 Passover Seder Plate |
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Seuda Moshiach The last meal of Pesach on the last Day of Pesach |
In honor of the Shabbat after Pesach Pesach Sheni |
Rabbi Arush on the SederRabbi Arush explains to use how to have “Leil haSeder K’Seder” – an enjoyable and meaningful Seder with tips, tricks and most importantly – all the segulot! PRINT THIS ARTICLE AND PUT IT IN YOUR HAGGADAH so that you can follow it as you go through the Seder.Rabbi Shalom Arush | Posted on 05April2023 | https://breslev.com/1091015/
 Rabbi Arush on the Seder Print this article and put it in your Haggadahso that you can follow it as you go through the Seder.Preparations for SederI am very careful to have the Seder ready the night before. Why?
Remember that it’s forbidden to work after mid-day on Erev Yom Tov, even more serious than working It is important to be happy on the holiday because holidays are the aspect of the “heart” and the heart needs to be happy! Make sure to do your preparation with happiness and excitement! Remember – keeping the holiday is not one mitzvah. It’s thousands of mitzvot ! One hour is 3,600 seconds, which means that there are 3,600 mitzvot every hour! One day is 86,400 seconds, which means 86,400 mitzvot! This is true for Shabbat and all the more so for the holiday! Be happy! Passover is thousands of wonderful mitzvot, even the simplest Jew who doesn’t learn leaves the holiday with tens of thousands of mitzvot! MaarivSeder night – it’s not night, it’s day! This night has the power as if it was day. The evening begins with Maariv! This is when we receive the light of the festival. Also, this is the only night that we say Hallel, and not only one time, but twice! Even women are required to say Hallel twice! At the time of Maariv, they must say Hallel even if they are at home! Ashkenazim and Sephardim! On this night all the prayers from the entire year go up to Shamayim (heaven)! Pray! Ask Hashem to help us have SederThe first thing to remember – the Seder begins with emuna!The Seder begins when and how Hashem wants. You must have patience and just be happy and singing. We all want to start with Kadesh right away, but sometimes there are obstacles, big and small. Before Kadesh comes emuna! Who wrote the Haggadah? Some say it was Rabbi Akiva, some say Eliyahu Hanavi, and some say Anshei Knesset HaGedolah (Men of the Great Assembly, during the time of Ezra). Either way, it was giants who wrote the Haggadah! There is so much in it! For someone who eats everything at the Seder according to its laws, all kinds of healing come into the food! Everyone must know themselves. If you can manage wine, fine. If not, maybe 50/50 wine/grape juice, and if not then only grape juice! This is not a night to get drunk. Make sure to say my prayer before every cup of wine! (Available in Harav Arush’s Haggadah in Hebrew). Matzah – use hand matzah. Only time that we say the blessing “to eat matzah.” The first portion of matzah should be completely plain, no salatim (salads), no nothing. Thirty grams is a kezayit (the size of an olive). The best thing is to weigh your matzah before the Seder to know how much is a kezayit. But even the thinnest round hand matzah, has in it at least 4 kezayot. So eat at least a quarter of a hand matzah and you’re fine! Make sure you eat at least a kezayit of the maror as well. Say everything with a tune and also say it loudly, even yelling! It says that Hashem “heard our cry.” So this is a night to cry out to Hashem! There is an amazing Zohar on this. It’s a segulah for tikkun habrit. To lean – to lean to the left is not enough. You must lean on something. On a pillow, on the arm chair, on whatever – but lean on something! Everything has its segulah. Tonight is also a night to remember childless women – the three angels came to Avraham Avinu on Seder night! Sarah Imenu was remembered on Pesach! Certainly you can also be remembered on Passover to find a soulmate if it is also a night to have children. Haggadah
The MealEven the meal has segulot! It’s an aspect of redemption!
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Sefirat HaOmer Chart 2026 Sefirat HaOmer Chart 2026
Count Today’s Omerhttps://www.chabad.org/holidays/sefirah/omer-count.htm
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 Rabbi Lazer Brody and Moses
Jabotinsky’s Pesaach lessons: For this hard-to-be-a-Jew yearJabotinsky anticipated the recurring need to answer, to defend, to explain – and sometimes simply to endure. Read and gain strength.Ronn Torossian / Published: 6April2026, 8:48 AM (GMT+3) https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/425099  100 Israeli old Shekel coin – Zeev Jabotinsky- צילום iStock
In 1911, on the eve of a century that would test the Jewish people in ways even he could scarcely have imagined, Ze’ev Jabotinsky – the Revisionist Zionist leader – turned to the Passover seder not as ritual alone, but as a living framework for understanding Jewish character, continuity, and responsibility.
In his essay “Four Sons,” Jabotinsky did not merely reinterpret a familiar passage; he recast it as a reflection on how different individuals adapt – psychologically, emotionally, and morally – to the same shared history. A study in how Jews respond differently to pressure, belonging, and identity across generations. Jabotinsky’s story is said to be adapted to the psychology of four typical children across generations of Jewish life. Each son reflects not just a personality, but a posture toward belonging, memory, and obligation.
Jabotinsky wrote: “The first [son] is clever, the second is impudent, the third a simpleton, and the fourth ‘such that he doesn’t even know how to ask.’ And each must be answered in order, according to his tastes and measure of understanding.”
The Clever: [The Wise son]“The clever boy wrinkles his high forehead, gazes searchingly with his big eyes and wants to know what really the matter was. Why did they first love his forefathers in Egypt, welcome them with open arms, and then begin persecuting and tormenting them, and, so queerly they kept on persecuting and tormenting them and throwing the baby boys into the rivers, but wouldn’t for anything let them go. What was the explanation, Daddy?’ – asks the clever boy.”
Here Jabotinsky recognizes the intellectual instinct that has so often defined Jewish survival: the refusal to accept narrative without interrogation. The clever child is not satisfied with miracle; he demands coherence in history, even when history itself resists coherence. His response is adaptation through inquiry – a need to make sense of contradiction, to reconcile acceptance and rejection, emancipation and persecution. His question echoes forward into modernity, into politics, into every effort to understand a world that has always treated Jews differently.
The Impudent: [The Wicked son]The second boy is ‘impudent’ – there he sits -back in his chair, crossing his feet and grinning ironically – and asks – what are all these funny customs and memories which should have been forgotten long ago!
“‘Blunt his teeth’ says the ritual of the Passover concerning this son. But I doubt if his teeth can be blunted … for nothing is more unvanquishable than indifference. Nothing can touch him, once he says of his own people, ‘you,’ you can give him up … He will go on grinning at you with all his teeth, and nothing that you can do will blunt them.
And, indeed, you should not blunt the teeth of this son. Let him go on his way with strong teeth. Poor fellow, he will need them in the encampment of the triumphant whither he is drawn. He will have to crack hard nuts there, and the hardest will be the nut of contempt. Often and often will he have to take kicks in answer to loving speeches, be spat upon in answer to his flattery …”
The impudent son represents another form of adaptation: detachment. Jabotinsky’s insight cuts deeper than moral judgment – he identifies indifference, as a great danger. The rupture is linguistic as much as emotional: the shift from “we” to “you.” And yet, even here, Jabotinsky resists easy condemnation. He understands that this, too, is a response to pressure – an attempt to assimilate, to escape, to redefine oneself outside the collective. But the world this son runs toward, he warns, will not embrace him as fully as he imagines.
The Simpleton: [The Simple son]The third boy is the simpleton. His eyes are honest, clear and direct. For him the world is simple and indisputable. He loves to believe and worship with the simple faith of the primitive man … an artless, single-minded trustfulness.
“‘Daddy,’ he says, and planting his elbows and pressing his chest on the table, he stretches out his neck and turns to you … believing already everything you will tell him, for he wants to believe, ‘Daddy, when will a better time come?’
“Then tell him gently and simply about everything that is happening now in the great illimitable Diaspora. Tell him how in a thousand different places, the newly scattered temple of the undying people is being raised by a thousand hands. Tell him how gradually the hitherto scattered national will is being unified before our eyes, how again a real people is being created … like all healthy nations … Tell him how everywhere, with every day the pride and respect for our own individuality grows. … Tell him what wonderful poets are now writing in our tongue, and how beautiful … this tongue is. … And tell him further how gaily the colonist’s children are chattering in this language in Palestine. And how … by great labour … through a thousand obstacles … something new is rising and growing there.”
If the clever son adapts through questioning, the simple son adapts through trust. He does not demand explanation; he seeks reassurance. Jabotinsky answers with vision – of renewal, language, land, and collective will. This is a different kind of strength: the ability to believe in a future that must be built deliberately, against odds that are neither hidden nor denied.
The One Who Doesn’t Know How to Ask:“The fourth boy does not know how to ask. He sits at the table sedately, does everything properly and it does not even enter his head to ask what it is all about and why. According to the ritual, you should not wait for his questions but tell him of your own accord. I disagree. … [T]here is sometimes a higher wisdom … in that a man takes something from the past without question, without curiosity as to causes or effects. … According to the ritual, you should tell this son about everything that he does not ask. But I think, let the father too be silent and … kiss this son on his brow, the surest keeper of the sacrament.”
Here Jabotinsky offers the concept that preservation and instinct are also part and parcel of who we are. Simply carrying forward what was received. This Passover, these categories are no longer confined to the Haggadah; they are visible all around us – in bomb shelters and schools, in grocery stores and on campuses, in headlines and in the arguments within and beyond the Jewish world.
We are not just telling the story; we are living inside its questions.
It is a very hard year to be a Jew.
In Israel, our sons and daughters are spread out, fighting from Lebanon to Gaza, carrying the burden of defending our great Jewish state. Across the diaspora – from New York City to Australia, from Toronto to Paris – Jewish communities face a climate that feels increasingly precarious and uncertain.
Jabotinsky anticipated this recurring need to answer, to defend, to explain – and sometimes simply to endure.
As Jabotinsky wrote in another essay, “What Are We to Do?”:
“[O]ne permanent assignment that is entrusted to each of us, old and young, men and women, educated and ignorant, as a group and as individuals … is the defence of our people’s honor.”
The seder ends, as it always does, with a forward glance – not only toward redemption, but toward responsibility. The questions of the four sons do not disappear when the evening is over; they follow us outward, into a world that continues to demand response in different voices, with different kinds of courage.
This year, all year, even more than ever, we must embrace our tradition, our sons and daughters, our customs and beliefs.
Chag Pesach Sameach. Am Israel Chai.
Ronn Torossian is an Israeli-American entrepreneur, author and communal leader.
The Passover Story: Why Tell It?Lazer Brody
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Days of MashiachThe Days of Mashiach consist of literally what has been happening in the State of Israel for 76 years, and literally what is happening in the State of Israel today.Rabbi Shmuel Eliahu / 6April2026, 6:35 PM (GMT+3) https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/425132
HaRav Shmuel Eliahu is Chief Rabbi of Tzfat.
During the celebration of Pesach we are bidden to contemplate on our Redemption from Egypt and on our future Redemption, may it reach completion in our time soon. While the recital of the Haggadah gives us a general overview, there are understandings which benefit from further clarification.
Ingathering of Exiles and Removal of Foreign Rule
From the Gemara it appears that the Days of Mashiach consist of the ingathering of the exiles and the removal of foreign rule over us (literally what has been happening in the State of Israel for 76 years, and literally what is happening in the State of Israel today).
“It was taught: Ben Zoma said to the Sages: Shall the Exodus from Egypt be mentioned in the Days of Mashiach? Behold it is already stated: ‘Behold, days are coming, says the Lord, when they shall no longer say: As the Lord lives who brought the children of Israel up from the land of Egypt, but rather: As the Lord lives who brought up the seed of the house of Israel from the land of the north and from all the lands where I had driven them!’ They said to him: Not that the Exodus from Egypt will be uprooted from its place, but that the subjugation to the kingdoms will be primary, and the Exodus from Egypt secondary to it” (Berachot 12A).
According to this, in our days we must relate on every Seder Night both the story of our Redemption from the kingdoms and also the miracles of today.
Rabbi Elazar ben Azariah rejoices because he understands that the Redemption will be very great.
According to the opinion of the Sages, in the Days of Mashiach they will also mention the Exodus from Egypt, but it will be secondary to the story of the freedom from the subjugation of the kingdoms. And according to the opinion of Ben Zoma and Rabbi Elazar ben Azariah, they will mention only the miracles that exist in current times.
To illustrate the dispute, we may say that according to the opinion of the Sages, the departure of the Jews in our generation from 102 countries to reach Israel is ten times the Exodus from Egypt; therefore they mention the Exodus from Egypt as secondary to the Redemption of our times.
According to the opinion of Rabbi Elazar ben Azariah and Ben Zoma, they will not mention the Exodus from Egypt at all in the generation of the ingathering of exiles. It will apparently be a hundred or a thousand times greater than the Exodus from Egypt, and therefore it is not mentioned at all.
Accordingly,Rabbi Elazar ben Azariah is profoundly happy when he understands that, according to Halakha, the future greatness of the Redemption will be so great in relation to the Exodus from Egypt – “higher than all blessings, songs, praises, and consolations that are spoken in the world.” This is indeed very joyful.
Corresponding to Four Sons
In the Haggadah we read about the Four Sons. The Torah mentions four times the obligation to tell the sons the story of the Exodus from Egypt. Each time the Torah speaks in a different style, and it is evident that it is speaking about four different types of sons.
In the book of Devarim it is written:
“When your son asks you tomorrow, saying: What are the testimonies and the statutes and the judgments that the Lord our God has commanded you? Then you shall say to your son: We were slaves to Pharaoh in Egypt, and the Lord brought us out of Egypt with a strong hand. And the Lord gave signs and great and terrible wonders in Egypt, upon Pharaoh and upon all his house, before our eyes. And He brought us out from there in order to bring us, to give us the Land that He swore to our fathers, etc.”
From the question and its style it appears that the wise son is in the Land of Israel.
In the book of Shemot, the Torah commands us to answer the son who asks in a defiant manner: “And it shall be when your children say to you: What is this service to you? Then you shall say: It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Children of Israel in Egypt when He struck Egypt and saved our houses. And the people bowed and prostrated themselves.”
The style of the question is like that of a wicked son. He sees the Passover as “your” service and not his own festival, and the answer to him is in a different style. This question is said when they are in Egypt and speaking about the Land of Israel.
The account of the simple son and the son who does not know how to ask is stated on the day of the Exodus from Egypt, after they have already departed.
Regarding the simple son it is written: “And it shall be when the Lord brings you into the Land of the Canaanite, as He swore to you and to your fathers, and gives it to you… And it shall be when your son asks you tomorrow, saying: What is this? And you shall say to him: With a strong hand the Lord brought us out of Egypt, from the house of bondage…”
Also: “And it shall be when the Lord brings you into the Land of the Canaanite, and the Hittite, and the Amorite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a Land flowing with milk and honey, and you shall perform this service in this month… And you shall tell your son on that day, saying: Because of this the Lord did for me when I went out of Egypt.”
Even though he does not ask, you initiate and explain to him.
In the Land of Israel There Are No Wicked People
How are we to understand this statement when the reality seems otherwise. The meaning is that the Torah assumes that the possibility of having wicked sons exists only when the Jews are in the difficult exile of Egypt; but when they have already gone out, their level rises, and when they enter the threshold of Eretz Yisrael they share in the blessing of wisdom which hovers over the Land.
This explains what Rabbi Avraham Azulai, of blessed memory, one of the students of the Ari, wrote in his praises of Eretz Yisrael. He states that in the Land of Israel there are no wicked people:
“Know that anyone who dwells in the Land of Israel is called righteous, even if they are not righteous as it appears; for if he were not righteous, the Land would vomit him out, as it is written: ‘And the Land vomited out its inhabitants.’ And since it does not vomit him out, he is certainly called righteous, even though he appears to have the status of a wicked person” (Chesed LeAvraham, Maayan 3, Nahar 12).
As we saw above, the Torah teaches that Hashem brought us up from Egypt to give us the Land of Israel – specifically the Land of Israel. Among the many reasons for this is that the air of the Holy Land grants wisdom and a clearer knowledge of the workings of Hashem. Similar to the belief in Hashem and a person’s love and reverence for Him, which all contain many levels, wisdom also levels upon levels.
HaRav Tzvi Yehuda HaKohen Kook, of blessed memory, told his students at the Mercaz HaRav Yeshiva in Jerusalem that a basic foundation of wisdom today is that the Jewish People realize that all Jews belong in the Land of Israel. May it come to pass soon.
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Moshiach’s Meal-Seuda Moshiach – סעודת משיח
Moshiach’s Meal: What, Why and Howhttps://www.chabad.org/holidays/passover/pesach_cdo/aid/3965990/jewish/Moshiachs-Meal-What-Why-and-How.htm  Moshiach’s Meal Art by Rivka Korf Studio https://www.rivkakorf.com/
What Is the Moshiach’s Meal?Following a tradition instituted by the Baal Shem Tov, Jews all over the world celebrate the waning hours of Passover with Moshiach’s Meal (Moshiach’s Seudah in Yiddish), a feast celebrating the Divine revelation yet to come.
Why Do We Celebrate This Meal?On the last day of Passover, we read verses from the book of Isaiah as the haftorah.1 This reading includes many wondrous prophecies about the era of Moshiach.
The prophecy foretells of a leader upon whom “the spirit of the L‑rd shall rest, a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of counsel and heroism, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the L‑rd.”
In addition to bringing peace to mankind (“he will judge the poor justly, and he shall chastise with equity the humble of the earth”), the new peace and G‑dly understanding will extend to all of G‑d’s creatures: “And a wolf shall live with a lamb, and a leopard shall lie with a kid . . . and a small child shall lead them.”
The Baal Shem Tov, the founder of the chassidic movement, was the first one to celebrate this meal, with an open door, allowing anyone who wished to partake.
The sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe explained that on the last day of Passover the radiance of Moshiach is already shining.
When Is the Moshiach’s MealMoshiach’s Meal is held following Minchah (the afternoon service) on the eighth day of Passover. In Israel, where Passover is seven days long, Moshiach’s Meal is held on the seventh day.
The celebration customarily extends past nightfall, ushering out Passover amid song, words of Torah and inspiration.
How Is the Moshiach’s Meal Celebrated?In 1906 Rabbi Shalom Dov Ber of Lubavitch incorporated four cups of wine and matzah into Moshiach’s Meal, mirroring the Seder held the week before. You can also serve fruit and other Passover goodies.
If you will be celebrating with a group you can have people prepare stories or Torah thoughts related to Moshiach. The actual program is flexible, but you want to pace your four cups throughout the singing and speaking. Customarily, the leader of the group announces which cup you are up to. Note that you do not need to drink these cups in their entirety. A sip suffices.
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Shevi’i shel Pesach: Meal of the Baal Shem TovThis story is traditionally told over on the last day of Pesach, at the “Meal of the Baal Shem Tov,” which is eaten just before sunset. We eat this meal to commemorate the Baal Shem Tov’s miraculous deliverance from the cannibals and his return to Istanbul.Breslev Israel staff / Posted on 07April2026 https://breslev.com/1079753/
 Meal of the Baal Shem Tov
After many years of wanting to go to Eretz Yisrael, the holy Baal Shem Tov finally decided to make the long journey. He hired a wagon and set out from Medzeboz, Ukraine together with his righteous daughter Udell and his student and attendant Reb Hirsch Sofer. They planned to travel to Istanbul by wagon and from there, to travel by ship to the Holy Land.
After several months on the road, the Baal Shem Tov, his daughter Udell, and Reb Hirsch Sofer arrived in Istanbul on the eve of Passover. The holy Baal Shem Tov took almost no money with him, because he had absolute faith that God would provide for all his needs on the journey. He had just enough money to rent the cheapest room in a local inn, but did not have any left over to buy the necessary items to celebrate the Seder that evening. He decided to go to the local study hall, learn Torah, and wait for God to provide him with all his needs.
Udell and Reb Hirsch were also not the least bit concerned, because miracles often occurred to the holy Baal Shem. They expected that God would certainly not abandon him now. Since Udell expected God to provide for their needs, she decided to go to the seashore to launder her father’s clothing for the upcoming holiday.
A very wealthy couple lived in Germany. The doctors had told them that they could never have children. They heard about the Baal Shem Tov and decided to travel to Medzeboz — perhaps he would be able to perform a miracle whereby God would give them a child. When they arrived in Medzeboz, however, they discovered that the Baal Shem Tov had already left for the Holy Land. They decided to follow his trail and try to catch up with him. They also arrived in Istanbul on Passover eve. They registered at an inn and asked many people in Istanbul if they had seen the holy Baal Shem Tov, but no one had seen him.
They decided to go to the docks and ask the sailors if the Baal Shem Tov had boarded one of the ships traveling to Eretz Yisrael. On their way to the docks, they saw a woman doing her laundry and they asked her if she had seen the Baal Shem Tov. That woman was the Baal Shem Tov’s daughter, Udell.
Udell told them that she was the Baal Shem Tov’s daughter and that her holy father was staying at the same inn where they were lodging. When the couple heard that, their joy knew no bounds. They invited Udell, her father, and Reb Hirsch to join them for the Seders.
When the Baal Shem Tov returned from the synagogue after the evening holiday prayers, he was not the least surprised and joined the wealthy couple at their Seder. At the beginning of the Seder, the Baal Shem Tov turned to the couple and said to them, “I know why you have come and your salvation will soon be on its way.” No sooner had he spoken, when his face suddenly changed, and a tortured pained expression replaced his pleasant countenance as he went into a trance.
His daughter, Udell, was concerned. Although she had seen his soul ascend to heaven on many occasions, she had never seen her father’s face so lifeless before. Some time later, however, the Baal Shem Tov returned to normal, and beaming with joy he said. “Heaven was angry for me for violating the laws of nature to make a miracle that would grant children to this couple, they therefore decreed that I should lose my share in the world to come for this act. I answered that now I could serve God for pure motives without expecting any reward and I rejoiced. The Satan saw that I became even happier when they took away my reward in the hereafter, and he then convinced the heavenly court to return my share in the future world.
After the meal, when the Baal Shem Tov came to the words of the Hallel, “Le’otot niflaot — For He performs wonders,” his voice rang out loud and clear, as he articulated the words with utter devotion over and over again. The sound of his words carried out far into the stillness of the night. The rest of the Seder passed and it was early morning by the time they finished. Until now, the merchant had refrained from making any comments or asking questions for fear of disturbing his Godly visitor.
But now that the Seder was over, he ventured several comments. “Rabbi, if I may ask…why did you repeat that particular verse of the Hallel?”
“The Jews of Istanbul were in grave danger,” disclosed the Baal Shem Tov. “While I was reciting that verse, my soul ascended to heaven and I interceded on their behalf. I continued with the Hallel when I was informed that the decree had been nullified. You will learn all about it tomorrow morning in shul.”
On the following morning, as the congregation assembled for their holiday prayers, one prominent member of their community suddenly rushed in: “Mazel tov, my good friends. Congratulate yourselves on having escaped imminent danger.”
Everyone crowded around to hear the details of his surprising announcement. “As you may well know,” he began, “our late Sultan was in the habit of dressing in common clothing to walk incognito among his people, as did his father, the previous Sultan. This particular stroll took him far out of the city limits and before he realized what had happened, he was surrounded by a group of roving bandits.
“They seized him and brought to their hideout. It occurred to the Sultan that these thieves did not know his identity.
“After his pockets had been emptied of the all his valuables, the Sultan was confident that he would be released. But the thieves informed him that they must kill him since he knew the location of their hideout. The Sultan contemplated his chances of survival. ‘If I reveal my identity, they will surely kill me, for they would realize that capital punishment would await them if anyone knew whom they had captured and robbed. Let me use my wits to see if I can save myself.’
‘I am trained with a particular skill which may bring you much profit,” the Sultan told his captors. They gathered around the Sultan in interest: “I know how to fashion valuable tapestries. My products will fetch high prices for you on the market. Try and see.”
“The robbers were interested in making a profit and willing to give his plan a fair try. They purchased simple mats from which the Sultan fashioned his tapestry. After two days, the first product was ready for the market. The finished product did not over impress the bandits, but the Sultan hastened to warn, “This tapestry can only be appreciated by a true connoisseur of art. Do not be daunted if at first people laugh at the price you ask. But by no means are you to settle for less than what I tell you. Go from shop to shop until you find the proper customer, a person who can appreciate this fine work of art.”
“It happened just as the captive has foretold. The bandits were greeted by jeers and hoots when they demanded an outlandish price for their merchandise. The scene was repeated at every store they entered.
“By now a large crowd of people had gathered to see the outcome of the farce. ‘Who would be mad enough,’ they wondered, ‘to pay the price these men were asking for what appeared to be a simple mat?’ Just then my father happened to walk by. He learned from the people around him the cause of the gathering and was shown the merchandise. He realized that there was something deeper here than what met the eye, and asked to examine the tapestry. A quick look showed him that there was nothing especially artistic about the piece before him except for one letter intricately woven and hidden in the cloth.
“‘I’ll take it at your price,’ my father promptly told them. He then inquired as to the craftsman who had fashioned it. The men were reluctant to give him any information. ‘If you like this work, we can bring you more,’ they promised but that was all they would say.
“The bandits returned to their hideout with good news for the imprisoned Sultan. Not only had his cloth been purchased at his price, but the customer wished to order more rugs. The Sultan was certain that some clever person bad caught on to his ruse and set about his work cheerfully, ingeniously weaving in the second initial into the center of the cloth.
“‘When this cloth was brought to my father the next day, he knew that he had been right in assuming that it contained a clue. After paying the price, he hurried to the Sultan’s palace with his tale. The palace broke into pandemonium. No one knew what had happened to the Sultan. Searches were being organized but no trace or clue had yet been found.
“When my father presented his story and evidence to the Sultan’s advisers, all agreed it was indeed the Sultan who was trying to send a message as to his whereabouts. My father was told to hold his tongue and to continue purchasing the tapestries.
“Day after day, letter by letter, the sultan spelled out directions to his location. Soon, a battalion of soldiers was dispatched to the robber’s hideout where they succeeded in freeing the Sultan.
“The Sultan did not forget my father, his benefactor, and summoned him to the Palace. ‘How can I thank you enough?’ he said. ‘Name a reward and you will have it.’
“My father refused to hear of a reward. ‘Is it not reward enough that I have had the privilege to save the life of my king? It is a privilege which is reward in itself.’ This was not enough for the Sultan, however. He made out a proclamation stating that my father and his children would forever have the privilege of free access to the Sultan’s palace and the attention of the Sultan himself for any need they may have.
“This all happened to my father many, many years ago. He never had any reason use his privilege. My father passed away as did the late Sultan. Until this day, I found no cause all these years to seek access to the Sultan’s.
“This year, our Sultan happened to be walking through the market place with his Chief Counselor, who is well know as one who vehemently hates Jews, when he noticed a flurry of activity. Cartloads of strange bread were being transported from place to place. The Sultan had never seen anything like it. ‘What are these cakes?’ he asked his Chief Counselor.
“‘’These are called matzot. They are eaten by the Jews throughout the holiday they call Passover. Some Jews pride themselves in eating only “shmura” (watched) matzos made from the blood of a Muslim child which they slaughter for that purpose,’ the Chief Counselor replied.
“The Sultan was stunned! ‘Don’t take my word for it, Your Majesty,’ the counselor said, ‘make your own inquiries. You will hear the same story.’
“The Sultan did ask around and learned that there were, in fact, many Jews who only ate the special loaves known as shmura matzah which were baked under the most careful supervision and inferred that his counselor’s comments were true. He was horrified and instituted a special inquiry to determine which Jews ate only shmura matzah. He intended to have his guards arrest the culprits while they sat at their Seder, and then have them executed.
“Last night, on the eve of our holiday, I had a dream. My father appeared to warn me of the impending danger. He instructed me to go straight to the Sultan, by virtue of my special privilege of free entry and tell him the truth. I was to expose the Sultan’s Chief Counselor for what he was — not a devout Moslem as the Sultan thought, but a practicing Greek Orthodox Christian. ‘Tell the Sultan to send his soldiers to the counselor’s home in the middle of the night,’ my father instructed, ‘and they will find him in bed with a cross on his chest.’
“I awoke towards evening, deciding that the dream had been simply a dream, and I went about with my preparations for the evening Seder. But suddenly I became very tired and had to lie down. I promptly fell into a deep sleep. My father appeared again, warning me to heed his advice for only I could save the community.
“When I awoke the second time I realized that it was not a meaningless dream and that immediate action had to be taken. It was already late at night when I arrived at the Sultan’s palace. Despite my right to enter the palace when I wished, I did not want to cause a commotion and wake the Sultan. I begged the palace guards to take me to the “Old Queen” – the Sultan’s mother.
“The Queen happened to be awake. She listened patiently to my story. I hastened to remind her that in all these years neither my father not I had used our privilege. If I was asking her to intercede for the Jews on my behalf, it was because the matter was one of life or death.
“The Queen asked me to wait while she spoke to her son. She did not plan to present the Jew’s cause for she had heard nothing of the impending decree and thought it might not be true. Instead, she decided to tell her son that her husband, the late Sultan, had appeared to her in a dream, instructing her to warn her son against issuing any evil decrees.
“At first the young Sultan denied any impending evil decrees. When his mother mentioned the Jews, he confessed. ‘Yes, Mother, but my law concerning the Jews is a beneficial one for it concerns those Jews who use Moslem blood in their matzah baking. I have ordered this cult to be destroyed for the public benefit.’
“Seeing that I had spoken the truth, the Queen now told the entire story to her son who asked that the wine merchant be brought before him. I ran forward, throwing myself at his feet, my story pouring out in tearful pleas. I begged the Sultan to follow my father’s suggestion of surprising the Chief Counselor in his home to prove that he was unfaithful to the Moslem faith. The Sultan followed my suggestion and all proved as I had predicted. In their fury, the soldiers executed the Chief Counselor on the spot.
“The Sultan immediately cancelled the decree that would have killed us all.”
“All this happened just as I was reciting the Hallel, did it not?” the Baal Shem Tov asked the merchant.
The statement was confirmed, for indeed the Baal Shem Tov had been aware of the miracle at the very minute that it happened which coincided with his recital of ‘Le’ose niflaot gedolot!’”
After the first two days of the holiday, the wealthy couple showed their gratitude by purchasing the Baal Shem Tov’s passage on a ship bound for the holy land. At sea, a massive storm broke out and threatened to sink the ship. The Baal Shem Tov divined that to calm the storm he could either throw his Torah writings or his daughter overboard, into the raging sea.
The Baal Shem Tov’s daughter, Udell, knew the value of her father’s Torah writings and decided to jump overboard. Just before she was about to jump, Divine inspiration came upon her and she changed her mind. She turned to the other passengers and said, “It is better that you should take my father’s writings and throw them overboard, because I am destined to have a grandson who will produce some of the most beautiful teachings and writings of all. His writings will save thousands of Jewish souls who have fallen to the depths of impurity and will help them return to their Father in Heaven.”
This grandson is none other than Rebbe Nachman of Breslev!
The sailors threw the Baal Shem Tov’s writings into the sea and the storm abated.
The passengers were exhausted from their ordeal. The ship weighed anchor near a small island to allow the passengers to rest and regain their strength. The Baal Shem Tov, Reb Hirsch and Udell took a walk on the island. They were abducted by a group of cannibals, who were planning to have them for their dinner.
The cannibals started sharpening their knives in preparation for slaughtering the Baal Shem Tov, Reb Hirsch and Udell. Reb Hirsch turned to the Baal Shem Tov. In desperation he yelled, “Do something! Save us from these animals!”
But the Baal Shem Tov couldn’t say a word.
Reb Hirsch screamed in panic, “Why do you remain silent?!”
The Baal Shem Tov answered, “I forgot everything. I can’t even remember the alef beit (the Hebrew alphabet). Maybe you can remember something?”
Reb Hirsch responded, “I also forgot everything! I can only remember the alef beit!”
“Then why are you silent? Say the alef beit!” the Baal Shem Tov ordered.
The Baal Shem Tov repeated each letter after Reb Hirsch. In the middle of their recital, the Baal Shem Tov’s knowledge and powers suddenly returned to him and he said that they would be saved shortly. Suddenly a loud whistle blew in the distance and the cannibals took fright and ran away. Another ship had just arrived on its way to Istanbul. The ship’s crew untied and freed the Baal Shem Tov and his party and brought them back to Istanbul.
They arrived safely in Istanbul on the last day of Pesach. The Baal Shem Tov said, “Now I know for certain that Heaven doesn’t want me to go to Eretz Yisrael.” Immediately after Pesach the Baal Shem Tov and his party returned to Medzeboz.
***
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Pre Seder ChecklistCleaning for Pesach פסח (Passover). Remove all the Chametz and Don’t forget the KitchenShop for Pesach פסח (Passover) You know exactly what you can buy in every Store. and in many store everything is without Kitniyot. – Leavened foods concealed behind plastic at Jerusalem supermarket during Passover
You know exactly what you can buy in every Store. and in many store everything is without Kitniyot. – Leavened foods concealed behind plastic at Jerusalem supermarket during PassoverThe White plastic film covering the shelves of Chametz is what our local store dose, but a lot of stores remove all Chametz completely weeks before Pesach.
All the Dairy is Kosher for Pesach at least a week before Pesach.
I personal like Rami Levi Mehadrin in Givat Shaul, Jerusalem. The products have no Kitniyot.
 Pesach Supermarket Shopping
13 Nissan Did you remember to sell your chametz? Your local Chabad rabbi can help, or complete an online “Authorization for the Sale of Chametz” form by clicking here.Search for the chametz after dark (click here for the exact time). Recite the blessing prior to the search, and the nullification of the chametz (Kol Chamira) following the search. Click here for more information on the search and removal of chametz.
14 Nissan The day before Passover Bedikat Chametz: Checking for Chametz the Night before The day before Pesach פסח (Passover)
 Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff, searches for leavened bread, also called chametz, at Chabad of Uptown April 17, 2008 in Houston. The candle is used to search for the chametz, while a feather is used to sweep it in to a wooden spoon. All three items are burned along with the chametz. The burning of leavened bread represents the eradication of the ego and all of the negative energies associated with the ego according to Jewish religious scripture. Pesach, or Passover, celebrates freedom. Egypt represents the limitation of ourselves. The observance of Passover is an exercise in being better today than we were yesterday and unleashing personal boundaries to drive ourselves to perfection.
Finish eating ChametzBurning and Nullifying the Chametz the day before Pesach פסח (Passover) Burning-Chametz
Start Cooking for Pesach פסח (Passover) Wonder Pot-סיר פלא-potato-תפוחי אדמה
An Israeli Pesach Seder סדר פסח (Passover Seder) IDF Passover Seder IDF Passover Seder
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Animal Sacrifice: It’s Not What You ThinkIs animal sacrifice cruel—or misunderstood? Explore how the Torah reframes ethics, compassion, and what it truly means to rise above instinct.David Ben Horin | Posted on 23April2026 | https://breslev.com/5222632/
 Animal Sacrifice It’s Not What You Think by David Ben Horin Why does Animal Sacrifice Seem Primitive Today?Animal sacrifice sounds like going backward. But what if the part of the Torah that seems most primitive… is actually the most refined?
At its core, animal sacrifice in Judaism is not about destruction—it is a structured system designed to bring a person closer to God.
In recent years, concern for animal welfare has grown dramatically. Studies from organizations like the Pew Research Center show a steady rise in the number of people who believe animals should be treated with near-equal moral consideration. That instinct comes from compassion—but without deeper context, it can also lead to conclusions that miss the Torah’s deeper design. What Is the Torah View of Life: Jungle or Moral Refinement?We like to say, “Welcome to the jungle.”
You don’t have to look far to see this mindset in action. In business, in careers, even in subtle social dynamics—people who would never describe themselves as aggressive often find themselves thinking in terms of survival, competition, and edge.
It’s how we explain the world when it feels harsh—competitive, ruthless, survival of the fittest. People clawing their way forward, stepping over each other just to get ahead. If that’s true, then life is just a polished version of animal behavior.
But the Torah quietly disagrees.
Long before modern debates about ethics, the Torah established a framework that limits harm, avoids predatory behavior, and embeds purpose into every action. It’s not primitive—it’s structured, intentional, and ahead of its time.
Why Do Some See Korbanot As Cruel?A friend once told me, “If the Temple is rebuilt, I hope they don’t bring back animal sacrifices. It feels cruel. We’ve evolved past that.”
That perspective echoes modern ethical voices like Peter Singer, who argue that minimizing animal suffering is a central measure of moral progress. It’s a serious argument, but it assumes that every system involving animals is inherently cruel, which is exactly where the Torah takes a different approach.
If you look closely, korbanot are not about descending into animal behavior. They are about rising above it. In fact, the word korban itself comes from karov, meaning closeness—revealing that the goal is not sacrifice, but connection.
The “jungle mindset” says: take, dominate, survive.
The Torah says: refine, elevate, serve.
The korbanot teach this through three quiet, powerful principles:
What are Lessons from Korbanot: Success, Ego, BehaviorWe live in a world that tells us:
I’ve caught myself in those moments—thinking in terms of winning, proving, pushing ahead. And every time, I realize afterward: that wasn’t clarity. That was instinct dressed up as strategy.
The Torah whispers something else:
If success requires stepping on others… is it really success? Or is it just a more sophisticated version of the jungle? What Is The Message Of Korbanot For Modern Life?The korbanot were never just about animals. They were about us. About taking our instincts—ego, anger, competition—and placing them on the altar. Not to destroy them. But to elevate them. To turn raw drive into something holy.
We don’t spill blood to prove dominance. We pour it on the altar to serve something higher.
And maybe that’s the deepest kindness of all. Not just how we treat animals. But how we refuse to become like them.
Key Takeaways:
This week, notice one moment where you feel the “jungle instinct” kick in—competition, frustration, ego. Pause. And ask yourself:
That moment—that choice—is your korban.
*** David Ben Horin lives in Afula with his family, 60,000 passionate Israelis, and Matilda, our local camel.
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 https://www.oref.org.il/eng Home Front Command alerts during Shabbat and the holidaySilent wave during Shabbat and the holidayDuring Shabbat and the holidays, you can receive Home Front Command alerts via the Silent Wave frequencieshttps://www.oref.org.il/eng/articles/haredim/rockets-missles/4401
Radio Stations operating in “Silent Wave” format, providing preliminary guidelines, alerts, and end-of-event notifications; the National Emergency Portal on your computer; and the Home Front Command app—this is how you can receive the alerts in your area on Shabbat and Holidays.
Shabbat and Holidays observant citizens can receive the alerts and guidelines through the following means: Silent Wave on Radio StationsThe following radio stations cease broadcasting on Shabbat and holidays and provide preliminary guidelines, alerts, and notifications regarding the end of an event and exiting the protected space. Starting on the first day of Passover, on every Shabbat and holiday, the “Silent Wave” will broadcast the guidance area on every preliminary guideline and end-of-event notification.:
Please note: During Operation “Roaring Lion”, you can also receive Radio Kol Chai and Kol BaRama in the Northern region:
Leave the radio device turned on to one of these frequencies to receive only instructions and alerts during Shabbat and holiday.
To find the name of the guidance area for your town – enter the site homepage and enter the name of your town into the box at the top of the page. National Emergency PortalYou can connect to the National Emergency Portal (this website) before Shabbat, approve the activation of voice alerts in the pop-up window on the homepage, then go to the “Alerts” tab and define your location. The computer must be left active during Shabbat (it is important to disable “Sleep Mode” in the computer settings so the screen remains on). If rocket or missile fire occurs in your defined area, an alert will be received via sound and an on-screen display. Home Front Command AppIf you have a smartphone—you can receive alerts on the Home Front Command app if a threat is posed to your location (location services must be enabled) as well as for 10 areas of interest of your choice. On iPhone—ensure the device is not on “Silent” mode. People with hearing disabilities can set the alert to a 10-second vibration (on Android—set this in the app’s settings page; on iPhone—set the vibration in the device’s system settings). Additionally, the alert can be received accompanied by the flashlight flickering.  Home Front Command Quiet Wave on Shabbat
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https://www.oref.org.il/eng This is How You Prepare for Shabbat in an EmergencyUsing a few simple actions you can prepare for Shabbat in emergency situations, while following the Home Front Command guidelines and observing Shabbathttps://www.oref.org.il/eng/articles/haredim/rockets-missles/4400
The State of Israel is in the midst of a war in the south and in the north. During a war, even when there is a temporary respite, you are still in a time of emergency that does not stop on Shabbat, so people who observe Shabbat must prepare and make the necessary adjustments before Shabbat, by following a number of simple steps.
This preparation is important and essential to enable you to follow the Home Front Command guidelines in full, even during Shabbat, while keeping both life-saving guidelines and the Shabbat.
Receiving alerts during Shabbat:To guarantee that you continue to receive alerts during Shabbat, you must connect before Shabbat to the Home Front Command’s means of alert. Click here for information on receiving alerts on Shabbat and holidays.
Preparing the protected space before ShabbatAt this time, we must be prepared and have the protected space ready in case an alert is received. This is even more significant before Shabbat, to make sure the protected space can serve us as needed during Shabbat. Therefore, it is important to perform the following actions before Shabbat begins: • Make sure the light in the protected space and on the way to it is switched on, so we can safely reach the protected room and avoid tripping in the room or on the way to it. • Remove any Mukze items that may interfere with the arrival and stay in the protected space. • Make sure that before Shabbat starts you leave some useful items in the protected room: bottles of water, a radio operating on the silent wave, a siddur, toys for the children, etc.
Spending the Shabbat away from home?• Make sure you hosts have a protected space that is suitable for your needs and those of your family. • Find out what is the time available to reach shelter in the location where you will be spending the Shabbat. • Prepare the protected space in the place where you will be staying before Shabbat starts and according to guidelines.
Preparing for emergencies in ShulOn Shabbat and holidays, it is customary to go to Shul with the children and the women’s gallery is also fuller than on ordinary days. Therefore, it is important to know and remind the members of the family of the behavioral guidelines at the Shul.
Even outdoors, the Home Front Command guidelines save livesNaturally, many families go on Shabbat with the children for walks in the neighborhood, to play in the park and visit extended family and friends. Therefore, it is important to know and to remind the children of the behavioral guidelines when receiving al alert on rocket and missile fire outdoors, according to the following: • In a built-up area – enter a shelter or a stairwell in a nearby building for 10 minutes. Stay away from the entrance area. • In an open area – lie on the ground and protect your head with your hands.
A special letter from the Chief RabbisWhen the Iron Swords War erupted, the Chief Rabbis, The Rishon Lezion Rabbi Izhak Yossef Shalita (שליט”א) and the Chief Rabbi, Rabbi David Lao Shalita (שליט”א), issued a letter with specific Halacha rulings for behavior in Shabbat during a war, along with Halachot referring to the behavior in time of war on normal days. These are the main points in the letter: 1. You must follow all Home Front Command guidelines and recommendations to the letter. When the guideline is to remain at home, do not leave the home at all, even not to pray, say your prayers alone. 2. Pray only in Shuls that have protected space or are close to protected spaces. If an alert is received, go to the protected space immediately until the danger passes. People who are ill and walk slowly should pray in their homes, unless the Shul is in a shelter. 3. If you receive an alert during Amida, you must stop immediately and walk silently to the protected space, and then return and pray. If the delay was no more than five or six minutes, continue where you left off, if it was more than five or six minutes, start over from the beginning of Amida. If an alert is received in the middle of reading from the Torah, close the scroll immediately and place a cloth over it and then go to the protected space, even if the Torah is left unguarded. When you return, continue the reading where you left off. 4. In every Shul, leave a mobile phone that is switched on before Shabbat, so it can be used to call emergency services in case of need. A mobile phone can be kept in your pocket on vibration mode. 5. Those who have a licensed weapon, should carry the weapon also on Shabbat, even if you do not usually trust the Eruv. It is important to make sure that in every Shul there is at least one person who is armed. Walk with your weapon covered by your clothes. 6. Leave the radio on, tuned to the silent wave, to make sure you receive the Home Front alerts. 7. In all prayers, include the Avinu Malkenu prayer, including on Shabbat and Rosh Chodesh (omitting the “Katvenu” part and in Shabbat and Rosh Chodesh omitting Chatanu Lefanecha), when opening the Heichal, repeat 12 times “Leolam Hashem Dvarech Nitzav Bashamaim” and the Psalms 20, 100, 121, 230, 242 as well as the special prayer we issued for this time. 8. For matters relating to Tvila and Tahara, consult your local rabbis. 9. Simchas such as weddings, Briths and such like must be conducted according to the Home Front Command guidelines. ויהי רצון שלא ישמע עוד שוד ושבר בגבולנו, ושב יעקב ושקט ושאנן ואין מחריד, ובא לציון גואל במהרה בימינו אמן. Shabbat Shalom Venishmartem Meod Lenafshotechem, with G-D’s help, together, we shall win!
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In honor of the Shabbat after PesachShlissel or Key Challah key challah There is a custom to bake key-shaped or Shlissel challah in honor of the Shabbat after Pesach. This is a well observed custom you might want to try for yourself. You can do this by slipping a key directly in the challah, by baking it in the dough or placing it in the braids as you shape. Many even shape their challah to look like a key. The custom is brought down in several books and is especially popular in hareidi communities – but many modern communities observe it as well. According to rabbis, the key is an expression of prayer for the blessings of G-d, as the “key” to a life of material plenty is in His hand.
Some versions of the custom require the placing of an actual key inside the dough, with the key actually baked into the challah, while others prefer the key-shaped bread in observance of the custom. Still others contend that it is sufficient to attach a key to an already-baked challah before it is brought to the Sabbath table.  Shlissel or Key Challah served on the first Shabbat after Pesach |
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Key Challah Shape Tutorial. Shlissel ChallahPosted 17April2020 Sonya’s Prep
It’s a custom to make challah in the shape of a key on the first Shabbat after Passover for a blessing of financial Stability/wealth. Join me as I make mine: Recipe: Bake at 350F for 45 minutes |
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Tips for Making Shlissel Key Challah
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The Secret of Pesach SheniPesach sheni – what’s that?? It’s a day when we can merit miracles and wonders! The message to learn from this is the power of ratzon, of desire. It’s the message of hope! Rabbi Shalom Arush | Posted on 11May2025 | https://breslev.com/1074146/  The Secret of Pesach Sheni by Rabbi Shalom Arush Editor’s Note: Pesach Sheni is celebrated on the 14th of Iyar.
A Second ChanceImagine yourself as Moshe Rabbeinu. Someone asks, “I missed putting on tefillin today – can I put them on now that it is nighttime?” The answer is obviously not! Jewish law specifically states that the mitzvah of tefillin is only for daytime – you cannot put them on at night. Why even bother asking?
The mitzvah to bring the Passover sacrifice or Korban Pesach is also for a specific time – the 14th of Nissan in the afternoon, on the eve of Passover. If you miss it, you miss it! Who would think about trying to do the Passover sacrifice after Passover? It’s ludicrous. Why even ask?
But a group of Jews came to Moshe Rabbeinu and asked this exact question! They explain that they were tamei, spiritually impure, at the time that they should have brought the Korban Pesach because they were carrying Yosef HaTzaddik’s coffin. Someone who is tamei is not allowed to bring sacrifices, so they were unable to participate in the Korban Pesach at the prescribed time. Now, they want to bring it later!
Moshe Rabbeinu wants to say that there is nothing to do – so next year, you’ll do it right. But they had such true desire, and they were upset that they were not able to bring the sacrifice – they wanted so badly to bring the sacrifice. “Why should we miss out?” they said. So Moshe Rabbeinu brings G-d their question – let’s see what G-d will say.
Hashem gave the mitzvah of Pesach Sheni – a second Passover! Someone who missed out on the Korban Pesach because they were tamei can bring the sacrifice one month later, on the 14th of Iyar. They do it exactly like it should have been done the month before, in all its intricate details. And retroactively, it becomes as if they did the Korban Pesach at the right time!
Even more, Pesach Sheni now became eternal. It wasn’t only for those people, just that year – every single year we are given another opportunity to get it right, to make up the past, on Pesach Sheni. It’s a new mitzvah! Hashem created a new Torah for them!
Nothing Stands in the Way of WillThere is an incredible message to learn from this – the incredible power of ratzon, of desire. You want something? You’re truly upset that you aren’t able to keep this mitzvah? Keep wanting, keep praying and don’t give up! Rebbe Nachman writes in Likutei Moharan that whatever a person truly wants, he gets!
I saw this today with one of my students. He told me a few days ago that he wanted so badly to go to Meron for Lag B’Omer. But what can you do? Everything is closed. But he was literally crying because he had so much desire, and he was so upset to miss it this year. He came to me today – he got special permission to go!
The same thing with Uman Rosh Hashanah. I could fill a whole book with stories of people who wanted to go and were unable, and in the end, went anyway. Nothing stands in the way of will! Nothing!
This is also a special message for anyone who feels impure, or thinks he is on a low level. He thinks to himself, “What have I done? I have done so many sins, I am so spiritually impure…” You want? G-d will make for you a new Torah! Even if you are in the lowest place, wherever you might be, you can come close to Hashem, and you can fix everything!
Someone came to me the other day, saying that he was on such a low level, he had fallen so low… I told him, “There is only one failure that a person can have. And that is if he falls from his desire [to fix].” If a person holds onto his will, and his desire to change, there is nothing that can stop him!
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Matzah on Pesach Sheini: When and Why?By Yehuda Shurpin https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/3662334/jewish/Matzah-on-Pesach-Sheini-When-and-Why.htm  shmurah matzah
There is a widespread custom to eat matzah on the 14th of Iyar, known as Pesach Sheni (the “second Passover”), the day when those who were impure and/or unable to bring the Paschal lamb on Passover were given a second chance to do so.1 Just as the matzah eaten as the afikoman by the Seder commemorates the matzah and Paschal offering eaten in Temple times, so is this matzah a remembrance of the second Passover.
But if this is the case, a question arises: The Paschal lamb (and its accompanying matzah) was consumed on the evening of Iyar 15, but the widespread contemporary custom is to eat matzah on the day of Iyar 14, when the Paschal lamb was slaughtered and prepared. Why?
Now, it should be noted that some do in fact have the custom to eat matzah on the eve of the 15th rather than on the day of the 14th of Iyar. But why are they in the minority?
It’s All in the PrepRabbi Zvi Elimelech Shapiro of Dinov, known as the Bnei Yissachar, writes that although he himself ate matzah on the eve of the 15th, the main, public feasts are held on the day of the 14th, as per the custom of the Baal Shem Tov and his students.
On a somewhat mystical note, he explains that in the time period between Passover and the holiday of Shavuot, the emphasis is on the work of preparing and refining ourselves. Thus, we count the Omer, each day taking another step closer to the holiday of Shavuot, when we received the Torah. Appropriately, when it comes to celebrating the second Passover, the main emphasis is on the time of preparation, Iyar 14.2
The Last Remnants of the MiracleRabbi Yaakov Emden, known as the Yaavetz (1697-1776), writes that it was “revealed to me from heaven” that Jews were given a second chance to bring the Paschal offering specifically on the 14th of Iyar because that was the last day the Jews still had leftover matzah from when they left Egypt on Passover. After eating the last bit that night (eve of the 15th), the Jews complained to G‑d, “What will we eat?” and it was on the day of the 15th of Iyar that the manna began to fall. Thus, in a certain sense, the 14th marked the culmination of the miracle of the Exodus, while the 15th marked a new phase of the miracles in the desert.3
Although Rabbi Emden is explaining the timing of the second Passover, and not the reason for eating matzah nowadays, some cite this explanation as an additional reason for eating it both on the day of the 14th as well as the eve of the 15th.4
Not to Add to TorahRabbi Meir Dan Plotsky (1866–1928), in his work Kli Chemdah, offers a somewhat novel explanation for the widespread custom to eat the matzah on the day of the 14th. He explains that ordinarily there is a concern of not adding to the mitzvahs of the Torah. Now, if one simply does a time-bound mitzvah on a different day of the year without intention of doing the mitzvah (e.g., it’s a hot summer, so one builds a sukkah and eats in it), there is no issue of “adding to the Torah.” However, if it is in theory the proper time for the mitzvah, then there is potentially an issue of adding to the mitzvahs—even if there wasn’t any intention to do so.
Therefore, we specifically eat the matzah on the day of the 14th since the proper time to eat it really would have been the eve of the 15th (if someone were actually observing the second Passover because they were impure on the first Passover), and we wish to avoid making a custom to eat it specifically then. He writes that this is especially true in light of the Jerusalem Talmud’s statement that if the Moshiach will come between the first and second Passover, then all Jews will have the opportunity to bring the Paschal offering on the second Passover.5 Thus, since the second Passover could be an actual holiday for all Jews—when we would all be obligated to eat matzah—we don’t want to have a custom to eat matzah on the 15th, which gives the impression that we are adding to the observance of the day.
Others, however, question this explanation. They note that we eat matzah on all 7 (or 8) days of Passover even though there is no obligation to do so and there is no concern of “adding to a mitzvah.”6
Mystical NumerologyMany have the custom that after counting the Omer, they recite (among other things) psalm 67. This psalm contains 49 words (not counting the introductory verse). According to the Arizal, each word corresponds to a different night of the Omer, and one should have that word in mind when reciting the Omer. The same applies to verse 5 of that psalm, which contains 49 letters,7 each one corresponding to another night. (This can be seen in the standard Kehot Siddur, which includes the word and letter corresponding to each night of the Omer).
Based on this, some point out that the 14th of Iyar, which is the 29th day of the Omer, corrosponds to the word תַּנְחֵם, tancheim (“comfort them”), and the letter yud. The word tancheim has the numerical value of 498: ת-400 נ-50 ח-8 ם-40. Add on the yud, which had the numerical value of 10, and you have 508. This is the same numerical value as Pesach Sheni (פסח שני). Thus, we see a hint in the verse itself that the main celebration of Pesach Sheni is on the 14th of Iyar.8
As noted above, there is good reason to eat matzah on the night of the 15th as well, so although the common practice in Chabad is to eat matzah on the day of the 14th of Iyar,9 the Rebbe also encouraged people to eat matzah on the eve of the 15th.10
Footnotes 1. See Numbers 9:6–7. 2. See Shaar Yissachar, Pischa Zeira 12; Darkei Chaim Veshalom 631-2, cited in Igrot Kodesh, vol. 2, p. 352. 3. Siddur of Rabbi Yaakov Emden, Shaar Hayesod, “Chodesh Iyar.” 4. See Rabbi Yehoshua Mondshien in Otzar Minhagei Chabad, Pesach Sheini, “Achilat Matzah.” 5. Kli Chemdah, Parshat Vaetchanan. 6. See responsum Kol Yisroel, Orech Chaim 130. He writes that although according to some, there is indeed a “mitzvah” to eat matzah the rest of Passover, the term “mitzvah” in that context is not meant as obligation, but rather as a positive, meritorious act. 7. This count includes the letter vav in the words תִשְׁפֹּוט and מִישֹׁור, which is pronounced but not always written in the text. 8. Beit Naftali, cited in Minhag Yisroel Torah 493:10. 9. See Igrot Kodesh, vol. 2, p. 352. A translation of the letter can be seen here. 10. See Sicha of Pesach Sheini 5740 and 5743.
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ISRAEL AT WAR 5786: Iran: Operation Roaring Lion
ISRAEL Connection People
Saul Sadka-tweet-1March2026-ISRAEL Connection People
Israeli technology doesn’t just power AI and help fight cancer, it brings people together.
Saul Sadka-tweet-1March2026-ISRAEL Connection People
Where Iran fired it’s missiles and Drones
Tips for Israelis
The Mossad: Satirical and Awesome-tweet-19March2026-Tips for Israelis
Tips for Israelis.
How to determine if that sound was an exploding missile interception or thunder:
If your phone didn’t give you a heart attack a minute ago with its endless screeching, it’s thunder.
Follow me for more tips.
The Mossad Satirical and Awesome-tweet-19March2026-Tips for Israelis
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https://www.oref.org.il/eng
Home Front Command alerts during Shabbat and the holiday
Silent wave during Shabbat and the holiday
During Shabbat and the holidays, you can receive Home Front Command alerts via the Silent Wave frequencies
https://www.oref.org.il/eng/articles/haredim/rockets-missles/4401
Radio Stations operating in “Silent Wave” format, providing preliminary guidelines, alerts, and end-of-event notifications; the National Emergency Portal on your computer; and the Home Front Command app—this is how you can receive the alerts in your area on Shabbat and Holidays.
Shabbat and Holidays observant citizens can receive the alerts and guidelines through the following means:
Silent Wave on Radio Stations
The following radio stations cease broadcasting on Shabbat and holidays and provide preliminary guidelines, alerts, and notifications regarding the end of an event and exiting the protected space. Starting on the first day of Passover, on every Shabbat and holiday, the “Silent Wave” will broadcast the guidance area on every preliminary guideline and end-of-event notification.:
Please note: During Operation “Roaring Lion”, you can also receive Radio Kol Chai and Kol BaRama in the Northern region:
Leave the radio device turned on to one of these frequencies to receive only instructions and alerts during Shabbat and holiday.
To find the name of the guidance area for your town – enter the site homepage and enter the name of your town into the box at the top of the page.
National Emergency Portal
You can connect to the National Emergency Portal (this website) before Shabbat, approve the activation of voice alerts in the pop-up window on the homepage, then go to the “Alerts” tab and define your location. The computer must be left active during Shabbat (it is important to disable “Sleep Mode” in the computer settings so the screen remains on). If rocket or missile fire occurs in your defined area, an alert will be received via sound and an on-screen display.
Home Front Command App
If you have a smartphone—you can receive alerts on the Home Front Command app if a threat is posed to your location (location services must be enabled) as well as for 10 areas of interest of your choice. On iPhone—ensure the device is not on “Silent” mode. People with hearing disabilities can set the alert to a 10-second vibration (on Android—set this in the app’s settings page; on iPhone—set the vibration in the device’s system settings). Additionally, the alert can be received accompanied by the flashlight flickering.
Home Front Command Quiet Wave on Shabbat
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https://www.oref.org.il/eng
This is How You Prepare for Shabbat in an Emergency
Using a few simple actions you can prepare for Shabbat in emergency situations, while following the Home Front Command guidelines and observing Shabbat
https://www.oref.org.il/eng/articles/haredim/rockets-missles/4400
The State of Israel is in the midst of a war in the south and in the north. During a war, even when there is a temporary respite, you are still in a time of emergency that does not stop on Shabbat, so people who observe Shabbat must prepare and make the necessary adjustments before Shabbat, by following a number of simple steps.
This preparation is important and essential to enable you to follow the Home Front Command guidelines in full, even during Shabbat, while keeping both life-saving guidelines and the Shabbat.
Receiving alerts during Shabbat:
To guarantee that you continue to receive alerts during Shabbat, you must connect before Shabbat to the Home Front Command’s means of alert.
Click here for information on receiving alerts on Shabbat and holidays.
Preparing the protected space before Shabbat
At this time, we must be prepared and have the protected space ready in case an alert is received. This is even more significant before Shabbat, to make sure the protected space can serve us as needed during Shabbat. Therefore, it is important to perform the following actions before Shabbat begins:
• Make sure the light in the protected space and on the way to it is switched on, so we can safely reach the protected room and avoid tripping in the room or on the way to it.
• Remove any Mukze items that may interfere with the arrival and stay in the protected space.
• Make sure that before Shabbat starts you leave some useful items in the protected room: bottles of water, a radio operating on the silent wave, a siddur, toys for the children, etc.
Spending the Shabbat away from home?
• Make sure you hosts have a protected space that is suitable for your needs and those of your family.
• Find out what is the time available to reach shelter in the location where you will be spending the Shabbat.
• Prepare the protected space in the place where you will be staying before Shabbat starts and according to guidelines.
Preparing for emergencies in Shul
On Shabbat and holidays, it is customary to go to Shul with the children and the women’s gallery is also fuller than on ordinary days. Therefore, it is important to know and remind the members of the family of the behavioral guidelines at the Shul.
Even outdoors, the Home Front Command guidelines save lives
Naturally, many families go on Shabbat with the children for walks in the neighborhood, to play in the park and visit extended family and friends. Therefore, it is important to know and to remind the children of the behavioral guidelines when receiving al alert on rocket and missile fire outdoors, according to the following:
• In a built-up area – enter a shelter or a stairwell in a nearby building for 10 minutes. Stay away from the entrance area.
• In an open area – lie on the ground and protect your head with your hands.
A special letter from the Chief Rabbis
When the Iron Swords War erupted, the Chief Rabbis, The Rishon Lezion Rabbi Izhak Yossef Shalita (שליט”א) and the Chief Rabbi, Rabbi David Lao Shalita (שליט”א), issued a letter with specific Halacha rulings for behavior in Shabbat during a war, along with Halachot referring to the behavior in time of war on normal days.
These are the main points in the letter:
1. You must follow all Home Front Command guidelines and recommendations to the letter. When the guideline is to remain at home, do not leave the home at all, even not to pray, say your prayers alone.
2. Pray only in Shuls that have protected space or are close to protected spaces. If an alert is received, go to the protected space immediately until the danger passes. People who are ill and walk slowly should pray in their homes, unless the Shul is in a shelter.
3. If you receive an alert during Amida, you must stop immediately and walk silently to the protected space, and then return and pray. If the delay was no more than five or six minutes, continue where you left off, if it was more than five or six minutes, start over from the beginning of Amida. If an alert is received in the middle of reading from the Torah, close the scroll immediately and place a cloth over it and then go to the protected space, even if the Torah is left unguarded. When you return, continue the reading where you left off.
4. In every Shul, leave a mobile phone that is switched on before Shabbat, so it can be used to call emergency services in case of need. A mobile phone can be kept in your pocket on vibration mode.
5. Those who have a licensed weapon, should carry the weapon also on Shabbat, even if you do not usually trust the Eruv. It is important to make sure that in every Shul there is at least one person who is armed. Walk with your weapon covered by your clothes.
6. Leave the radio on, tuned to the silent wave, to make sure you receive the Home Front alerts.
7. In all prayers, include the Avinu Malkenu prayer, including on Shabbat and Rosh Chodesh (omitting the “Katvenu” part and in Shabbat and Rosh Chodesh omitting Chatanu Lefanecha), when opening the Heichal, repeat 12 times “Leolam Hashem Dvarech Nitzav Bashamaim” and the Psalms 20, 100, 121, 230, 242 as well as the special prayer we issued for this time.
8. For matters relating to Tvila and Tahara, consult your local rabbis.
9. Simchas such as weddings, Briths and such like must be conducted according to the Home Front Command guidelines.
ויהי רצון שלא ישמע עוד שוד ושבר בגבולנו, ושב יעקב ושקט ושאנן ואין מחריד, ובא לציון גואל במהרה בימינו אמן.
Shabbat Shalom
Venishmartem Meod Lenafshotechem, with G-D’s help, together, we shall win!
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Home Front Command Pikud HaOref guidelines הנחיות פיקוד העורף
Pikud HaOreftweet-28February2026-interceptions fragments can cause severe damage
Even fragments of interceptions can cause severe damage!!! This is how a residential building that was hit this morning by an interception fragment in one of the northern cities looks. The family that was in the protected space was saved from impact
Pikud HaOref-tweet-28February2026-interceptions fragments can cause severe damage
Pikud HaOref-tweet-2March2026-missile disperses into many small dangerous munitions
What you see here in the video is a single missile that disperses into many small and dangerous munitions.
Pay attention, not all the munitions explode upon contact with the ground, and any contact with them could lead to an explosion and endanger lives!
Therefore, now more than ever, stay away from unexploded ordnance, keep others away, and immediately call the hotline 100.
Safely adhering to the Home Front Command guidelines!
Pikud HaOref-tweet-2March2026-missile disperses into many small dangerous munitions
No video is worth your lives
Pikud HaOref-tweet-26March2026-No video is worth your lives
No video is worth your lives.
You received an alert about missile fire? Do not go out to the balcony and do not open the window to film.
Enter the protected space immediately and do not leave until you receive an explicit message.
Be sure to follow the Home Front Command guidelines; they save lives.
Pikud HaOref-tweet-26March2026-No video is worth your lives
Pikud HaOref-tweet-22March2026-Filming interceptions
Filming interceptions? You’re gambling with your lives. Put 🧡 on protecting yourselves when receiving an alert, under no circumstances film and endanger yourselves❗️
Pikud HaOref-tweet-22March2026-Filming interceptions
Home Front Command Pikud HaOref guidelines-17April2026
Pikud HaOref-tweet-17April2026-Home Front Command guidelines
In accordance with the situation assessment, the Home Front Command’s defense policy will be updated starting today, Friday, April 17, 2026, at 16:00 until Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 20:00.
The full guidelines are detailed in the following link:
https://oref.org.il/heb/articles/i
nfo/iron-swords/1100
It is essential to continue following the guidelines published by the Home Front Command through its official distribution channels.
Pikud HaOref-tweet-17April2026-Home Front Command guidelines
Home Front Command guidelines-ENG-17April2026.jpg
Home Front Command Pikud HaOref guidelines-13April2026
Pikud HaOref-tweet-13April2026-Home Front Command guidelines
Update to the Home Front Command’s Defense Policy
In accordance with the situation assessment, the defense policy will be updated starting from Monday, April 13, 2026, at 21:00 until Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 20:00.
Pikud HaOref-tweet-13April2026-Home Front Command guidelines
Home Front Command guidelines
Home Front Command Pikud HaOref guidelines-28February2026
Pikud HaOref-tweet-28February2026-Home Front Command guidelines
In accordance with the situation assessment, the Home Front Command has decided to change the guidelines –
a shift from full activity to essential activity nationwide – without conducting educational activities, without gatherings, without workplaces except for essential services.
The policy is in effect starting from Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 08:00 until Monday, March 2, 2026, at 20:00.
Pikud HaOref-tweet-28February2026-Home Front Command guidelines
Home Front Command guidelines-ENG-28February2026
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It’s Thunder Day!
Brandie with a Bee-tweet-22July2026-It’s Thunder Day
Bridge and Power Plant Day!
Brandie with a Bee-tweet-22July2026-It’s Thunder Day
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Thank You, President Trump. You Just Helped Israel Wake Up.
15June2026 https://www.israpundit.org/thank-you-president-trump-you-just-helped-israel-wake-up/
Avi Abelow
I know this will surprise some people.
Many are angry. Many are disappointed. Many feel betrayed by reports of a Trump-Iran deal.
Me? I want to say thank you.
Thank you, President Trump.
Not because I think this deal is good. I don’t.
Not because I trust the Islamic republic of Iran. I don’t.
And not because I believe this war is over. It isn’t over at all.
I am thankful because this moment is forcing Israelis and Jews around the world to confront a truth that we have avoided for far too long: our future cannot depend on any foreign leader, no matter how friendly, powerful, or supportive he may be.
For decades, Israel has fallen into the trap of believing that our security ultimately rests in Washington or foreign relations. Republican or Democrat, Congress or White House, aid packages or diplomatic guarantees, too many of us have convinced ourselves that someone else will always be there to save us.
History teaches the opposite.
We did not win any of our wars because of foreign alliances. No country stood by us in our 1948 war of Independence. France was our ally supplying us weapons and planes in the miraculous 1967 six day war, but we did not win because of that. We won every single one of our wars because of unbelievable miracles that happened naturally in the battle fields.
The Jewish people survive when we take responsibility for our destiny and place our trust in Hashem.
That is exactly what this moment is reminding us.
And honestly, I’m not even worried about this bad deal.
First, there is no actual deal.
If something is signed on Friday, it is expected to be only a memorandum of understanding outlining the framework for a 60-day ceasefire.
Second, Iran is already threatening not to sign unless Israel withdraws from Lebanon and unless billions of dollars in frozen assets are released.
Neither of those demands appears realistic.
The U.S. State Department already announced that the withdrawal expected in Lebanon is Hezbollah moving north of the Litani River, not Israel abandoning its security positions.
Israel’s Defense Minister has already declared that Israel will remain in its security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has publicly stated that Israel is not bound by any American memorandum regarding Iran.
Israel is still operating in Lebanon.
Israel still has freedom of action.
Israel still has the final say regarding Israel’s security.
And for that Netanyahu must be commended for his leadership in navigating the alliance with President Trump.
So let’s stop acting as if Friday determines our future.
Don’t forget: Iran started this war against us on October 7th through its Hamas and Hezbollah proxies, while coordinating attacks against Israel from multiple fronts across the Middle East.
Israel did not wait for America to act. Prime Minister Netanyahu made the decision to strike Iran first, without U.S. military involvement. Only afterward did President Trump decide to bring the United States into the fight.
Just as Israel launched this campaign without America, we may ultimately have to finish it without America as well.
That should not frighten us.
The lesson of this war has always been that Israel must be capable of defending itself, by itself, against any threat.
The war is not over.
The struggle against the Islamic Republic is not over.
The battle between civilization and the forces of jihadi Islam is certainly not over.
In many ways, President Trump is doing us a favor.
Throughout this war, the Trump administration was an extraordinary partner. More supportive than any American administration in history.
But alliances are not perfect.
America’s interests and Israel’s interests overlap, but they are not identical.
America is heading toward midterm elections.
American politicians will do what they believe serves American interests.
Israel must do what serves Israel’s interests.
Perhaps America will continue helping us.
Perhaps there are surprises still ahead.
Perhaps military pressure will resume if Iran refuses a final agreement.
We will see.
But the larger lesson remains unchanged.
The Jewish people cannot build our future on the decisions of presidents, kings, governments, or international institutions.
We build our future by believing in our mission, strengthening our nation, defending ourselves, doing what we have to do and trusting in Hashem.
My greatest disappointment is not for Israel.
It is for the Iranian people.
Tens of millions of brave Iranians hoped the Islamic regime’s days were numbered. Many risked their lives protesting in the streets. Many were imprisoned. Many were tortured. Tens of thousands were killed.
They dreamed that the free world would finally help them remove the evil jihadist regime that has oppressed them for nearly half a century.
Their struggle is not over either.
And one day, I believe they will be free.
So whether a ceasefire memorandum is signed or not, my message remains the same:
Don’t panic.
Don’t place your faith in Trump.
Don’t place your faith in Netanyahu.
Don’t place your faith in any human leader.
Place your faith in Hashem.
The God of Israel has carried our people through far greater challenges than this one.
He is still guiding history today.
And ultimately, the future of Israel will be determined not in Washington, not in Tehran, and not at the United Nations.
It will be determined by the Jewish people themselves, together with the One who brought us home.
Strengthen your faith in God. Great times are still ahead, including the toppling of the evil jihadi Islamic republic of Iran. How? When? By whom? We will find out.
Am Yisrael Chai!!!
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1March2026-2 Days before Purim
Mossad Commentary-tweet-1March2026-2 Days before Purim
🔦SPOTLIGHT: ONE OF THE PROUDEST JEWS
Under the sky, with sirens ringing out, Ben Goldstein steps forward and simply exudes what it means to be a proud Jew in the Land of Israel.
If you’re looking for inspiration, find Ben Goldstein and follow his channels.
Mossad Commentary-tweet-1March2026-2 Days before Purim
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Nefesh B’Nefesh-We’re here for you
Nefesh B’Nefesh-tweet-1March2026-We’re here for you
We’re here for you ❤️
Once again we find ourselves as a nation seeking safety from ongoing sirens throughout the country. It is important to know where to turn for our physical safety as well as emotional safety.
As always, the Answers team is here for you to listen, guide and connect with emotional resources during this time. We can be reached from Sunday–Thursday 9 AM–5 PM at *3680 or answers@nbn.org.il.
Resources and support links: http://linktr.ee/nbn_aliyah
– @PikudHaoref1 (Home Front Command) should always be your first point of reference for public preparedness and safety. Phone: 104
– Natal Israel’s trauma center
– Eran Emotional crisis hotline
All Health Funds are offering emotional assistance:
Clalit – 03-7472010
Macabi – *3555
Leumit – 1700507507, *507
Meuhedet – *3833
Based on guidance from Dr. Yonit Schorr, a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Jerusalem and former Clinical Research Psychologist at the Boston Veterans Hospital and National Center for PTSD, there are several ways to help yourself and your loved ones during stressful times. Emotions such as fear, anger, or feeling “numb” are normal reactions to stress, and sharing feelings can help reduce tension within families. The sound of sirens can naturally trigger panic, so modeling calm and explaining what is happening — especially to children — can help create a sense of security. It’s also important to listen without judgment, allowing both adults and children to express feelings and ask questions, even when there are no clear answers.
Families should try to limit exposure to anxiety-arousing media and focus only on reliable headlines, as repeated footage can increase distress, particularly for children. Keeping familiar routines, making time for simple comforting activities, and staying connected with others can help restore balance. As Dr. Schorr reminds us through the “oxygen mask” analogy, self-care is essential — rest when you can, exercise, eat nourishing meals, listen to music, take walks, call friends, and focus on what helps you stay physically and emotionally resilient.
NBN wishes you a safe and joyous Chag Purim!
Nefesh B’Nefesh-tweet-1March2026-We’re here for you
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2026 Jewish demographic momentum in Israel
12April2026 4:05 pm https://theettingerreport.com/2026-jewish-demographic-momentum-in-israel/
Ambassador (ret.) Yoram Ettinger, “Second Thought: a US-Israel Initiative” April 12, 2026
In 2025, the number of Israel’s Jewish births was 139,676 – 74% higher than 1995 (80,400), compared to 44,029 Arab births – 21% higher than 1995 (36,500).
In 2025, Jewish births were 76% of total births, compared to 69% in 1995. The surge of Jewish births has taken place due to the unprecedented rise of births (since 1995) in the secular sector, notwithstanding a rising level of education, income and wedding age and expanded urbanization. Since 1995, Israel’s ultra-orthodox sector has experienced a mild decrease of fertility, while the modern orthodox rate of fertility has been stable.
Israel fertility rate 1996-2025 Jew-Arab
In 1969, Israel’s Arab fertility rate was six births higher than the Jewish fertility rate. In 2024, Jewish fertility rate – 3.09; Israeli Muslims – 2.51.
Muslim fertility rate has been Westernized: Jordan (similar to West Bank Arabs) – 2.5 births per woman, Iran – 2, Saudi Arabia – 2.1, Morocco – 2.3, Iraq – 3.4, Egypt – 3, Yemen – 3.3, the United Arab Emirates – 13, etc.
Israel’s robust Jewish fertility rate reflects upbeat optimism, patriotism, attachment to roots, communal solidarity, frontier-mentality, less abortions and a traditional joy of having children. Arab demographic Westernization is attributed to sweeping urbanization, enhanced status of women (education, employment, rising wedding age, shorter reproductive period) and expanding use of contraceptives.
Israel fertility rate 1965-2025 Arab-Jew Arab birth rate decline
More information on mywebsite and in my recent video.
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Modi’in Illit family celebrates the birth of their 21st child
Modi’in Illit family celebrates the birth of their 21st child, all born as singletons. The eldest child is only 22, meaning the family has added nearly one child per year over two decades.
Israel National News / Published: 10March2026, 11:07 AM (GMT+2) / https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/423679
A well-known family in Modi’in Illit celebrated the birth of their 21st child yesterday (Monday) at Ma’ayanei HaYeshua Hospital in Bnei Brak.
The case is particularly unusual, as all 21 children were born as singletons, with no multiples among them.
According to the Haredi news channel HaPargod, the eldest child in the family is only 22 years old. This means that over just more than two decades, the family has welcomed nearly one child every year.
At present, all the children still live at home with their parents and are unmarried.
The family’s story has drawn significant attention in the neighborhood, mainly due to the sheer number of children and the fact that every birth was a singleton. Many local residents have already expressed willingness to assist the family with support and logistics during the early days following the birth.
While there have been a few reports in recent years of families with a similar number of children, those cases typically included multiple sets of twins. This family’s string of singleton births makes their case exceptionally rare.
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Newborn babies wrapped in life itself
Israel-tweet-8March2026-Newborn babies wrapped in life itself
Newborn babies at Beilinson Hospital were wrapped in blue and white as a reminder of what we are fighting for: life itself.
📸 @Beilinson_ENG
Israel-tweet-8March2026-Newborn babies wrapped in life itself
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Israeli hospitals moved underground
Inside_Israel_Intel-tweet-28February2026-Israeli hospitals moved underground
Israeli hospitals moved underground. This is a picture of civic responsibility. Take a lesson world. Underground is for civilians, not terrorists.
Inside_Israel_Intel-tweet-28February2026-Israeli hospitals moved underground
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Joy and stoicism in the bunkers of Tel Aviv
Saul Sadka-tweet-28February2026-Joy and stoicism in the bunkers of Tel Aviv
Joy and stoicism in the bunkers of Tel Aviv right now as Israelis await the incoming Iranain retaliation that everyone knew would come. Praying and singing. Booms in the background.
Saul Sadka-tweet-28February2026-Joy and stoicism in the bunkers of Tel Aviv
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A couple holds their wedding in an bomb shelter of Tel Aviv
StandWithUs-tweet-4March2026-couple holds their wedding in an bomb shelter of Tel Aviv
🇮🇱 Resilience in Israel
As ballistic missiles from the Iranian regime are fired at Israeli cities and sirens sound, life goes on.
A couple holds their wedding in an underground parking lot converted into a bomb shelter.
Love will not be interrupted.
Mazel Tov! 💙
StandWithUs-tweet-4March2026-couple holds their wedding in an bomb shelter of Tel Aviv
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A BEAUTIFUL MESSAGE FROM AN ISRAELI PILOT TO THE CHILDREN
Mossad Commentary-tweet-1March2026-A BEAUTIFUL MESSAGE FROM AN ISRAELI PILOT TO THE CHILDREN
🇮🇱 A BEAUTIFUL MESSAGE FROM AN ISRAELI PILOT TO THE CHILDREN
An Israeli Air Force pilot recorded a message for children who may be sitting in protected rooms tonight.
“You’re not alone.
When I fly high above your homes, my entire mission is to protect you.
Maybe you’re in a shelter right now. Maybe it’s a little scary.
But there are thousands of us doing everything we can to keep you safe.
When I’m in the cockpit, I think about your smiles, your games, the hugs you give your parents.
Every time you go into the safe room on time, you’re part of our team. Our team of heroes.
If your heart is beating fast, take a deep breath. Hold your brother or sister’s hand. Listen to a song you love.
And think of me flying above you, guarding the sky like an invisible shield surrounding you.”
He ends with:
“You are not alone. You are loved. You are protected. And I am here for you, even when you can’t see me.”
Mossad Commentary-tweet-1March2026-A BEAUTIFUL MESSAGE FROM AN ISRAELI PILOT TO THE CHILDREN
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Charlie Hebdo-10March2026-Iran-for a French supreme guide
Charlie Hebdo-tweet-10March2026-Iran-for a French supreme guide
Allons-nous manquer de guides suprêmes ?
👉 Dossier Municipales à Nantes : dépôt de bilan
👉 Iran : pour un guide suprême français
👉 Novlangue : la trumpisation de la science
En vente mercredi !
Translated from French
Are we running out of supreme guides?
👉 Municipal Elections in Nantes: filing for bankruptcy
👉 Iran: for a French supreme guide
👉 Novlangue: the Trumpification of science
On sale Wednesday!
Charlie Hebdo-tweet-10March2026-Iran-for a French supreme guide
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5 March 2026 at 10:27 am New York Time https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/iran-us-israel-conflict-2026/card/russia-says-iran-conflict-not-our-war–O2B3TxlnWcvV5aoZjFOF
Russia Says Iran Conflict ‘Not Our War’
By Thomas Grove
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia hadn’t received any official requests for aid from Iran and that Moscow had no intention of getting involved in the conflict, despite the close ties between the Kremlin and Tehran.
“It’s not our war,” he said on state television. “We’re seeing a constantly increasing number of countries that are being dragged into the conflict. We’re doing what corresponds to our interests.” Russia and Iran signed a strategic partnership last year and are united in trying to disrupt the U.S.-led order, but Moscow has largely stayed out of the conflict, publicly offering only support at the United Nations.
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“Iran Says School Massacre” and the Media Repeats: How a Regime Claim Became a Viral Headline
Key Takeaways: Iran’s state broadcaster, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), claimed that the U.S. had targeted the Shajareh Tayyebeh school. Western outlets soon picked up the story without attributing it to regime-backed media….
Sharon Levy 1March2026 6:37 pm< https://honestreporting.com/iran-says-and-the-media-repeats-from-regime-claim-to-viral-headline/
How a Regime Claim Became a Viral Headline
Key Takeaways:
On Saturday, February 28, Israel and the U.S. launched a joint military operation against the Iranian regime, targeting senior leadership, including Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei, and military commanders. The operation has also seen a significant targeting of military infrastructure, including air defense systems, missile launchers, and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) command centers.
The Iranian regime, like its terrorist proxies Hamas and Hezbollah, has embedded its infrastructure within civilian locations. As protests broke out at the beginning of 2026, the movement of weapons and military equipment into protected civilian locations, such as schools and hospitals, was widely observed. This prompted Iranian civilians to take protective measures and warn one another of the dual use of protected spaces.
Tal Hagin-tweet-27January2026-Geolocation-Correction-Additional Info
Geolocation/Correction/Additional Info:
1. Confirmed geolocation: The Imam Ali school in Arak, Iran (34.088253, 49.687137) @GeoConfirmed .
2. The photo is from as early as January 8th, 2026 – Per earliest reports it just depicts them as “Security forces”.
3. This school appears to have been used in the past as a staging ground for Tehran Riot Police, an example from 2022:
Throwback Iran-tweet-27January2026-
Straight out of Hamas playbook…
In preparation for a possible US strike, the regime in Iran has relocated its IRGC forces from official bases to SCHOOLS.
Theyre doing this to maximize civilian casualties (specifically children) for propaganda purposes.
Tal Hagin-tweet-27January2026-Geolocation-Correction-Additional Info
When the IDF targeted an IRGC compound in Minab, southern Iran, Iran’s state broadcaster, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), immediately claimed that the U.S. had purposefully targeted the Shajareh Tayyebeh school full of young girls. Al Jazeera soon published the story, blaming Israel for the deaths of children.
HonestReporting-instagram-1March2026
The Western media, without questioning the credibility of the source, immediately reported on the strike and followed Al Jazeera’s lead by holding Israel responsible. In doing so, the media further amplified and legitimized claims from the same regime that has spent the past two months executing its own civilians in the streets protesting for freedom.
The same outlets that included a caveat about their inability to independently verify the number of protesters killed by the regime were the same ones that published and continuously updated alleged casualty figures without any verification other than a regime source. This is not to say that innocent civilians may not have died in the strike, but they were certainly not the target of Israel or the U.S. Moreover, a civilian building was purposefully exploited by the Iranian regime, putting civilians in immediate danger.
HonestReporting-tweet-28February2026-Iran says-and the media repeats Without verification
1/
“Iran says,” and the media repeats. Without verification.
An evil regime that only weeks ago was killing its own people and covering it up is now trusted not to create false narratives against Israel?
Two and a half years of publishing Hamas propaganda, and the media still haven’t learned. Does the al-Ahli hospital incident ring any bells?
Sadly, @Telegraph isn’t the only one. 🧵
The Telegraph-tweet-28February2026-
🚨 Fifty-one schoolgirls were killed and 60 were injured when a strike destroyed a girls’ elementary school in Minab, southern Iran, Iranian media has reported
Follow the latest ⬇️
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/03/02/raf-akrotiri-cyprus-drone-strike-us-israel-iran-war/
HonestReporting-tweet-28February2026-Iran says-and the media repeats Without verification
Analysis of the Strike
The school, reportedly intended to be for the children of military personnel, was built directly next to an IRGC naval base, according to anti-regime media. Independent geolocation analysts further indicated that the Shajareh Tayyebeh school was located in the same premises as the Sayyid al-Shohada barracks of the IRGC Navy’s Asef Brigade. While it remains unclear whether many civilians were present in the area at the time of the strike, witnesses have reported that the school was not targeted but rather the adjacent IRGC buildings, where missiles were reportedly being stored.
This information was, of course, omitted from IRIB’s reporting of the strike. As a result, when Western outlets covered the story, the school’s proximity to – and apparent integration with – an IRGC military complex was missing from the coverage.
Emily Schrader-tweet-F28ebruary2026-And now more proof
And now more proof: reviewing maps and satellite images shows that the girls’ school “Shajareh Tayebeh of the IRGC Navy Minab” is located adjacent to and within the compound of several buildings belonging to the IRGC; including the “Martyr Absalan Clinic” belonging to the Medical Command of the IRGC Navy and the “Seyyed al-Shohada Cultural Complex of the IRGC.”
Emily Schrader-tweet-28February2026-And now more proof
The Iranian Embassy in Austria continued with the disinformation campaign on behalf of the regime, sharing a now-viral image on X of a backpack that reportedly belongs to one of the schoolgirls killed in the strike. However, research analysts have found the photo to be AI-generated, as a Google Gemini watermark was detected hidden in the image.
Tal Hagin-tweet-1March2026-The photo AI-generated
The photo of the pink backpack being used here very likely isn’t real – but AI-generated.
This is both based on the glossy features of the image, which are currently common amongst AI models – As well as the detection of a Google Gemini watermark imbedded in the image:
Tal Hagin-tweet-1March2026-The photo AI-generated
Adding to the uncertainty surrounding the already disputed casualty figures, basic questions remain unanswered, most notably who exactly was killed in the strike. As of the time of writing, The Telegraph reported 165 casualties, including 81 pupils, citing Iranian sources. That leaves 84 individuals not identified in the public breakdown. And given that the school was located within an IRGC compound, it is legitimate to ask whether any of the remaining casualties were affiliated with the regime, a distinction that has not been clarified.
Mark Zlochin-tweet-1March2026-story is getting increasingly weird
The Minab school story is getting increasingly weird.
The latest claim is that 165 people were supposedly killed in the strike, yet only 81 are described as pupils – less than half of the total.
Which raises an obvious question: who were the 84 adults supposedly killed there?
Mark Zlochin-tweet-1March2026-story is getting increasingly weird
The disinformation does not stop at pro-regime sources. A widely-circulated photograph online purported to show a misfired IRGC missile that had fallen inside Iranian territory and struck the school, shifting the blame onto the Iranian regime. However, independent analysts found that the school was located more than 1,000 kilometers from where the photo was taken. They also show that the structure in the photograph faced a direction inconsistent with the alleged missile trajectory, making it unlikely that the image depicted the Shajareh Tayyebeh school.
Stinky-tweet-28February2026-image from Zanjan falsely used
An image from Zanjan falsely used to claim that a misfired IRGC ballistic missile was what hit the Minab girls school.
Location [POV]: 36.684951, 48.488164
MFMQ+X7M Zanjan, Zanjan Province, Iran
@GeoConfirmed @FaytuksNetwork
Geolocated with @talhagin
Stinky-tweet-28February2026-image from Zanjan falsely used
The Iranian regime has taken a page out of Hamas’ notebook. For the past two and a half years, Hamas has made exaggerated and false claims, which the media repeatedly amplified before doing their own due diligence. Corrections, when they came, rarely traveled as far as the original headlines. That same cycle of rapid accusation, viral spread, and delayed scrutiny is now playing out in Iran.
The nature of war between Israel and the Iranian regime means that vast amounts of information are released in real time, often before facts can be fully verified. When reporting omits key context or relies heavily on regime-affiliated sources, narratives can solidify before the truth has a chance to catch up, leaving the public with a distorted understanding of events.
In a time of instantaneous reporting and with clear evidence that narratives are being deliberately shaped for strategic purposes, rigorous scrutiny by the media is essential to ensure the truth prevails.
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What needs to be done.
daniel hanuka-tweet-3March2026-Iranian missile struck Al Aqsa Mosque
Dramatic: cleared for publication – tonight an Iranian missile struck the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.
In Israel, there are already those calling on Bibi to allow the construction of the Temple.
daniel hanuka-tweet-3March2026-Iranian missile struck Al Aqsa Mosque
Israel-Haters Furious Over Al-Aqsa Closure During Iran War
David Lange – 3March2026 – https://www.israellycool.com/2026/03/03/israel-haters-furious-over-al-aqsa-closure-during-iran-war/
Israel-haters are furious because it is a day ending in Y and Israel still exists. But also over something more specific: Israel closed al-Aqsa Mosque.
That’s right. Israel closed al-Aqsa Mosque because rockets have been raining down on Israel. There is no pretext – it are facts. The same emergency regulations apply to synagogues. To public events. To everyone – which has put a hell of a dampener on Purim this year, let me tell you!
Yet here we have the haters essentially complaining about the fact we are protecting Muslims – including the ones who hate us – essentially from themselves.
The same report inadvertently reinforces this by mentioning other occasions we closed the site:
What makes this complaint even more ridiculous? It was made even after this happened:
Israel is protecting the site from the very people who claim to be its “defenders” in Tehran. Not that these particular people we are protecting likely appreciate it. In fact, I suspect most, if not all, of them are praying for more rockets.
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Elder of Ziyon logo http://elderofziyon.blogspot.com/
11March2026 Elder of Ziyon https://elderofziyon.blogspot.com/2026/03/jordan-complains-al-aqsa-is-closed-for.html
Jordan complains Al Aqsa is closed for the war. But the Kotel is closed, too.
The Jordanian Foreign Ministry issued a press release condemning Israel for closing Al Aqsa Mosque during the war, calling it ” a clear violation of international law and international humanitarian law.”
This is a lie. Even if you consider Israel to be an occupier of Jerusalem, it is responsible for to “ensure, as far as possible, public order and safety,” under international law as codified in the Hague Regulations article 43.
Arab media is falsely claiming that Israel has no restrictions on Jews in Jerusalem. Palestine Today says “Jerusalemites confirm that these measures are applied only to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, while life continues normally in the rest of the city, including markets and public areas.”
Again, a lie. Here is a screenshot of what the Kotel looks like today from its live camera.
kotel closed
Israel restricts all gatherings of more than 50 people unless they can easily reach a shelter quickly.
As much as the Jordanians and Palestinians pretend that Israel is discriminating against Muslims and Christians, the facts always show them to be liars.
Old City Jerusalem under missile attack
Israel Foreign Ministry-tweet-12March2026-Old City Jerusalem under missile attack
The Iranian regime is firing missiles at Jerusalem, Israel’s capital.
One of them struck a few hundred meters from the Old City, the Western Wall, Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Protecting lives & worshippers’ safety comes first. That is why prayer at all holy sites has been temporarily suspended.
Israel Foreign Ministry-tweet-12March2026-Old City Jerusalem under missile attack
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the Islamic Republic has launched missile strikes aimed against civilians in 7 different countries over the past 48 hours.
Israel Foreign Ministry-tweet-1March2026-Iran attacked 7 countries
the Islamic Republic has launched missile strikes aimed against civilians in 7 different countries over the past 48 hours.
Israel Foreign Ministry-tweet-1March2026-Iran attacked 7 countries
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Map-Europe within range of Iranian missiles-21March2026
Mossad Commentary-tweet-22March2026-Europe within range of Iranian missiles
Iran has demonstrated a range of at least 4,000km for their ballistic missiles.
Practically all of Europe is within Iran’s range.
Will Europe wake up now? Or will they wait to get hit?
(Map: ISW)
Mossad Commentary-tweet-22March2026-Europe within range of Iranian missiles
Map-Europe within range of Iranian missiles-21March2026
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UK has no defences to stop Iranian missiles and would be forced to rely on US and Europe to stop them as it’s revealed they can now hit London
By GLEN OWEN POLITICAL EDITOR
Published: 00:39 GMT, 22 March 2026 | Updated: 07:04 GMT, 22 March 2026 | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15668053/UK-defences-Iranian-missiles-rely-US-Europe-stop-London.html
Britain would be forced to rely on American missile defence systems stationed in Europe if Iran launched a rocket attack on the UK similar to the one attempted on Diego Garcia this weekend.
The warning came after Tehran fired two ballistic missiles on Friday night towards the base in the Indian Ocean, which is jointly operated by the US and the UK.
The island lies 2,360 miles from Iran, well beyond the 1,240 miles which was thought to be the outer limit of the regime’s reach.
It potentially puts Paris, 2,609 miles away, and even London – 2,750 miles – within Iran’s range if, as some strategists fear, the country uses its Simorgh space launch technology to extend its missile range. RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus is just 1,000 miles from Tehran.
And Israel warned last night that that Iran’s new missile can hit Europe.
IDF chief of staff, Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, in a video released on Saturday night. said: ‘Iran launched a two-stage intercontinental ballistic missile with a range of 4,000km towards an American target on the island of Diego Garcia.
‘The missiles were not intended to hit Israel. Their range reaches the capitals of Europe. Berlin, Paris and Rome are all within direct threat range.’ The IDF later added that London is also in range.
Steve Prest, a retired Royal Navy commodore, said: ‘Ballistic missiles are space rockets. They launch, they go really high up and they come down really fast. If you’ve got a space programme, you’ve got a ballistic missile programme.’
In a ballistic attack, defence experts say Britain would be forced to rely on American SM-3 defence systems stationed across Eastern Europe, or the Patriot missiles used by the Germans, to intercept rockets.
The attempted strike on Diego Garcia came as Sir Keir Starmer extended permission for the US to use British bases to launch attacks on the Strait of Hormuz to protect shipping from Iranian assaults.
Neither of the missiles fired at Diego Garcia hit their target, with one believed to have been shot down by a US warship’s SM-3 interceptor and the other failing in flight.
Diego Garcia-Khorramshahr-4 missile
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch accused Sir Keir of covering up the attempted attack on Diego Garcia, saying the Prime Minister needed to ‘come clean’ over the details of the launch.
Government sources confirmed the attack happened before an official statement later said it had allowed the US military to launch strikes on Iran from the island base to help to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This came as:
The Prime Minister spoke to Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and made a commitment that RAF Akrotiri would not be involved in his agreement with Mr Trump on the use of British bases in the war.
This comes after Mr Christodoulides warned last week that when the war finishes, he will demand negotiations about the future of Britain’s ‘colonial’ military bases on the island.
General Sir Richard Barrons, a former Commander in Chief of British forces, said on Saturday that Iran’s power may have been ‘serially underestimated’.
General Sir Richard, who headed the UK’s Joint Forces Command between 2013 and 2016, said it was previously thought that ‘Iran’s missiles had a range of only 2,000 kilometres [1,240 miles] and Diego Garcia is 3,800 kilometres [2,360 miles] away from Iran’.
He was responding to questions over whether Mr Trump was right to say Britain had done ‘too little and too late’ or whether opponents of the war were correct that the UK had been sucked into an American war.
Meanwhile, vegetable prices could rise within weeks as the cost of fertiliser and energy surges, said National Farmers Union president Tom Bradshaw.
He said Britain no longer had the ability to make fertiliser domestically and was ‘absolutely at the mercy of world markets’.
The Middle East is a key supplier of ingredients used to make fertiliser. Most of these pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been blocked by Iran, causing prices to spiral as farmers scramble to buy limited supplies as spring planting season looming.
Prices of imported goods are likely to rise immediately because of higher transport costs, said Mr Bradshaw, adding that increases for other foods would begin to appear in coming weeks.
He added: ‘For vegetables grown in heated greenhouses, such as cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes, it will be over the next month to six weeks that we will see those cost increases coming through to the retailer.’
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UAE dismantles Hezbollah-Iran terror network
UAE authorities dismantle a Hezbollah-Iran backed terror network, citing money laundering and national security threats.
Israel National News / Published: 20March2026, 3:23 AM (GMT+2) https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/424272
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates announced on Thursday the dismantling of a terrorist network which they said was funded and operated by Hezbollah and Iran, Reuters reported.
The network was reportedly involved in money laundering, financing terrorism, and posing a threat to national security.
According to the UAE state news agency, the arrested members of the network were working under the guise of a commercial enterprise, aiming to infiltrate the national economy and destabilize the country’s financial stability.
There has been no immediate response from either Hezbollah or Iran regarding the claims.
The UAE has been a key target in Iran’s ongoing missile and drone attacks since the US-Israel war on Iran began in late February. Emirati officials have confirmed that hundreds of strikes have targeted the country, damaging vital infrastructure such as oil facilities, ports, and regions near major urban centers.
Thursday’s announcement comes a day after Kuwait announced the second set of arrests this week involving a group of 10 Kuwaiti nationals allegedly linked to the Hezbollah terrorist organization.
According to the Ministry of Interior, the group had planned to target vital facilities in Kuwait as part of a larger plot aimed at destabilizing the Gulf state.
The suspects, who had trained in camps abroad linked to Hezbollah, are accused of coordinating with external operatives to gather coordinates of key sites in Kuwait. The ministry confirmed that the suspects provided detailed confessions following their arrests.
This announcement comes after the earlier arrests this week of 14 Kuwaiti nationals and two Lebanese citizens, who were also linked to Hezbollah. These individuals were allegedly involved in efforts to undermine the stability of the country.
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How-to achieve aerial superiority over a terrorist regime
Israel Defense Forces-tweet-1March2026-How-to achieve aerial superiority
Watch this video for a how-to achieve aerial superiority over a terrorist regime:
LTC Nadav Shoshani-tweet-1March2026-
‼️ The video outlines the phases of the operation: targeting air defense systems and missile launchers in western Iran, then paving the way toward Tehran and establishing aerial superiority over the capital.
Israel Defense Forces-tweet-1March2026-How-to achieve aerial superiority
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DAVID’S SLING
Mossad Commentary-tweet-2March2026-DAVID’S SLING
🚨 LAST MINUTE UPGRADE:
DAVID’S SLING
Just weeks before fighting with Iran escalated, Israel completed major upgrades to the David’s Sling missile defense system.
Officials say the enhancements significantly improved its ability to intercept complex ballistic and cruise missile threats.
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Mossad Commentary-tweet-2March2026-DAVID’S SLING
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ISRAEL UPGRADES IRON DOME WITH LASER DEFENSE
Mossad Commentary-tweet-3July2026-ISRAEL UPGRADES IRON DOME WITH LASER DEFENSE
🚨 ISRAEL UPGRADES IRON DOME WITH LASER DEFENSE
Israel has successfully integrated the 100kW Iron Beam laser into the Iron Dome air defense system following extensive testing.
⚡ The laser can intercept drones, rockets, and cruise missiles at near-zero cost per shot, with an almost unlimited magazine powered by electricity.
The upgrade is expected to dramatically reduce interception costs while strengthening Israel’s multi-layered air defense against future missile and drone attacks.
Mossad Commentary-tweet-3July2026-ISRAEL UPGRADES IRON DOME WITH LASER DEFENSE
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ISRAELI DEFENSE INDUSTRIES demonstration in Tehran
Dr. Eli David-tweet-1March2026-ISRAELI DEFENSE INDUSTRIES demonstration in Tehran
ISRAELI DEFENSE INDUSTRIES announcement:
TO ALL OUR CLIENTS WORLDWIDE
Following the decision of the French government to restrict our participaton at the paris Air Show – we have decied to transfer the demonstration to Tehran.
YOU ARE ALL WELCOME TO VIEW OUR PRODUCTS.
Zack Mydik-tweet-1March2026
Anyone else who wants to fck with us please take a number and we will be with you shortly
Dr. Eli David-tweet-1March2026-ISRAELI DEFENSE INDUSTRIES demonstration in Tehran
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The US’ Verdict on Israel’s Performance During “Epic Fury”
17April2026 5:42 am https://theettingerreport.com/the-us-verdict-on-israels-performance-during-epic-fury/
Ambassador (ret.) Yoram Ettinger, “Second Thought: a US-Israel Initiative”
April 17, 2026
*”Epic Fury” has documented an unprecedent military synergy and cooperation (personal, social and operational mutual-respect) between the US and Israel, with the US leveraging Israel’s unique capabilities, especially in the areas of intelligence, the air force and special operations in the face of the war against America, which erupted in 1979. Israel – more than any other ally – has acted as a unique force-multiplier for the US.
*Several US combat pilots – among them a few US Congressmen and Congressional staff – shared with me their high esteem of Israel’s Air Force (IAF) and its contribution to the US Air Force in the areas of Command-Control-Communications, out-of-the-box battle tactics, avionics and maintenance. They underscored the benefits derived from the frequent joint US-Israel exercises, which feature the daring and innovative maneuvers conducted by the exceptionally, intensely-experienced Israeli pilots, whose do-or-die state-of-mind is a derivative of Israel’s “narrow geographic waistline” and unique seven-front-threats.
*The highly intense use of combat aircraft during “Epic Fury” – in addition to Israel’s ongoing wars against Hezbollah, Hamas and Houthi terrorists in Lebanon, Gaza and Yemen and the pro-Ayatollah terrorists in Iraq – has highlighted the “Israeli Turnaround Time factor,” which has been a decisive force multiplier, yielding sustained high-volume strikes that has outpaced Iranian initiatives. This refers to the IAF’s exceptionally rapid aircraft servicing, rearming, and preparation between sorties – using fewer but seamlessly-choreographed ground crew personnel, including female technicians – which extend to 1,000-1,200 miles each way. The relentless attempt to minimize the Ayatollah’s missile launching capabilities, requires sorties, which involve exceptionally intense 34+ hour mission days. US combat pilots attest that the IAF operates at a pace that “shatters global standards, sometimes flying up to three daily strikes,” operating under a flying-or-eating (no sleep) policy during much of Epic Fury. The IAF managed to convert speed on the ground into more strikes in the air.
*US combat pilots emphasized the fact that the IAF offensive displayed 200 aircraft simultaneously in one night, hitting 500 targets 1,000-1,200 miles away, sometimes with no midair refueling (facilitated by the F-35’s innovative external fuel tanks, developed by the IAF and Lockheed-Martin), and returning without a single collision/loss.
*The IAF has revolutionized air force’s battle tactics also through the Israeli-upgraded F-35, which is equipped with sensor fusion, electronic warfare, and data-sharing capabilities, which allow other combat aircraft to hit targets without exposing themselves as much.
*According to the US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Dan Caine, “[The opening, preemptive air offensive] was a daylight strike based on a trigger event conducted by the Israeli Defense Forces, enabled by the US intelligence community…. [The Israeli operation was] impressive in size and scope, utilizing approximately 200 aircraft and conducting over 1,000 sorties by March 2… using American-made, Israeli-modified F-15, F-16, and F-35 fighters….”
*US intelligence specialists praised Israel’s rapid target identification (while in motion) and timely cueing for strikes; effective intelligence fusion across signals, imagery, cyber attacks, and human resources; good operational security and compartmentation that enabled coordinated U.S.–Israeli missions. They noted that the flow of Israeli intelligence during the 40-day conflict provided a level of regional insight equivalent to several U.S. intelligence agencies combined. This was particularly evident in the identification of over 7,000 critical targets, wiping out the Ayatollah’s air defenses and much of the Ayatollah’s ballistic missile and predator drones’ infrastructure.
The Bottom Line
The US-Israel relations constitute a mutually-beneficial two-way-street, where the US makes an annual $3.8bn investment in – rather than extending foreign aid to – Israel. This investment yields to the US tax payer an annual Return-on-Investment (R-o-I) well over 1,000%, which is the highest ever R-o-I on US government investments. Israel is a unique dollar and force multiplier, more than any other US ally.
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France turns on Israel, puts it’s own citizens at risk
Mossad Commentary-tweet-31March2026-France turns on Israel, puts it’s own citizens at risk
🚨 FRANCE TURNS ON ISRAEL, PUTS ITS OWN CITIZENS AT RISK
Israel has had enough of French stupidity.
After defense restrictions, exhibition bans, and backing an arms embargo at the UN, Jerusalem is now reportedly cutting off defense procurement from France.
All this comes at a time when countries around the world are lining up after seeing the effectiveness of Israeli defense systems.
France is moving in the opposite direction.
At the very moment Europe faces growing threats — from Russia externally and instability internally — Paris is choosing to distance itself from one of the few countries actively confronting those same dangers.
Instead of strengthening cooperation in defense and intelligence, it is creating distance.
That has consequences. Less on Israel, more on the safety and security of the French people.
Israel will not fund or rely on partners whose policies undermine its security while it is actively at war.
This marks more than a policy shift.
It signals a new phase in Israel’s relationship with parts of Europe.
A message not just to France, but to others:
Israel is not a doormat.
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Mossad Commentary-tweet-31March2026-France turns on Israel, puts it’s own citizens at risk
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IDF begins ground operation in Lebanon
IDF forces take up forward positions in Lebanese territory, aiming to provide additional layer of security for residents of northern Israel.
Yoni Kempinski / 3March2026, 9:25 AM (GMT+2) / https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/423289
IDF forces have crossed the border into Lebanon to take “forward offensive” positions in southern Lebanese territory.
The forces are operating in southern Lebanon and took control of multiple position in order to create an additional layer of security for residents of northern Israel.
“In parallel to IDF activity as part of Operation ‘Roaring Lion’, IDF soldiers are operating in southern Lebanon and are positioned at several points near the border area as part of an enhanced forward defense posture,” the IDF announced Tuesday morning.
“The IDF is working to create an additional layer of security for residents of northern Israel. The IDF is conducting targeted strikes against Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure in order to remove threats and prevent infiltration attempts into Israeli territory.
“The Hezbollah terrorist organization chose to attack Israel on behalf of the Iranian regime, and it will bear the consequences of its actions. The IDF will not allow harm to Israeli civilians, and will continue to act to defend the State of Israel and its citizens.”
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz commented, “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have authorized the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to advance and take control of additional strategic positions in Lebanon in order to prevent attacks on Israeli border communities.”
“The IDF continues to operate forcefully against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The terrorist organization is paying, and will continue to pay, a heavy price for firing at Israel.
“To prevent the possibility of direct fire targeting Israeli communities, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have authorized the IDF to advance and secure additional strategic areas in Lebanon, and from there to defend the border communities.
“We promised security for the communities of the Galilee, and that is what we will deliver,” he concluded.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Hezbollah terror group launched 15 rockets towards the Golan Heights and five to the Upper Galilee, as well as two UAVs which were intercepted over the Western Galilee.
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IDF Forward Defense Line in southern Lebanon
Mossad Commentary-tweet-19April2026-IDF Forward Defense Line in southern Lebanon
🚨 IDF reveals “Forward Defense Line” in southern Lebanon
The IDF announced it has established a Forward Defense Line in southern Lebanon, saying forces are operating beyond it to dismantle Hezbollah infrastructure and prevent threats to northern Israel.
According to the military:
• Five divisions, along with Israeli Navy forces, are operating in the area
• Operations include air and ground strikes against Hezbollah targets
• Recent activity targeted operatives approaching the “Yellow Line,” the zone marking IDF-controlled areas
The IDF says Hezbollah presence in these areas constitutes a ceasefire violation.
Lebanese media, however, reports Hezbollah views the strikes as a breach of the ceasefire, highlighting ongoing tensions despite truce efforts.
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Mossad Commentary-tweet-19April2026-IDF Forward Defense Line in southern Lebanon
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Lebanon government outlaws Hezbollah
Clans of Baalbek no Hezbollah
Lebanon government outlaws Hezbollah
Mossad Commentary-tweet-2March2026-Clans of Baalbek no Hezbollah
🚨 LEBANON: RAMP TO “HOSTING” HEZBOLLAH
The clans of Baalbek have issued a statement backing the Lebanese government’s position that sovereignty means no non-state weapons on Lebanese soil.
They expressed support for ending the use of Lebanon as a platform for foreign agendas.
For years, Hezbollah’s arms have defined Lebanon’s reality.
Now, voices inside the country are signaling there may be an offramp.
The question is whether Beirut will take it.
Mossad Commentary-tweet-3March2026-Lebanon government outlaws Hezbollah
Lebanon’s government says the decision to outlaw Hezbollah’s military activity and to disarm the group is final, and the armed forces have been authorized to execute that decision.
Mossad Commentary-tweet-2March2026-Clans of Baalbek no Hezbollah
Mossad Commentary-tweet-3March2026-Lebanon government outlaws Hezbollah
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The MOU correctly omits mention of FTO Hezbollah
Let Israel and Lebanon finally solve the problem, once and for all time, without interference from outsiders.
Leonard Grunstein
17June2026, 12:06 AM (GMT+3) https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/429154
The President of the United States and President of the Iranian Regime signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), on June 17, 2026.
The US and Iran are the only parties to the MOU. In this regard, it is important to recognize that the MOU does not explicitly mention the US designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) Hezbollah. The MOU does provide in the first numbered paragraph:
However, it does not go on to say that Israel and Lebanon, who are ostensibly at peace and in agreement to disarm and eliminate the threat of FTO Hezbollah to the sovereignty of Lebanon and Israel, can’t continue to do so. Indeed, president Trump has explicitly said Israel can defend itself against FTO Hezbollah aggression and cautioned Iran against becoming involved. In essence, the Iranian Regime has no business being in Lebanon, directly or indirectly
FTO Hezbollah is not a sovereign state, or party to the MOU; it is, in effect, a terrorist pox on Lebanon, the Middle East, including Israel, and the World, including the US, which must be excised to save everyone from this terrorist malignant blight. The fact that it is in anyway supported by the Iranian Regime (including by its own FTO IRGC), murdered Americans, Lebanese and Israelis, as well as others and is the primary actor in the illicit drug trade in Lebanon, which is a plague on the World, must not be forgotten. It’s all the more reason why Hezbollah is not a part of the MOU.
We must also be mindful of US Law, which expressly makes providing material support or resources to a FTO illegal (18 USC 2339B). This includes providing any ‘property, tangible or intangible, or service, including currency, monetary instruments or financial securities, financial services, lodging, training, expert advice or assistance…facilities, weapons, lethal substances, explosives, personnel…’(18 USC 2339A). The presence of FTO IRGC personnel in Lebanon and the desire of Lebanon to expel them is just another example of the seriousness of the problem and the renewed commitment of Lebanon to its resolution.
Any discussion of the fate of Hezbollah should be off the table in the Iran-US peace negotiations. It is wholly an internal and bilateral matter between Lebanon and Israel. The only important caveat is that the Iranian Regime must agree not to support FTO Hezbollah or any other terrorist organization and the remedy for violating its obligations must be extremely consequential.
It should be noted that even the US personnel involved in the Iran talks must also be wary. They are US citizens and absent an officially approved waiver by the Secretary of State, with the concurrence of the Attorney General, they might be exposed to unexpected liability if Iran continues to support FTO Hezbollah’s malign activities, under their watch. In this regard it is important to note, that FTO Hezbollah is the Iranian Regimes proxy and Iran is its primary funder, weapons supplier and strategic director. Indeed, respecting the territorial integrity of Lebanon, in essence, means that Iran is effectively responsible for keeping Hezbollah on a leash. In this regard, President Trump has expressly said that Iran will be held responsible for Hezbollah’s malign activities with severe consequences against Iran for any violation.
These are extremely sensitive matters and the reckoning is long in coming. Besides US Law there is also UNSC Resolution 1701 (2006), which required Hezbollah to disarm and not be re-armed. It also provided for the Lebanese Army and UNIFIL to patrol South Lebanon to assure no reoccurrence of the July 12, 2006 Hezbollah attack against Israel. No matter how well intentioned some of the proponents of the Resolution may have been, its goals were never achieved in practice. It proved to be just another figurative abortion fathered by an inept UN and government of Lebanon, which lacked the will and determination to deliver the intended result. The presence of a heavily armed Hezbollah entrenched in tunnels and strong points in South Lebanon and its firing of thousand of missiles, rockets and drones against Israel on October 8, 2023 and since, are demonstrable evidence of the abject failure to enforce the Resolution.
Let Israel and Lebanon finally solve the problem, once and for all time, without interference from outsiders. The Iranian Regime must be affirmatively barred from providing any aid or comfort to FTO Hezbollah, the avowed enemy of the US, Israel and Lebanon.
FTO Hezbollah is a murderous foe of the US and existential threat to Lebanon and Israel. Iran must be absolutely barred from providing any support, directly or indirectly, to FTO Hezbollah and playing any role in Lebanon. Iran’s sovereign territory is not threatened by what happens in Lebanon and it is frankly none of Iran’s business. The Iranian Regime’s support of Hezbollah is clearly a manifestation of it aggressive posture towards the US, Israel and Lebanon.
The US can and should play a vital role in brokering a final peace agreement between Lebanon and Israel. It should also publicly support their collective efforts utterly to defeat, totally disarm and dissolve FTO Hezbollah; so that Hezbollah and its cohorts can never prey on Americans, Lebanese, Israelis or anyone else. If the terrorist Iranian Regime demurs, then they have demonstrated yet again that they are not genuinely interested in bona fide peace. Whatever the case, the Iranian Regime cannot be allowed to dictate the US’ relationship with its faithful and stalwart allies, like Israel, nor how it deals with FTO’s. The stakes are high and illusions of peace are no substitute for real peace.
May G-d bless the US and Israel and may the scourge of evil be totally defeated and the blessings of peace prevail.
Leonard Grunstein, a retired attorney and banker, founded and served as Chairman of Metropolitan National Bank and then Israel Discount Bank of NY. He also founded Project Ezrah and serves on the Board of Revel at Yeshiva University and the AIPAC National Council. He has published articles in the Banking Law Journal, Real Estate Finance Journal and other fine publications.
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THE LARGEST MILITARY FLYOVER IN IDF HISTORY
Israel Defense Forces-tweet-28February2026-THE LARGEST MILITARY FLYOVER IN IDF HISTORY
🛩️THE LARGEST MILITARY FLYOVER IN IDF HISTORY:
~200 IAF jets completed a broad strike against the missile array and the aerial defense systems of the IRGC in western and central Iran.
500+ targets hit, including aerial defense systems & missile launchers in several locations throughout Iran simultaneously.
Conducted following precise planning with excellent intelligence, while synchronizing hundreds of fighter jets, the strikes allowed the expansion of the IAF’s aerial superiority over Iranian air space.
Israel Defense Forces-tweet-28February2026-THE LARGEST MILITARY FLYOVER IN IDF HISTORY
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Iranian lies
U.S. Central Command-tweet-28February2026-Iranian lies
🚫The Iranian regime claims to have killed 50 U.S. service members. LIE.
✅There have been no reported U.S. casualties.
🚫The IRGC claims that a U.S. Navy ship was struck by missiles. LIE.
✅No U.S. Navy ship has been struck. The Armada is fully operational.
🚫The Iranian regime is claiming severe damage at multiple U.S. bases. LIE.
✅Damage to U.S. installations was minimal and has not impacted operations.
U.S. Central Command-tweet-28February2026-Iranian lies
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Iranian Neighborliness IRAN’S REGIONAL DIPLOMACY
Mossad Commentary-tweet-13March2026-IRAN’S REGIONAL DIPLOMACY
💥 IRAN’S REGIONAL DIPLOMACY 💥
Distribution of 3,403 missiles and drones across the Middle East:
🇦🇪 UAE — 1,737 (51%)
🇰🇼 Kuwait — 332 (9.8%)
🇮🇱 Israel — 330 (9.7%)
🇴🇲 Oman — 297 (8.7%)
🇧🇭 Bahrain — 273 (8%)
🇶🇦 Qatar — 164 (4.8%)
🇯🇴 Jordan — 119 (3.5%)
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia — 86 (2.5%)
🇮🇶 Iraq — 60 (1.8%)
Weapons used:
🚀 1,209 ballistic missiles
🛸 2,194 drones
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Mossad Commentary-tweet-13March2026-IRAN’S REGIONAL DIPLOMACY
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Security official: Half of the Missiles from Iran had cluster warheads
A security source reveals that about half of the missiles launched from Iran since the beginning of the war had a cluster warhead.
Israel National News / Published: 10March2026, 5:01 PM (GMT+2) / https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/423698
remains of an Iranian missile-Spokesperson
A security official revealed that about half of the missiles launched from Iran since the beginning of the war carried a cluster-type warhead.
According to the official, these warheads are particularly dangerous. “This is a bomb that can cause extensive damage. Following the safety instructions is critical. It is not hundreds of kilograms of explosives concentrated in one place, but rather spreads across an area of roughly 10 kilometers, which requires a great deal of responsibility from civilians. It kills. Interception debris from regular missiles as well as from large missiles is lethal,” the official said.
Military sources noted that the launches from Iran in recent days have been aimed at population centers, military bases, and national infrastructure, and that the regime in Tehran seeks to harm as many civilians as possible.
According to them, at the moment, it does not appear that Hezbollah and Iran are scheduling and coordinating their attacks against Israel. They noted that the assessments are that Iran is firing small volleys – and would have been interested in coordinating larger, coordinated volleys from several locations across the country at the same time – but is not succeeding in doing so.
Iran uses Cluster Bombs to target Civilians
See, up-close, the cluster munitions used against Israel
Mossad Commentary-tweet-13March2026-luster munitions used against Israel
🎥 WATCH: See, up-close, the cluster munitions used against Israel.
Stay connected, follow @MOSSADil.
Mossad Commentary-tweet-13March2026-luster munitions used against Israel
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Missile attack on Beit Shemesh killed 9 civilians including 4 children
The Mossad: Satirical and Awesome-tweet-10March2026-Missile attack on Beit Shemesh killed 9
The photograph you shared is of a missile attack that killed 9 civilians including 4 children in Beit Shemesh.
Your laughter is noted.
The Mossad Satirical and Awesome-tweet-10March2026-Missile attack on Beit Shemesh killed 9
10March2026-Missile attack on Beit Shemesh killed 9
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7June2026-Hospitals to move operations to underground protected facilities and prepare for full emergency status
Mossad Commentary-tweet-7June2026-hospitals prepare for full emergency status
Israel’s Health Ministry has ordered hospitals nationwide to move operations to underground protected facilities and prepare for full emergency status following renewed Iranian missile attacks. Non-sheltered clinics will remain closed.
Mossad Commentary-tweet-7June2026-hospitals prepare for full emergency status
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U.S. Embassy Jerusalem-7June2026-Security Alert
U.S. Embassy Jerusalem-tweet-7June2026-Security Alert
Security Alert: As a result of the current security situation in Israel, including Home Front Command alerts for multiple regions, the U.S. Embassy has directed all U.S. government employees and their family members to shelter in place, and be prepared to move to a protected shelter in the event of a red alert, until further notice.
Operating Status: The U.S. Embassy Jerusalem and Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv consular sections are closed on Monday, June 8. In the event of missile, rocket fire, or hostile aircraft intrusion, a “red alert” siren may be activated. Follow the instructions from local authorities and the Israeli Home Front Command and seek shelter immediately. https://oref.org.il/eng
Actions to Take: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety and security updates from the U.S. Embassy. https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step
.
Read the full message here: https://il.usembassy.gov/security-alert
U.S. Embassy Jerusalem-tweet-7June2026-Security Alert
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