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Forbes Media chairman Steve Forbes discusses the New York City mayoral race and why voters need to learn more about candidate Zohran Mamdani on ‘The Evening Edit.’

WATCH:

Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon: “There is no hiding place for terrorists. We will hunt them down everywhere.”

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman condemned what he called a “blatant Israeli attack on Qatar” in a call with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, calling it a criminal act and a flagrant violation, and affirmed that Saudi Arabia stands ready to support Qatar with all available means to protect its security, according to the Saudi State Press Agency.

Shock reverberated through Israel’s police force on Tuesday morning when the Police Internal Investigations Department of the State Attorney’s Office arrested five suspects, including senior police officials and a civilian—on suspicion of passing sensitive information to the Musli crime family, one of Israel’s largest and most-feared “Mafia” organizations. Among the suspects are two active police officers, one of them a senior officer, and two former police officers—including an investigator who was part of the prosecution team in Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s “1000–4000 cases” and other prominent cases, including those of Avigdor Lieberman, whose case was “mysteriously closed,” and Ehud Olmert. In addition, the head of the crime organization, Eli Musli, and two of the organization’s financial operatives were also arrested. According to a report on i24NEWS, all of the detained officers had worked in the Investigations Division: the officer who investigated Netanyahu, another officer with the rank of chief superintendent, a recently retired chief superintendent, and a police officer. The recently retired officer is suspected of committing the offenses while still serving in Lahav 433, the police’s elite anti-corruption and organized crime unit. The officers are suspected of crimes including bribery, fraud, breach of trust, and violations of the Privacy Protection Law. In return, they allegedly received perks such as trips abroad and hotel accommodations. According to police, the affair involves, among other crimes, illegal gambling and the provision of credit lines to gamblers. The head of Lahav 433, Commander Meni Benjamin, stated, “We constantly act and gather evidence against organizations that the police define as crime organizations. We will act against anyone who is involved in serious, organized criminal activity—even if they are active or former police officers who acted illegally and against the law. We will work to bring them to justice. Thanks to the work of Lahav 433, the key suspects who form part of an illegal financial pipeline have been exposed, including police officers who left the organization but still maintained contact with criminal elements. The nature of their ties to these criminal figures will be examined, and we will work together with the Internal Investigations Department in every way required to uncover the full truth.” (YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)

Dear Matzav Inbox,

There is something deeply troubling about the way the conversation surrounding yeshiva bochurim and the Israeli army is being conducted. Time and again, I watch as the defense of Torah learning—our lifeline, the very essence of Klal Yisroel—gets wrapped in noise, anger, and rhetoric that may generate headlines but does little to win hearts or strengthen our cause.

Why can’t we fight for our yeshiva bochurim without resorting to fiery, bombastic proclamations that alienate the broader public? Why is the most sacred fight—preserving Torah learning as the cornerstone of Jewish survival—so often expressed in language that diminishes the holiness of the very cause it is supposed to defend? Our gedolim never needed shouting or theatrics to make the case. Their words, delivered with dignity and clarity, carried the weight of eternity. Shouldn’t we be following their model?

Why can’t we advocate for our bochurim without simultaneously denigrating those who, for whatever reason, are serving in the army? They are not our enemies. They are part of Klal Yisroel, our own flesh and blood. Some are not yet privileged to understand the centrality of Torah; others come from different backgrounds or circumstances. But mocking or belittling them is not only unfair. It is counterproductive. It hardens hearts against our message, closes ears that might otherwise listen, and erodes the basic achdus we so desperately need.

Why can’t we fight for our yeshiva bochurim while still expressing hakoras hatov to those who do enlist? Even as we state unequivocally that Torah is the ultimate shield of Am Yisroel and that we will not negotiate over our bnei yeshiva, can we not also acknowledge that the young men who put their lives on the line are making real sacrifices? They are risking their futures, their health, and sometimes their very lives. Is it really so difficult to say “thank you” for their service, even as we insist that the Torah learner’s role is irreplaceable and exalted? Expressing gratitude does not weaken our argument. It strengthens it, by showing that our worldview is broad, compassionate, and rooted in truth.

Why can’t we stand up for Torah without turning to protests that descend into chaos and create a chillul Hashem? The sight of angry mobs, blocked roads, and violent outbursts does not glorify Torah. It desecrates it. Those images circulate far beyond our own community and reinforce every negative stereotype that already exists. Instead of sanctifying the Torah, we degrade it. Instead of gaining sympathy, we invite scorn. And instead of strengthening our youth in their mission, we confuse them, leaving them with the impression that Torah needs to be defended through outrage rather than through its own inherent power.

Why can’t we follow the example of our gedolim, who for generations have shown how to fight this battle with wisdom, restraint, and conviction? Our gedolim all fought tirelessly to protect Torah learning. They spoke and acted with unyielding firmness, yet they did so with a dignity that commanded respect even among those who disagreed. They didn’t need theatrics to prove the truth. They relied on the eternal strength of Torah, and the power of reasoned, principled argument.

This is not a call for weakness or compromise. It is not an appeal to water down our message or to soften our principles. On the contrary, it is a plea for true strength—the strength to argue our case in a way that reflects the very Torah we are fighting to preserve. To speak firmly but respectfully. To insist on the truth of Torah without dismissing the sacrifices of others. To advocate with passion, but also with intelligence and derech eretz.

We need to ask ourselves: What is the goal? Is it to make headlines, to shout louder than anyone else, to prove that we can outdo the other side in volume? Or is it to safeguard the eternal truth that Torah learning is the lifeblood of the Jewish people? If it is the latter—and surely it must be—then our methods must reflect our mission. We cannot fight for Torah by using tactics that betray the very values Torah demands of us.

If the Torah itself is our claim, then our advocacy must be consistent with Torah values. A message delivered with respect, intelligence, and humility carries infinitely more power than one shouted in anger. The world may not agree with us, but at the very least, they should walk away saying: “This is a people that stands for something sacred. This is a people whose representatives speak with dignity and faith.”

I am not naïve. I know the pressures are great, the stakes are high, and emotions are raw. But precisely because this is such a pivotal issue, we must choose carefully how we conduct ourselves. If we truly believe that Torah is our weapon, then let us wield it—not with noise and chaos, but with the timeless strength of calm conviction and unwavering emunah.

Is it too much to ask that we fight for our bochurim the way the Torah itself demands—firmly, passionately, but always with dignity, always with derech eretz, always with the spirit of Klal Yisroel as one family? That is the way our gedolim fought. That is the way our message will be heard. And that is the only way to ensure that our defense of Torah is itself a kiddush Hashem.

Respectfully,

A Yid in Pain

Lakewood, NJ

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{Matzav.com}

BREAKING: Qatar announces that it will no longer serve as a mediator in talks between Israel and Hamas. Is there anyone even left at Hamas to mediate with?

Al Jazeera, citing a senior Hamas official, reported that the Hamas leadership gathered in Qatar, headed by Khalil al-Hayya, survived the Israeli strike. The official did not specify whether any members were injured or killed. However, earlier reports from Saudi-based Al-Hadath claimed that several senior Hamas figures— including Khalil al-Hayya, Khaled Mashaal, Zaher Jabarin, and Nizar Awadallah— were killed in the attack. Meanwhile, two Hamas sources told Reuters that members of Hamas’s ceasefire negotiation team had survived the attack. Israeli officials confirmed that the strike targeted top Hamas leaders, including Khalil al-Hayya, the group’s exiled Gaza chief and a key figure in ongoing negotiations. A Hamas official in Gaza told AFP that the targeted leaders were in Doha to discuss the latest ceasefire proposal. “In a new Zionist crime, the Hamas negotiating delegation was targeted during its meeting in Doha, while discussing (US) President (Donald) Trump’s proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip,” the official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, as he was not authorized to comment publicly.  

The UAE, an Abraham Accords member state, expresses (feigned?) outrage over Israel’s airstrike in Qatar: “Blatant and cowardly, we express full solidarity with Qatar.”

Wild video shows Nepal’s finance minister stripped of his clothing and chased into a river, after millenial-led protests toppled the Communist country’s government earlier today

In the wake of Monday morning’s murderous terror attack at the Ramot Junction in Yerushalayim, Rav Asher Berenzweig, one of the rabbeim of Yeshivas Mir, traveled to Bnei Brak to consult with Slabodka rosh yeshiva Rav Dov Landau regarding the chinuch and bitachon dimensions of such a tragedy.

During the meeting at Rav Landau’s residence on Rechov Harav Sher, Rav Berenzweig described the painful questions being raised in the yeshiva world. “Today there was an attack involving six families. I personally know some of them. There were bochurim from Mir who were present at the scene, and they ran back to the yeshiva feeling very unsafe. What can I say to them?” he asked.

Rav Landau replied with compassion: “You must calm them. These are the judgments of Hashem. MishpAtecha tehom rabbah. We hope that Hashem’s kindness will give them hope. This was a very severe judgment. It is shocking to hear. Even one who only hears about it is shaken.”

Rav Berenzweig pressed further: “The bochurim asked me, especially now during Elul, when they are trying to grow spiritually, how can they absorb such a blow?”

The rosh yeshiva responded: “One must acknowledge their feelings. Tell them we understand them. Still, these are the judgments of Hashem, alongside His mercy. Emphasize that there will yet be kindness from Hashem. Let them know that their pain is valid; do not dismiss their reaction. Once they feel that their emotions are understood, it becomes easier for them to accept. There is no point in arguing. better to say: we understand, and we hope Hashem will turn this into a time of His chessed.”

Rav Berenzweig then noted that the bereaved families had called on him to speak words of comfort. “What message can I share with them?” he asked.

Rav Landau answered: “Mishpatecha tehom rabbah. It is shocking. Whoever hears is shaken. There are no words of consolation. But we share in your grief with all our hearts—that itself gives a small measure of comfort.”

At that point, Rav Landau’s grandson shared a heartbreaking detail: “One of the victims had given up his spot in a car for another person who was in a hurry. He got out and remained at the bus stop, where he was killed.”

The rosh yeshiva responded again: “Mishpatecha tehom rabbah. What can one say?”

Finally, Rav Berenzweig mentioned: “One of those murdered was born in Spain, recently came to Eretz Yisroel, and just married two months ago.”

Rav Landau sighed deeply and said with anguish: “One can only cry, just cry. It is terrible, beyond words. What can one possibly say?”

{Matzav.com Israel}

New footage from the aftermath of the IDF airstrike in Qatar, which targeted the Hamas leadership.

As the new year begins, the Boca Raton Kollel reflects on the tremendous Torah learning, personal growth, and community impact it has been privileged to experience this past year — together with its cherished community. Over the past year, the Kollel’s yungeleit immersed themselves in the depths of halacha, diligently studying the complexities of Hilchos Basar B’cholov, Ta’aruvos, Niddah, Choshen Mishpat, and additional simanim in Yoreh Deah. Their tireless hasmadah and mesiras nefesh, alongside the steadfast support of their wives, culminated in a remarkable milestone: receiving semicha — Yoreh Yoreh, Yodin Yodin. A heartfelt mazal tov is extended to the new musmachim and their families. This achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a true kiddush Hashem and a source of pride for the entire Boca Raton community. Spreading Torah Beyond Our Walls The Kollel’s continued impact is demonstrated by the fact that its five graduating yungeleit are stepping into new roles across the Greater South Florida Jewish community: Rabbi Yosef Schottenfeld and Rabbi Shmuel Baldinger are joining Mizrahi Family Torah Academy as Rabbeim Rabbi Meir Palgon is becoming a Rebbi at Torah Academy of Boca Raton Rabbi Aaron Deutsch is serving as Executive Director of the new East Boca Kollel Rabbi Yaakov Rimmer is taking on the role of Director of Community Outreach at the Boca Raton Kollel The community wishes them continued bracha in their new positions and expresses gratitude that they remain connected to the Kollel family. Welcoming New Faces The Kollel is thrilled to welcome four new yungeleit: Rabbi & Mrs. Yehoshua Lehmann Rabbi & Mrs. Yosaif Slotkin Rabbi & Mrs. Binyomin King Rabbi & Mrs. Chaim Goldberg With their arrival — alongside the dedicated returning yungeleit — the kol Torah, harbotzas Torah, and warmth that define the Kollel will continue to flourish. Together, the Kollel and its community have built a beautiful and welcoming makom Torah, a beacon of inspiration for the entire Boca Raton community. The Kollel recognizes that your partnership, friendship, and support make all of this possible. Looking ahead, the Boca Raton Kollel eagerly anticipates another year of Torah, growth, and connection – together visit brkollel.com

The NYPD says that it is deploying additional resources “out of an abundance of caution” following Israel’s airstrike targeting Hamas leadership in Qatar.

☠Other top Hamas officials believed to have been blown to smithereens include Khaled Mashaal and Zaher Jabarin.

Israeli Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Interior Minister Yariv Levin responded to a letter from Deputy Minister Almog Cohen demanding the deportation of the families of the terrorists who carried out the attack in Yerushalayim.

In his response, Levin wrote: “I see great importance in the deportation of terrorists’ families—both from the perspective of justice and as a deterrent tool that has the power to prevent additional attacks. The severe attack that took place today requires a decisive move, which must also include the deportation of the families of the terrorists involved in it. However, the law imposes significant restrictions, in particular stipulating that deportation can only be carried out with the approval of the military commander—the head of Central Command—and only under very specific circumstances.”

Levin added: “As a result of the provisions of the law, it is not possible to immediately deport the relatives of the terrorists who are Israeli citizens. The law also places additional heavy requirements, such as proving prior knowledge of the terrorist’s intent or demonstrating support and identification with the act of terror. In light of your experience and involvement in legislation, it would be appropriate for you to lead a process of in-depth review of the issue, together with the security establishment and other relevant bodies, so that we can promote an amended bill immediately when the Knesset resumes work after the recess.”

In conclusion, Levin stressed: “Despite the clear intention to deport, the law in its current form places far too many obstacles in the way of carrying out a comprehensive and swift deportation of terrorists’ families.”

{Matzav.com}

The IDF together with the Shin Bet announced on Tuesday that they had struck senior Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar.

In their joint statement, Israeli security services said that those targeted were among the masterminds of the October 7, 2023 massacre that left some 1,200 Israelis dead in the South, and that they had been directing Hamas’s terror activities for many years prior to that.

Israeli officials confirmed that Khalil al-Hayya was one of the intended targets, though his death has not yet been established.

Officials also said Washington was notified of the operation in advance and signaled its approval. Following the incident, the U.S. Embassy in Doha told American citizens to remain indoors under a shelter-in-place advisory.

“Hamas received the new proposal from the Qataris, which we [Israel] obtained from Witkoff last week in Paris. The prime minister met with the Hamas leadership yesterday, and they decided to meet again today to discuss the proposal, arriving from Turkey,” a diplomatic source told the Jerusalem Post.

“The State of Qatar strongly condemns the cowardly Israeli attack that targeted residential buildings housing several members of the Political Bureau of Hamas in the Qatari capital, Doha,” said Majed al-Ansari, spokesperson of the Qatari Foreign Ministry.

“This criminal assault constitutes a blatant violation of all international laws and norms, and poses a serious threat to the security and safety of Qataris and residents in Qatar,” he added.

“While the State of Qatar strongly condemns this assault, it confirms that it will not tolerate this reckless Israeli behavior and the ongoing disruption of regional security, nor any act that targets its security and sovereignty.”

Israeli authorities stressed that the strike was carried out with precision weaponry, using detailed intelligence, to ensure that only senior Hamas figures were hit.

The official communiqué from the IDF and the Shin Bet described the operation as a “precise strike targeting the senior leadership of the Hamas terrorist organization.”

“For years, these members of the Hamas leadership have led the terrorist organization’s operations, are directly responsible for the brutal October 7th massacre, and have been orchestrating and managing the war against the State of Israel,” the statement read.

There has been no word regarding Khaled Mashaal, the onetime Hamas leader who still serves as an influential figure within the group.

Until recently, a number of Hamas’s external leaders were considered too vital for negotiations to be eliminated.

But that changed in July 2024 when the Mossad assassinated Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, even though he was engaged in mediation efforts at the time.

That killing triggered a clash with the Biden administration, which charged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with deliberately preventing a hostage arrangement he was not yet ready to accept.

Israeli defense officials, however, stood behind Netanyahu, contending that Haniyeh had been a roadblock to progress and that his culpability for October 7 left no option but to remove him.

It is not yet known how the Trump administration will respond to this latest strike, as it is simultaneously working to push Israel and Hamas toward an agreement. The identity of Hamas’s chief negotiator going forward also remains uncertain.

This operation also broke with precedent, since it was openly executed by the air force in coordination with the Shin Bet, rather than covertly by the Mossad, which traditionally handles assassinations abroad, including that of Haniyeh.

Analysts suggested that the Mossad’s relatively stronger working ties with Qatar may have led Israel to keep the agency out of this mission.

{Matzav.com}

Outside the United Nations headquarters in New York, demonstrators staged a shocking protest in which they played soccer with a realistic model of Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s head in place of the ball.

The stunt was held on Sunday, September 7, just days before the opening of the 80th UN General Assembly session later this month.

The protest was arranged by INDECLINE, an American art collective notorious for politically charged and controversial performances. The mock head was created by Spanish artist Eugenio Merino, whose past works have frequently stirred outrage.

In a statement released by INDECLINE, organizers explained that the action was meant “to draw the international community’s attention to the genocide currently being perpetrated in Gaza.”

The group also asserted that those who took part in the game were “activists and citizens,” representing both Jewish and Palestinian backgrounds.

{Matzav.com}

BREAKING: Several explosions were heard in the Qatari capital Doha. Unconfirmed reports that a Hamas headquarters was targeted.

Central District police officers discovered and seized numerous weapons and weapon parts hidden in bags in an orchard near Ramlah today, after a worker reported the bags as suspicious.

Russia’s delegation to Damascus, led by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, is set to meet senior Syrian officials for talks on the economy, security, defense, and politics.