water. Authorities said it will be transferred to the forensic institute in Abu Kabir for formal identification.

Emergency services were dispatched following the report, and responders from Magen David Adom confirmed that the individual showed no signs of life upon recovery.

MDA stated that at 2:24 p.m., a call was received reporting a 17-year-old male who had been pulled from the water unconscious near Sidna Ali Beach. Medics and paramedics who arrived at the scene determined that he had no pulse and was not breathing, and he was pronounced dead at the location.

Paramedic Idan Shina described the scene: “When we arrived at the beach, we were led to a man who had been pulled from the water unconscious. We performed medical checks and saw that he had no pulse and was not breathing. Unfortunately, he showed no signs of life, and we were forced to pronounce him dead at the scene.”

The parents of the missing teenager, Rav Shlomo Spiegel and his wife, left their home in the Ramat Shlomo neighborhood of Yerushalayim in the midst of shivah to travel to Tel Aviv and assist in identifying the body, amid fears that it may be their son.

The discovery comes more than a week after a tragic incident on Erev Shabbos Parshas Shemini, when brothers Yissachar Dov Spiegel and Avraham Yeshaya Spiegel went into the sea during bein hazemanim to immerse in honor of Shabbos and drowned.

Yissachar Dov was initially hospitalized in critical condition and passed away on Monday night. His brother, Avraham Yeshaya, has remained missing since the incident, with extensive search operations carried out over the past ten days.

{Matzav.com}

Kamala Harris Claims Netanyahu Dragged Trump into Iran War

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Kamala Harris yesterday sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, accusing him of influencing President Donald Trump to enter the war with Iran, during remarks at a political gathering in Detroit.

Speaking at the Michigan Democratic Party endorsement convention, Harris argued that the United States became involved in a conflict that lacked public support. “Trump entered a war – and he got pulled into it by Bibi Netanyahu, let’s be clear about that – that the American people didn’t want. Among the many consequences of it is jacking up the price of gas.”

You all should have voted for Kamala Harris. We wouldn't be in this war that Trump keeps lying about.

“He entered a war, got pulled into it by Bibi Netanyahu. Let us be clear about that. Entered a war that the American people do not want, putting at risk American service… pic.twitter.com/DBL9Fhq1A0

— Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) April 18, 2026

Harris also pointed to claims made by Iran since the conflict began, noting that Tehran has asserted the United States entered the war due to Israel, an allegation Trump has rejected.

Expanding her criticism, Harris delivered a sweeping condemnation of the current administration, stating, “We are dealing with the most corrupt, callous and incompetent presidential administration in the history of the United States.”

She further characterized Trump in personal terms, describing him as the most “insecure man,” and suggested that the Iran war was a “feeble attempt to distract from the Epstein files.”

Continuing her critique, Harris said, “The man doesn’t understand what real strength looks like, and he overcompensates full time, trying to pretend that basically, he’s some kind of mob boss,” Harris charged. “Speaking truth, being trustworthy, being consistent. He has failed on all accounts.”

She reiterated her view that the administration is the “most corrupt, callous, and incompetent” in the nation’s history.

Harris also accused Trump of projecting strength through military power, saying he seeks to “walk around as if he is strong and will use the force of America’s military against anyone who he chooses.”

Amid the political backdrop, Harris recently indicated she is weighing a possible presidential bid in 2028.

In an interview with the BBC in August, she acknowledged the possibility, saying she “possibly” could run in 2028.

“I’ve not decided yet what I will do in the future, beyond what I am doing right now,” Harris said at the time. However, she emphasized her continued commitment to public life, “I have lived my entire career a life of service, and it’s in my bones, and there are many ways to serve.”

{Matzav.com}

Trump: Iran ‘Got A Little Cute’ By Blocking Hormuz Again, But Talks Going ‘Really Well’

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President Donald Trump said the United States remains engaged in productive communication with Iran even after Tehran moved to once again shut the Strait of Hormuz, describing the decision as an attempt to gain leverage but insisting negotiations are progressing. Trump remarked that Iran “got a little cute” with the renewed closure, while emphasizing that discussions between the sides are “working out really well.”

At the same time, Israeli officials are preparing for the possibility that diplomacy could break down and tensions around the strategic waterway could intensify, according to a source cited by Kan. In parallel, a report indicated that U.S. forces are getting ready to intercept and take control of vessels tied to Iran in international waters worldwide.

Iranian authorities stated that “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state … under strict management and control of the armed forces,” and signaled that this posture would remain in place as long as American sanctions and the blockade on Iranian ports continue. The country’s Supreme National Security Council added that the strait will stay under Iranian authority until “the war fully ends and lasting peace is achieved in the region.”

Iran’s top security body also disclosed that it recently received fresh proposals from the United States during a visit by Pakistan’s army chief, who has been mediating between the two sides. While no details were released, officials said the proposals are still being examined.

The council further stated that any additional negotiations would hinge on Washington dropping what it described as “excessive demands and adjust its requests to the realities on the ground.”

Despite earlier announcements about reopening the waterway under a ceasefire framework, Iranian forces fired at least three tankers attempting to pass through the strait, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the critical shipping route.

The renewed instability around the passage, through which about 20 percent of global oil supplies typically flow, threatens to worsen the ongoing energy crunch and could push the United States and Iran closer to renewed confrontation, even as mediators continue to express optimism about reaching an agreement.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump sought to minimize concerns, reiterating that diplomatic engagement with Tehran remains on track and describing the situation as manageable.

“We’re talking to them,” he said. “We’ll have some information by the end of the day.”

He again criticized Iran’s actions, saying the country “got a little cute” by closing the waterway, adding, “They wanted to close up the strait again… they can’t blackmail us.”

Earlier in the day, Trump hinted at positive developments regarding Iran, referring to “some pretty good news” without offering specifics, while cautioning that hostilities could resume if a deal is not reached by Wednesday, when the current ceasefire is set to expire.

According to Kan, citing an unnamed Israeli source, Iran has fully sealed off the strait. Israeli officials reportedly believe the move is intended to strengthen Tehran’s negotiating position, but they are also concerned that talks could unravel, potentially leading to an escalation.

Meanwhile, updated U.S. intelligence assessments suggest that Iran still retains a significant portion of its military capabilities. Reports indicate that Tehran has access to roughly 70 percent of its pre-war ballistic missile stockpile, about 60 percent of its launch systems, and approximately 40 percent of its drone arsenal.

U.S. intelligence and defense officials also noted that at the time a two-week ceasefire took effect on April 8, Iran had about half of its missile launchers still operational.

Since then, according to the report, Iran has managed to recover an additional 100 launchers from underground storage, bringing its operational capacity to about 60 percent of what it possessed before the war.

Officials further believe that Iran is continuing efforts to retrieve missiles buried under debris from American and Israeli strikes. Once that process is complete, intelligence assessments suggest Tehran could restore its missile reserves to roughly 70 percent of pre-conflict levels.

{Matzav.com}

Report: Ilhan Omar’s Office Says She’s ‘Not A Millionaire’ After $30M Filing Revised Down To Under $100K

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Rep. Ilhan Omar said she is not a millionaire and attributed a major discrepancy in her financial disclosures to an accounting mistake, after a report listing her assets as high as $30 million drew attention from Republicans and an ethics watchdog.

A corrected filing reviewed by The Wall Street Journal shows that Omar and her husband’s assets actually fall between $18,004 and $95,000, a dramatic revision from the earlier estimate that placed their holdings between $6 million and $30 million.

“The amended disclosure confirms what we’ve said all along: The congresswoman is not a millionaire,” Omar spokesperson Jacklyn Rogers told the Journal, adding that the filing was corrected “as soon as the discrepancy was identified.”

The updated report followed a request for clarification earlier this year from the Office of Congressional Conduct, according to the Journal.

In a letter submitted to the watchdog, Omar’s attorney said the inaccurate filing was not intentional and resulted from reliance on professional accountants.

“As the busiest of people, it is very common for members and their spouses to rely on learned professionals like accountants to make calculations and determinations that appear on public filings,” the attorney wrote, according to the Journal. “While the error is, of course, unfortunate, there is nothing untoward, and nothing illegal has occurred.”

The revised disclosure indicates that Omar reported income between $102,503 and $1,005,200 in 2024 from jointly held assets, the Journal reported. Supporting documents included $213,200 in distributions to her husband from his venture capital firm and an additional $3,000 from a winery.

Tax records cited by the Journal show that a 2025 email between Omar’s husband and his accountant valued the venture capital firm at $7.9 million and the winery at $1.5 million, though he owns about one-third of each business.

The corrected filing also reveals that Omar carries between $15,001 and $50,000 in student loan debt, along with a similar amount in credit card liabilities.

The discrepancy had already drawn criticism from House Republicans, who questioned how such a significant change in reported wealth was not identified sooner.

In a February letter to Omar’s husband, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer raised concerns about financial disclosures showing the value of two companies, eStCru LLC and Rose Lake Capital, jumping from tens of thousands of dollars in 2023 to as much as $30 million in 2024.

Comer said the sudden increase “raises concerns that unknown individuals may be investing to gain influence” and requested financial records tied to the businesses.

Omar’s office rejected those claims, calling Comer’s inquiry “a political stunt” and part of an effort “meant to fundraise, not real oversight,” according to The Associated Press.

An earlier 2025 financial disclosure had listed her husband’s business interests in the millions, including a winery valued between $1 million and $5 million and a venture capital firm valued between $5 million and $25 million.

Those figures were later adjusted in the amended filing, which now reflects no net value for the businesses after accounting for liabilities, the Journal reported.

Omar, a progressive Democrat originally from Somalia and a member of the “Squad,” has frequently clashed with President Donald Trump since her election in 2018 and has remained a frequent target of Republican criticism.

Trump has claimed that Omar benefited from Minnesota’s large welfare fraud scandal involving members of the Somali community, an allegation she has denied.

Tom Fitton also weighed in on the revised filing, questioning how previously undisclosed debts could eliminate millions in reported assets.

“Ilhan Omar says her congressional financial reports have massive accounting error,” Fitton wrote on X. “She and her husband only worth 18k-86k, NOT $6 million-$30 million! Previously unreported ‘liabilities’ erase wealth!”

{Matzav.com}

FBI Director Kash Patel Vows To Take The Atlantic To Court Over ‘Defamatory’ Report

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Kash Patel said he plans to take legal action against The Atlantic following the publication of a report he says contains false and defamatory accusations. Patel made clear he intends to challenge the claims in court, responding directly to the outlet’s inquiries with a warning.

“Print it, all false, I’ll see you in court — bring your checkbook,” Patel told The Atlantic in a statement included in the report.

The article, titled “The FBI Director is MIA,” presented a series of allegations about Patel’s conduct, including claims of “erratic” behavior, “excessive drinking” and “unexplained absences.”

Among the assertions was an incident earlier this month in which Patel allegedly reacted strongly to a computer login issue, believing he might be losing his job after the removal of Attorney General Pam Bondi. The publication cited multiple unnamed sources who described the situation.

“But Patel, according to multiple current officials, as well as former officials who have stayed close to him, is deeply concerned that his job is in jeopardy. He has good reasons to think so — including some having to do with what witnesses described to me as bouts of excessive drinking,” The Atlantic staff writer Sarah Fitzpatrick told readers before citing past reports of rumors that Patel was also on the chopping block.

Administration officials pushed back strongly on the report. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told the outlet that Patel “remains a critical player on the Administration’s law and order team.” Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche also defended Patel, stating, “Patel has accomplished more in 14 months than the previous administration did in four years. Anonymously sourced hit pieces do not constitute journalism.”

Fitzpatrick wrote that the alleged IT incident reflected broader concerns raised by those she interviewed, describing Patel as unpredictable and prone to making rapid judgments without full information.

“The IT-lockout episode is emblematic of Patel’s tumultuous tenure as director of the FBI: He is erratic, suspicious of others, and prone to jumping to conclusions before he has necessary evidence, according to the more than two dozen people I interviewed about Patel’s conduct, including current and former FBI officials, staff at law-enforcement and intelligence agencies, hospitality-industry workers, members of Congress, political operatives, lobbyists, and former advisers,” Fitzpatrick wrote.

“Speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive information and private conversations, they described Patel’s tenure as a management failure and his personal behavior as a national-security vulnerability.”

The report further alleged that Patel frequently consumed alcohol to excess, including at private venues in Washington, D.C., and Las Vegas, sometimes in the presence of government staff.

“Early in his tenure, meetings and briefings had to be rescheduled for later in the day as a result of his alcohol-fueled nights, six current and former officials and others familiar with Patel’s schedule told me,” Fitzpatrick wrote.

“On multiple occasions in the past year, members of his security detail had difficulty waking Patel because he was seemingly intoxicated, according to information supplied to Justice Department and White House officials.”

The article also claimed that law enforcement equipment had once been requested because Patel was unreachable behind locked doors, citing individuals familiar with the situation.

According to The Atlantic, a request for “breaching equipment” often used by SWAT to gain access to buildings, “was made last year because Patel had been unreachable behind locked doors, according to multiple people familiar with the request.”

Unnamed sources also suggested that Patel’s behavior may have influenced certain social media posts that included inaccurate information about ongoing investigations.

“Some of Patel’s colleagues at the FBI worry that his personal behavior has become a threat to public safety,” Fitzpatrick wrote, saying that the unnamed officials fear his ability to handle a domestic terrorist attack, one telling Fitzpatrick, “That’s what keeps me up at night.”

Patel’s legal team responded forcefully prior to publication. His attorney, Jesse Binnall, sent a letter to the magazine criticizing its reporting process and disputing the claims.

“The vast majority of the claims in the draft article rely solely on vague, unattributed sourcing such as ‘people familiar with the matter’ or ‘some have characterized.’ Any such purported sources could not possibly possess firsthand knowledge, as the allegations are categorically false,” Binnall wrote.

“At least one specific claim — allegation #8 regarding the alleged breaching of equipment — has no corroborating public record whatsoever and appears to be either fabricated or drawn from a single hostile and unreliable source.”

Binnall accused the publication of bias and instructed it to retain all materials related to the story in anticipation of legal action.

“They were on notice that the claims were categorically false and defamatory. They published anyway. See you in court,” Binnall posted on X.

Additional criticism came from FBI officials. Ben Williamson dismissed the report entirely, stating, “This article is a compilation of pretty much every obviously fake rumor I’ve heard the last 14 months except the Atlantic is the only one dumb enough to actually print it.”

Patel adviser Erica Knight echoed that sentiment, saying the publication relied on claims that other reporters could not verify.

“Lawsuit is being filed,” Knight wrote.

Despite the backlash, Fitzpatrick stood by her reporting, emphasizing her experience and confidence in the article’s accuracy.

“I am a very careful, very diligent, award-winning investigative reporter with a history of award-winning work across multiple organizations,” Fitzpatrick told Jen Psaki on Friday night. “I stand by every word of this reporting. We have excellent attorneys.”

Patel responded again, reiterating his intention to pursue legal action.

“see you and your entire entourage of false reporting in court … But do keep at it with the fake news, actual malice standard is now what some would call a legal lay up.”

He also shared a response from Williamson criticizing the article in strong terms.

“Top to bottom, this is one of the most absurd things I’ve ever read.”

“This piece was essentially ‘greatest hits’ of every comically fake rumor disgruntled former employees have tried to publicize over the last year,” Williamson told Fox News Digital. “When you can’t get them printed the first time, you keep moving down the list until you get to the dumbest outlet possible, and that outlet is apparently The Atlantic.”

Jeffrey Goldberg defended the publication’s work, saying, “We stand by our reporting on Kash Patel.”

{Matzav.com}

US Intelligence Report Reveals: This is What Remains of Iran’s Drone Array

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New American intelligence evaluations show that Iran continues to maintain a substantial portion of its military strength, despite losses sustained since the conflict with the United States and Israel began.

Figures cited by The New York Times indicate that Tehran still controls about 60% of its missile launcher systems and approximately 40% of its unmanned aerial vehicle fleet.

Friction between Washington and Tehran has intensified again after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps moved to shut down the Strait of Hormuz once more, less than a day after announcing it had reopened the vital waterway following the ceasefire in Lebanon.

The development triggered an urgent high-level security meeting at the White House, where senior U.S. officials cautioned that absent a diplomatic breakthrough within 24 hours, hostilities could resume in the near future.

President Donald Trump, who had voiced confidence earlier in the week that an agreement was within reach, responded forcefully to Iran’s latest actions. “They are trying to be clever,” Trump said during the White House meeting. “They wanted to close the strait again, but they cannot blackmail us.”

{Matzav.com}

Sergeant First Class (Res.) Lidor Porat Hy”d Killed in Southern Lebanon

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The IDF announced Sunday morning that Sergeant First Class (Res.) Lidor Porat, 31, of Ashdod, was killed during fighting in southern Lebanon. Porat served in the 7106th Battalion of the 769th Regional Brigade and fell during an operational mission in the area.

During the same incident, one additional soldier sustained severe injuries, four were moderately wounded, and four others suffered light injuries.

All injured soldiers were transported to hospitals for treatment, and their families have been informed.

According to a preliminary IDF inquiry, forces from the 7106th Battalion were conducting an operation when an engineering vehicle struck an explosive device that had been planted by the Hezbollah terrorist organization. Troops operating nearby to secure the area were hurt when the device detonated.

The military is continuing to examine when the explosive was placed and whether the incident constitutes a breach of the ceasefire.

On Saturday night, the IDF also confirmed the death of Command Sergeant Major (Res.) Barak Kalfon, who succumbed to wounds sustained in combat in southern Lebanon.

Kalfon, 48, a resident of Adi, served as a combat soldier in the 7056th Infantry Battalion, part of the 226th Brigade.

He died in the hospital after being critically injured during operational activity on Friday in southern Lebanon. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, his parents, and two brothers. His funeral is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. at the cemetery in Adi.

In the same Friday incident in which Kalfon was fatally wounded, two soldiers were moderately injured and another sustained light injuries.

The wounded were evacuated to receive medical care, and their families were notified.

Kalfon was employed as a mechanical engineer at Rafael, which issued a statement saying: “Barak was a dedicated and professional employee who worked on critical areas for the security of the State of Israel, which he so deeply loved. Rafael employees embrace Shimrit, Noga, Mia, and the entire family during these difficult moments.”

Initial findings indicate that on Friday around midday, Battalion 7056 forces were operating in the village of Jabin, located in the western sector of southern Lebanon approximately three kilometers from the border. While searching a structure in the village, a powerful explosive device detonated.

Kalfon was critically wounded in the blast and was rushed to a hospital, where medical teams fought for hours to save his life before declaring his death on Saturday.

The IDF has conducted a preliminary investigation into the explosion, particularly given the ceasefire that was in place at the time. Current assessments suggest that the explosive device had been planted in the building prior to the ceasefire taking effect.

At this point, the military is not classifying the incident as a violation of the ceasefire, as initial conclusions indicate that Hezbollah operatives did not detonate the device remotely in real time. The IDF continues to investigate how the explosive was triggered and why it went undetected before troops entered the building.

Rav Yehuda Silman Has Medical Emergency in U.S.

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Rav Yehuda Silman, prominent posek from Bnei Brak, was released from a New York hospital after collapsing during a visit to the United States, and is expected to return to Eretz Yisroel for further medical treatment in the coming days.

Following several tense hours, Rav Silman – who traveled to the United States to garner financial support for Shuvu – was discharged after being hospitalized for approximately half a day due to the sudden incident during his trip.

Sources indicated that upon his return, he will likely undergo a cardiac catheterization procedure next week at a hospital in Israel as part of continued care.

In a moving scene captured on video, his close friend, Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein, rav of the Ramat Elchanan neighborhood, visited Rav Silman’s bais medrash, Kehillas Chassidim, where he recited Tehillim on his behalf. Afterward, he conducted a Mi Shebeirach for his recovery along with all those in need of healing.

The public is asked to daven for the full recovery of Rav Yehuda ben Leah.

{Matzav.com}

Argentina’s Pro-Israel President to Meet Netanyahu as New Diplomatic Initiative Expected

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Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu is set to meet Argentina’s President Javier Milei on Sunday in what officials in Yerushalayim are describing as a highly significant visit, expected to deepen ties between Israel and South America.

At the center of the meeting will be the announcement of a new diplomatic initiative reportedly titled the “Isaac Accords,” modeled after the well-known Abraham Accords.

The initiative, which is said to be driven by Milei, aims to establish a strategic alliance between Israel and countries across South America, with close coordination alongside the United States. Officials believe the move could strengthen Israel’s global standing while expanding economic and security cooperation throughout the region.

In addition to the diplomatic development, the two leaders are expected to formally unveil a new direct flight route between Israel and Argentina, to be operated by El Al. Until now, thousands of members of Argentina’s large Jewish community, along with Israeli travelers, have had to rely on lengthy connecting flights through Europe or the United States.

The planned route is expected to significantly reduce travel time, with outbound flights estimated at approximately 16 hours and return flights around 15 hours. The new service is also expected to lower ticket prices, making travel more accessible and allowing families to visit one another more frequently. Argentina’s Jewish population, one of the largest in the world, numbers roughly 250,000, most of them based in Buenos Aires.

The visit also carries symbolic and ideological weight. Milei has been selected as one of the torch lighters at Israel’s upcoming Independence Day ceremony, a rare honor for a foreign leader. In a recent interview, he explained his strong support for Israel, saying: “I defend the cause of Israel and the cause of the Jewish people because it is a just cause. I do this because that is truly how I feel, without any political calculation”.

Milei, who is known for his affinity toward Jewish teachings and values, has previously demonstrated his connection to Israel. During an earlier visit, he became emotional while praying at the Western Wall and announced plans to relocate Argentina’s embassy to Jerusalem—a commitment he is expected to advance during this trip.

Beyond diplomacy, the meeting is expected to include the signing of strategic memorandums of understanding across several key sectors. In the fight against terrorism, the two countries are expected to enhance intelligence cooperation. In defense, discussions will include joint development and procurement initiatives, with Argentina already having recently acquired advanced fighter jets as part of a broader military modernization effort.

In the technology sphere, agreements are expected to focus on advancing artificial intelligence capabilities for both nations, potentially opening new markets for Israeli companies across South America.

Officials in Yerushalayim describe Milei as a close and reliable ally who has demonstrated consistent and outspoken support for Israel on the international stage. President Isaac Herzog is also expected to award him the Presidential Medal, the country’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his support.

Report: Alleged Qatar-Iran Understanding Reduced Strikes; Doha Denies Any Deal

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A senior Gulf official has revealed that behind-the-scenes contacts between Qatar and Iran in the final days of the war may have led to a sharp reduction in Iranian attacks on Doha, though Qatari authorities are firmly rejecting the claim.

According to the official, who spoke with a regional correspondent, recent reports of quiet understandings between the two countries followed an Iranian strike on a major gas facility in northern Qatar.

The source said that in exchange for scaling back attacks, Iran requested that Qatar’s Al Jazeera network adopt a less aggressive tone toward Tehran and provide greater exposure to Iranian voices. “This indeed happened,” the official said, emphasizing Iran’s view of the network as a key platform for messaging to the Arab world.

One of the figures highlighted as receiving airtime was Hassan Ahmadian of the University of Tehran, who appeared on both the English and Arabic broadcasts of Al Jazeera. These appearances, the source noted, came during a period when the network’s coverage of Iran shifted from sharp criticism of its actions in the Gulf to a more moderated tone.

Earlier in the conflict, Iran’s state broadcasting authority had threatened to target Al Jazeera’s offices in Doha, but later unexpectedly withdrew the warning and canceled evacuation alerts. Qatari officials at the time denied any link between that reversal and changes in the network’s editorial stance.

Qatar has categorically denied that any agreement was reached with Iran during the war. Officials in Doha stated clearly, “There was no deal,” rejecting claims that Qatar paid Iran to halt attacks or influenced Al Jazeera’s coverage in any way.

Qatar is widely considered one of the Gulf states maintaining relatively close ties with Iran, even during periods of regional tension. During the war, however, Doha expelled Iran’s military attaché after repeated strikes on its energy infrastructure.

Reports of possible coordination emerged after Iran targeted a major gas installation in northern Qatar during the conflict. President Donald Trump had also stated that Israel would refrain from striking the gas field again unless Iran launched further attacks on Qatar, warning that in such a scenario the United States would respond by destroying Iran’s South Pars gas field.

The revelation adds to the ongoing strain in the Persian Gulf, where Sunni Arab states are pressing the United States to take a firmer stance against Iran. While Trump has spoken of a “diplomatic window,” Gulf nations continue to call for the complete dismantling of Tehran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.

Report: US Planning To Seize Iran-Linked Oil Tankers, Commercial Ships Worldwide In Coming Days

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The United States is considering plans to board and seize oil tankers tied to Iran around the world, a move that would mark a significant escalation in its maritime strategy against Tehran as tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz.

The discussions come amid renewed instability in the key shipping corridor, where Iranian forces reportedly fired on multiple commercial vessels and declared the waterway under their “strict control,” raising alarm across global shipping markets.

The developments have rattled shipping companies, particularly after Iran’s foreign minister had just recently maintained that the strait remained open for commercial traffic—a position that President Donald Trump had publicly welcomed.

Behind the scenes, U.S. officials say the Pentagon is preparing options to intercept and take control of vessels linked to Iran, potentially extending operations far beyond the Middle East into global trade routes.

According to the report, the goal of the strategy is to intensify economic pressure on Tehran, with the hope of forcing Iran to reopen the strait and make concessions in nuclear negotiations.

Trump said Friday that Iran had agreed to hand over its stockpile of highly enriched uranium — a claim Iranian officials quickly dismissed. Key disagreements remain over the duration of any halt to uranium enrichment and whether Iran would regain access to billions of dollars in frozen assets.

The U.S. has already blocked 23 ships from departing Iranian ports as part of an expanding naval blockade, US Central Command said in a post on X.

Expanding the effort globally would place Iran-linked tankers — including those suspected of transporting weapons or circumventing sanctions — directly in Washington’s crosshairs.

“The US will actively pursue any Iranian-flagged vessel or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran,” Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine said Thursday, warning that so-called “dark fleet” ships are also fair game.

The intensified campaign — referred to by Trump officials as “Economic Fury” — could involve U.S. forces operating well beyond the Persian Gulf.

The developments are unfolding as a fragile ceasefire approaches its expiration on Wednesday. Recent talks in Pakistan failed to produce a breakthrough, and no date has been set for another round of negotiations.

Even so, both sides appear to be preparing for multiple scenarios.

Iran is believed to still possess thousands of short- and medium-range missiles and has begun moving launch systems out of underground storage, though heavy U.S. strikes have significantly weakened its ability to quickly rebuild, according to U.S. officials.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said U.S. forces are “maximally postured” in the event that hostilities resume, though officials remain cautious about deploying ground troops.

For now, the administration appears focused on applying economic pressure.

Iran exports roughly 1.6 million barrels of oil per day — much of it to China through smaller independent refineries — making its shipping network a key target.

The Treasury Department has already imposed new sanctions on vessels, companies, and individuals connected to Iran’s shadow oil trade, while U.S. prosecutors are preparing to pursue cases against those involved in buying or selling sanctioned crude.

U.S. officials have previously demonstrated the ability to track and seize vessels tied to sanctioned regimes — including operations against ships linked to Venezuela — and now appear ready to apply the same approach to Iran.

Pope Leo XIV Says He Won’t Debate Trump, Will Preach Peace

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Pope Leo XIV said today that he has no intention of engaging in a public dispute with President Donald Trump over the war with Iran, emphasizing instead that his role is to continue promoting a call for peace.

Speaking to reporters aboard the papal plane en route from Cameroon to Angola, the pontiff addressed the growing attention surrounding his recent remarks and the responses they have drawn from Trump.

He noted that much of the coverage has been shaped by misinterpretations, particularly following comments made by the U.S. president early in the trip.

“There’s been a certain narrative that has not been accurate in all of its aspects, but because of the political situation created when, on the first day of the trip, the president of the United States made some comments about me,” he said.

“Much of what has been written since then has been more commentary on commentary, trying to interpret what has been said.”

Trump’s criticism began in a Truth Social post on April 12, where he challenged the pope’s repeated calls for peace as the conflict—sparked by joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Feb. 28 and followed by Iran’s retaliation—continues.

The president accused Leo of being lenient on crime, aligned with left-wing positions, and suggested that his election as the first American pope was tied to Trump’s influence.

Pope Leo has consistently urged dialogue and condemned the use of religion to justify violence, including sharply criticizing Trump’s warning about destroying Iranian civilization.

Specifically, he called Trump’s threat to annihilate Iranian civilization “truly unacceptable.”

The Vatican has clarified that the pope’s appeals for peace are universal in scope and not limited to the Iran conflict, but extend to all global conflicts.

For instance, religious leaders in Russia have framed Moscow’s war in Ukraine as a “holy war,” illustrating the broader concern over faith being used to support armed conflict.

In his remarks today, Pope Leo pointed back to a speech he delivered earlier in the week during a peace gathering in Bamenda, Cameroon.

That city has been at the center of a long-running separatist conflict in the country’s English-speaking western region.

He explained that the speech—in which he condemned a “handful of tyrants” for spreading war and exploitation—had been prepared two weeks earlier, before Trump’s comments.

“And yet as it happens, it was looked at as if I was trying to debate again the president, which is not in my interest at all,” he said.

Looking forward, Pope Leo said his mission remains unchanged, centered on his pastoral responsibilities.

“I primarily come to Africa as a pastor, as the head of the Catholic Church to be with, to celebrate with, to encourage, and to accompany all the Catholics throughout Africa,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

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