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President Donald Trump said the conflict with Iran could continue for another two to three weeks, warning that the country is approaching what he described as a “natural explosion” tied to its oil infrastructure that could severely damage its ability to recover.

Speaking Monday during an appearance on “The Hugh Hewitt Show,” Trump said the United States currently holds a clear advantage in the fighting, pointing to both military dominance and economic pressure on Tehran.

“One way or the other, we win,” Trump said, adding that the U.S. has already achieved major battlefield successes.

Trump said Iranian naval forces have largely been neutralized, with U.S. operations targeting remaining capabilities in recent engagements.

U.S. Central Command reported that multiple Iranian boats posing threats to commercial shipping had been destroyed, highlighting American control over critical routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, according to the New York Post.

Even as fighting continues and the possibility of a ceasefire remains uncertain, Trump said the timeline favors the United States.

“We’ve taken out much of what we’d have to do, probably another two weeks, maybe three weeks,” he said, suggesting the campaign could soon reach its final stage.

Trump also repeated his position that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

“They will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, arguing that earlier agreements, including the Obama-era deal, would have accelerated Tehran’s path to obtaining one.

He added that he has received strong backing from the public during recent appearances.

In addition to military developments, Trump pointed to what he described as an impending economic crisis inside Iran, centered on its oil sector.

“In two weeks, they’re going to have a natural explosion of their oil,” Trump said, describing a scenario that could cripple Iran’s economy for decades.

At the same time, Iranian forces have continued offensive actions across the region.

According to the Post, missiles and drones were launched toward the United Arab Emirates, with some intercepted and others striking oil facilities and commercial vessels.

Trump declined to detail whether further U.S. strikes are planned, saying such information could not be disclosed.

“I can’t tell you that,” he said after Hewitt asked about future military plans, noting that revealing details would be strategically unwise.

Despite the conflict abroad, Trump pointed to strong economic performance in the United States, including a record stock market and stable oil prices, as signs of resilience.

He said global energy markets have adjusted by finding alternate routes and boosting domestic production.

“They find ways of getting it done,” Trump said of global energy markets adapting to the conflict.

As the situation develops, Trump framed the confrontation as critical to both U.S. interests and global security, emphasizing the importance of preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear power.

“We have all the cards,” he said.

{Matzav.com}

Rudy Giuliani is showing clear signs of improvement after a serious bout of pneumonia left him in critical condition, with his son Andrew Giuliani saying Tuesday that the former New York City mayor is now awake, breathing on his own, and even in good spirits.

“Good news update: Thank you for the love and support you’ve shown my Dad over the past few days,” the younger Giuliani said.

“Just yesterday he was in critical condition, so I’m incredibly grateful to share that he is now conscious, off the ventilator, and even cracking jokes.”

Giuliani, 81, was admitted to the hospital over the weekend after developing pneumonia, which was reportedly worsened by a respiratory condition linked to his exposure during the September 11, 2001 terror attacks.

According to those close to him, he had lapsed into a coma but regained consciousness on Monday.

Tom Von Essen, a longtime friend who served as New York City fire commissioner during 9/11, said Tuesday morning that Giuliani’s condition appears to be improving.

“It looks like Rudy’s has turned a corner. We hope he continues to improve,” said Von Essen, who has been briefed on his condition.

“I worry about him. What he has done for New York City and the compassion he showed 9/11 families is remarkable. I hope he has a great recovery.”

President Donald Trump on Monday declared May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month, recognizing the impact of Jewish Americans on the country’s development and unveiling plans for a nationwide Shabbos observance later in the month.

In his proclamation, Trump underscored the longstanding influence of Jewish Americans in promoting core American values such as faith, family, and liberty since the nation’s earliest days. He pointed to President George Washington’s 1790 letter to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island, in which Washington expressed hope that Jewish residents would “continue to merit and enjoy the goodwill of the other Inhabitants.”

Trump also highlighted the role of Haym Salomon, describing him as a key figure during the American Revolution who supported the Continental Congress financially and championed the cause of freedom, even after being imprisoned by British forces.

The president reiterated that his administration remains focused on addressing antisemitism, noting ongoing efforts to prosecute crimes against Jewish Americans and confront rising hostility, particularly on college campuses.

As part of events marking the United States’ 250th anniversary, Trump announced a national Shabbos to take place from sundown on May 15 through nightfall on May 16. He encouraged people across the country to take part in a time of rest, reflection, and appreciation.

“Throughout this historic year, we rejoice in the triumph of the American spirit and rededicate ourselves to the cause of liberty and justice for all,” writes Trump. “In special honor of 250 glorious years of American independence and on the weekend of Rededicate 250 — a national jubilee of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving — Jewish Americans are encouraged to observe a national Sabbath.”

The proclamation urges Americans to observe Jewish American Heritage Month through educational programs, community events, and other initiatives that highlight the importance of religious liberty and the contributions of Jewish Americans.

“Through every trial and triumph, the contributions of Jewish Americans have shaped our past, have strengthened our communities, and will continue to inspire American greatness for generations to come,” the proclamation states.

A taxpayer-funded Texas waterpark is facing criticism after promoting a Muslim-only event to mark the holiday of Eid, raising questions about access to publicly funded facilities.

Epic Waters, located in Grand Prairie, announced plans for the June 1 gathering through promotional materials that described the event as restricted to Muslim attendees in order to create a “family-friendly environment.” The event will also feature a modest dress requirement and food prepared according to halal standards.

Event notices stated that it would be “for Muslims only” and indicated that tickets would begin at $55.

Details posted on the venue’s website clarify that men and women will not be separated, but participants are expected to observe certain behavioral guidelines throughout the day.

‘Please follow the event’s modest dress code, and practice ḥayāʾ (modesty) through respectful behavior,’ the event says.

Organizers also stated that all attendees are “expected to dress in accordance with Islamic values,” with swimwear required to meet those standards.

The announcement quickly drew strong reactions online, with critics questioning whether a publicly funded facility can legally limit participation based on religion.

Commentator Dana Loesch publicly challenged the event, asking: ‘How is a taxpayer-funded, city-owned entity allowed to discriminate against non-Muslims at a public water park?’

She continued her criticism by adding: ‘There would be literal riots if Muslims were similarly excluded and we all know that’s 100% accurate.’

Conservative commentator Sara Gonzalez also raised concerns, saying she planned to contact city officials directly to inquire about the legality of the event.

As part of the promotion, Epic Waters published suggested swimwear options for women, encouraging attendees to “Explore our recommendations and get ready to make a stylish – and modest – splash!”

The examples included full-body coverings made from swimwear material, as well as similar modest options for children.

The site also features feedback from previous participants, including one attendee identified as Ahmed S, who wrote: ‘I loved the modesty and the Anasheed.’

Epic Waters, which opened in 2017 as a municipally owned recreational facility, was financed through an additional local sales tax approved by Grand Prairie voters in 2014, with the project costing approximately $88 million.

The Eid event is being organized by the East Plano Islamic Center.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has increasingly withdrawn from public view and is reportedly spending extended periods operating from secure bunker locations, according to a report citing Western intelligence sources, amid growing concern over internal threats and potential instability within the Kremlin, the Daily Express reports.

According to the report, security protocols around Putin have been significantly intensified, with the Russian leader said to have abandoned his usual residences out of concern they could be targeted, including by elements within Russia’s own political elite. The findings were published by the independent outlet Important Stories and are based on intelligence assessments from an unidentified Western agency.

“Since the beginning of March 2026, the Kremlin and Vladimir Putin have been concerned about a leak of sensitive information and, at the same time, about the risk of a plot or coup attempt against the Russian president,” the outlet reports. “In particular, he fears the use of drones for a possible assassination attempt by members of the Russian political elite.”

The report also points to rising suspicion surrounding senior figures, including Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, who is described as being “associated with the risk of a coup attempt”. Tensions reportedly escalated following the arrest last month of his former deputy, Ruslan Tsalikov, who is suspected of amassing nearly $68 million in family assets through corruption.

Shoigu’s name first surfaced in connection with alleged coup concerns in recent weeks, according to the same intelligence assessment.

Security enforcement by the Federal Protective Service has been sharply increased, with tighter controls placed on access to government facilities and the president himself.

“The FSO has significantly tightened security measures” around Putin, according to the report. “Visitors to the Presidential Administration undergo two levels of screening, including a full body search by FSO officers,” the report revealed.

Authorities have also restricted Putin’s movements, limiting the locations he visits and reportedly ending trips to familiar residences such as Novo-Ogaryovo and Valdai.

“The FSO has significantly reduced the list of locations regularly visited by the president; neither he nor his family visit their usual residences in the Moscow region [Novo-Ogaryovo] and Valdai anymore,” it states.

The report claims that since the start of the war in Ukraine, Putin has frequently relied on fortified underground facilities, particularly in southern Russia, where he is said to remain for extended periods while official communications continue through pre-recorded appearances.

“since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Putin has often taken refuge in renovated bunkers, particularly in the Krasnodar region, where he may work for weeks, while Russian media continue public communication using pre-recorded footage.”

The Krasnodar region, which has been targeted in Ukrainian drone strikes, is also home to Putin’s large Gelendzhik residence, a multi-level complex built into a cliffside.

Additional security precautions reportedly include periodic shutdowns of mobile internet across Moscow and expanded surveillance measures.

“FSO officers conduct large-scale checks using canine units and are also deployed along the Moscow River, ready to respond to possible drone attacks,” it states.

Media access has also been tightened, with security officials reportedly reviewing all public messaging about the president following what is described as a classified directive.

According to the report, individuals working closely with Putin face strict limitations, including bans on using internet-enabled mobile devices and restrictions on travel, relying instead on secure transportation arranged by state security services.

Heightened security measures have also been extended to senior military leadership following the assassination of Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov in a car bombing in Moscow late last year, an attack believed at the time to be linked to Ukraine.

The killing reportedly triggered internal tensions among top officials, leading to a contentious meeting in which senior figures accused one another of failing to prevent the breach.

The report states the meeting concluded with Putin calling for calm while directing officials to submit proposals to address the situation.

Additional protections were subsequently ordered for high-ranking generals, amid concerns over further attacks.

The report also suggests that growing security fears may be reflected in recent political signals, including the absence of State Duma deputies from invitations to the Victory Day parade on Red Square.

Roman Amin, founder of Important Stories, described the broader context behind the developments, warning of deepening internal strain within Russia’s leadership.

“The stalemate in the war in Ukraine, the painful Ukrainian drone strikes on oil infrastructure, and economic and social problems…were bound to eventually lead to a war between Russian power clans for the throne of the weakening dictator.”

Putin, he added, “who built this system of power himself, understands well what awaits him-hence the increased paranoia, the unprecedented isolation from the people and his own entourage.”

{Matzav.com}