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At the JNS International Policy Summit held Monday night at the Waldorf Astoria in Jerusalem, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee issued a blunt warning about Iran’s nuclear threats. He declared that if Iran continues on its path toward acquiring nuclear weapons, President Donald Trump “won’t be dragged into a war, he’ll lead it.” Huckabee stressed the administration’s firm policy, stating, “The president has been very clear that there will never be a possibility for nuclear weapons; he’s been explicit about that.”

Speaking at the same summit one day earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a similarly tough message. He insisted that “the only good deal that works is a deal like the one that was made with Libya, that removed all the infrastructure.” Netanyahu highlighted the critical importance of U.S.-Israel cooperation, saying, “We have to make sure that Iran does not get nuclear weapons.”

Huckabee went on to emphasize the deep connection between the United States and Israel, describing it as “spiritual,” built on the recognition that “the only explanation for the creation and the survival and the victory of Israel is that God’s hand is upon this land, and it always will be.” He expressed his admiration for President Trump’s swift moves after entering office, commenting that Trump “reversed a lot of the ridiculous policies of the previous administration, one of which was to not give Israel the necessary tools to fight a war against the worst savages that we have seen, not just in our century, but perhaps in human history.”

Turning to the urgent situation of hostages held in Gaza, Huckabee emphasized President Trump’s clear position, saying Trump “Made it very clear that Hamas has no future in Gaza or anywhere else on this Earth. Let’s get the hostages home and let’s get them home now. Every last one of them.”

Since stepping into his role as U.S. Ambassador to Israel on April 21, Huckabee has taken a series of diplomatic and symbolic actions to reinforce the U.S.-Israel alliance. Before officially presenting his credentials to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Huckabee made a personal visit to the Western Wall, where he prayed for the peace of Jerusalem and inserted a handwritten message from President Trump into the ancient stones.

Reflecting on the depth of the bond between the two nations, Huckabee stated, “Israel is an incredibly important ally to us. The United States and its citizens are directly the beneficiaries of some of the extraordinary achievements and accomplishments and innovations of the people here in Israel. People sometimes only think that Israel benefits from the United States. The truth is the United States benefits a great deal from Israel, and not just militarily.”

During his trip, Huckabee also participated in a memorial event honoring 46 Americans and 23 dual U.S.-Israeli citizens who lost their lives to terrorism since the start of the war. Following the event, he posted on social media, “Together with their families, I pray their sacrifices were not in vain. May their memories be a blessing.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

An F/A-18 fighter jet slipped off the hanger deck of an aircraft carrier deployed to the Middle East, as sailors were towing the aircraft into place in the hangar bay of the USS Harry S. Truman on Monday, the Navy said. The crew members who were in the pilot seat of the Super Hornet and on the small towing tractor both jumped out before the jet and the tug went into the Red Sea. According to a defense official, the sailor who jumped from the aircraft sustained a minor injury. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss personnel details. “The F/A-18E was actively under tow in the hangar bay when the move crew lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft and tow tractor were lost overboard,” the Navy said in a statement. The jet was part of Strike Fighter Squadron 136. Fighter jets are routinely towed around the hangar deck to park them where they are needed for any flight operations or other work. It is unclear whether there will be an effort to recover the jet, which costs about $60 million. The incident is under investigation. The Truman has been deployed to the Middle East for months and recently has been involved in stepped-up military operations against the Yemen-based Houthi rebels. U.S. Central Command has said that the military has conducted daily strikes, which have been done by fighter jets, bombers, ships and drones. The Truman’s deployment has already been extended once by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth by about a month. (AP)

In an exceptional and rare move, the State-Prosecutor’s Office announced on Monday that it is withdrawing its indictment against Ron Eilon, former CEO of Yes, in the Bezeq-Yes case, one of the cases against Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu. The dramatic decision comes eight years after the investigation was opened and four years after the indictment was filed. Eilon was accused of taking part in an alleged “fraudulent scheme” related to the merger deal between Bezeq and Yes. The decision was made during the trial on Monday due to the presentation of new evidence and the exposure of flaws in the prosecution’s thesis during the cross-examination of key witnesses. The move is especially significant as the Bezeq-Yes affair is closely related to Case 4000, the most serious of the cases against Netanyahu as it involves bribery charges. It should be noted that this is not the first major blow to the prosecution regarding Case 4000, as claims that Walla provided favorable coverage to Netanyahu in exchange for favors have so far been completely disproven in court. In a previous court hearing, the judges scoffed at the charges of bribery against Netanyahu in Case 4000, even snapping at the prosecutor that “the court recommended you drop the bribery charges.” [In June 2023, the Jerusalem District Court recommended that the prosecution drop the bribery charges, warning that a conviction was unlikely.] Shortly later, Attorney Liat Ben Ari, a senior prosecutor in the State Attorney’s Office who led the witchhunt in indicting Netanyahu, resigned from her position. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

Hatzolah of Central Jersey held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday morning to mark the addition of a brand-new, state-of-the-art paramedic vehicle to its fleet. The new vehicle was generously sponsored by Shloimy Heller and friends, l’zecher nishmas Rav Yitzchok Stefansky, z”l. This latest addition bolsters Hatzolah’s advanced life support (ALS) capabilities, bringing its operational fleet to a total of 7 paramedic vehicles and 18 ambulances. An additional three paramedic vehicles and two ambulances are set to go into service in the coming weeks, ensuring faster response times and top-level care for the rapidly growing communities Hatzolah serves. “Our mission is to constantly raise the bar for emergency medical care,” said Meilech Esterzohn, CEO of Hatzolah of Central Jersey. “Today’s dedication reaffirms our commitment to be there for every call, every patient, and every life. We are deeply grateful to Shloimy Heller and his colleagues for their generosity and contributing in such a meaningful and lasting way.” Motti Twerski, Executive Director of Hatzolah of Central Jersey, added, “Each addition to our fleet represents countless lives that can be saved and cared for. This new paramedic vehicle is equipped with the latest technology to support our highly trained medics in the field. It’s a true testament to the strength of our kehilla — where chessed and life-saving go hand in hand.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

A senior Israeli diplomatic official pushed back against suggestions for a lasting ceasefire with Hamas, emphasizing that Israel remains focused on hostage negotiations but is reaching the limits of its patience.

“Ideas are flowing from some of the Arab countries, such as a cessation of the war for five years,” the official said. “There is no way that we will agree to a truce with Hamas that will only allow it to re-arm, recover, and continue its war with even more power.”

Explaining Israel’s cautious approach after the last ceasefire, the official noted, “The reason that we did not begin fighting powerfully at the conclusion of the ceasefire, and only did so gradually is because we wanted to give negotiations for the hostages’ release a chance. We want to do our utmost to bring the hostages home and that is what influences our plans of action. We are still trying to do our utmost to release the hostages through a deal, but our patience is not infinite.”

The diplomat also criticized Qatar’s involvement at this stage of the talks, stating, “The Qataris had a less-than-positive influence on the negotiations at this stage.”

When asked about President Donald Trump’s idea of encouraging Gaza emigration, the official acknowledged that progress has been slow, but added, “We are receiving requests from Arab countries asking us to evacuate their citizens. For instance, Canada turned to us and said that there are relatives who wish to go there. Our principle is to bring out those people who want to leave of their own free will, and who, on the flip side, there are countries willing to accept them.”

Turning to the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, the official remarked, “We have discourse with the Americans; the discourse is not one-sided and we are also expressing our positions. There is constant conversation on a great many levels. It’s best not to make premature assumptions – there is a positive and close relationship between the governments. [US envoy Steve] Witkoff’s statements regarding dismantling the interface and enrichment were important – as were those of Secretary of State [Marco] Rubio regarding the enrichment outside of Iran. The US is committed to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.”

{Matzav.com Israel}

Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia announced on Monday he is stepping down as the top Democrat on the powerful House Oversight Committee and will not be seeking reelection next year due to his cancer returning, ending his long career in public life. “The sun is setting on my time in public service,” Connolly said in a statement. “With no rancor and a full heart, I move into this final chapter full of pride in what we’ve accomplished together over 30 years.” Connolly, 75, has served in Congress since 2009 and represents northern Virginia, including Fairfax County. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., said in a statement that Connolly has been a “relentless advocate for the incredible civil servants” in his district during the Trump administration’s “unprecedented attacks on federal employees.” Sen. Mark Warner, a fellow Virginia Democrat, lauded Connolly for his toughness. “Whether it’s standing up for federal workers, advocating for good governance, or now confronting cancer with the same resilience and grit that have defined his life of public service, Gerry is one of the toughest fighters I know,” Warner said in a statement. Connolly announced late last year that he had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer and would undergo chemotherapy and immunotherapy. He said that after “grueling treatments,” he learned that the cancer has returned. Concerns about Connolly’s health were a factor late last year as he ran for the top ranking position on Oversight, one of the most prominent committees in Congress. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., ran against Connolly for the job but was defeated as the majority of Democrats opted to stick with the seniority system. Connolly has served on the Oversight Committee for more than 16 years. (AP)

A special election will be held on May 20 to replace State Senator Simcha Felder, who resigned after winning a City Council seat. Sam Sutton, co-leader of the Sephardic Community Federation, will run as the Democratic nominee, while longtime Republican district leader Carl (Nachman) Caller will represent the GOP. The race will determine South Brooklyn’s next State Senator.

New York City’s congestion pricing program raked in $159 million during its first quarter of operation, even as the Trump administration moves aggressively to dismantle the controversial tolling effort.

Drivers are charged $9 during peak hours for entering Manhattan below 60th Street. From the launch of the program on January 5 through March 31, the toll nearly matched its $160 million revenue target, according to data published Monday by the MTA.

The MTA, which operates the city’s public transportation system, oversees the congestion pricing plan, aiming to generate $500 million in 2025. The agency intends to leverage that income to secure $15 billion in bonds for major infrastructure upgrades.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration argues that the tolling policy is unlawful and has given the MTA until May 21 to comply, warning that otherwise the US Department of Transportation will cease approvals for select projects and may even pull federal funding. The MTA has maintained it will not halt collections unless compelled by a court.

Back in February, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy officially rescinded federal approval for the tolling initiative, which had been the first of its kind in the nation. The MTA swiftly filed a lawsuit to prevent Duffy’s reversal, and that courtroom battle is anticipated to stretch into the latter half of 2025.

Congestion pricing is intended to cut down on traffic and enhance air quality across Manhattan. According to the MTA, the program has already made a measurable impact, with data indicating that about 5.8 million fewer vehicles entered the priced zone during the first three months of implementation.

{Matzav.com}

American sports giant Nike sparked global outrage this week after launching a post-London Marathon campaign using the slogan “Never again… until next year” — a crass play on words that invoked the phrase associated with never allowing the Holocaust to happen again. What was meant to be a clever nod to marathon exhaustion instead triggered a firestorm of anger, disbelief, and disgust. By casually repurposing one of history’s most sobering memories, Nike achieved what even the anti-Israel protesters who disrupted the marathon could not: uniting Jewish communities and Holocaust survivors around the world in furious condemnation. “Nike’s marketing department has discovered a new and efficient way to burn millions of dollars and lose customers at the same time,” a crisis communications expert said Sunday. “This is like marketing running shoes with a slogan: ‘The Twin Towers fell — so did our prices.’” The campaign dropped just days after Holocaust Remembrance Day, while Jewish communities worldwide are still grappling with the trauma of the October 7 Hamas massacre in Israel. In a climate of surging antisemitism and widespread trivialization of Jewish suffering, Nike’s flippant slogan was received as a gut punch. Industry insiders say Nike’s marketing team likely aimed to tap into Gen Z’s appetite for “authentic humor” and edginess. Instead, they stumbled into a catastrophic display of ignorance and insensitivity. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

By S. Rosen

I recently heard Rabbi Avi Shafran on Halacha Headlines with Dovid Lichtenstein explain that the primary rabbinic objection to voting in the WZO elections is the technical requirement to confirm that: “I pledge to support the Jerusalem Program and the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state.”

Curious, I decided to review the Jerusalem Program myself to see if it was something I could sign. Here are my thoughts, line by line:

1. “The unity of the Jewish people, its bond to its historic homeland Eretz Yisrael, and the centrality of the State of Israel and Jerusalem, its capital, in the life of the nation;”

While one might fear this is promoting Israel over Torah, it reminded me of the well-known Brisker teaching, based on the Rambam (Pirush HaMishnayos, Bechoros 4:3): Only Jews living in Eretz Yisrael are called Kohol. Certain halachic functions—such as Kiddush Hachodesh, Ibbur Hashanah, and Semichah—can only be performed by Jews in Eretz Yisroel, even when the Land is under foreign rule (Hilchos Sanhedrin 4:11). This underscores that Eretz Yisroel indeed plays a central role in the life of our nation, even for the non-Zionist.

2. “Aliyah to Israel from all countries and the effective integration of all immigrants into Israeli society.”

No issue here. Many authorities maintain that the mitzvah of Yishuv Eretz Yisroel remains binding today. Supporting Aliyah aligns with Torah values.

3. “Strengthening Israel as a Jewish, Zionist and democratic state and shaping it as an exemplary society with a unique moral and spiritual character, marked by mutual respect for the multi-faceted Jewish people, rooted in the vision of the prophets, striving for peace and contributing to the betterment of the world.”

Admittedly, it would be more satisfying to see explicit mention of Torah. The phrase “Tikkun Olam” raises some concern, given how it is often misunderstood. However, judging strictly by the text:

Are we not charged with being an Or Lagoyim (a light unto the nations)? Isn’t our unique moral character derived from Torah? Is the Torah not the vision of Moshe, the Av Hanevi’im (Father of the Prophets)? And mutual respect for fellow Jews is indeed a Torah value, even when we disagree with their beliefs (yitamu chato’im v’lo chot’im, see Brachos 10a).

Thus, while the language could certainly be improved, it’s not terrible.

4. “Ensuring the future and the distinctiveness of the Jewish people by furthering Jewish, Hebrew and Zionist education, fostering spiritual and cultural values and teaching Hebrew as the national language;”

What do they mean by “Jewish education”? I read it as Torah education.

As for Hebrew education, while Modern Hebrew differs from Lashon Hakodesh, it’s not so far removed. Learning Alef-Bais still fulfills the mitzvah of limud Lashon Hakodesh, even when taught in Israeli schools.

Regarding “Zionist education,” consider what we pray for three times a day—Vesechezenah eineinu b’shuvcha l’Tzion b’rachamim. That is what “Zionism” means to me.

And even if you’re an Eitz supporter, what should the national language of Israel be? I’d guess most would say Hebrew. They speak it, don’t they?

5. “Nurturing mutual Jewish responsibility, defending the rights of Jews as individuals and as a nation, representing the national Zionist interests of the Jewish people, and struggling against all manifestations of anti-Semitism;”

“Mutual Jewish responsibility” sounds a lot like kol Yisroel areivim zeh lazeh.

Though parts of this sentence veer into jargon, the fundamental values of standing up for Jews and fighting anti-Semitism are undoubtedly Torah ideals.

6. “Settling the country as an expression of practical Zionism.”

Again, it would be preferable if this said “as an expression of Torah.” Yet, the mitzvah of yishuv ha’aretz—settling Eretz Yisroel—is undeniably a value we hold strongly.

A provocative thought: If it said, “Settling the country as an expression of Agudism” or “Chassidism,” would we object as strongly?

7. “Encouraging recruitment and service in the Israel Defense Forces and the security forces and strengthening them as the protective force of the Jewish people living in Zion, as well as encouraging full National Service for anyone exempted in law from service in the IDF.”

This clause obviously touches a sensitive nerve for frum Jews and bnei Torah.

Yet, in principle, we certainly support the need for an army to protect Jewish lives. We may disagree about who should serve or when—especially regarding yeshiva students—but the existence of the IDF is vital. Sheirut Leumi (National Service) can also be acceptable when conducted within a halachically appropriate framework. I’m not necessarily endorsing it, but this clause wouldn’t stop me from signing.

As for the phrase “protective force of the Jewish people,” while it may sound like kochi v’otzem yadi, think of this: If a headline read “Agudah Secures Tuition Relief Funding,” would we criticize it for not saying “Hashem Grants Tuition Relief Funding Through Agudah”? We can all improve at attributing successes to Hashem, but that doesn’t seem to be the core issue here.

Conclusion:

I’m not here to tell you what to do or whom to follow. My point is simple: We should research issues thoughtfully and not simply accept public rhetoric at face value, no matter whose name is attached to it.

Recent events have shown how even respected outlets can be infiltrated or manipulated. It’s a reminder: Be smart, be informed, and investigate matters for yourself.

The opinions and analysis shared here do not necessarily reflect the stance of Matzav.com and are shared here for informational purposes. 

A climber airlifted with altitude sickness from near the peak of Japan’s Mount Fuji last week returned to the slope and was rescued for a second time just four days later, authorities said Monday. Officials urged people to be aware of the harsh conditions at the country’s tallest peak during its off-season. The climber was identified only as a 27-year-old Chinese student living in Japan. He made an emergency call on April 22 and was airlifted after developing symptoms of altitude sickness, police said, adding that his climbing irons also were damaged. On Saturday, he returned to the mountain’s Fujinomiya trail about 3,000 meters (nearly 10,000 feet) above sea level to look for his cell phone and other belongings left behind, Shizuoka prefectural police said. Another climber found him there unable to move after he apparently developed altitude sickness for a second time, police said. The mountain’s hiking trails are officially open only from July to early September, but there is no penalty for hiking off-season. There also is no charge or penalty when a climber needs to be rescued, but the Chinese student’s case prompted an uproar on social media and generated calls for him to be charged, at least for his second rescue. The Shizuoka police urged all climbers to use caution, noting that the mountain has low temperatures and is covered in snow even in spring. The 3,776-meter-high (12,388-foot-high ) mountain was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2013. A symbol of Japan, the mountain called “Fujisan” used to be a place of pilgrimage and is increasingly popular among hikers today. To control overcrowding and risks from rushed overnight climbing through rocky slopes to see the sunrise, local authorities last year introduced an entry fee and cap on the number of entrants on the most popular trail and will introduce similar rules on other main trails this year. (AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Monday that Russia will observe a three-day truce next month during its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union and its allies’ triumph in World War Two.

According to a Kremlin announcement, the ceasefire will take effect at the beginning of May 8 and continue until the conclusion of May 10, spanning 72 hours in total. Russia also urged Ukraine to participate in the pause.

The statement emphasized that if Ukraine breaches the ceasefire, Russia’s military would deliver an “adequate and effective response.”

{Matzav.com}

A United States Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet fighter jet was lost to the depths of the Red Sea after slipping off an aircraft carrier in a serious incident — though, fortunately, the pilot survived, according to officials.

The incident occurred Monday aboard the USS Harry S. Truman as the fighter, valued at roughly $56 million, was being hauled out of a hangar when the tractor towing it lost control.

According to Navy reports, both the Super Hornet and the towing vehicle ended up plunging into the sea.

Both the pilot and the sailor operating the towing tractor were able to jump to safety, with one of them suffering only a minor injury.

The USS Truman, along with its carrier strike group, has been on high alert due to persistent threats from the Iranian-backed Houthi terror organization in Yemen. The group remains deployed in the Red Sea, safeguarding commercial vessels that have come under repeated attack by the Houthis.

{Matzav.com}

Agudath Israel said it is “outraged” by several ordinances recently passed and others that are being contemplated by the City of Linden, NJ, designed to prevent Orthodox Jews from moving there, in line with the mayor’s recent comments to “keep our community from being taken over by guys with big hats and curls.” These discriminatory measures represent a blatant attempt to marginalize religious and minority communities under the guise of land-use regulation, Agudah days. “The recent ordinances target specific populations under the guise of ‘zoning regulation,’ raising serious concerns about discrimination and exclusion and potentially violate federal and state statutes that guarantee religious liberty and equal treatment under the law,” Shlomo Schorr, Director of Legislative Affairs for Agudath Israel of America’s New Jersey office, said in a statement. Agudath Israel called on the Linden City Council to revoke these ordinances and to engage in an open, honest, and respectful dialogue with all community members. It also urged state and federal authorities to investigate and ensure that the rights of all residents are safeguarded. Additionally, Agudah said it is “appalled” by reports that members of the Orthodox Jewish community were barred from entering a recent meeting of the Linden City Council in what appears to constitute a clear violation of New Jersey’s Open Public Meetings Act that guarantees the public’s right to attend meetings of governing bodies. At the April 18, 2025 Special Meeting of the Linden City Council, which was held at the Susan Hudak Auditorium in Linden High School, dozens of residents were barred from entering the building. “Orthodox Jews, like all New Jersey residents, have every right to engage in the democratic process. Any attempt to exclude them—or any group—from doing so is unacceptable – especially when it is committed by those who are tasked with upholding the rule of law,” Schorr added. “Agudath Israel will continue to strongly defend our communities against these discriminatory practices and will pursue all appropriate avenues — legal and otherwise — to protect the freedoms that every citizen deserves.”

President Trump is set to sign executive orders on Monday targeting sanctuary jurisdictions and offering strong backing to police officers and departments accused of misconduct.

Trump has advocated stripping financial support from cities and states that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, and the new orders will increase that pressure.

According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, one of the executive actions regarding sanctuary jurisdictions “direct[s] the attorney general [Pam Bondi] and also [Homeland Security Secretary] Kristi Noem… to provide a list of sanctuary cities in which local officials are not complying with this federal order and are not complying with federal immigration laws,” she said during a morning press briefing.

In addition, the order gives Bondi the authority to initiate lawsuits — both civil and criminal — against state or municipal officials who block “criminal or immigration law enforcement.”

The signing comes just three days after federal agents took Wisconsin judge Hannah Dugan into custody, accusing her of obstructing justice and helping an illegal immigrant avoid capture after a court hearing related to battery charges.

The Trump team has already taken legal action against New York and Chicago over their defiance of federal immigration law.

“It’s quite simple,” Leavitt emphasized on Monday. “Obey the law, respect the law, and don’t obstruct federal immigration officials and law-enforcement officials when they are simply trying to remove public safety threats from our nation’s communities.”

Another executive order Trump will sign focuses on boosting “law and order” initiatives by empowering the federal government to “pursue legal action against state or local officials obstructing criminal or immigration law enforcement,” according to a summary of the plan.

This second directive lays out additional steps, including a Justice Department mandate to “create a mechanism to provide legal resources and indemnification for officers facing unjust expenses from official duties, including pro bono assistance.”

It also directs the federal government to “increase surplus military assets for local law enforcement” — reversing restrictions placed under Democratic leadership — and demands a comprehensive review of “federal consent decrees, out-of-court agreements, and post-judgement orders that hinder law enforcement, and make modifications as needed,” potentially reshaping police operations in cities accused of systemic racial bias.

Other initiatives in the order call for racial discrimination investigations to rely on “direct evidence, not statistical disparities,” and instruct federal prosecutors to prioritize cases involving “violent crimes, drug trafficking, and recidivists with illegal firearms.”

{Matzav.com}

The New Jersey State Department of Transportation (DOT) will begin a key new phase of road improvement work along Route 9 in Lakewood, NJ this evening, April 28th.

The current area of focus, as part of the ongoing “Indian Head Project,” will be on and around Route 9 between Route 88 and 3rd Street, in both directions. Road closures and detours in that area are expected to begin Monday evening through early morning hours. These closures will continue on a nightly basis for the duration of this project, currently estimated to last approximately six months.

This phase of improvement work will focus on improving water drainage, as well as adding a variety of lane enhancements to speed up traffic flow on that busy stretch of road.

Additionally, the State is scheduled to begin, in the near future, improvement work on Route 9 between John and Pine Streets, with southbound traffic detoured via Martin Luther King Boulevard. (The Northbound lane in this area is expected to remain open.)

South Lakewood residents will also welcome the installation of new traffic signals within two months at the intersections of Route 9 and Oak Street, and Route 9 and Broadway. Extensive infrastructure work to prepare these intersections for the signals has already been completed.

Lakewood Township officials are working closely with the State (which has jurisdiction over Route 9) to ensure that road improvement work will proceed efficiently, while minimizing inconvenience to Lakewood motorists, and properly informing residents of their plans.

While the State initially planned to close all lanes of Route 9, in both directions (between Route 88 and 3rd Street), during improvement work, the Township requested that they modify the plans, as it would have posed a major inconvenience to Lakewood residents. The State agreed to leave a minimum of one lane open in each direction at all times.

Additionally, Township officials are working with the State to avoid closures, as much as feasible, on Lag Ba’omer (Thursday, May 15th) and during the busy shopping days ahead of the Shavuos holiday. Similarly, Township officials are working with the State to schedule some of the most intense road work during the Bain Hazmanim/Summer vacation season, when fewer vehicles are on the roads.

“Route 9 traffic has for long been a major challenge for Lakewood residents and businesses,” says Mayor Ray Coles, “and we are grateful that the State is taking real action on this matter, while working with us to minimize traffic disruptions during this period. Although Route 9’s traffic issues won’t be fully solved, we anticipate that residents will see a substantial improvement once this project is completed.”

“The State recognizes the importance that improving Route 9 has for Lakewood’s safety and quality-of-life,” says Assemblyman Avi Schnall, who represents Lakewood in Trenton. “Thankfully, this longtime priority is now a reality on the ground and we will continue working to ensure that Lakewood’s needs are optimally met.”

{Matzav.com}

A senior Israeli official told the press on Monday that Israel has refused an Egyptian proposal for a five-year ceasefire with Hamas in exchange for the release of all the hostages, he told the press on Monday. “Ideas are being floated by some Arab countries, such as a ceasefire for five years,” the official said. “There is no chance that we will agree to a truce with Hamas that will only allow it to rearm, rehabilitate itself, and continue its war against Israel with greater intensity.” Hamas is open to the proposal but absolutely refuses any suggestion of the terror group laying down its arms. The official added that Israel has shown military restraint since the end of the ceasefire in the hopes of reaching a hostage release deal. “The reason we didn’t launch an intense war at the end of the ceasefire, but only a gradual one, was to preserve chances for a hostage deal,” he said. “We want to exhaust every effort to return the hostages, and this is what influences our military operations. We’re still trying to exhaust efforts for a deal, but our patience is finite.” The official also criticized Qatar’s role in the negotiations, saying:  “At this stage, the Qataris have had a negative influence on the negotiations.” The official also admitted that the plan by US President Donald Trump to relocate Gazans is not progressing as was hoped in Israel. “We have requests from Western countries that are asking to get their citizens out. For example, Canada approached and said that there are family members who want to get out. Our principle is to facilitate the exit of those who want to leave of their own free will when there are countries that want to absorb them.” (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)

Agudath Israel is outraged by several ordinances recently passed and others that are being contemplated by the City of Linden designed to prevent Orthodox Jews from moving there, in line with the mayor’s recent comments to “keep our community from being taken over by guys with big hats and curls.” These discriminatory measures represent a blatant attempt to marginalize religious and minority communities under the guise of land-use regulation.

“The recent ordinances target specific populations under the guise of ‘zoning regulation,’ raising serious concerns about discrimination and exclusion and potentially violate federal and state statutes that guarantee religious liberty and equal treatment under the law,” Shlomo Schorr, Director of Legislative Affairs for Agudath Israel of America’s New Jersey office, said in a statement.

Agudath Israel calls on the Linden City Council to revoke these ordinances and to engage in an open, honest, and respectful dialogue with all community members. We also urge state and federal authorities to investigate and ensure that the rights of all residents are safeguarded.

Additionally, we are appalled by reports that members of the Orthodox Jewish community were barred from entering a recent meeting of the Linden City Council in what appears to constitute a clear violation of New Jersey’s Open Public Meetings Act that guarantees the public’s right to attend meetings of governing bodies. At the April 18, 2025 Special Meeting of the Linden City Council, which was held at the Susan Hudak Auditorium in Linden High School, dozens of residents were barred from entering the building.

“Orthodox Jews, like all New Jersey residents, have every right to engage in the democratic process. Any attempt to exclude them—or any group—from doing so is unacceptable – especially when it is committed by those who are tasked with upholding the rule of law,” Schorr added.

Agudath Israel will continue to strongly defend our communities against these discriminatory practices and will pursue all appropriate avenues — legal and otherwise — to protect the freedoms that every citizen deserves.

{Matzav.com}

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu testified at his criminal trial on Monday, downplaying the significance of any cigars or champagne he received, saying it was minor compared to the vast supply owned by billionaire Hollywood producer, onetime confidant, and current state’s witness Arnon Milchan.

The defense is nearing completion of testimony for Case 1000, known as the “Illegal Gifts” case. Once these testimonies conclude, proceedings for Case 2000 will commence, followed by the prosecution’s cross-examination. In Case 1000, Netanyahu is accused of promoting legislation that would have benefited Milchan, allegedly receiving cigars and champagne valued at thousands of shekels in return.

The charges also allege that Netanyahu ordered Shlomo Filber—who was the Communications Ministry’s director-general in 2015 and who later turned state’s witness—to assist Milchan with regulatory challenges, specifically regarding a merger between media outlets Reshet and Keshet, where Milchan was contemplating an investment.

During his testimony, Netanyahu said that their friendship ended after Milchan was questioned by police in December 2016. On Monday, he firmly denied being involved in linking Filber and Milchan or facilitating any conversations between them. “I had no way to influence it,” he stated.

According to the indictment, Netanyahu abruptly assigned Filber to lead the Communications Ministry and then allegedly directed him to explore ways to assist Milchan. The indictment further claims Milchan and Filber were in contact after Filber’s appointment, with Netanyahu supposedly seeking to tighten his grip over Israeli media.

Netanyahu defended his actions, saying, “What interested me at the time was introducing range into the Israeli journalism sphere. We saw this yesterday [with coverage of the affidavit against Shin Bet Ronen Bar]. It is a monolith that hides things from people and serves as a massive danger to democracy. When you provide one narrative [only], that’s dangerous,” he said.

Israeli TV’s three major networks—Channels 11, 12, and 13—extensively aired reports on Netanyahu’s affidavit throughout much of Sunday afternoon and evening.

During the hearing, defense attorney Amit Hadad questioned Netanyahu about accusations that he encouraged Milchan to buy into Israeli news companies to gain editorial control.

Netanyahu responded that while he did care about the overall issue of media influence, he did not have a specific interest in Milchan’s plans. “Personnel is policy,” Netanyahu said in English.

He also blasted any suggestion of meddling in Milchan’s financial dealings as “absurd,” punctuating his rejection by adding, “This is crazy,” in English.

“I took two meetings with him, like I would with anyone else,” Netanyahu added, brushing off any notion of impropriety.

The indictment claims that between 2011 and 2016, Netanyahu accepted cigars valued at approximately NIS 267,254 (about $75,000) and champagne worth NIS 184,448 (around $52,000).

Hadad probed Netanyahu’s cigar consumption habits to test the plausibility of the charges. Netanyahu dismissed the prosecution’s assertion that he smoked five to six cigars daily as “crazy.”

“I smoke one cigar over the course of two days… I have no time otherwise,” Netanyahu explained.

The defense highlighted Netanyahu’s earlier police statements, where he said he personally paid for cigars his staff bought for him, aiming to dismantle the prosecution’s claim that the gifts formed a “supply line” of luxury goods. “There was no supply line” of cigars and champagne, Netanyahu insisted.

Netanyahu said that when Milchan visited, two to four times per year, he would casually offer cigars. “He would bring a box of cigars, open it up, and say, ‘Take, Bibi, take one.’”

When interrogated, police challenged Netanyahu, asking why the sheer cost of these gifts hadn’t raised red flags for him.

On Monday, Netanyahu mocked the line of questioning, comparing it to trivial concerns. “Asking how many cups of coffee you drink in your life, or how long your nails get… They [the prosecution] have nothing,” he said.

Netanyahu further testified that no receipts were ever given to him, implying that the gifts were too minor to require formal documentation. Hadad also revealed that during interrogations, police claimed to have receipts but refused to show them.

“That’s convenient, isn’t it?” Netanyahu remarked, adding, “When you’re trying to incriminate an innocent man, facts don’t matter.”

Growing increasingly animated, Netanyahu exclaimed, “You blew up the numbers [of money spent on cigars]! What are we sitting here for – bribery for basic press releases, and fraud and breach-of-trust for cigars? This is what we are wasting precious time for, stealing time from both the State and the judges!”

Netanyahu insisted that Milchan’s generosity wasn’t unique to him, pointing out that others also benefited from Milchan’s cigar stash. “Milchan had cigars in his basement for everyone – guests of his even said so – not just for me… When you’re framing someone, you need to know what you’re doing,” he charged.

Hadad later presented a video from an award ceremony in 2008, where Milchan was honored with a cigar as recognition “for your extensive contribution to the cigar industry.” When asked to comment, Netanyahu said the tribute suited Milchan perfectly. “This is what he does. To come and say that what he has in his various homes is all designated for me is ridiculous and so removed from reality. How can this be believed, let alone the basis for a charge? It’s ridiculous.”

Addressing the champagne allegations, Netanyahu joked that Milchan practically “swam in champagne,” and said that his wife, Sara, only received a small portion as a gift.

While the indictment cited 160 boxes of champagne as being delivered, Netanyahu downplayed the figure. “That is not even close to what I saw; I recall one box, and it was opened,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

President Donald Trump made clear Sunday that he would not follow his predecessor’s practice of recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day alongside Columbus Day in October, accusing Democrats of denigrating the explorer’s legacy as he pressed his campaign to restore what he argues are traditional American icons. Democrat Joe Biden was the first president to mark Indigenous Peoples Day, issuing a proclamation in 2021 that celebrated “the invaluable contributions and resilience of Indigenous peoples” and recognize “their inherent sovereignty.” The proclamation noted that America “was conceived on a promise of equality and opportunity for all people” but that promise “we have never fully lived up to. That is especially true when it comes to upholding the rights and dignity of the Indigenous people who were here long before colonization of the Americas began.” Trump on Sunday used a social media post to declare, “I’m bringing Columbus Day back from the ashes.” He said on his Truth Social site that “the Democrats did everything possible to destroy Christopher Columbus, his reputation, and all of the Italians that love him so much.” The federal holiday, the second Monday in October, was still known as Columbus Day during Biden’s term, but also as Indigenous Peoples Day. That’s been a longtime goal of activists who wanted to shift the focus from commemorating Columbus’ navigation to the Americas to his and his successors’ exploitation of the indigenous people he encountered there. Though Trump has long objected to telling the country’s history through a lens of diversity and oppression, the holiday he seeks to restore to its primacy was added to the calendar as a nod to the country’s growing diversity. Columbus’ expeditions never landed on the North American mainland, let alone any of the places that would become the 50 states. But the native of Genoa became increasingly commemorated in the United States as Italian immigrants flocked to the country and politicians sought to win their support. Indeed, it was the lynching of 11 Italian-American immigrants in New Orleans in 1891 that led to the first Columbus Day celebration in the United States, led the following year by President Benjamin Harrison. President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated Columbus Day as a national holiday in 1934. Trump has long complained about Democrats tearing down statues of Columbus, a complaint he made again in Sunday’s post. In 2017, he spoke out against a review of the 76-foot-tall statue of the explorer in New York’s Columbus Circle that then-Mayor Bill de Blasio had ordered. It remains in place today, but other statues have been defaced or torn down. In 2020, Trump’s administration paid to restore a Columbus statue in Baltimore that was dumped in the harbor during protests against the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. (AP)