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Despite growing frustration within the chareidi community, voters are still expected to head to the polls in large numbers when Israel next goes to elections, according to Tzuriel Sharon, head of the Direct Polls Institute.

Speaking in an interview on Kol Chai Radio’s Hamahadura Hamerkazis, Sharon analyzed the latest political trends, discussing the balance between the coalition and opposition blocs, the rise of Gadi Eisenkot, the decline of Naftali Bennett, and the outlook for Shas and Yahadut HaTorah.

According to Sharon, Direct Polls’ latest weekend survey gives Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu’s coalition bloc 57 seats. The opposition reaches 63 seats only when the Arab parties are included in the calculation.

“Without the Arab parties,” Sharon said, “neither side is able to form a government.”

Sharon pointed to the continued rise of Gadi Eisenkot, who has surpassed the 20-seat mark for the first time in Direct Polls surveys. However, he believes the former IDF chief’s momentum is nearing its peak.

“For the first time he has reached the 20-seat range,” Sharon said. “In my assessment, he is approaching the ceiling of his growth. I don’t expect the numbers to continue rising dramatically.”

He said Eisenkot’s future prospects will depend on several factors, including the possible addition of Dedi Simchi and Yoaz Hendel to Benny Gantz’s camp, whether Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett, and Yair Lapid ultimately unite, and whether a new right-wing party emerges that could draw moderate right-wing voters back from the center-left.

“I believe that, from the perspective of the center-left bloc, such a merger would actually be less effective electorally,” Sharon said.

Sharon also addressed the weakening position of Bennett and Lapid. He argued that talk of cooperation between the two emerged largely because Bennett’s support had fallen to 11 seats, Eisenkot had overtaken him in the polls, and Lapid was hovering near the electoral threshold.

He also suggested Bennett made a strategic mistake by launching his campaign too early.

“In my opinion, Bennett came out far too early,” Sharon said. “That causes the loss of a tremendous amount of momentum and energy.”

He noted that an effective election campaign generally lasts only two or three months, while the next election is still months away, making it difficult to maintain political momentum through October.

The discussion also turned to the chareidi parties. Direct Polls currently projects Shas with nine seats and Yahadut HaTorah with seven.

Sharon explained that Shas benefits not only from its chareidi base but also from three or four mandates worth of traditional Sephardic voters.

“There is one major player with his eyes on that electorate,” Sharon said. “His name is Itamar Ben Gvir.”

Regarding Yahadut HaTorah, Sharon acknowledged widespread disappointment among chareidi voters with their political representatives but predicted that dissatisfaction would not translate into lower voter turnout.

“There is certainly frustration and anger in the chareidi street,” Sharon said. “But I still believe the chareidim will come out and vote in large numbers in the next election.”

{Matzav.com}

Religious Zionism MK Tzvi Succot issued a stark warning about what he described as a growing security crisis within Israel’s Arab sector, claiming that the amount of illegal weaponry in Arab communities is ten times greater than the arsenal available to the Israel Police. He also sharply criticized the government’s handling of Arab educational institutions, accusing authorities of ignoring incitement while placing disproportionate scrutiny on chareidi schools.

Speaking in an interview, Succot said that during visits to eastern Yerushalayim and Umm al-Fahm, he encountered what he described as deeply troubling conditions within parts of the Arab educational system.

“I saw schools run by Hamas-affiliated organizations, schools that independently organize delegations for the Palestinian Authority, schools operating without licenses while inciting terrorism, and schools that invite designated terrorist organizations to address students,” he said.

Succot argued that the roots of terrorism, crime, and violence begin in the classroom.

“When you ask where crime comes from, where terrorism comes from, where violence comes from—it all begins with education,” he said.

According to Succot, the government continues to fund institutions that, in his view, fail to educate students toward loyalty to the State of Israel or cooperation with law enforcement, while avoiding meaningful enforcement measures.

“Dozens of schools in eastern Yerushalayim alone are operating without licenses and are inciting terrorism,” he claimed.

The lawmaker also addressed the broader issue of organized crime and illegal weapons, praising the work of the Israel Police while arguing that officers lack the necessary tools to confront the problem effectively.

“I have to say that, based on what I’ve seen, the police are doing an excellent job. The problem is that they simply don’t have the tools,” Succot said.

He then cited what he described as an alarming statistic.

“The amount of weaponry currently in the Arab sector is ten times greater than the amount of weapons in the hands of the Israel Police. That’s an unbelievable figure. It has already become an existential threat to the State of Israel.”

Succot warned that if violence similar to the disturbances during Operation Guardian of the Walls were to erupt again, Israel could face an unprecedented internal security challenge.

“If, chas veshalom, there is a Guardian of the Walls II tomorrow, I’m not aware of a single body in the State of Israel that is seriously preparing for such a scenario,” he said.

He argued that confronting the threat will require stronger legislation, tougher enforcement, and expanded powers for Israel’s security agencies.

During the interview, Succot was also asked about the controversy surrounding Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich’s recent assertion that his policies were responsible for the return of the hostages.

Succot defended Smotrich, saying the minister had opposed hostage deals that would have required Israel to make strategic concessions.

“We were the ones who stood firm,” Succot said. “Smotrich was the one who came forward and said, ‘There will be no surrender.’”

According to Succot, only after Hamas and the United States realized Israel would not agree to end the war on Hamas’s terms did an acceptable agreement become possible.

“When they understood there would be no surrender, and the Americans understood there would be no surrender, then there was a deal that brought everyone home without surrender,” he said.

He added that the IDF continues to operate freely throughout Gaza and maintained that Hamas has been unable to rebuild its military capabilities.

Looking ahead to Israel’s next election, Succot warned against efforts to divide the right-wing bloc, arguing that political opponents view internal divisions as the key to defeating the current coalition.

“The Left’s strategy in these elections is ultimately to split the right-wing camp,” he said. “Its goal is to sow hatred, division, and polarization within the right.”

He claimed that substantial resources would be invested in promoting such divisions.

Succot concluded by urging unity despite internal disagreements.

“We have to remain strong and understand that there are disagreements—of course there are—but we also have to remember the bigger picture,” he said.

“If the right-wing camp fractures, we will lose the government. In the end, they will trample both us and the chareidim.”

{Matzav.com}

Former hostage Or Levy launched a scathing attack Sunday evening against Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich following remarks the minister made earlier in the day, accusing him of obstructing hostage deals and declaring that, had Smotrich’s policies prevailed, the hostages would still be in captivity.

Levy’s criticism came after Smotrich said in an interview that “thanks to” his policies, all of the hostages who have been freed so far had returned home.

In an unusually blunt social media post, Levy wrote:

“If, when you say ‘thanks to you,’ you mean that hostages were murdered while you torpedoed hostage deals, then yes. That’s what gaslighting propaganda is called. If it had been up to you, we still wouldn’t have come home today—for you, we’re collateral damage to your madness. I’ve said it before, and this time I’ll shout it: Bezalel Smotrich, you are a disgrace as a minister, a disgrace as a citizen, and a disgrace as a human being.”

Levy’s comments were a direct response to Smotrich’s appearance on journalist Nadav Perry’s podcast on the All In network, where the finance minister argued that his steadfast approach had been responsible for securing the release of the hostages who have returned from Hamas captivity.

The exchange follows previous public criticism by Levy of Smotrich. About two months ago, Levy condemned the minister after Smotrich said that forming a government with Mansour Abbas was “more serious than the October 7 massacre.”

Levy called that comparison “the cheapest and lowest thing that can be done.”

Reflecting on the October 7 attacks, Levy said they represented “perhaps the greatest disaster that has ever happened to us as a country—not only because it happened to me, but objectively as well.”

He continued by expressing outrage that, less than three years later, people were already minimizing the tragedy.

“And who’s minimizing it?” Levy asked. “Bezalel Smotrich.”

Levy went on to criticize the minister’s role in government, saying, “This is a minister in a government that’s supposed to protect us and keep us safe, and who wants to run again in another 170 days. When these things come from within our own home, what will people abroad say? What will Europeans say? They’ll say it never happened. Is that what we need—denial of October 7? Because ministers in our own government are the first to suggest it wasn’t a massacre. So how can we expect the world to stand with us? And if it’s not even considered a national tragedy, then it’s all just a mistake. Of course I’m furious.”

{Matzav.com}

A shocking act of vandalism at the Ridbaz Shul in Tzfas left the local chareidi community reeling on Sunday after an intruder allegedly entered the building and caused widespread destruction, tearing seforim, smashing light fixtures, breaking chairs, and extensively damaging the beis haknesses.

The Ridbaz Shul serves as the central beis haknesses for the city’s Litvishe community in southern Tzfas.

Shmuel Levy, the gabbai of the beis haknesses, said that the incident occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m.

“When I arrived at the beis haknesses around 2:15, I saw complete devastation,” Levy said. “There were torn seforim, shattered light fixtures, broken chairs, and extensive destruction throughout the building. Even the shelter beneath the beis haknesses had been overturned and damaged, and glass cups in the restrooms had been smashed.”

According to Levy, bochurim from Yeshivas Revavos Ephraim, who regularly come to the beis haknesses to learn during their afternoon break, were the first to discover what had happened.

“When the bochurim arrived, they heard someone shouting inside the beis haknesses,” he recounted. “They went in and immediately saw the extent of the destruction. They called me right away, and by the time I arrived, they had already begun cleaning up.”

Community members believe the suspect may be a 16-year-old youth who they say was previously involved in another vandalism incident at a different beis haknesses in Tzfas.

Levy said the community has not yet filed a police complaint, explaining that they first want to determine whether the suspect is indeed the same individual believed to have been involved in the earlier incident. Once that determination is made, they will decide whether to involve law enforcement.

Members of the community expressed profound shock over the desecration of the beis haknesses and the damage inflicted on the seforim, expressing hope that the individual responsible will soon be identified and held accountable.

{Matzav.com}

Leaders of Israeli chareidi kindergarten networks are warning that thousands of families could face severe disruption when the next school year begins unless the Ministry of Education acts quickly to overhaul its funding model. They say widening budget shortfalls, combined with a growing shortage of qualified kindergarten teachers, have pushed the system to the brink, threatening the continued operation of many preschools across the country.

During a special panel discussion hosted by Kikar HaShabbos, Rabbi Yisroel Golomb, CEO of Agudas Yisroel’s kindergarten network; Yaakov Segal, CEO of the Gan Eitz HaDaas network; and accountant Avigail Shikovitzky painted a troubling picture of an educational system struggling each month to meet payroll while grappling with mounting deficits and no long-term government solution. Matzav.com provides a synopsis of select portions of the discussion, which was conducted in Hebrew.

Funding No Longer Covers Teacher Salaries

According to Rabbi Golomb, the heart of the crisis is the ever-widening gap between the salaries that kindergarten teachers are legally entitled to receive and the amount of funding provided by the Ministry of Education.

“We are legally obligated to pay teachers every shekel they are entitled to, but the funding we receive simply does not reflect the actual cost,” he said. “As a result, we are forced to cover enormous shortfalls with money we simply do not have.”

He stressed that the problem has grown far beyond an isolated financial challenge.

“We are not threatening to shut down kindergartens,” Rabbi Golomb said. “We’re simply reaching a point where we no longer have the financial ability to continue operating them under the current conditions.”

He noted that the crisis is especially severe in Modiin Illit, where many veteran kindergarten teachers with decades of experience are employed. Without a solution, he warned, thousands of children could be left without appropriate educational frameworks next year.

Experienced Teachers Becoming a Financial Burden

Shikovitzky explained that the current funding formula is based on salary averages that bear little resemblance to the reality on the ground.

“The funding is calculated according to much lower salary grades than what teachers actually earn,” she said. “When a teacher with 20 or 25 years of experience works in a kindergarten, the network has to absorb the difference between what the Ministry funds and what the teacher is legally entitled to receive.”

In communities with large numbers of veteran educators, she said, those funding gaps can create annual deficits amounting to millions of shekels.

“The absurdity is that the system effectively punishes networks that retain experienced, highly qualified teachers,” she said.

‘Nobody Wants to Replace a Veteran Teacher’

Segal rejected any suggestion that the kindergarten networks are trying to replace longtime teachers with less experienced graduates.

“We’re not looking to replace a teacher with 25 years of experience with someone who just graduated from seminary,” he said. “Quite the opposite. Veteran teachers bring experience, professional training, emotional maturity, and skills that simply cannot be replaced.”

The real problem, he argued, is that the funding model makes employing experienced teachers financially unsustainable.

“It is inconceivable that an educational system would tell a 40- or 45-year-old teacher that her career is effectively over simply because she costs more,” Segal said. “Yet that’s exactly the direction this system is pushing us.”

Fewer Young Women Choosing the Profession

Beyond the funding crisis, participants warned of a rapidly growing shortage of future kindergarten teachers.

According to the panelists, enrollment in kindergarten teacher training programs at chareidi seminaries has dropped dramatically in recent years. Programs that were once among the most sought-after have either closed entirely or are operating with only a handful of students.

“Young women see the uncertainty, the salary disparities, and the way the profession is being treated, and they’re choosing other career paths,” Segal said. “In a few years, we could be facing a genuine nationwide shortage of kindergarten teachers.”

He added that the problem extends well beyond the chareidi sector, noting that Israel’s entire educational system is already experiencing a growing shortage of qualified preschool educators.

Calls to Extend ‘Ofek Chadash’ Reform

One of the central issues raised during the discussion was the government’s failure to implement the Ofek Chadash educational reform in chareidi kindergartens.

Network administrators argued that a teacher in the state school system, despite having identical qualifications and performing essentially the same job, can earn thousands of shekels more than her counterpart in the chareidi system.

“We’re talking about the same professional training, the same work, and in some cases even kindergartens operating in the very same building,” Rabbi Golomb said. “There is no logical explanation for why one teacher receives all the salary benefits and reforms while another is left behind.”

They argued that extending the reform to chareidi kindergartens would significantly improve salaries and help restore the profession’s attractiveness.

Sick Leave Costs Also Unfunded

Segal also pointed to another growing burden: sick leave.

He said teachers receive all the benefits required by law, but the government funding provided to the networks does not fully reimburse those expenses.

“We pay every benefit the teachers deserve,” he said. “The problem is that there is no matching budget to cover those payments. It’s yet another expense that keeps adding to an already growing deficit.”

Appeal to the Ministry of Education

The panelists emphasized that they are not seeking across-the-board budget increases but rather a funding formula that accurately reflects actual employment costs.

Among their primary demands are individualized funding based on each teacher’s experience and qualifications, full reimbursement for salary components that currently go unfunded, and the immediate implementation of the Ofek Chadash reform for chareidi kindergartens.

“Everyone understands there’s a problem,” Rabbi Golomb concluded. “The officials know it, the Ministry of Education knows it, and the Finance Ministry knows the numbers. The only question is when that understanding will finally be translated into action. We’ve reached the limit of what we can absorb, and now the responsibility rests with the decision-makers.”

Without meaningful changes in the coming months, he warned, many kindergarten networks may be unable to open some of their classrooms when the new school year begins—a development that could affect thousands of children and families throughout the country.

{Matzav.com}

Ukraine intensified its campaign against Russia’s energy infrastructure overnight, launching drone strikes on two major oil refineries in what analysts say is an increasingly effective effort to undermine one of the pillars of the Russian economy. The attacks came as Russian President Vladimir Putin made a rare public acknowledgment that the country is going through a “difficult period,” underscoring the mounting pressure on Russia’s fuel industry.

According to Russian authorities, debris from intercepted Ukrainian drones sparked a fire at an oil refinery in the city of Slavyansk-na-Kubani, in the Krasnodar region east of Crimea. One person was killed and another was injured in a nearby village. At the same time, Ukrainian special forces confirmed they had also struck the Yaroslavl refinery, one of Russia’s five largest facilities and a major supplier of fuel to the Moscow region and central Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said both operations were successfully carried out. Russia, meanwhile, claimed its air defenses intercepted 213 Ukrainian drones overnight. At the same time, Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russia launched its own large-scale assault, firing 142 drones and eight missiles at Ukrainian targets.

The latest strikes are part of Kyiv’s sustained effort to cripple Russia’s refining and fuel distribution network. According to industry analysts, the campaign is beginning to have a significant impact. More than 20 percent of Russia’s oil refining capacity is reportedly offline, while production of refined petroleum products fell by approximately 13 percent in May compared to the same month last year.

The strain is also becoming increasingly evident in daily life across Russia. Dozens of regions are now experiencing fuel shortages or sales restrictions. In major cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, gasoline purchases have reportedly been limited to about 20 liters per customer. Reports indicate that between 55 and 56 regions are currently facing either official or unofficial restrictions on fuel supplies.

Against that backdrop, Putin publicly addressed the crisis for the first time during a conference of Russia’s ruling party.

“We are going through a difficult period, but it has made us stronger,” Putin said, adding that Russia would “overcome all the challenges,” including attacks on its infrastructure and territory.

In an effort to stabilize the situation, the Russian government has implemented a series of emergency measures. These include a ban on gasoline exports that has been in place since August 2025, a prohibition on jet fuel exports through November 2026, and consideration of a broader ban on diesel exports as well. Authorities have also established an emergency task force to ensure fuel deliveries to affected regions and have relaxed fuel quality standards, permitting the sale of gasoline with sulfur levels significantly higher than those typically allowed in Europe.

Despite those efforts, the pressure on Russia’s energy sector continues to mount. With Ukrainian drones repeatedly targeting key refining facilities and logistical hubs, the attacks are increasingly disrupting one of the most critical sectors of Russia’s economy and exposing growing vulnerabilities on the home front.

{Matzav.com}

Leading Sephardic gedolei Yisroel have issued an urgent public call urging the Torah community to participate in a massive protest rally Monday night in Bnei Brak on behalf of bnei yeshivos who have been imprisoned in Israeli military jails for refusing to abandon their Torah learning.

The gathering is expected to draw tens of thousands of Sephardic bnei Torah and will be led by the former Rishon LeTzion, Rav Yitzchok Yosef, president of the Moetzes Chachmei HaTorah, together with prominent Sephardic rabbonim and Torah leaders.

Ahead of the rally, senior Torah leaders—including Rav Moshe Maya, the senior member of the Moetzes Chachmei HaTorah; Rav Shlomo Machpud, a member of the Moetzes Chachmei HaTorah; and Chacham Nissim Ben Shimon—issued a special proclamation under the heading, “Lech Kenos Es Kol HaYehudim” (“Go, Gather All the Jews”).

In their letter, the gedolim described the current situation as a time of grave spiritual danger, expressing deep concern over what they called decrees threatening bochurim and avreichim devoted to Torah study.

They wrote that the imprisonment of bnei yeshivah for learning Torah in Eretz Yisroel constitutes a profound desecration of Torah honor. Citing the words of Chazal that “one who causes others to sin is worse than one who kills,” they lamented that precious bnei Torah are being confined in military prisons, surrounded by influences completely foreign to their way of life.

The proclamation states: “Because of the difficult situation prevailing in our land, and because of the decrees of spiritual destruction threatening our precious bochurim and avreichim… and because of the humiliation of holy Torah scholars who are imprisoned in filthy prisons, in the contamination of the desires of this world, under harsh and cruel authorities, solely because they are learning Torah here in the Holy Land—woe to the ears that hear this, woe to the eyes that witness it, woe to us that this has occurred in our generation.”

The rabbonim added that every Jew who possesses yiras Shomayim has an obligation to protest publicly against the situation.

Calling for maximum participation, they wrote: “We hereby call upon all bnei Torah, avreichim, bnei yeshivos, and every Jew whose heart is filled with fear of Hashem to come and participate in the great assembly in the streets of the holy city of Bnei Brak… It is a sacred obligation upon every individual to attend. Let no one be absent.”

The rally is scheduled to begin at 9:30 p.m. Monday at the intersection of Eshel Avrohom and Harav Rabinov Streets in Bnei Brak’s Ramat Elchanan–Ramat Aharon neighborhood. Organizers are expecting an enormous turnout in what is expected to be one of the largest public demonstrations held by the Sephardic Torah community in response to the imprisonment of bnei yeshivah.

{Matzav.com}

An attempt by Israeli Military Police to arrest a yeshiva bochur at his family home in Maale Adumim ended without an arrest early Monday morning after dozens of protesters rushed to the scene. The forces ultimately withdrew, and those gathered broke into celebratory dancing after it became clear the bochur was not at home.

The incident began shortly after 12:30 a.m., when the Tzeva Shachor alert system reported that Military Police officers were attempting to arrest a bochur at his family’s residence on Tzemach HaSadeh Street in Maale Adumim. About 30 minutes later, the system reported that the officers had left the area.

It later emerged that the yeshiva bochur whom the Military Police had sought to arrest was actually at the yeshiva where he studies in Yerushalayim’s Ramat Eshkol neighborhood and was not at his family home when the officers arrived. His brother, who is scheduled to be married in the coming days, was at the house.

Following the alert, dozens of people converged on the home in an effort to prevent the arrest. After the Military Police withdrew, participants gathered outside the Nager family’s home and celebrated with singing and dancing alongside the chosson, the bochur’s brother.

Video published by Kan 11 reporter Daniel Groveis captured one of the officers telling protest organizers, “Look, I didn’t bring even one police vehicle. I came alone.” Protesters responded, “Kol hakavod.”

The attempted arrest came amid growing tensions between the chareidi parties and Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu over legislation concerning the military draft of bnei yeshivos.

As previously reported, Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs recently sent a letter to Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chairman Boaz Bismuth outlining proposed legislation intended to prevent the arrest of lomdei Torah through what he described as “effective supervision.”

In the letter, Fuchs wrote that, as a direct result of the High Court’s ruling, yeshivos enrolling draft-eligible students have lost all government funding, while the students and their families have also been subjected to various financial sanctions. He said that, following the ruling, the Attorney General instructed the IDF to carry out frequent arrest operations in cooperation with the Israel Police.

A senior source in the chareidi parties remarked, “We’ve had enough of words and promises. Netanyahu will be judged only by his actions. As long as we don’t see action, no legislation will move forward in the current Knesset until it is dissolved.”

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump announced Sunday that work will soon begin on restoring the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after Independence Day celebrations conclude, accusing what he called “Radical Left Vandals” of deliberately damaging the landmark and causing extensive deterioration.

In a Truth Social post, Trump said the pool has only recently returned to service after undergoing major repairs and claimed that vandals were responsible for sabotaging the project.

“The Reflecting Pool is now in full use after suffering great damage from Criminal, Radical Left Vandals, people that truly hate our Country,” Trump wrote.

He said the pool will be drained immediately after the nation’s 250th anniversary festivities so repairs can be completed.

“It never worked properly until last week and, right after July 4th, when we will drain the water to treat the damage caused by these ‘animals,’ it will again be in perfect shape,” he added.

Trump also said the algae problem has been eliminated for now and that landscaping repairs are underway.

“In the meantime, it is working well, the criminally made algae is gone, and the grass, which was destroyed, is being replaced shortly.”

The administration invested nearly $15 million earlier this year to overhaul the iconic reflecting pool. The project included installing a new blue liner, repairing persistent leaks, and adding advanced “nanobubbler” technology designed to prevent algae growth. Despite those upgrades, the pool soon experienced a significant algae bloom, while portions of the new lining reportedly began peeling.

Trump and the National Park Service have maintained that the damage was intentional, alleging that vandals cut through the protective liner with a sharp object.

“They cut the lower surface of a very expensive and strong waterproof padding, in the color of American Flag Blue, and put their hands underneath the surface, and ripped it,” Trump said in his Sunday post.

The reflecting pool project is one of several major renovation efforts undertaken during Trump’s second term. Among the most high-profile has been the construction of a new White House ballroom, a project that required demolition of the East Wing and has generated considerable public debate.

Trump also revealed that he recently toured the East Potomac Golf Links, describing the historic municipal course as being in severe disrepair.

Calling the property “dilapidated, worn out, and very dangerous,” Trump pledged that his administration will transform it into “one of the Greatest Golf Courses anywhere in the World,” while emphasizing that it will remain open for public use and offer panoramic views of Washington’s monuments.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump launched a blistering attack Sunday against two New York Times reporters over their forthcoming book about his administration, accusing them of fabricating events and conversations that allegedly took place inside the White House Situation Room.

Writing on Truth Social, Trump dismissed the book as fiction and singled out veteran Times reporter Maggie Haberman for sharp criticism.

“Based on a very quick and boring briefing concerning the Magot Hagerman book about me, it is mostly made up, Fake News, largely fiction, as have been most of the things she has written about me for so many years,” Trump wrote.

He continued, “She is a third rate writer and intellect, who has made a first rate income because of your favorite President, ME.”

The criticism came ahead of the release of Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump, co-authored by Haberman and Jonathan Swan, a former Hill reporter who now covers the White House for The New York Times.

Excerpts from the book claim that senior Trump administration officials discussed the possibility of suspending habeas corpus and debated how to respond to renewed scrutiny surrounding convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during a confidential meeting inside the highly secure White House Situation Room.

The authors also recount what they describe as detailed exchanges from that meeting, including direct quotations attributed to Vice President JD Vance, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and White House Communications Director Steven Cheung.

The level of detail included in the reported conversations has fueled speculation that the reporters may have obtained an audio recording of the classified meeting or had access to someone with unusually detailed knowledge of what transpired.

Haberman and Swan have declined to say whether any recordings were provided to them, stating only that they are “not going to comment” on the matter. At the same time, both reporters have defended the accuracy of their reporting.

The reports have reportedly unsettled some administration officials. Vice President Vance acknowledged concerns about the possibility that recordings of internal White House meetings could exist, saying he is “legitimately worried” that such audio may have been made.

{Matzav.com}

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey is facing fierce criticism after publicly celebrating Somali Independence Day and declaring that the city stands with its Somali community, remarks that quickly reignited debate over immigration, public spending, and a massive federal fraud case involving Somali-owned organizations in Minnesota.

Happy Somali Independence Day!

Here in Minnesota, home to one of the largest Somali communities in the United States, we celebrate the resilience, culture, and leadership that continue to enrich our city and community. pic.twitter.com/RP7jlgO5ar

— Mayor Jacob Frey (@MayorFrey) June 28, 2026

In a post on X, Frey shared a video commemorating the occasion, praising the Somali community for its contributions to Minneapolis. He wrote that the city was honoring “the resilience, culture, and leadership that continue to enrich” both Minneapolis and its residents.

In the accompanying video, Frey emphasized that Somali residents are viewed as members of the community rather than outsiders.

“Through the most difficult of times and through Operation Metro Surge, we all saw that they tried to come for some of us,” Frey said. “And, when that happens, we say that you’re coming for all of us. In Minneapolis, we love our neighbors. In Minneapolis, we do not see you as immigrants, we see you as our family.”

He continued, “You are our brothers, you are our sisters. You have done so much for this incredible city, and for that, we stand with you.”

According to Kare11 News, Somali Independence Day is observed annually on July 1, marking the day Somalia gained independence from European colonial powers and unified as a nation.

The mayor’s comments quickly drew criticism online, with several conservative commentators and independent journalists pointing to the massive Feeding Our Future fraud scandal that centered on numerous Somali-run organizations in Minnesota.

Commentator Matt Van Swol wrote on X, “The Somali community in Minnesota alone stole $250 million from federal child nutrition programs meant to feed hungry underprivileged children.”

Independent journalist Nick Sortor also criticized the mayor, asking, “Are you really too stupid to understand the Somalis simply see you as their useful idiot?”

Townhall columnist Dustin Grage took aim at Frey’s priorities, writing, “Jacob Frey’s Independence Day references. America: 4, Somalia: 10.”

Another social media user sarcastically questioned the mayor’s praise, asking, “Minnesota taxpayers, do you feel enriched?”

The controversy follows previous criticism of Frey over his outreach to the Somali community. After winning reelection in November 2025, he delivered portions of his victory speech in Somali, a move that also generated backlash.

More recently, federal authorities carried out coordinated raids at more than 20 locations across Minneapolis, including childcare centers, as part of an investigation into alleged fraud involving Somali-owned businesses.

Citizen journalist Nick Shirley has also drawn attention to the issue through videos documenting visits to several Minnesota childcare centers that reportedly received millions of dollars in federal funding. According to Shirley, many of the facilities appeared empty during his visits, with no visible signs of children despite receiving substantial government assistance.

{Matzav.com}

Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, sharply criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Sunday after the mayor questioned Israel’s identity as the Jewish state and renewed his calls for major changes to U.S. support for Israel.

Speaking in an interview with ABC, Mamdani challenged the concept of Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people and argued for a sweeping overhaul of American foreign policy, including military assistance to Israel.

His latest comments came shortly after he referred to the pro-Israel lobbying organization AIPAC and its supporters as “monsters,” drawing widespread criticism.

Responding on social media, Danon accused the mayor of engaging in increasingly hostile rhetoric toward Israel and the Jewish community.

“Recently, Mamdani used blatant antisemitic language against AIPAC, calling them ‘monsters moving dark money.’ He then expressed sorrow over the elimination of a Hamas terrorist, and now says he does not support Israel as a Jewish state,” Danon wrote.

“When you connect all the dots, it becomes very easy to understand who Mamdani does support,” the ambassador added.

Mamdani has drawn repeated criticism over his comments and positions regarding Israel. During his mayoral campaign, he declined to condemn the slogan “globalize the intifada,” a phrase many Jewish organizations have described as a call to violence against Jews. He also faced backlash for criticizing Israel on October 8, 2023, just one day after the Hamas massacre in southern Israel.

He has repeatedly accused Israel of committing war crimes during its military campaign against Hamas in Gaza and has pledged that, if Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu visits New York City, he would seek to have him arrested.

Controversy continued after Mamdani assumed office, when he rescinded several executive orders signed by his predecessor, Eric Adams, that dealt with Israel and antisemitism.

Among the orders he revoked was one issued in June 2025 formally adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism.

He also eliminated an executive order that prohibited mayoral appointees and city agency employees from participating in boycotts or divestment campaigns targeting Israel.

Since taking office, Mamdani has remained at the center of multiple disputes involving antisemitism. Most recently, he became the first New York City mayor to boycott the city’s annual Israel Day Parade, a move that drew sharp criticism from many Jewish leaders and pro-Israel organizations.

{Matzav.com}

The United States and Iran have reportedly agreed to temporarily halt military action following a tense exchange of attacks near the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend, with diplomatic talks now scheduled to resume in Qatar later this week.

A Trump administration official told CNN on Sunday that both countries have agreed to de-escalate for the time being. “Both sides will stand down for now and vessels can move freely,” the official said, confirming an earlier Axios report.

According to both CNN and Axios, American and Iranian representatives are expected to meet in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday in an effort to continue negotiations.

Iran, however, has not publicly confirmed the reported agreement, leaving uncertainty over Tehran’s official position regarding the planned talks.

Earlier Sunday, another senior administration official emphasized that negotiations surrounding the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding remain on schedule despite the recent military confrontation.

“Nothing has been canceled. Technical talks regarding the implementation of MoU are on track for the coming days as planned, and deconfliction channels are up and running after the Lake Lucerne Summit,” the official told CNN, referring to the recent Switzerland meetings led by Vice President JD Vance.

The diplomatic developments came after U.S. forces carried out two rounds of strikes over the weekend against Iranian positions near the Strait of Hormuz. American officials said the attacks were launched in response to what they described as repeated Iranian violations of the ceasefire agreement.

President Donald Trump issued a stern warning Saturday evening, signaling that the United States could escalate its military campaign if Tehran continues to violate the ceasefire.

“United States aircraft just struck Iranian missile and drone storage locations, and coastal radar sites, for violating the Cease Fire Agreement, AGAIN! It is very possible that they will never learn!” Trump wrote.

He added, “There may come a point when we are no longer able to be reasonable, and will be forced to militarily complete the job that we very successfully started. If that happens, the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist!”

{Matzav.com}

Israel’s decision to formally recognize the Armenian Genocide triggered a furious response from Turkey on Sunday, with Ankara accusing Israel of exploiting history for political purposes and attempting to divert attention from the ongoing war in Gaza.

The dispute erupted after Israel’s Cabinet unanimously approved a resolution recognizing the mass killings of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire during World War I as genocide. Turkish officials swiftly condemned the move, dismissing it as a politically motivated maneuver.

In a sharply worded statement, Turkey’s Foreign Ministry alleged that Israel was using the recognition to distract the world from its military campaign in Gaza.

“The Israeli government, which has systematically persecuted the Palestinian people before the eyes of the entire world and is being tried at the International Court of Justice on charges of committing genocide against the people of Gaza, is seeking to cover up its own crimes through the political decision it has adopted regarding the events of 1915,” the Ministry said, as quoted by AFP.

“Turkey will continue to work resolutely to bring an end to Israel’s expansionist and destabilizing policies in the region,” the statement added.

Turkey, which succeeded the Ottoman Empire, has long rejected the characterization of the 1915 killings, forced deportations, and imprisonment of Armenians as genocide, maintaining that the historical events should not be described by that term.

Israel’s latest move follows a significant shift that began last August, when Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu publicly recognized the Armenian Genocide for the first time. Ankara angrily rejected those remarks at the time, insisting they were politically driven and lacked historical basis.

The question of officially labeling the atrocities as genocide has long been diplomatically sensitive. For years, the United States avoided using the term out of concern for its strategic relationship with Turkey. That changed in 2021, when President Joe Biden formally referred to the Ottoman Empire’s actions against Armenians as “genocide,” prompting a fierce backlash from the Turkish government.

Sunday’s announcement also comes against the backdrop of steadily worsening relations between Israel and Turkey. Although the two countries appeared close to restoring ties shortly before Hamas’ October 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel, relations have sharply deteriorated since then, with Turkish leaders—led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan—repeatedly launching harsh attacks against Israel.

Among the most pointed exchanges came in March of last year, when Erdogan denounced Israel as a “terror state” following Israeli strikes against terrorist targets in Gaza.

Months later, Erdogan escalated his criticism further, asserting that Netanyahu’s government posed the greatest threat to stability and security throughout the Middle East.

{Matzav.com}

Senior commanders in the IDF are warning that Hamas is rapidly rebuilding its military capabilities and preparing for another large-scale conflict with Israel, according to a report aired Sunday by Kan News. The assessment was presented last week to IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir and reportedly paints a troubling picture of the terrorist organization’s renewed strength.

According to the report, senior officials from the IDF Intelligence Directorate and Southern Command told Zamir that Hamas has significantly accelerated its military production, manufacturing hundreds of explosive devices and anti-tank missiles every month. They also said the group has launched an aggressive recruitment campaign targeting young men between the ages of 18 and 22 and has resumed training members of its elite Nukhba force.

The briefing reportedly stated that Hamas is also working to smuggle drones and advanced communications equipment into Gaza through the Sinai Peninsula while continuing to rebuild its extensive underground tunnel network across the Strip.

Military officials further warned that Hamas remains firmly entrenched in Gaza, faces no meaningful internal opposition, and has shown no willingness to surrender its grip on the territory.

Kan News reported that Israeli defense officials have concluded that renewed military operations against Hamas are necessary and that this position has already been conveyed to American officials. However, the United States reportedly opposes restarting the fighting, preferring instead to preserve the current arrangements established under the recent agreement while continuing efforts to advance President Donald Trump’s broader regional peace initiative and the Board of Peace.

According to the report, Israeli security officials have expressed deep concern over Hamas’ military buildup, but renewed operations have not moved forward because of what was described as an American veto on resuming the war.

In a separate development, Kan News reported that a senior Hamas delegation headed by Mousa Abu Marzouk traveled to Moscow on June 10 for meetings with senior Russian government officials.

A Palestinian Arab source familiar with those discussions told the broadcaster that much of the meeting centered on Clause 8 of the proposed peace framework, which deals with the removal and storage of weapons in Gaza and addresses the issue of Hamas disarmament.

According to the source, Hamas indicated that it is prepared, in principle, to accept the provision, but only if several conditions are met. The terrorist group reportedly wants implementation to be handled exclusively by the “National Committee for the Administration of Gaza,” insists that any international stabilization force coordinate directly with Palestinian factions, and demands guarantees that weapons removed from Gaza will not be transferred to Israel or any other outside entity.

{Matzav.com}

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani brushed aside speculation about a future White House campaign on Sunday, insisting he has no interest in changing the Constitution to make himself eligible for the presidency, even as he celebrated the growing influence of his political movement within the Democratic Party.

“No,” Mamdani told ABC News’ “This Week” when asked whether the Constitution should be amended so he could one day run for president. “I think the Constitution looks good the way it is.”

Under Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution, only natural-born U.S. citizens who are at least 35 years old are eligible to serve as president.

Mamdani, who is 34, was born in Uganda and immigrated to the United States when he was about seven years old. He became a naturalized American citizen in 2018.

“I’m very excited to focus on New York City, but thank you for reminding me of my upcoming mortality,” Mamdani added after ABC News anchor Jonathan Karl noted that his 35th birthday is approaching.

Throughout the 2025 New York City mayoral race, Mamdani frequently criticized former Governor Andrew Cuomo, suggesting Cuomo’s political ambitions extended well beyond City Hall.

Although he rejected talk of a presidential run, Mamdani projected confidence about his growing influence within Democratic politics nationwide.

“Let them,” Mamdani snapped back when asked about Republican efforts to portray him as the face of today’s Democratic Party.

“We don’t have to ask ourselves what life looks like if a socialist wins. I won last November, and over the course of these last 6 months, what we’ve delivered.”

His comments came just days after three candidates he endorsed—Brad Lander, Claire Valdez, and Darializa Avila Chevalier—won competitive Democratic primary contests, marking another significant victory for the party’s progressive wing.

The trio campaigned on an aggressively left-wing platform. Avila Chevalier, in particular, has drawn attention for past remarks and activism that included boasting about wiping her dirty hands on the American flag, advocating for the abolition of prisons and national borders, and accusing President Joe Biden of rape.

“I think we are seeing a hunger that is not just felt by New Yorkers, but frankly by Americans from coast to coast, for a new kind of politics, one that puts working people at the heart of it,” Mamdani said in explaining the success of the candidates he backed.

When questioned specifically about Avila Chevalier’s more controversial positions, Mamdani argued that her campaign centered on improving the lives of working-class Americans.

“The focus of her candidacy was about the struggle that working people are facing,” he insisted, when pressed about her call to abandon prisons and borders.

Asked directly whether he supports abolishing prisons, Mamdani responded, “There are prisons.”

“Safety is not something that’s up for debate.”

{Matzav.com}

President Bill Clinton is downplaying concerns over the Democratic Party’s leftward shift after three Democratic Socialists of America-backed candidates captured major victories in New York’s primary elections, insisting he remains optimistic about the party’s chances in this fall’s midterm elections.

“I think we’re in good shape for the fall,” Clinton told Fox News Digital when asked about the results of Tuesday’s primaries.

The victories by Darializa Avila Chevalier, Brad Lander, and Claire Valdez have intensified an already heated debate within Democratic circles over whether the party’s increasingly socialist wing represents its future. Supporters argue the candidates have energized voters and demonstrated a successful electoral strategy, while critics question whether such an agenda can appeal to a broader national electorate.

Clinton, however, appeared unconcerned by the outcome, signaling confidence that Democrats remain well positioned heading into November.

The president has traditionally aligned himself with the party’s more centrist wing in New York politics.

That was evident last year when he endorsed former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic mayoral primary instead of socialist New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Mamdani ultimately defeated Cuomo in the June 2025 primary before securing the party’s nomination for mayor.

The latest primary victories have once again exposed the ongoing ideological divide within the Democratic Party, as its progressive and moderate factions continue to compete for influence over the party’s future direction.

While many Democrats have embraced the party’s growing socialist movement and its candidates, others have warned against allowing socialism to become the party’s defining national identity, arguing instead for a continued embrace of capitalism.

Fox News Digital also sought Clinton’s reaction to the escalating situation involving Iran, but he declined to address the topic.

His refusal to comment came as the United States and Iran continue navigating a fragile peace agreement announced recently amid lingering regional tensions.

Although the two countries reached a ceasefire arrangement, U.S. forces carried out strikes against Iranian targets on Friday after Tehran attacked a commercial vessel transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Before those military strikes, President Donald Trump said on Thursday that the United States was negotiating with Iran from a “position of pure strength.”

{Matzav.com}

A massive explosion echoed across northern Israel on Sunday evening as the IDF demolished one of Hezbollah’s largest and most heavily fortified underground terrorist installations in southern Lebanon. The sprawling tunnel complex, described by the military as one of Hezbollah’s most significant strategic assets, contained hundreds of weapons, approximately 80 tons of explosives, launch shafts, drones, and other military equipment intended for attacks against Israel.

Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisroel Katz announced that the operation, dubbed “Operation Closing Verse,” targeted Hezbollah’s underground infrastructure near the southern Lebanese village of Majdal Zoun. They said the mission dealt a significant blow to the terrorist organization while reaffirming Israel’s determination to continue eliminating threats along its northern border.

According to the Israeli leaders, the underground network stretched for more than 200 meters and reached a depth exceeding 25 meters beneath the surface. The facility housed hundreds of weapons and multiple launch shafts aimed at Israeli territory and civilian communities.

The IDF later revealed additional details about the sophisticated complex. Beyond its four launch shafts, the tunnel contained 12 fortified rooms that served as terrorist living quarters and weapons storage facilities. Reinforced blast doors had also been installed throughout the underground network in an effort to protect the site from military attack.

Troops discovered dozens of dismantled drones, aircraft components, explosive warheads, and approximately 80 tons of explosives inside the complex. Military officials said the tunnel represented one of Hezbollah’s most important strategic assets in the sector and had been constructed using technology and engineering expertise supplied by the Iranian regime.

During the operation, Israeli forces eliminated more than 20 Hezbollah terrorists in the area, including approximately ten members of the organization’s elite Radwan Force.

Netanyahu and Katz also disclosed that Israel informed the United States and the U.S. envoy to Lebanon in advance of the operation.

“IDF commanders and troops will remain in the southern Lebanon security zone and will continue to destroy terror infrastructure, eliminate threats to northern communities, and ensure the safety of Israel’s citizens,” the military said in a statement.

The IDF said troops from the 551st Brigade Combat Team, together with elite Yahalom combat engineers operating under the 91st Division, located and destroyed the underground complex during ongoing operations inside the security zone.

Ahead of the controlled detonation, regional councils across the Western and Upper Galilee alerted residents that an unusually powerful explosion would be heard as the IDF completed the destruction of Hezbollah’s terrorist infrastructure.

Military officials also warned that the force of the blast could activate independent earthquake detection systems that are not connected to the Home Front Command’s warning network.

In a message distributed to residents before the explosion, authorities wrote: “Due to the sheer force of the blast, local, independent earthquake alerts—which are not connected to Home Front Command systems—may be triggered. There is no danger to residents in the north.”

The controlled blast was heard across wide areas of northern Israel, marking the destruction of what the IDF described as one of Hezbollah’s largest and most strategically important underground military installations along the Lebanese border.

{Matzav.com}

The French Jewish community, both in Eretz Yisroel and throughout the Diaspora, is mourning the passing of Rav Ron Chaya zt”l, one of the most influential figures in French-speaking kiruv and harbotzas Torah, who was niftar at the age of 67 after suffering a stroke several weeks ago.

Rav Chaya, rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Yeshuos Yosef in Yerushalayim, had been hospitalized at Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center in recent weeks following the stroke. His condition deteriorated significantly during the day and he was niftar overnight.

Widely regarded as one of the foremost mekarvei rechokim among French Jewry, Rav Chaya devoted decades of his life to bringing thousands of Jews closer to Torah and Yiddishkeit. Through his inspiring lectures, infectious joy, and deep love for every Jew, he transformed countless lives, helping thousands of individuals and families reconnect with their heritage.

His unique speaking style earned him an enormous following throughout France, Israel, and beyond. Rav Chaya was known for presenting the timeless truths of the Torah with passion, clarity, and conviction, never hesitating to publicly articulate the Torah’s perspective, regardless of prevailing public opinion.

Over the course of many decades, he produced thousands of talmidim and played a pivotal role in spreading Torah throughout the French-speaking Jewish world. His influence extended far beyond the walls of his yeshivah, reaching communities across Europe and Israel.

Among those paying tribute was his former student, Knesset member Yossi Taieb, who mourned the loss of his revered mentor.

“The Torah mourns tonight. It is with profound sorrow that I learned of the passing of one of the greatest benefactors of the French Jewish community, our teacher Rav Ron Chaya, zt”l.

“Rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Yeshuos Yosef, the rav educated thousands of students and brought them closer to the Creator.

“Over the years, I merited to seek his counsel, appreciate the depth of his Torah wisdom, and receive his blessing.

“The rav, of blessed memory, welcomed everyone with a radiant smile, humility, selfless devotion, and love for every Jew.

“‘And the entire House of Israel shall weep over the burning that Hashem has kindled.'”

The levayah is scheduled to take place on Monday at 12:00 p.m. at Yeshivas Yeshuos Yosef on Chizkiyahu Shabtai Street in the Ramot Daled neighborhood of Yerushalayim.

Tehei nishmaso tzrurah bitzror hachaim.

{Matzav.com}

Following an intensive international effort spanning several days, the body of Reb Akiva Rand z”l, the young avreich who was killed in a tragic automobile accident in Moldova last week, arrived in Israel. The successful transfer of his remains brought a measure of relief to his grieving family and the hundreds of Tchernobyler chassidim who had anxiously awaited the outcome of an extraordinary campaign to preserve the kavod hameis.

Behind the scenes, a complex diplomatic and legal battle unfolded immediately after news of the tragedy reached Israel. The operation was led by Chabad shluchim Reb Mendy Axelrod and Reb Schneur Tiefenbrun. Also involved were the Israeli Foreign Ministry, Israel’s embassy in Moldova, and ZAKA’s International Unit, who all mobilized to assist the family during their darkest hours while working tirelessly to ensure that the niftar would be brought to kever Yisroel without delay.

At the same time, Reb Mendy Axelrod and Reb Schneur Tiefenbrun, and ZAKA’s International Unit, engaged in an intense legal and diplomatic struggle with Moldovan authorities and the country’s judicial system. Despite an initial insistence by local officials that an autopsy be performed, the askanim ultimately succeeded, through persistent efforts, in securing the release of the body without any postmortem examination.

Volunteers remained at the crash scene for many hours, carefully tending to every aspect of the recovery with the utmost respect and dignity. They meticulously gathered all necessary remains and evidence to ensure that Reb Akiva would receive a proper Jewish burial.

Hundreds of chassidim, relatives, and friends accompanied him on his final journey during the levayah, which departed shortly after midnight from the Tchernobyler beis medrash on Rechov Tuval in Yerushalayim. He was laid to rest on Har HaMenuchos.

The fatal accident occurred last Wednesday while Reb Akiva was traveling with a group of chassidim to Moldova to visit the resting place of the tzaddik, Rav Yechiel Heshel of Krylovitz, whose yahrtzeit had been observed the previous week. While driving near Kishinev, Reb Akiva apparently lost control of his vehicle, which veered off the roadway and plunged into a deep ravine. Local emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene, while the other passengers were injured and transported to a nearby hospital.

Friends and acquaintances recalled another painful dimension of the tragedy. For many years, Reb Akiva and his wife longed for children, pouring out countless tefillos before finally being blessed, through Heaven’s mercy, with three young children. Those three children have now been left orphaned by the devastating loss of their devoted father.

Tehei nishmaso tzrurah bitzror hachaim.

{Matzav.com}