Weather: 89° Thunderstorms with locally heavy downpours in the afternoon. Storms may contain strong gusty winds  Chance of rain 100%.

Today 26 Av 25th Yahrzeit of Rav Avrohom Yaakov Pam ZT'L:

- Search Intensifies for frum Israeli Mother and Daughter Missing in Vienna: Israeli authorities are searching for Mali and Liel Yahalomi, a mother and daughter who lost contact while traveling in Vienna on 7 August. They were scheduled to fly from Prague to Israel tonight but had not checked in, according to an Israeli official.

- Trump: Today, at my direction, Dr. Mehmet Oz announced that Medicaid will NO LONGER fund gender transition surgeries and hormones for minors. We are not going to pay for our innocent children to undergo these barbaric surgeries and practices, which result in unthinkable and irreversible harm to their young bodies. Thanks to our strong position and pressure on this issue over the past year and a half, dozens of U.S. hospitals have already ended this so-called “gender-affirming care,” and we expect many more to follow. Just think about all of the young, innocent, and perhaps confused children who will be spared! While the Dumocrat Party wants your kids to be able to chop off their reproductive organs before they are old enough to vote, President Donald J. Trump (ME!) and the Republican Party say that is ABSURD, and we will protect America’s children. Please remember this when you are casting your vote in the Midterm Elections in November. Thank you for your attention to this very important matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Jackson township meeting tonight 6:30 pm large crowd expected.

- Today Lakewood Police  Dept national night out at Blueclaws stadium 4pm -8pm

- No winner in Powerball lottery Jackpot rises to $975 million drawing tomorrow night 

- Manchester Township residents packed Monday’s council meeting to demand a ban on AI/data centers, after concerns spread that a large “hyperscale” facility could be developed near the Renaissance community. The council did not have a data-center proposal on Monday’s agenda, and officials said there is currently no active application for one. However, a developer is reportedly considering using part of an already-approved warehouse development for data-center purposes.

- While some routes have not yet been picked up or finalized with LSTA, parents have already been charged for busing

- Bein hazmanim buses and luggage trucks arriving  back from Camps the boys are back , tomorrow is Erev Rosh Chodesh Elul. Some yeshivos will begin the zman Thursday night Rosh chodesh

- Agudas Yisrael Challenges Election Monitoring Decision: Agudat Yisrael petitioned the Central Elections Committee to reconsider a decision preventing the monitoring of voting. The party argued that the measure would reduce voter turnout and disputed Judge Noam Sohlberg’s privacy concerns.

- Lakewood planning board meeting tonight watch livestream Here on the agenda 1244 & 1250 RidgePreliminary and Final Major Site Plan for a school 

Brook Road Block 204, Lot 1 Minor Subdivision to create three lots

- Trump on the Israel lobby: "The biggest change I've seen over the last 10, 15 years is what's happened to Israel and Jewish people. They had a very powerful lobby. You go back 20, 25 years ago, they had the most powerful lobby in Washington. Now everyone is, you know, just large numbers have--if you look at the House, it's the Democrats, but you look at the Democrats in the House. Look at guys like Schumer. He's become virtually a Palestinian. It's pretty amazing, actually. I've never seen anything like it.

- BDE: Petirah of  Rav Tzvi Zev Berger ZT"L Sanz Klausenberger Dayan in BP,  who didnt wake up today while away in Switzerland at the age of 43. He was known for his clarity in Torahband delivering shiurim. Levaya details TBA.

- Trump: The NYC Pied-a-Terre Tax is costing New York City and State a fortune in that the money, eventually to be gotten, is very little compared to to the TAXES PAID by the tens of thousands of people who are fleeing the City, never to return. Florida, Texas, and numerous other States, are making an absolute fortune! This dangerous political “experiment” in New York will destroy what was once a great City and State. It is pure Amateur Hour, and it’s hard, as President of the United States of America, to sit back and watch it happen, especially to a place I once loved. Financial, and then Social, RUIN, is a 100% certainty - And then the Radical Left Jihadists charge Congestion Pricing on top of everything else. This doesn’t work in America, and must be stopped, NOW! I am looking to see if the Federal Government has any legal right to avert this disaster, before it is too late, for the millions of people who cherish New York and want to see it thrive, as opposed to becoming a filthy, crime ridden, decrepit place of mockery and scorn. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! President DJT

- Trump Announces Robert Gilman’s Release from Russia: US President Donald Trump announced that 32-year-old former Marine Robert Gilman, imprisoned in Russia since 2022, had been released on humanitarian grounds following talks with Vladimir Putin. Trump stressed that no prisoner exchange took place

- IDF Fires 3 Shells Toward Syrian Village: Arab and Syrian media reported that the IDF fired 3 shells at agricultural land near the village of Al-Hamidiyah in northern rural Quneitra..

- Iran Sets Regional Conditions for Reopening Strait of Hormuz: Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed unless the US changed its conduct, accepted Iran’s conditions, released frozen Iranian funds, and ended wars across the region, including in Lebanon and Gaza. He added that any Iran-Oman agreement on passage through the strait would be separate from the closure issue.

- Delta airlines will resume flights from New York to Israel on September 7.

Three killed in Houthi attack on cargo ship in Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Israel said to tell US it will keep targeting Oct. 7 terrorists as Gaza disarmament stalls

- Trump on Iran: We have three strategies. Do what we’re doing now--just bop along and look how bad they’re doing, because they’ve got 300% inflation. Their currency has almost no value. They’re not paying their soldiers. Their soldiers are leaving. So just keep that going because that’s not sustainable. Hit them really, really hard, or--really, the third is just beat them economically. But we’re doing that anyway. That’s sort of a part of the first. So economically, they are a mess. They can’t borrow money. We control their money, what they had, which is a lot. They had a lot, and we have total control of it. I’m their banker. I am their banker.

- Former Mossad director Yossi Cohen says he visited Iran’s Fordo uranium enrichment facility several times in the past, without saying when the visits were. “Its bombing by the Americans was the fulfillment of all my dreams,”.Cohen also states “that 60% enriched uranium is still far from a bomb,” 

- Lebanese security source: "The IDF has begun a secret operation to take over the Ali Taher ridge. The situation of Hezbollah and Revolutionary Guard terrorists is bad, because the IDF controls the ridge and the supply routes; its fall may be a matter of time." Hezbollah, on the other hand, is working to dig tunnels and underground passages along the ridge to create alternative supply lines.

- Trump on the Strait of Hormuz: “It's open now. The only one that has control of the Strait is the US Navy. Our blockade is a steel wall. We let people in who we want to let in. They're coming in and going out.

- Washington Post: Trump was smuggled out of Turkey in a deception operation at the end of a NATO summit in Turkey, due to an Iranian assassination threat. An Iranian assassination threat led to a secret presidential rescue from Turkey last month, when Trump was secretly transferred from the veteran presidential plane, the Boeing 747 Air Force One, to a C-32A (the Boeing 757 in the picture). This was while the White House publicly claimed that he remained on Air Force One. According to the report, Trump left his 747 via an airport catering truck and boarded the C-32A, which flew to Britain under the call sign "Reach 18." The veteran presidential plane, carrying journalists and staff who thought Trump was on board, served as bait and continued to Britain under the call sign AF1.

A video supposedly shows the smuggling operation. Food trucks (marked with white squares) are parked under the original (not the Qatari) Air Force One.  The journalists climb the stairs at the back, but shortly afterward one of the trucks transfers Trump to the replacement plane (C-32A), which is parked at the back. It is also marked in the video.  Until the new release, the thought was that Trump was transferred to the UK on the old Air Force One, and there he transferred to the Qatari plane.

Chasunas:

Azoolay  - Bassala Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Shachnow - Levenson Ateres Esther 

Wiesel -Yufra Ateres  Blima

Abramson  - Mendlowitz Ateres Reva 

Ritz - Rosenman Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Jonas  - Glustein Fountain Ballroom 

Norman - Twersky Ne'emas Hachaim

Kaplan - Steinharter  Bais Faiga

LPD Traffic Alert: Martin Luther King Dr. will be closed from Lois Ln. to Wynatt St. for planned NJNG construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

 Weather: High 93° Mostly sunny early then increasing clouds with some scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. Chance of rain 40%

- NIH director Bhattacharya BLASTS Fauci.

Jay Bhattacharya accused Anthony Fauci of failing to be transparent about his private concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy. Bhattacharya says Fauci owed the American public greater transparency. The controversy is now fueling renewed questions about Fauci’s handling of vaccine safety concerns and public transparency during the pandemic.

- Parents can now SUE states if they don't allow their children to opt out of vaccines by using religion exemptions.

- President Trump with RFK Jr. at his side establishes a new US vaccine schedule that decreases the number of jabs from 72 to 11 and spreads them out over multiple visits, rather than pumping the child all at once. Effective immediately, the Trump administration will recognize Gold Standard childhood vaccine recommendations for just 11 core vaccines for young children. "In many cases, we were requiring 72 jabs for our beautiful, healthy, lovely, delicate little children.""Effective immediately, my administration is recognizing gold standard childhood vaccine recommendations for only 11 core vaccinations against the most serious and dangerous diseases

- In a 6-1 decision, the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled that municipality is not required to specify the purpose for seizing property through eminent domain, and can simply acquire property for the "public good." The case involved an attempt by Seaside Park Borough to seize a shuttered motel which was previously condemned and saw nearly 1,000 police-related calls to the property over a six year period, for all sorts of complaints including assaults, dead bodies, drug overdoses and sales, noise complaints, stolen vehicles, criminal mischief, and a counterfeit money operation.(Onejersey)

- Dr. Fauci privately warned of miscarriage risk linked to COVID vaccine while publicly claiming no issues, newly released texts show. Nypost

- A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for all 21 New Jersey counties through Monday evening, with the potential for wind gusts up to 75 mph, heavy downpours and hail.“Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms possible, with damaging winds being the primary threat,” the National Weather Service said Monday afternoon. “Brief heavy downpours, frequent lightning, and hail are also possible.”

- Colombia Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 111: Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella said 111 people were killed, 87 injured and 61 buildings collapsed. He said rescuing earthquake victims was the top priority.

- Satmar Rebbe  Rav Zalman Leib Teitelbaum, condemned Orthodox attacks against New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani “We must remember that we are in Galis,“To denounce the mayor and brand him an antisemite constitutes a true provocation against the nations.

- NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill announced a plan last week to bring together educators, families, lawmakers and advocates to reform one of New Jersey’s most controversial systems the school funding formula. The complex formula  which calculates how much state funding each of the state’s more than 600 school districts get each year  will be rewritten to be more predictable, transparent and accountable, according to the state Department of Education.

- Powerball lottery jackpot $905 million drawing tonight 

- A 7.4 magnitude earthquake has been reported in columbia. Significant damage to buildings and numerous injuries have already been announced, with the exact scale of the damage still being clarified. Reports of 20 dead with death toll rising.

- JCP&L proposed rate hike would raise monthly bills over $14 in 2028 to pay for storm repairs and electric system upgrades and costs.

- Lakewood Police night out against crime will take place tomorrow Tuesday August 11 at Blue Claws stadium 4pm -8pm

- Poll: Likud Strengthens, but Netanyahu Bloc Still Short of Knesset Majority

- Airlines such as United Airlines, KLM, and Lufthansa plan to resume and expand their routes to Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport between August and September. Additionally, the Israeli airline Israir is seeking to launch a new route to New York.

- Lakewood planning board meeting tomorrow on the agenda Ridge Avenue RE HOLDCO, LLC 1244 & 1250 Ridge Avenue Block 189.03, Lots 169 & 170 Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan for a school00

- Report: The leaders of Degel HaTorah, Rav Dov Landau and  Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, have recently been discussing the possibility of removing the party’s two veteran Knesset members, chairman Moshe Gafni and MK Uri Maklev. This comes amid a feeling within the ultra-Orthodox community that, after decades in office, the two have exhausted their ability to exert influence particularly in light of the resounding failure to secure an exemption from military service for yeshiva students Haaretz

- A 125-unit apartment complex in Ocean County has sold for $33.75 million in an off-market transaction arranged by The Kislak Co.

The Hope’s Crossing apartment complex was built in 1994 and consists of 14 two-story buildings spread across 12.6 acres on Vans Way in Toms River. The units are primarily two- and three-bedroom apartments.

- Trump announces the U.S. will seek compensation from Iran for Americans harmed by Iran & its proxies.

Trump: I see that Representatives of the Islamic Republic of Iran are asking for compensation for the damage done to them during the last five month Military Conflict (started because, THEY WILL NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON), even though it was never mentioned in any of our negotiations or meetings! But it is an interesting idea because now I am likewise demanding compensation from Iran, for all of the people that they have killed and gravely wounded with their roadside bombs and many conflicts, for which they are famous, as led initially by General Soleimani, including the families of those killed on the USS Cole, and thousands of others killed in combat. Additionally, compensation should be paid to the families of the hundreds of thousands of innocent protestors that Iran has killed over the last 50 years, not to mention the 52,000 that have been killed in the last five months. I have instructed my representatives to put this firmly into any, and all, future negotiations. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Officials in one Middle Eastern country advised another regional state to pursue an agreement with Israel as a tactical move while preparing for a broader future confrontation, Israel’s Kan public broadcaster reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the matter. According to the report, the officials suggested reaching an agreement in order to lower Israel’s guard, with the intention of violating it later as preparations for war continued. Kan said military censorship prevented it from identifying the countries involved.

- President Trump told Axios the U.S. is only "semi-negotiating" with Iran and signaled he would allow economic pressure to pile on Tehran. Iran set out new demands for reopening the Strait of Hormuz that include compensating Iran for war damage.

- Senior Israeli official - There is no way we will agree to Qatar and Turkey monitoring our conduct in the Gaza Strip.

 - Iranian TV: "The Strait of Hormuz will not be opened following a decision or tweet by the US President. The management and control of this waterway is in the hands of Iran, and any party that tries to bypass this will be considered a legitimate target

- Iran attacked a tanker last night as it passed through the southern Omani waterway, where the US is escorting vessels. The tanker is on fire

- Tehran says Iranians have shown “they are professional chess players” in response to remarks by US President Donald Trump comparing his dealings with Iran to the board game. Trump yesterday signaled he was prepared to let economic pressure mount against Iran, apparently backing away from more military strikes after Tehran issued a list of demands for opening the Strait of Hormuz. “Lights out or lights on, Iranians showed they are professional chess players,” Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei says.

- The commander of an Israeli-backed militia fighting Hamas in the southern Gaza Strip, tells The Times of Israel that Israel should reject the implementation of the second-stage ceasefire agreement, because Hamas will never hand over its weapons.“Hamas knows that if it hands over its weapons, it will no longer be in power.”

Chasunas:

Feldman - Krupnik

Gartenhouse - Rosenbaum Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Hammer Ateres Chaim Elazar

Cohen - Salem Fountain Ballroom 

Kornblau - Kaplan Ateres Reva 

Kravitz Bais Faiga

Weather:  High 92° Sunshine and a few afternoon clouds. Hot

- Trump: Black and Brown Voters don’t want Communism or Socialism — Not surprisingly, they are flocking to the Republican Party! They remember that Abraham Lincoln was a Republican! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- NORAD fighter jets were scrambled in the last few minutes following the intrusion of two uncrewed aerial vehicles into the restricted airspace over Bedminster, New Jersey, where PresidentTrump's private golf club is located - which he is expected to arrive at today.

- Bein Hazmanim: Several local and county parks have recently upgraded their playground areas with new, fun equipment for kids and families. Among them are Ocean County Park in Lakewood and  Patriots Park in Jackson, along with other parks throughout the area. The upgrades include modern climbing structures, slides, swings, sensory features and other equipment designed to make the playgrounds more exciting, accessible and family-friendly

- Powerball lottery jackpot now at $905 Million next Drawing Monday noght.

- WNBA Commissioner announces the league is meeting to review what a woman is, after multiple former NBA stars announced plans to join the league.

- New York City law enforcement officials are preparing for an extensive security operation ahead of Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu’s visit to the United Nations next month, with police sources arguing that Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s repeated criticism of the Israeli leader has heightened tensions and increased potential risks for officers and the public, the New York Post reports.

-BDE: A 16 Year old bochur was killed in a rappelling accident at the Keshet cave in the western Galil region 

- BDE: Tragedy in Jordan River:12-year-old Elchanan Karni z״l, a talmid at a Breslov Talmud Torah in Modi’in Illit, tragically drowned in the Jordan River after falling from a boat. Rescue teams conducted a search before locating him, but he was found without signs of life. 

- Chabad Takes Leadership Role at Historic Park East Synagogue Chabad of the Upper East Side and the historic Park East Synagogue announced Friday a broad new partnership that will bring Chabad’s rabbinic leadership and a number of its growing programs into the 136-year-old congregation, marking a significant new chapter for Jewish life on the Upper East Side. Beginning this Rosh Hashana, Rabbi Ben-Tzion Krasnianski, who has led Chabad of the Upper East Side for 35 years, will serve as Associate Rabbi of Park East Synagogue alongside its longtime Senior Rabbi, Rabbi Arthur Schneier. Anash news

- The New York police charged a New York City man with reckless endangerment in the death of two passengers, including an infant, who died after a boat capsized off the coast of Liberty Island late Saturday night, according to the Department's public information unit.night

The tune the Satmar rebbe wouldsing while he learnt Gemara.

- Wall Street Journal Report from US Officials: Trump is considering declaring “Victory" in the war with Iran even without a nuclear deal.

- Trump has privately told senior aides he may be willing to end the Iran war without a nuclear deal if Tehran fully reopens the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s sweeping new demands, however, are complicating his search for an exit. - WSJ

- Netanyahu rejects a 15-point plan for Gaza by Trump's Board of Peace, says IDF will not make "any withdrawal" from Palestinian territory until Hamas fully disarms, and warns as long as he is PM there will be no Palestinian state in Gaza or the West Bank

- Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi: "As of now, we have NO negotiations with the US. Yes, there are message exchanges through intermediaries. This is not called negotiations, but message exchanges. The intermediaries continue their efforts to recreate the conditions and groundwork for resuming negotiations"

- The Pentagon is pressuring the defense industries to accelerate the pace of weapons production, according to a report in The Washington Post. U.S. Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg addressed heads of the defense industry this week, demanding they submit plans within 21 days to increase production and significantly shorten delivery times for critical weapon systems. "We must dramatically accelerate the timelines; development cycles lasting years are not acceptable

- Tonight marks the 47th yartzeit of the Satmar Rebbe ZTL thousands expected to visit the tziyon in Monroe.

- Strong thunderstorms and gusty winds caused scattered power outages across the state on Shabbos, with more than 5,000 homes and businesses without electricity by 8 p.m.North and Central Jersey: Downed trees and power lines were reported in areas including South Plainfield, Newark and surrounding communities, while storms also affected parts of Essex, Union, Bergen, Passaic and Middlesex counties.

- Todd Blanche was confirmed as Attorney General by a vote of 50-49.

- Former President Biden's son Hunter: The cancer has spread to my dad's bones

- Giyus: Rav Yigal Rosen R"Y of Ohr Yisroel was asked if the situation with gezeiras giyus will get better he reapondes Under normal circumstances, there is no course of action, and things will get worse. And don’t let anyone tell you stories about a course of action that will solve this problem. What you should do, however, is prepare yourselves for the coming of Moshiach Tzidkeinu.

- Prowlers try the doors of many houses this past Friday night. Make sure your doors cars are always locked. Submitted.

- Road crews spent the weekend paving several streets in the Pine St area in Lakewood, hopefully bringing an end to the construction work that has caused traffic and delays for motorists

- JCP&L is proposing an 8.8% electric bill increase starting in January 2028 if approved. For a typical customer paying $162/month, that’s about $14 more per month. The proposal still needs approval from the NJ Board of Public Utilities

- For the 5th shabbos in a row Yidden  demonstrated shabbos morning in Yerushalayim in front of a café on Agripas street that remains open on shabbos. Police kept them away from the store. New reports say the establishment is owned by Jews for J. With a limited police presence secular Israelis attacked the protesters.

- The Friday crash in Ocean County that shut down a large portion of the Garden State Parkway was fatal, claiming the life of a New York woman, New Jersey State Police told NJ.com. At 3 p.m. Friday, a Toyota sedan driven by Johan Mendez, 26, of New York, veered off the road at milepost 75.8 in Lacey Township and hit the left guardrail, state police said. The Toyota, carrying four passengers, reentered the road and collided with a Hyundai sedan, ejecting its back-seat passengers.

- BDE: Hayeled Shalom Saginer A"H, 4 year old grandson grandson of Breslov mashpia Rabbi Shalom Arush, drowned in a pool during a family vacation in Mexico.

- A suspicious incident occurred Friday night at the Lomdei Torah Shul on Zulti Street in Ramat Shlomo, Yerushalayim. Mispallelim noticed a man acting suspiciously while dressed in a black suit and frum style hat. His unusual manner of wearing the hat raised concerns, and police were called to the scene. According to reports, police determined that the individual was an Arab man who had entered the shul dressed as a frum Yid, allegedly with plans to steal.

- According to Israel’s Channel 13, the Israel Defense Force is preparing for the possibility of resuming independent strikes against Iran without the approval or support of the United States.

- Hezbollah launched a drone towards our forces - no casualties

- Iranian president threatens to resign if his country does not sign an agreement, as he claims the economic situation in the country is catastrophic.

- As of Aug. 8, CENTCOM redirected 53 commercial vessels, disabled 2, and boarded 2. The U.S. military has also permitted more than 30 ships to pass through the blockade for humanitarian aid.

- Financial Times: The US blockade on Iran is highly effective: Since July 31, no oil exports have been observed from Kharg Island – no tankers have loaded oil from the island for over a week. The report is based on satellite image analysis and tracking of ship movements in the area.

- Tehran issues drastic new demands for deal to reopen Hormuz, says US must ‘correct its behavior

- CNN: The chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, has been trying to lead a quiet move in recent weeks to find a way out of the war in Iran. Kaine made it clear in closed conversations with Trump's close advisers that Washington must find a way to end the confrontation with Tehran - as the military options for escalating the conflict could "boomerang back"

 J.D. Vance addressed the possibility of reaching a deal with Iran in an interview with Fox News: They are hurt and want it to end, the question is can they give us what we need. That still needs to be determined, but there has been progress recently

 שֶׁתְּחַדֵּשׁ עָלֵינוּ אֶת הַחֹדֶשׁ הַזֶּה לְטוֹבָה וְלִבְרָכָה, וְתִתֶּן לָנוּ חַיִּים אֲרוּכִים, חַיִּים שֶׁל שָׁלוֹם

Friday, August 7, 2026 / כ"ד אב תשפ"ו ערב שבת פרשת ראה  

Candle lighting 7:45 pm                                          

Shkiah/sunset 8:03 pm

- Rosh chodesh Elul is Thursday & Friday

- The molad will be Thursday morning, 15 minutes after 8:00 am

Weather Shabbos day 91° mostly sunny A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Heat index values as high as 101.  Chance of rain is 20%

               הפטרת פרשת ראה - עניה סערה לא נוחמה                   

                                                                 הסגולוה המיוחדות בשבת הקרובה, שבת מברכין חודש אלול

רבי אהרן מקרלין כתב במכתב לבנו כי "היות ואין מברכים את חודש תשרי בשבת שלפני תחילת  החודש, יש לכוון בברכת חודש אלול גם על חודש תשרי" רבי אלימלך בידרמן שליט"א כותב על כך: "ולפי זה, חיל ורעדה  יאחזון, ביודעם כי הנה עתה מברכין את ראש חודש תשרי – ראש השנה שהוא המשפיע לכל השנה הבאה, ונמצא שבברכת חודש זה נכלל כל שנת תשפ'ה וכל אשר יתרחש בה

"ידועים דבריו של רבי ישראל מסלנט: "מלפנים כאשר ידעתי – כל איש אחזו פלצות מקול הקורא קדוש אלול'"

(אור ישראל איגרת יד)

 Sbabbos Medleys

shabbos with Meshulem Zusha

Friday, August 7, 2026 / כ״ד אב תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת ראה מברכים חודש אלול 

Candle lighting 7:45pm

Shkiah 8:03pm

Weather: 92° Sunny  A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Heat index values as high as 101. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain is 20%.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Chance of rain is 50%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Shabbos day 91° mostly sunny A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Heat index values as high as 101.  Chance of rain is 20%.

Rosh chodesh Elul is Thursday & Friday 

- Governor Mikie Sherrill: 

Every mom and baby deserves access to the care and support they need to thrive.

My Administration is expanding our nurse home visitation program to all 21 counties – putting New Jersey on track to become the first state in the nation to offer universal, free nurse home visits and helping more families get a healthy start

- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced that the state Division on Civil Rights has opened an investigation into Delaney Hall, the ICE detention facility in Newark, which is owned and operated by The GEO Group, Inc.  The investigation will focus on whether any action or inaction by GEO Group employees violated the civil rights of people detained at the facility, following several reports of recent deaths.

-  Chabad Takes Leadership Role at Historic Park East Synagogue

Chabad of the Upper East Side and the historic Park East Synagogue announced Friday a broad new partnership that will bring Chabad’s rabbinic leadership and a number of its growing programs into the 136-year-old congregation, marking a significant new chapter for Jewish life on the Upper East Side.

Beginning this Rosh Hashana, Rabbi Ben-Tzion Krasnianski, who has led Chabad of the Upper East Side for 35 years, will serve as Associate Rabbi of Park East Synagogue alongside its longtime Senior Rabbi, Rabbi Arthur Schneier

 Awash news.

- The Justice Department is appealing the new ruling against President Trump’s White House ballroom project, escalating the legal fight just hours after a federal appeals court sided against the administration.

- A federal Appeals court has just ordered President Trump STOP all construction on the White House ballroom before he gets Congressional approval

- The Skulen rebbe shlita of Lakewood will be spending shabbos in Yerushalayim for a family simcha and the birth of a einikela kiddush will take place at the Skuken BM in Yerushalayim.

- Again, road closures and construction in Lakewood around Pine Street and Cedarbridgehave created unnecessary gridlock. Drivers were trapped on streets that suddenly closed, with no sensible detours and little to no notice. This ongoing lack of planning is hurting residents' quality of life. Township officials are AWOL.

- United Airlines is expected to restart service to Israel on September 8 with two daily flights between Newark and Tel Aviv

- For the 3rd shabbos in a row Several Yerushalayim kehillos, including Perushim, Breslov, and Zichron Moshe, have announced a joint Shabbos protest against Shabbos desecration. The hafgana is scheduled for Shabbos at 10:30 a.m. outside a coffee shop on Rechov Agripas that is operating on Shabbos

- Powerball lottery Estimated Jackpot $856 Million drawing motzei shabbos 

- There's no Yated Neeman  or Lakewood shopper newspaper this week publication will resume next week

- BDE: Tragedy in Yerushalayim mizrachi Singer and paytan Avishai Levy Z"L, 46, was killed Friday after his vehicle rolled backward and pinned him against a pole on Adoniyahu HaKohen Street. According to initial reports, he had exited the vehicle to help unload passengers' belongings when it began rolling. Magen David Adom crews performed CPR and transported him to Hadassa Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Police are investigating the circumstances of the accident.

- The director of the Freehold borough’s public library was fired Wednesday night for what the Board of Trustees alleged was her failure to address employee safety and security concerns before and after a shooting at the facility on April 30. APP

Giyus: Video Satmar billionaire  meets the Gerrer Rebbbe to discuss petitioning ICC against draft dodger arrests by Israeli military.

- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Iran deal: We have them by the throat. They are dealing with 150%-180% food inflation, and they can't pay their soldiers. I think very soon, maybe even today or tomorrow, we will see an agreement, a ceasefire for 30 to 60 days, and the Strait of Hormuz will be opened

- United Airlines is expected to restart service to Israel on September 8 with two daily flights between Newark and Tel Aviv

- Multiple sources inside Iran confirm that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been rushed to the hospital and is in critical condition. -C14

- Trump, on a deal with Iran: I think the war will be over very soon. I don't think they can go on much longer. I'm involved in negotiations with Iran. We're making good progress. There may be a deal soon.

- A defense pact has been signed in Mecca between Turkey, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the countries say in a joint statement.

- WSJ: Trump is furious about media reports on the US arms crisis and frustrated by it, and has ordered an investigation to identify the leaker. According to the reports, Trump was aware of the crisis danger on the eve of the war and of the stockpile situation during the war and was not surprised by the situation, but was angry that the information was revealed precisely at a turning point in the war, and at a time when he is seeking to project strength toward Iran.

 - The Saudi-led coalition announced that 11 civilians were injured in a Houthi attack in the southern part of the country. According to the report, among the injured is a 4-year-old child.

- Israeli Ministers, security chiefs said to discuss potential defiance of Gaza roadmap by resuming strikes.

- A Palestinian terrorist who invaded Israel during the October 7, 2023, onslaught was captured by the IDF earlier this week while working as a truck driver who arrived in the Israeli-held portion of the Gaza Strip to collect goods, according to security sources.

Chasunas: 

Elbaum - Ezekiel  Fountain Ballroom,

Kitay - Grossman Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Ullman - Cohen Bais Faiga

Weather Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 74. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Watch Camp Ruach Chaim Live Siyum in Livingston Manor, NY HERE

At a kumzitz with Shmulik Greineman for yeshiva bochurim at kibbutz chofetz Chaim with Rav Yitzchok Ezrachi and Rav Shimon Galei

Weather: 92°  chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Patchy fog before 10am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Heat index values as high as 102. S Chance of precipitation is 30%.

- Heat advisory in effect from 10am this morning thru Motzei shabbos 8pm Heat index values up to 103 degrees expected.

- New in Lakewood kosher pizza vending machines. Now located at the ExxonMobil station Rt 9 and Countlyine. Hot pizza vending machines store fresh or chilled unbaked pizzas inside a refrigerated internal compartment and bake them on demand using high-speed convection or micro-ovens. They dispense a hot, boxed pizza in about 3 minutes after a user pays.

- A newly released report on Israel  channel 13 alleges that the Gur Rebbe held a private meeting with Satmar philanthropist Yoeli Landau, during which opposition to the State of Israel and possible legal and political efforts abroad were discussed. The report claims the conversation included a halachic discussion regarding cooperation with non-Jewish authorities and presents the meeting as evidence of growing anti-Zionist activism within parts of the charedi community.

- NJ Governor Sherrill posted her housing so-called "affordability achievements" today. Also today: Redfin reports NJ families need $56,000-$94,000 MORE than they earn to buy a typical home — 2.5 to 4 times worse than the national gap. Both NJ markets in the study got less affordable over the past year.Timing is everything.

A young family buying a $450,000 home in New Jersey will pay roughly $10,890 a year in property taxes alone. The same home in Florida: approximately $3,600.That's $7,290 MORE a year. Every year. For as long as they own it. New Jersey has the highest property tax rate in America. We just raised taxes $800 million more. (NJ assembly GOP)

- Rav Dov Landau paid a visit to the Belz rebbe at his home.

- Traffic light at Cross st and White St has been activated.

- Trump strongly defends Pete Hegseth and dismisses recent media reports as false. Trump highlights Hegseth's major military successes in Venezuela and Iran while praising his ending of DEI in the military and record recruitment!

- Authorities in Asbury Park are investigating a series of bias incidents after neo-Nazi symbols and swastika  were spray-painted this week at multiple locations, including a nonprofit agency.

- Updated LPD Alert: The issue in Westgate has been resolved. Earlier today Police activity in the Westgate development. No public safety threat. Avoid the area until further notice.

- Senate Homeland Security Committee Chairman Rand Paul moves to hold Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress after he repeatedly refused to answer questions about his COVID-19 decision making under subpoena."All he had to do was tell the truth more than 100 times. Though he refused.""The chair ruled that Dr. Fauci's assertion of the Fifth Amendment privilege was unsupported in light of the pardon and the testimony he offered in his opening statement."

 - Washington Post reports Trump told donors he wants to see JD Vance elected president in 2028, saying at an Oval Office meeting about two weeks ago, “At the end of the day, we need to elect JD

- Fox News: Senate Candidate Abdul A-Sayed Received More Than $115,000 From Members of Organization Linked to Hamas. The campaign of Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul A-Sayed has received more than $115,000 from 41 people who work for or have served in leadership positions at the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). CAIR has been designated a terrorist organization by the United Arab Emirates, and has also been designated or classified as such in the states of Florida and Texas. According to various sources, the organization has ties to the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas.

- Mk Gilad Erdan announced the launch of a new right-wing political party and immediately criticized the charedim: "We will not join any narrow government. A true right-wing government means military enlistment and sharing the national burden."

- The Lakewood Township Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA), a AEA member, recently closed on a $4.9 million loan with the New Jersey Water Bank to construct a public sanitary sewer conveyance system. The MUA is expected to receive $3 million in principal forgiveness at long-term closing

- A court settlement will cancel about $23 billion in federal student loans for more than 170,000 borrowers who said they were misled or defrauded by certain for-profit schools. Although the settlement was reached in 2022, implementation was delayed, and eligible borrowers are now receiving the loan forgiveness required under the agreement.

The many derachim in Mesorah (Social media)

- Iranian source to Reuters: Iran intends to demand 5%-7% of the cargo value of every ship requesting entry into the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, and Oman intends to request 3%

- Trump: The Fake News, as usual, is spreading false and completely unfounded rumors. I am extremely happy with the job that Pete Hegseth is doing. Everything has been extraordinary, including our attack on Venezuela, where the result was accomplished in less than one day, allowing us to bring one of the worst criminals anywhere in the World, Nicolas Maduro, to Justice! Likewise, Iran, where the country has been decimated for the purpose of NOT ALLOWING IT TO EVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON, is going very well! Pete is highly respected within the Military, and has made tremendous improvements, including getting rid of DEI, and increasing recruitment to historic levels. This rumor was started by The Washington ComPost, one of the worst Media Outlets in the business, despite our telling them their story is completely FALSE. In actuality, I really believe their fake “reporting” is treasonous! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump: “The U.S. has massive amounts of “munitions,” especially of certain types. Additionally, large amounts are being manufactured and shipped to the U.S. as needed. Defense companies are building the largest number of plants and factories in our country’s history. The “leakers” of these treasonous statements are being hunted down. Long term jail sentences will be sought! President DJT”

 -A journalist asked President Trump why he thinks things will be different this time with Iran. Trump: It might be different, and it might not. We were ready to attack. You know when you are truly ready and when you are bluffing. We were ready for an attack

- The condition of four IDF reservists injured from yesterday's incident has improved slightly. A booby-trapped house exploded when the force entered it. Israel still does not know if it was booby-trapped before or after the ceasefire

- US House Speaker Mike Johnson of the Republican Party: We will win the midterm elections, whether we resolve the Iranian issue before the elections or not.

- Washington Post: Trump fumed at Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at a Camp David meeting over the weekend over the U.S. military's missile shortage crisis. The incident occurred on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting on Friday, when Trump expressed his anger at Hegseth and said he thought the ammunition stockpile problem had "already been solved

Hashkafah with Rav Gershon Ribner shlita

The modus operandi of Curious George is prevalent amongst us

The preferred method of livelihood: The shver, wife, kollel The shidduch that broke up over a sports debate Susceptibility to the lure of an illicit relationship while engaged in kiruv Crediting early master builders of Torah in America Taking on government officials for alleged discrimination against Jews

Chasunas:

Kaplan - Kleinman Ateres Reva

Zuckerman - Neuman Fountain Ballroom 

Zelishovsky - Schnell Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Adler - Cweiber Cedar Palace

Tendler  Bais Faiga 

Heat advisory Heat index values up to 100 to 104 expected across New Jersey. From 10am tomorrow to 8pm Friday night.

LPD Traffic Alert: Joe Parker Rd will be closed from Spyglass Dr to Lanes Mills Rd at the Dwulets side for planned Earle drainage repairs . Plan alternate route if possible.

Weather: Hi 83° A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 3pm and 5pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 83. Chance of precipitation is 30%

Scattered thunderstorms and heavy rain could cause flash flooding across parts of New Jersey on Wednesday starting a stormy stretch that will continue into the weekend.

22 Av 1st Yartzeit of Rabbi Berel Wein

- Mayor Zohran Mamdani tried to speak at an NYPD event in Staten Island. He got booed offstage

- Riders were  hanging upside down after an amusement park ride malfunctioned on the Ocean City, New Jersey, boardwalk leaving passengers suspended upside down for an estimated 5-7 minutes before they were safely brought down.

- Likud MK Dan Illouz joined Yisrael Beytenu and backed chairman Avigdor Liberman, the party announced Wednesday Rabbi David Katz, Executive Director of Heritage, responded: “I’m extremely disappointed. I thought Dan had better Torah values

- NJ elected officials seeking reelection could be forced to report taxpayer-funded newsletters, social media posts, & other official communications as campaign spending -- or face fines up to $11,600. ELEC’s sweeping 90-day rule before November is now in effect.  NJ Globe.

- Trump: Great news for the Republican Party. El-Sayed, a Communist loser who hates Jews and Israel, is the projected winner in his race with the Socialist. As usual, the Polls were way off on this one. She was not expected to do nearly as well as she did. Now, the Dumocrats crazy policies will only get worse!

- President Trump is now expecting gas to plummet toward $2.50 per gallon if a deal is struck with Iran "If we have no friction, I think it'll go down to $2.50 per gallon. It was $1.85 before I made this little journey to the Islamic Republic of Iran. I had to make it."

- Traffic: Construction at pine and Washington

- Jackson Township police are investigating a string of bias incidents in the past few weeks.The incidents include a break-in and antisemitic vandalism at a school recently purchased by a local yeshiva and possible shots fired at the window of a Jewish health advocacy group (Chai Lifeline). APP Reports.

- Armed Man Arrested Near Trump Golf Course While Monitoring Security Ahead of President’s Visit

- Giyus: Bagatz freezes Knesset committee transfer of funds for Charedi schools

- A Israeli Chabad attorney Nechama Tzivin petitioned a beis din to address the soaring cost of sheitels (wigs), some of which reportedly sell for up to $16,000. She proposed that rabbonim regulate the market by setting maximum prices, limiting profit margins based on halachic principles, banning artificial price floors, and encouraging manufacturers to produce affordable wigs for women with limited financial means. The goal is to make sheitels more accessible while discouraging excessive pricing.

- Just one day after the Lakewood UEZ approved a $500,000-per-year Clean Team for the downtown Clifton Avenue area, homeless individuals were seen camping and sleeping in Town Square and other locations along Clifton Avenue. 

- Far-left candidate Abdul El-Sayed holds a razor-thin lead over Rep. Haley Stevens in the Democratic primary for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat a race many expected progressives to win decisively. If elected in November, Abdul El-Sayed would make history as the first Muslim to serve in the U.S. Senate.

- Rabbi Yehuda Gerami chief Rabbi of Iran tells the Wall Street Journal that war and state restrictions have complicated Jewish life, but says the community maintains synagogues, ritual baths and religious institutions and remains deeply connected to Iranian culture

- Rand Paul: Anthony Fauci is fully protected by a sweeping pardon, immune from prosecution, and he still refuses to comply with a lawful subpoena. That's the very definition of contempt for the American people. On Thursday, the HSGAC will vote to hold him in contempt

- More than 90,000 Israelis left the country in 2025 for a period of at least three consecutive months, according to a new study by Tel Aviv University, continuing a trend of rising emigration in recent years. Behind the numbers are families who say they made the difficult decision to leave because of a combination of security concerns, rising living costs and a desire to provide their children with a different future. Several Israelis who recently emigrated told ynet they do not regret their decision.

- A controversial advertising campaign for a museum that has appeared prominently on New York City buses for months will be removed from the MTA’s fleet far sooner than originally planned, following sustained pressure from parents, religious organizations, and elected officials who argued the displays were inappropriate for public spaces frequented by families and children.

- NJ Assembly GOP: New Jersey in 2026:

Banned plastic bags

Banned plastic straws

Banned automatic plastic utensils

$20M legal fund for illegally registered non-citizen voters

Fought DOJ and DHS on voter roll access

49th in fiscal stability

49th in economic outlook

Worst state to retire, 2nd year running

Still no voter ID

Still no Special Legislative Committee

- American Dream has expanded its entertainment lineup with the recent opening of a new performing arts center and a 60,000-square-foot event venue. The new Dream Live Performing Arts Center officially opened July 25, while the new Event Center debuted July 19

- The U.S. Department of Justice has opened an active investigation into antisemitic hate crimes in New York City. Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing criticism over allegations that Jewish residents have received unequal treatment. The federal investigation comes amid growing concerns about antisemitism and the safety of New York City's Jewish community.

- Two IDF soldiers were killed by a Hezbollah explosive device and 4 reservist seriously wounded in Southern Lebanon. Names 

Harel Birenstock Hyd, 34, from Nokdim, a Tamir Vaknin Hyd, 33, from Eilat, .

- A source in the Israeli negotiation team: Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter asked the Americans to halt the talks between Israel and Lebanon in Rome, about three hours before their scheduled conclusion, following repeated intentional leaks by the Lebanese delegation. The talks are expected to resume tomorrow.

- Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister: The US returning to its commitments under the MOU is a necessary condition - but not sufficient for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Iranian news agency IRNA

- President Trump says a deal with Iran could happen as early as today after talks continued Tuesday, warning Iran would face severe consequences if it backs out and again saying it cannot have a nuclear weapon. CENTCOM said the Strait of Hormuz remains open, with U.S. forces helping protect commercial shipping as talks between Iran and Oman continue.

- The Israeli military says it has launched “precise strikes” in southern Lebanon in response to a “blatant violation” of the ceasefire by Hezbollah.

- Trump on Iran: “If they back out again, they're going to get hit really hard. They know that; they understand that. I have no choice. They can't have a nuclear weapon. It's very simple."

- Yemen’s Houthis say they attacked Saudi oil tanker in Red Sea

- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says Tehran will support any initiative or decision made by Palestinian leaders in ongoing indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel, Iranian state media reports.

Chasunas:

Beane - Bendkowski Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Meyer  - Shefftel Fountain Ballroom 

Stein - Kuziner Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Teitelbaum Bais Faiga 

Yankelowitz  Ateres Esther

- LPD Traffic Alert: Joe Parker Rd will be closed from Lanes Mills rd @ Dwuletts to SpyGlass Blvd for planned sewer construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

Parlor meeting evening of song to benefit yeshiva Zev HaTorah with the participation of Rav Shmuel Brazil shlita 170 Liberty bell rd Toms River

Bein Hazmanim 5786

Weather: 82° Mostly sunny.

Today 21 Av is the 108th Yartzeit of Rav Chaim Halevi Soloveitchick ZTL of Brisk

A Masterful Shiur on His Unique Derech in Psak Halacha by Reb Michael Sorotzkin Here

-BDE: Double Tragedy in South Bend Indiana: Chana Malka Zweig, 21, and her brother Yosef Yehuda Zweig, 18,  A"H were tragically niftar after a boating accident on Lake Michigan. The children of R' Yehoshua and Hadassah Zweig, they are grandchildren of Rav Yochanan Zweig, rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva V'Kollel Beis Moshe Chaim in Miami Beach. Levayah details have not yet been announced. Baruch Dayan HaEmes

- Trump: Make Daylight Savings permanent.

"For many years, the vast Majority of Americans have asked to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, but no Administration has been able to get it done, until now. I am proud to announce that the House of Representatives has passed the Bill, and it has now gone to the Senate for final approval. People are sick and tired of having to change their clocks twice a year. It is foolish, inconvenient and, in some cases, very costly. For Cities and States with Watchtowers, and hard to reach places, it costs Millions of Dollars. A recent case was made that it is also bad for your health in the anxiety it creates. Leading Medical, Crime, and Economic Studies have shown that ceasing the biannual time change, giving us one extra hour of natural sunlight in the evenings, will help Decrease Robbery and Murder Rates, Reduce Car Accidents (especially those involving Pedestrians!), Lower Risk for Cardiac Issues, Stroke, and Seasonal Depression, Make It Safer for Children to Walk Home from School, Increase Time with your Family, Strongly Support Extracurricular Activities, Boost the Sports, Fitness, Tourism, Retail, and Restaurant Industries (and more!), and Save Money on Energy Bills, because everyone will be enjoying an EXTRA HOUR OF DAYLIGHT. In other words, leave it as it is now, and never change again. This is an issue that Republicans, Democrats, and Independents can unite behind. I am asking Republican Senators to release their holds, and allow the hotline to clear on the Republican side. LET’S PASS THE SUNSHINE PROTECTION ACT, ASAP. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Giyus: Satmar philanthropist R' Yoel Landau recently visited the Gur Rebbe in Yerushalayim where he pledged to establish a $1 million fund to support the fight against the gezeiras giyus. He also contributed a substantial sum toward two new community simcha halls in  Yerushalayim and Arad.

- Daylight Saving Time: Agudath Israel representatives met with more than 20 Senate offices in Washington to oppose making Daylight Saving Time permanent, citing concerns about children traveling to school in darkness and difficulties for Orthodox Jews with early morning Shacharis and minyan attendance. Senators indicated they are reviewing the issue and considering constituent concerns.

Mayor Mamdani's administration team has clarified there will no longer be a "library card-esque" ID requirement for the proposed city-owned grocery stores. after he was criticized for hypocrisy by allowing people to vote with no ID

- Moadim L’Simcha now taking orders for Succos 2026 Lakewood order deadline is August 17, 2026.

- Lakewood Shuttle: At yesterday’s LDC meeting, several residents urged the township to improve shuttle services, including adding GPS tracking for arrival times and providing printed schedules. The township website still lists a 2003 schedule : With many teenagers home for the summer, shuttle routes and schedules primarily serve the south heimish section of Lakewood, while many residents remain unaware of available schedules and there is limited access to senior developments.

- A Jewish family visiting Zoom Flume Water Park in E Durham, NY said they were confronted by staff over bringing kosher food into the park, despite claiming they had previously been told it was allowed. They said staff announced over the radio that “no kosher food [was] allowed,” and raised concerns about discrimination and the lack of allergy-friendly food options. The park’s outside food policy and the incident remain disputed.(GKRF facebook)

- The Jackson Township Police annual National Night Out event tonight Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Johnson Park (192 Kierych Memorial Drive, Jackson , NJ

- Howell Police National Nigh Out tonight August 4th from 5 to 8pm at Soldier Memorial Park in Howell, NJ

- Frum builders show taking place today in the new expo center at American dream mall

- Jackson: Authorities are investigating a hate-motivated vandalism incident after several suspects broke into the former Christa McAuliffe Middle School, recently purchased by BMG, and left behind swastikas, Nazi imagery, and racial slurs. Police are reviewing surveillance footage and investigating the latest in a series of reported antisemitic incidents targeting Jewish properties in the area.The incident follows other recent antisemitic acts targeting Jewish properties and last week's swastika vandalism at a shul in Lakewood. (5 townscentral) 

- Lawrence, NY: A two-alarm fire destroyed the popular kosher restaurant Jerusalem Pizza (J2) and a neighboring vacant storefront early Tuesday morning. About 150 firefighters responded, no injuries were reported, and the cause remains under investigation.

- SNAP: More than 4 million Americans have already left the federal food stamp program as President Trump's overhaul of SNAP begins taking effect, according to preliminary U.S. Department of Agriculture figures.

- COVID-19: Former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha said he now believes the pandemic most likely began with an accidental lab leak at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, marking a shift from his earlier position.

- Kosher meat Supply: Following the AgriStar plant fire, OU Kosher CEO Rabbi Moshe Elefant warned that kosher beef and chicken supplies will tighten, leading to reduced availability. The OU is working with suppliers to increase production elsewhere and is urging consumers to verify kosher certification and package integrity.

- The Knesset Finance Committee approved more than 267 million shekels ($88 million) in coalition funds for the Charedi education system, including transportation, teacher training, cultural programs, and funding to prevent yeshiva dropouts. Critics called the allocations improper during the legislative recess.

- The Senate Judiciary Committee advances Todd Blanche's nomination for Attorney General.

After reaching an agreement with the administration, Republican Sens. Thom Tillis and John Cornyn who had previously withheld their support — voted to advance Blanche's nomination along party lines. The full Senate is expected to vote on his confirmation in the coming days.

- Under the guidance of the Israeli political echelon: After the last targeted elimnation last night in the Gaza Strip, the IDF forces received instructions to act only when a threat has been removed and targeted elimnation only with the approval of the IDF Chief of Staff.

- A source familiar with the details told i24NEWS: The Peace Council was informed of the Israeli decision to stop targeted elimination and move to attacks to thwart immediate threats only. A 14-day ceasefire began as part of preparations for Hamas' disarmament

- Rubio: Progress has been made in the talks on the Strait of Hormuz. They hope an agreement will be reached "very soon."

- Secretary Scott Bessent says there could be a deal reached with Iran on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz by today or tomorrow.

- Reporter: this is the 5th time you've called off strikes on Iran.

Trump: leakers exposed how big the attack would be, so Iran knew there'd be "essentially very little left." That's why they're talking now.

- Iran has until Tuesday to finalize a Strait of Hormuz agreement with Oman or face devastating air strikes, per Bloomberg.

- Reuters: The U.S. Army has used up “virtually all” of its stockpile of highly accurate long-range missiles during the last five months since the start of the Iran War - munitions which would be crucial in any conflict with China - including most of its stock of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), three people familiar with the data tell Reuters.

- NYT: Iran and Oman are nearing a deal on the Strait of Hormuz that would reopen the waterway but hand Iran unprecedented control over it, The New York Times reports. The pact would reportedly have ships entering the Persian Gulf cross the strait in a route close to Iran’s coast and controlled by the Islamic Republic. They would be required to pay “service fees,” with revenue divided equally between Iran and Oman, Iranian officials are cited as saying. Vessels leaving the area would use a route near Oman’s coast.

- Qatar calls on the international community to pressure Israel to live up to its commitments under US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, placing the blame for the delay in its implementation squarely on Israel. “Israel has obligations to fulfill under the ceasefire agreement,”  

“While Hamas has met its obligations, the international community must pressure Israel to fulfill its obligations,” says Qatar spokesman Ansari.

- The deal offered by the "Peace Council": Israel will stop the targeted eliminations of Hamas for two weeks. During this time, Hamas will stop training and rehabilitation processes, and begin disarming. As long as Hamas does not do its part, Israel is not required to withdraw from the yellow line. But if Hamas does what it is required to do, Israel will be required to withdraw.

The principle according to which the council proposes to act is step by step, and the test is in actions and not in words. Also, Mladenov emphasized yesterday that the disarmament also includes Hamas's heavy weapons. The fate of the weapons is still unknown. Israel wanted all the arms to be removed or destroyed. Hamas wants to keep it in Gaza under the "government of technocrats," that is, within its reach when needed.

Hashkafa With Rav Gershon Ribner Shlita

The cheeseburger rages on The beneficiaries of a successful Aderai event The fate of the Rayatz’s constituents who resisted the communists A Chazzan hogging the Amud The Czar of Russia closes the doors of Volozhin

Chasunas

Green - Sassoon Ateres Esther

Kohn  - Weinberg Ateres Blima

Friedman  - Hershkowitz Bais Faiga

Blonder  - Bodenstein Kesser Moshe 

Klein -  Shashoua Fountain  Ballroom 

Jacobovitch - Stefansky Lake Terrace

Weather: high of 82°F and a low of 64°F. There is an 80% chance of thunderstorms, so expect periods of rain, possible lightning, and a few gusty winds, especially later in the day. 

Flash flood warnings were issued until 2:45 pm for Ocean county northern and central New Jersey, with the heaviest rain and severe thunderstorms still expected later today. Widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected, and localized amounts of 4 to 5 inches are possible.

NWS: “Showers and thunderstorms remain across the area today with the potential for areas of heavy rain leading to a risk of flash flooding,“There is also some risk for strong to severe thunderstorms.”

- Mamdani's New York Hate crimes have jumped 9.4% under Mayor Zohran Mamdani this year, with Jewish New Yorkers targeted in more than half of all confirmed incidents, according to unsettling new NYPD statistics released Monday. Thirty-three incidents were confirmed in July alone. Anti-Jewish offenses accounted for 56.9% of the citywide total, even though Jewish residents represent approximately 10% of New York City’s population.

- Michigan reports the first two U.S. deaths linked to the cyclospora outbreak blamed on contaminated lettuce.

- American dream mall closed  due to power outage. PSE&G  said the outage "an issue with equipment internal to American Dream's electrical system," they are working to restore power.  Many feum camps have scheduled trips there.

Parts of the American Dream mall lost power during the afternoon of Monday, Aug. 3 causing rides at the amusement park to be evacuated.

"Due to a localized power outage, some areas of the center are currently without power," an American Dream spokesperson said in an email just after 5 p.m.. "All guests were safely evacuated from park rides."The mall is working with the utility company to restore power as "as safely and quickly as possible."

- New Jersey's Statewide Voter Registration System was taken offline last night and will remain inaccessible through tomorrow as the state works to remove 6,600 noncitizens from the voter rolls

- New poll with security cameras  installed at Rt 9 and E. Kennedy blvd and Lakewood 

- JCP&L about 500 customers in Lakewood out down 14th state Estimatesd restoration 7:30

- BDE: Bein Hazmanim tragedy Petirah of a 21-year-old bochur Meir Shaar z"l, a talmid of Yeshivas Ponevezh who was killed in a ATV rollover accident in an open area near Neveh Erez in the Binyamin region. He just became a chosson last week engaged tovhis kallahvfrom Har Nof.

- The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness says at least two water systems in New Jersey were hit by cyberattacks similar to those reported in at least six other states in recent days. According to the NJOHSP, the attacks affected some automated controls, but did not cause any interruption in service(Onejersey)

- Update: All patients who were initially reported to be in critical condition following the Palisades Parkway crash involving a vehicle carrying special needs children have now been stabilized and are reported to be in stable condition.

- Visiting Monsey: Beis Medrash Ohr Chaim-Sheiner’s at *18 Forshay Road* announced that improvements to its parking lot are underway this week. Over the next 2½ weeks, one entrance, one exit, and a row of parking spaces will be temporarily closed while construction is underway to improve traffic flow and parking for the thousands of mispallim who use the shul daily. Rockland daily)

- Joseph's Dream Burger is now opened in Lakewood under KCL Hashgacha

Located at: 1700 Madison Avenue, Lakewood, New Jersey by Gourmet Glatt plaza Nort hat the former Delux location

Hours: Sunday - Wednesday 12pm-1am

Thursday 12pm-2am.

Motzie Shabbos 1hr after Shabbos

- Power outages JCPL customers 

 Jackson 4,201 customers restoration 4:00 PM

 Lakewood 14th street area 1,197 customers out restoration 4:30 pm 

- Tax dollars as Lakewood increases property taxes LDC meeting today on the agenda

Lakewood Development Corporation increasing the budget for the Downtown Clifton Avenue UEZ Clean Team Project Year II from $440,000 to $500,000 after a review of updated staffing and personnel costs. The revised budget includes $305,000 in salaries for five employees, $195,000 for health benefits, and $15,000 for overtime.

This $500,000 UEZ Clean Team project is in addition to the regular Lakewood DPW operations, meaning another significant expense funded through public dollars. Critics may question the added cost and whether this creates duplicate services already provided by the township

watch livestreeam HERE 4:30 pm .

- NYC Mayor Mamdani reveals ID will be required at city-owned grocery stores to prevent non-residents from accessing discounted food.

- Multiple water rescues have been reported in parts of New Jersey, and several highways have been forced to close Monday morning because of a slow-moving storm system that has dumped heavy rain across the region.

- Alan Dershowitz said Dr. Anthony Fauci was legally entitled to invoke the Fifth Amendment despite his presidential pardon, arguing Congress could compel his testimony by granting immunity.

- Shiva for Rav Avrohom Yaakov Levin Z"L baltimore/Yerushalayim, his son Rav Moshe Eliezer Levin is sitting shivah at 154 Williamsburg Lane, Coventry Square, Lakewood Shacharis, 7:15 a.m Mincha, 15 minutes before shkiah followed by Maariv.

- BMG Yarchei Kallah gets underway for being hazmanim 

- Report: New Sefardi party im formation

Israel's new Achi party is reportedly in advanced talks with several prominent Sephardic rabbanim, including a current member of Shas' Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah, in an effort to gain support ahead of the next Knesset election. If successful, the move could significantly boost the party's standing among Sephardic Chareidi voters

- LFD: Members of the Lakewood Fire Department recently trained in an acquired structure using simulated smoke to create realistic fire conditions. Training like this prepares our firefighters for the emergencies they face every day.If you have a house or building that is scheduled for demolition or if you’re interesting in joining the Lakewood Fire Department. Contact us today at Lakewoodfd.org 

- New York has introduced a bill that would require grocery stores to give customers a 10% discount for using self-checkout. The idea is that shoppers who scan, bag and pay for their own items are doing work that would normally be handled by a cashier, while the store saves money on labour. Under the proposal, supermarkets and other food retailers with self-service kiosks would have to reduce the price of goods bought through them by 10%. That means a $150 shop could cost $135 simply because the customer checked it out themselves.

- After months of providing grocery benefits to many Boro Park families, the Tri-State SCN program is showing signs of a possible slowdown or temporary pause. Several stores in Brooklyn and upstate New York have stopped accepting certain SCN providers, leaving many families uncertain. Residents are encouraged to check their benefit balances and confirm their provider is acc{555epted before shopping. (BP24)

- Iran attacked U.S. military base in Kuwait using 3 drones. - i24

- Unverified reports of Iranian drone strikes on US bases in Kuwait.

- Senior officials in Jerusalem: We will not withdraw under any circumstances before Hamas is disarmed. This was not agreed to in the original Trump outline - and it will not happen

- Trump on Iran: The talks with Iran will move forward quickly, one way or another. It is not a particularly complicated matter. Tomorrow we will discuss the full opening of the Strait of Hormuz. After that, we will discuss Iran's nuclear capabilities

- Amidst tensions with the US, a political source insists: "Israel will continue to thwart a threat to our citizens and soldiers." The IDF emphasizes that freedom of action is assured; sources in Israel: "A confrontation with the US administration is also possible. We will not fall into Hamas' trap, as long as it does not disarm - we will not move a millimeter from the yellow line - and the attacks will continue"(Jewish warrior)

- President Donald Trump claims the current talks with Iran are its “last chance to sign a good document.” “I want to give them every last chance before decapitation,” Trump says

- Israeli Paper Mocks Trump’s Flip-Flops on Iran The Israeli paper Yedioth Achronoth expressed Israelis’ frustration with President Trump with an illustration of the president pulling the petals off a daisy, saying “To strike, to strike not” beneath a headline proclaiming “You Drove Us Crazy.”

- Trump lashes out at Iran for denying his claim that talks would take place today on a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, insisting that negotiations have already begun and that more are scheduled imminently.

- Trump: Iranian Leadership is unbelievably duplicitous! They ask for a meeting, some would say “beg,” talks begin, with more scheduled in the immediate future, and they say, openly and proudly, that they’re not having any discussions, that nothing is being talked about, and they’re only dealing with “Oman.” They then go on to give their usual blather in saying, the Strait of Hormuz will be operated powerfully by them, when it is already completely controlled by the United States Navy and our “Blockade” or, as some say, “The United States Wall of Steel!” Nothing gets through to Iran, unless we want it to, and nothing will get through, unless a Deal, or Total Surrender, is accomplished. Whether Iran wants to admit it or not, we are, in fact, talking of a solution to a problem that they have caused, for decades. It is very simple, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Iranian source to Lebanese Al-Mayadeen: "Iran rejected the latest US proposal to open the Strait of Hormuz - until the complete end of the war"

- Israeli Political source: Israel will not retreat from the current line in the Gaza Strip and will continue to thwart any threat to our citizens and soldiers.

- The IDF eliminated an Islamic Jihad terrorist who raided Israel on 10/7 and took part in holding Rom Breslavsky captive and participated Captive in the Handover Ceremony of the Kidnappers

- CNN: A senior officer at CENTCOM sent an email last week to a large group of analysts, writing, "We are looking for new, creative, and non-routine ways to pressure Iran and punish it." According to two sources, this is a relatively unusual move, in which a decision was made to conduct a broad "brainstorming" session via email

- The Faras News Agency reported that Iranian authorities executed two people who were accused of working for Israel

- Trump: Negotiations with Iran begin tomorrow afternoon

- Trump announces that Iran found out just how terrifying his planned strikes were, and immediately begged him to stop "It would've been the biggest attack since World War II. It would've been disastrous for them. They didn't want us to do it. Frankly, Saudi Arabia didn't want it either.""They KNEW the extent of the attack, because they saw it FORMING.""Negotiations begin tomorrow afternoon.""I don't even think it would've been buildable back."

- Trump: "I was asked to by Saudi Arabia, by UAE, and by Qatar, and by Iran. We were all set to go, just about at this time right now, and it would've been a massive attack... The reason they asked [to call it off] is they think there's a deal. There's a deal on Hormuz and then there will be a deal on the denuclearization of Iran... So, we're holding it. We'll just see."

- Israel has expressed concern to the United States about Hamas' disarmament plan, Prime Minister Netanyahu's spokesman told Reuters

- N12: In the hours preceding Trump's announcement, Israel tried to find out through CENTCOM what Trump was planning - and even there they could not tell them that the president was preparing to cancel the attack

 - Israeli Defense officials on the cancellation of the American attack on Iran: "For hours, we were in real uncertainty. President Trump left us in the dark. The feeling was simple - they forgot us behind"

- Iranian Foreign Ministry: American threats are nothing new, we ignore them. Tehran acts in accordance with its interests and is not affected by threats. The opposing side knows that our response will be strong to any adventure it undertakes against us

- Wall Street Journal: Gulf states are frustrated by the lack of a US strategy against Iran. US allies in the Gulf have asked Washington to provide them with more air defense missiles, and to ensure that the US military will protect them if the exchange of blows continues

-The Americans were surprised by the continued elimnation in Gaza. Israel, they said, had accepted the conditions, including the cessation of targeted elimnstions, so that Hamas would be committed to the next step — handing over its weapons. “These are the fruits of eight months of negotiations designed to bring about the demilitarization of Gaza — why continue the elimnation now and give them an excuse to withdraw?" the sources said. “This further isolates Israel in the Middle East, as all the mediating countries see this as proof that Bibi does not keep his word or is interested in peace."

Chasunas:

Mansour -  Levy Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Greenberg - Wartelsky Fountain Ballroom 

Halevi  - Eisenshtadt Ateres Chaim Elazar

Press Ateres Esther 

Ehrenreich Toras Aaron 

Weather Tonight:

A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2am. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Cloudy, with a low around 74. South wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Bein Hazmanim Summer 5786

Weather: High: 84 ° Mostly Cloudy then Chance T-storms Tonight. Multiple rounds of thunderstorms and heavy downpours that could trigger flash flooding are expected to begin tonight and continue through Monday across New Jersey. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. 

Monday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm, mainly before 11am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11am. 

- Due to the heatwave in Arizona several bochurim camps have canceled scheduled hikes. Earlier today a bochur was hospitalized after dehydration at Bryce canyon he is B"H ok.

- A Earthquake  in Egypt measuring a 5.9 on the Eichterscake was felt in the Yam Hamelach region and other places in Israel. 

- Tehillim: Tefillos for Rav Pinchos Brody Shlita, Rav of Spruce st shul R"Y Yaaros Devash, who suffered a heart attack and is in critical condition at Columbia New York-Presbyterian Medical Center. Name for Tehillim Avrohom Pinchos ben Chana. There will be a live conference tonight The 10:15 PM to recite Tehillim by calling 605-475-4700, PIN: 6739.

- American Airlines has extended its suspension of flights to Israel until March 27, 2027

- Free carnival today in Pine Park 1-4pm three event is promoting apartments at a new housing development in Yerushalayim near Ramat Eshkol. 

- No winners for powerball 700M Jackapot, next drawing is Monday night 

- Giyus: Netanyahu at a closed session “The temporary detention law was intended to lower tensions and increase the number of enlistments from the charedi community. In practice, it did not succeed, and therefore there will not be such a law in the next government. After the elections, we will establish a broad national government that will immediately pass a comprehensive conscription law that meets the needs of the IDF. Anyone who is not studying Torah will be drafted, or go to prison

- Lakewood Driver Alert: Use extra caution at Route 9 & Main Street. A newly installed median has caused more than 10 flat tires and several damaged vehicles because it's difficult to see, especially at night. Chaveirim has placed temporary reflective cones until the state completes the project. 

- Senate committee to vote on holding Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress after he pleaded the Fifth 111 times.

- Arson attack in Montreal: Nöam, a popular kosher restaurant in Montreal, was burned down last night at 3 am. Surveillance video reportedly shows a mean pouring something before walking away. Police are investigating it as arson. 

- Lakewood Tax increase wont go down because of land sales.. While Lakewood residents are facing a significant property tax increase, the township is also set to receive approximately $28 million from the sale of airport property to CHEMED for its planned medical village. While residents wonder why those proceeds can't be used to offset the township's budget deficit and reduce the tax burden. According to a Lakewood official, as reported by The Voice of Lakewood, because the property belonged to the airport and was acquired with federal aviation funding, federal regulations require that the proceeds remain dedicated to airport purposes. The money must be used within the airport system, such as replacing runways, improving infrastructure, or constructing airport-related facilities, rather than being deposited into the township's general fund.

- A chosson from Eretz Yisroel who was seriously injured in a car accident near Monroe has been flown back to Eretz Yisroel after being hospitalized at Westchester Medical Center. He will continue his rehabilitation there. He is still in need of a complete refuah sheleimah. Please continue to daven for Meir Pinchos ben Hadassa Esther.

- The Vivaser daily news bulletin in Lakewood will not be published on Sundays of bein Hazmanim.

- 50 years after the Entebbe hostage, Uganda has unveiled a statue honoring Lt. Col. Yonatan “Yoni” Netanyahu at the old Entebbe Airport terminal, the site where the Israeli commander was killed while leading the IDF mission that rescued dozens of hostages in 1976.

- "Skip the Stuff" law takes effect in New JerseyA new law now in effect in New Jersey prohibits restaurants and other food businesses from automatically giving customers napkins, plastic utensils and condiments. Now, customers have to request them.

- Dr. Simone Gold: Six-foot “science” invented out of thin air. Masks as theater. No clinical trials. Contradictions stacked on top of contradictions. Fauci and the entire medical bureaucracy treating the American people like lab rats while the truth was censored.We said it from day one. They called us dangerous. They destroyed careers, silenced doctors, and harmed millions.The greatest public-health fraud in modern history will not be memory-holed. Accountability is not optional.

- A New NJ bill could potentialy shut out Teslas Vehicles from Jersey. S1677/A3968 would require every autonomous vehicle in New Jersey to use LiDAR and radar. That would effectively block camera-only systems like Tesla's unless they're retrofitted, making autonomous vehicles more expensive and limiting consumer choice.

- Mordechai Ben David MBD on a recent interview  on the teef teef podcast was asked if its true that the Ribnitzer rebbe who he was close to served as the mohel to MK Avigdor Lieberman back in Russia. MBD said he dosent know but he quipped in Yiddish that they should have cut his head, adding her hopes he does teshuva. The Yisrael Beiteinu party strongly condemned the statement, saying: "The Rebbe would have been ashamed that his name is being used to incite murder. This is a moral disgrace.

- UTJ lMK Yitzchak Goldknopf criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the issue of ultra-Orthodox military draft legislation, saying Netanyahu failed to fulfill commitments to regulate the status of yeshiva students. Goldknopf said his party would only join a future government that passes a law addressing exemptions and protections for Haredi religious students.

- Over 250 Yidden from the Surrounding Zichron Moshe neighborhood demonstrated shabbos morning in Yerushalayim in front of a café  on Agripas street that remains open on shabbos. Police kept them away from the store. New reports say the establishment is owned by Jews for J.

- Today  in the Catskills Hanochas Even Hapina for a new Kollel in Woodridge  under the leadership of Rav Avrohom Gurwitz ahkitaof Gatshead. 2 pm on Silver Lake rd.

- Iran claims: There is no agreement to open the Strait of Hormuz; the published reports are false

- Senior Iranian regime advisor, Marandi: “By now everyone knows this is fake news. Trump backed down.”

Trump calls off major attack on Iran in favor of peace open straits and no nuclear weapons, says Israel joining him.

- Trump tonight: The U.S.A. is locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran, at levels of Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II. Despite this, we have just been asked by Iran, and other Middle Eastern Countries, to hold off any attack in that the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to. This would include the Immediate, Complete, and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat. Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the WORLD and, likewise, the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL. The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment. Get to work, everybody, and get it DONE. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Israeli source tells N12: President Donald Trump is "closer than ever to a major attack on Iran, but it's not certain yet. There are extremely high tensions; it's on the verge of an explosion”

- White House spokeswoman Leavitt: "As President Trump said today at his cabinet meeting, the United States will prevail, and Iran will not have nuclear weapons during his term"

- Senior advisor to the Iranian government Marandi: “Based on statements from the Trump regime, it seems quite possible that after months of barbaric threats, tonight will be the last night of normality in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, and possibly Oman. If strikes are carried out against Iran's civilian infrastructure, the critical infrastructure of these complicit regimes - along with that of the Zionist regime and perhaps Jordan- will be demolished. People in these regimes should immediately prepare for evacuation.”

- Senior advisor to the Iranian government Marandi: “Based on statements from the Trump regime, it seems quite possible that after months of barbaric threats, tonight will be the last night of normality in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, and possibly Oman. If strikes are carried out against Iran's civilian infrastructure, the critical infrastructure of these complicit regimes - along with that of the Zionist regime and perhaps Jordan- will be demolished. People in these regimes should immediately prepare for evacuation.”

- U.S. Embassies across the Middle East including UAE, Qatar, Oman, Iraq, Jordan, Israel, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt  issue security alerts advising U.S. citizens "consider departing or be ready to  depart if there is an escalation."

כי ה' אלהיך מביאך אל ארץ טובה ארץ נחלי מים עינת ותהמת יצאים בבקעה ובהר ארץ חטה ושערה וגפן ותאנה ורמון ארץ זית שמן ודבש ארץ אשר לא במסכנת תאכל בה לחם לא תחסר כל בה ארץ אשר אבניה ברזל ומהרריה תחצב נחשת  

Friday, July 31, 2026 / י"ז אב תשפ"ו ערב שבת פרשת עקב-  שני דשבעה דנחמתא

Candle lighting 7:53 pm 

Shkia/sunset 8:11 pm

Weather: Shabbos day 86° Partly cloudy.

Weather Shabbos day Sunshine  High 83F

 כִּי נִחַם ה׳ צִיון נִחַם כָל חָרבֹתֶיהָ וַיָשֶם מִדְבָּרָה כְּעֵדֶן וְעַרבָתָה כְּגַן ה׳ שָׂשׂוֹן וְשִמחָה יִמָצֵא בָה תּוֹדה וְקול זִמרָה

הפטרת עקב

Video

Lesaken Olam - Naftali Kempeh.  With the arrival of Bein Hazmanim, when many of you will probably be sitting around some kumzitz, here’s another song to add to the list Composer: R’ Chaim Gershon Davis Music Production: Eli Klein & Yitzy Berry.

 Friday, July 31, 2026 / י״ז אב תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת עקב

Candle lighting: 7:53 PM 

Shkiah/sunset 8:11PM

weather 87° Mainly sunny and a few afternoon clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower.

Shabbos day 86° Partly cloudy.

A  slow-moving storm system brings heavy rain and thunderstorms starting Sunday night.

No Yated Neeman, FJJ, Lakewood shopper thos week.

- Iran claims it will target regional US energy infrastructure and Israel's critical infrastructure if new US or Israeli strikes hit Iran's energy sites, according to Tasnim

- WSJ: Trump has ordered a fresh full bombing campaign against Iran, including strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure and oil refineries, with the strikes beginning as soon as this weekend and in cordination with Israel, per WSJ

- Kamala Harris calls for revisiting the Electoral College, expanding the Supreme Court, & granting statehood to Washington, D.C., & Puerto Rico.

- MBD  talks about his upbringing, his musical career, and the legacy oyIf his mentor; the Holy Rivnitzer Rebbe see full interview Here 

- Bein hazmanim travel Over 1,191 flights delayed, 108 canceled as travel disruptions impact U.S. airports due to forecasted summer thunderstorms. 

- President Trump announced that more than 7 million children have been enrolled in the new tax-free investment savings accounts launched under the “Great Big Beautiful Bill.” He said many accounts include $1,000 from the U.S. Treasury or private contributions aimed at investing in children’s futures.

- Kosher meat prices are expected to rise significantly due to a shortage, though local stores say they are working with new suppliers to ensure shelves remain stocked. Retailers say they are committed to maintaining the same strict kashrus standards while adjusting to the supply challenges.

- Starting August 1, restaurants in New Jersey will no longer automatically include single-use utensils, napkins, or condiment packets with takeout and delivery orders. Customers must now specifically request these items. Businesses that do not comply will face a graduated penalty structure within a 12-month period

- Several Yerushalayim kehillos, including Perushim, Breslov, and Zichron Moshe, have announced a joint Shabbos protest against Shabbos desecration. The hafgana is scheduled for Shabbos at 10:30 a.m. outside a coffee shop on Rechov Agripas that is operating on Shabbos.

- TRUMP: "We heard in Minnesota there was a cyberattack and they blame it on Iran. I don't think so. I blame it on Minnesota because they're grossly incompetent. Iran's got bigger problems than worrying about Minnesota."

- This shabbos 18 Av is the yartzeit of The 1929 Chevron Massacre where 67 Jews were killed, 24 of whom were from the Chevron Yeshiva.

- A Middlesex County, NJ, police department used an officer disguised as a shrub to crack down on distracted driving Wednesday, issuing 74 citations. The Dunellen Police Department conducted a distracted driving enforcement operation on the 100 block of North Washington Avenue, an area with heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The goal was to enforce New Jersey’s handheld cellphone law and increase safety in the community.

- New Jersey renters are facing rising housing costs, according to a new report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition. The state's 2026 housing wage increased to $43.89 per hour, up $3.90 from last year, meaning that's what a full-time worker must earn to afford a typical two-bedroom apartment without spending more than 30% of income on rent. Meanwhile, the average renter earns just $24.92 per hour, highlighting a growing affordability gap.

- Israel Minister Ben Gvir: "My congratulations to the Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, for his strong commitment to welcoming immigration and 'human diversity.' As someone who has shown great concern for Hamas and the residents of Gaza, I call on him to turn words into action: open Spain's doors and grant refuge to Gaza residents seeking to emigrate. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute a little more to Spain's 'human diversity.'"

- RFK Jr. reveals Fauci’s diary was found in emails after he sent years of government-computer journal entries to himself for a planned book.

- Spanish Interior Ministry: Approximately 49,000 migrants arrived in the Spanish city of Ceuta in the last 24 hours

- New Jersey ranked the safest state for drivers in a new national study, earning the top overall score for low crash rates, traffic fatalities, speeding-related deaths, and alcohol-related fatal crashes. The state had the nation's lowest share of fatal crashes involving impaired drivers, with alcohol contributing to just 21.8% of fatal crashes. Researchers credited New Jersey's road design, enforcement, and infrastructure, while cautioning that the busy summer driving season remains the year's most dangerous period.

- Spanish authorities now say at least 34 people died after tens of thousands of mostly Moroccan migrants surged into the Spanish territory of Ceuta, prompting the military to deploy as officials called the situation unsustainable. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez blamed criminal networks and human traffickers, saying Spain is working with Morocco to return those who entered illegally while calling for additional measures to prevent future crossings. President Trump called the situation "terrible," warning, "Remember that picture. That's going to be us in three years if the wrong side gets in."

- Following the bankruptcy of Simad Holdings, the 30 sleepaway camp portfolios, entered a court-supervised sale process. Several camps have already found buyers, including Camp Achim in the Catskills, sold for about $7 million, while Camp Lokanda, Camp Chen-A-Wanda, Camp Echo, and others reached agreements with operators and organizations. A $68 million bid was submitted for Camp Mohawk by a group connected to Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav. Camp Mesorah a frum camp is also under agreement with a new buyer.

The sales are aimed at preserving camps for the upcoming seasons, with many buyers being current operators or community groups familiar with the camps.

- This coming Sunday, Lakewood will host a promotional event for the new Nachal residential development in Yerushalayim, located near the Ramat Eshkol, Sanhedria, and Givat Hamivtar neighborhoods. The event will feature a community run and walk through Pine Park, followed by a free family festival with finisher medals, branded T-shirts and visors, complimentary food, carnival games, snow cones, popcorn, photo magnets, live music, and a festive finish-line celebration for participants and their families. 

-  Dr. Simone Gold: 

Fauci was wrong about virtually everything. We were right all along.

-Ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine worked—safe, early treatments that were deliberately suppressed.

-Masks were theater, not science.

-Lockdowns caused far more harm than good.

-Remdesivir was, and remains, harmful.

-The mRNA injections carried serious risks that were never honestly disclosed.

-Six-foot “social distancing” was an arbitrary invention with no rigorous basis.

-PCR testing was massively overused and produced huge numbers of false positives that were treated as real infections.

-The case fatality rate for most people was low.

-COVID originated from the Wuhan lab, and NIH funding flowed into gain-of-function research there.

Fauci funded and defended that research while publicly denying it.

He lied to protect his position, his funding streams, and his power. He harmed ordinary Americans patients, families, children to advance his own money and control.

This man should face real accountability. Put the villain in prison.

- Iran claims it will target regional US energy infrastructure and Israel's critical infrastructure if new US or Israeli strikes hit Iran's energy sites, according to Tasnim

- WSJ: Trump has ordered a fresh full bombing campaign against Iran, including strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure and oil refineries, with the strikes beginning as soon as this weekend and in cordination with Israel, per WSJ. 

For weeks Trump has been telling aides "the Iranians are crazy," complaining the interim peace deal was "ultimately meaningless" and that he "always knew it wasn't going to work."

Trump's frustration was on full display during today's meeting at Camp David when he exploded for a second time in recent days, shouting and accusing Iranian diplomats of being "very dishonorable" to deal with.

- CBS: The United States and Israel are planning what would be one of the harshest bombing campaigns to date against energy infrastructure targets in Iran, multiple sources told CBS News, with strikes possible throughout the weekend.

- Fox: The Pentagon is confronting a growing reality after months of fighting in Iran.

America’s stockpile of missile defense interceptors is shrinking so much that military planners are weighing whether they can continue the current cycle of limited retaliatory strikes.

Iran’s strategy appears to be targeting U.S. bases, forcing the U.S. to deplete its advanced missile defense interceptors, such as Patriot and THAAD systems, and compelling the Pentagon to accept greater risk in defending U.S. troops as the conflict drags on. Iran appears to believe this is its best hope of outlasting the U.S. military.

- President Trump says something will happen regarding Iran.

- Saudi Al-Hadath channel: Washington has directly committed to Hamas not to allow Netanyahu to sabotage the agreement and that it will force him to withdraw from the Gaza Strip and implement it. It was also claimed that the US informed the terrorist organization that it would not give up the agreement and that it would guarantee it.

- U.S. official warns Trump will be “very, very disappointed” if Israel blocks his Gaza plan.

- Trump: "We're in there for 5 months, and if you look at Vietnam, they were in there for 20 years."

- Israel has reiterated that there will be no withdrawal of the IDF from the current yellow line without the actual disarmament of Hamas."

senior Israeli official” “In response to various publications this morning about political progress in the Gaza Strip, Israel has reiterated that there will be no IDF withdrawal from the current Yellow Line without the genuine disarmament of Hamas,” the senior Israeli official says.

- Washington Post: US intelligence agencies estimate that Iran is likely behind a coordinated cyberattack on more than 30 municipal water systems in the state of Minnesota earlier this week

- National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir slams as “unacceptable” a deal agreed by Hamas that includes the group handing over its weapons and the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

- An Israeli source told CNN that PM Netanyahu is not expected to publicly oppose the disarmament agreement, as he "assesses that Hamas will ultimately violate its terms and not fulfill its obligations." The source said Netanyahu is not expected to order a withdrawal from Gaza before the October elections

- The Revolutionary Guard seized two tankers en route to the Strait of Hormuz; four additional tankers changed course.

- Hamas in an official statement: "Israel's commitment to stop the killing and end the aggression is the basis and the first step towards implementation, and the beginning of formulating the framework and timetable for what was agreed. It should be emphasized that the implementation of the second phase of the agreement depends on Israel's commitment to implement all the clauses of the first phase"

- The US and Israel are discussing the possibility of imposing a land blockade on Iran, according to a report in the British Telegraph. According to the report, this is one of several options being considered by President Trump and PM Netanyahu to increase economic pressure, after months of attacks and a prolonged campaign have failed to bring about a change in its behavior

- Senior Hamas official Ghazi Hamed: "We will not take any steps related to disarmament before Israel withdraws from the Gaza Strip. We will not implement any steps if the Israeli forces do not fulfill their obligations under the agreement. The issue of weapons is related to other issues, such as Israel's withdrawal and the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. Israel will not interfere in the issue of disarmament, and the National Committee will be responsible for this task."

- The Peace Council publishes the "roadmap" for the implementation of the agreement to disarm Hamas in Gaza and withdraw the IDF from the Strip

Israel and Hamas will immediately cease all military action (i.e., stopping the Israeli targeted eliminations in Gaza that have been carried out daily in recent months)

The technocratic committee will enter the Strip and confirm that both sides - Israel and Hamas - are fulfilling their commitments

 Hamas agrees to transfer all governmental and civilian functions to the Peace Council and undertakes not to interfere in its decisions.

Within 3 years, the Peace Council will complete all processes of seizing power in the Strip.

 Newly trained police forces will enter Gaza. All existing police officers in Gaza (=Hamas police officers) will undergo comprehensive examinations - those found unsuitable will be transferred to alternative civilian positions or retired. Police weapons will be transferred to the authority of the Technocrat Committee.

The process of handing over heavy weapons (rockets), military production sites, weapons depots and tunnels will begin after the completion of the remaining obligations in the agreement, the entry of the Technocrat Committee and the deployment of the multinational force. This process will depend on the Israeli withdrawal, in stages, from the areas under Israeli control and the deployment of the armed multinational force. No weapons will be transferred to Israel or to non-Palestinian entities. Only the Peace Council will possess, store, and control weapons in Gaza: "Implementation of this plan will create appropriate conditions for a credible path to achieving Palestinian independence and a state."

“Citizens” in Gaza will be allowed to possess "personal weapons" in accordance with rules to be determined by the Peace Council.

The Israeli-backed militias will be disbanded, and their members will not be integrated into the security and policing forces in Gaza.

 The multinational force will separate IDF forces in the Gaza Strip from areas controlled by the Peace Council. The multinational force will not carry out policing missions in Gaza. It will train the Palestinian police, monitor the agreement's implementation, and ensure the transfer of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

Chasunas:

Waldman - Gluck  Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Kahan - Unger Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Kaiser -  Brenner Cedar palace

Joselit  - Rottenberg Fountain Ballroom 

Soloveitchick - Leff Ateres Esther 

Brand -  Rosenberg Ne'emas Hachaim 

Sanders - Rodriguez Ateres  Blima 

- Fundraiser event An Evening Benefiting the New Home of Minyan Avrechim Sefaradi
 Chazin Ovadya 205 Cathy Lane
Lakewood, NJ
  Live Performance by Hazan Yechiel Nahari & Full Band
 Words of Inspiration by Rabbi Uri Deutsch


Chumash Shiur by Harav Yeruchom Olshin shlita 11:30 pm at B"M Ateres Bracha live 646-726-9977   

Weather: 64° Rain showers this evening with clearing overnight Chance of rain 50%.

Bein Hazmanim 5786

Weather 78° Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. Slight chance of a rain shower. 

- LPD Traffic Alert: Joe Parker Rd will be closed from Spyglass Blvd to Lanes Mill Rd for emergent County construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

- Spain to deploy its military to Ceuta after thousands of migrants breach the border from Morocco.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni threatens to take "extraordinary measures" to defend her country's borders amid the shocking migrant surge in Spain

- Trump says the "Board of Peace" has reached an agreement "for the COMPLETE DISARMAMENT of Hamas and all other armed groups in Gaza

- Trump administration bans all new foreign-made robot vacuums from entering the U.S., citing national security concerns.

- Mamdani refuses to rule out cash reparations for Black New Yorkers, saying he will await the city commission’s findings.

- Satmar rebbe Rav Aaron returns home to Monroe after a 3 week stay in New Hampshire

- Lakewood Police are investigating a bias incident after multiple swastikas were found inside a sefardi shul on Spruce Street early Wednesday morning. Officers responded around 5:38 a.m. after a person arriving at the shul discovered the markings throughout the building. The swastikas were documented and removed, and police said they are actively working to identify those responsible. Authorities emphasized that bias-related incidents are taken very seriously.

- ICE Enforcement Concerns Raised in NJ:

Immigration advocacy groups met with a New Jersey congressman, claiming increased ICE enforcement has caused fear among workers in communities including Lakewood, Newark, and New Brunswick. Advocates said some immigrants are hesitant to report workplace issues due to concerns over detention

- Israel braces for extreme heatwave starting tomorrow The Israel Meteorological Service

 says that there will be an extreme heatwave starting tomorrow and not subsiding until Tuesday.

- Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva Rav Malkiel Kotler shlita is in E"Y to attend the bar mitzvah of philanthropist Alberto Safra's son, taking place this week in Yerushalayim.

- Tulsi Gabbard: Fauci’s 'performance' made me sick. Smug arrogance. Zero remorse. Zero accountability. He refused to answer a single question.Sharing this again as a reminder: He used your tax dollars to fund the coronavirus lab research in Wuhan and worked with the IC to cover it up. We deserve the truth and accountability.

- Due to Bein Hazmanim, several frum newspapers, including the Yated Ne’eman and FJJ, will not be printed for the next two weeks.

- Lakewood Township Committee Democratic challenger Harriet Goldberg has withdrawn from the race and will instead seek re-election to the Lakewood Board of Education. With only two candidates filing for three school board seats, the third seat will be filled by a write-in candidate. APP

- Giyus: welcome home parade for the Solberg detainees the avreichim who demonstrated at the home of HIgh court justice Solberg. A convoy of approximately 64 vehicles will depart from Ramat Beit Shemesh D and travel through the city before making its way to Yerushalayim. The main procession will leave from Sarei Yisrael Street toward Kikar Shabbos, where a special reception will be held with the participation of rabbanim, Admorim, members of the Badatz, and other public figures.

- Sen. Andy Kim announced nearly $26 million in federal grants through the Department of Homeland Security's Nonprofit Security Grant Program for New Jersey nonprofits and faith-based organizations. The funding will help enhance security at eligible facilities and will be distributed later this year by New Jersey's Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness.

- If you’re planning a trip to The Bahamas, you might want to take some extra precautions.

The U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory to The Bahamas advising travelers to take extra precautions in the country due to increased levels of crime.

- A 32-year-old man was killed after an apparent lightning strike while working at a solar field on Hoffman Station Road in Monroe Township on Tuesday afternoon. Emergency crews found him unconscious around 3 p.m., but he could not be saved. Authorities are investigating the incident.

-  Frum Schools are tightening enforcement of unpaid tuition balances ahead of the upcoming school year. Some schools will not complete registration or reserve spots for students until outstanding balances are paid.

- Howell Township Police are warning residents to avoid the long-abandoned Xscape Movie Theatre, which has become a hotspot for break-ins, vandalism, and trespassing. The theater has been vacant for five years and has suffered repeated damage and unauthorized entries.

- Uman Uman Rosh Hashana: Project Uman 5787: Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Gevirtz of Ichud Breslov said preparations are underway for the annual Uman Rosh Hashanah trip despite the ongoing war. Organizers are coordinating travel involving 1,000 km of driving, five countries, and 18 airports, with a new platform, “Bederech L'Uman,” launched to assist travelers with borders, routes, and emergency situations.

- President Trump says illegal alien truck drivers are being taken off America's roads as his administration moves to replace them with American veterans. "Thank you all for being here as we take action to get illegal alien truck drivers off the American roadways... and replace them with proud American veterans. And it's about time."

- DOJ uncovers roughly $350 million in alleged welfare,SNAP, tax, loan, & healthcare fraud across 7 Southeastern states.

- About 75 people, including children and teachers from two daycare centers, were rescued after severe storms triggered flash flooding in Woodland Park on Tuesday afternoon. Police said localized flooding inundated parts of the Passaic County town around 3 p.m., prompting multiple water rescues.

- NJ Gov Sherrill said she would be open to signing a voter ID law: "Certainly if that was the law passed here, I would support that," she said. "I don't have a problem with voter ID," she added but noted she does not support the federal SAVE America Act.

- The company at the center of a widening controversy over New Jersey’s voter rolls also collects fingerprints used to vet tens of thousands of people who work in the state’s schools, prompting state education officials to increase scrutiny of a vendor Gov. Mikie Sherrill has blamed for a “massive software error” at the Motor Vehicle Commission.

- At a Siyum HaShas event for older Satmar bochurim in Krestir, Rabbi Yaakov Ber Teitelbaum the rebbe's son announced that philanthropists Yoeli Landau and Lipa Friedman have committed to funding a new building for the yeshiva and a new $7,500 bonus for shadchanim who successfully complete shidduchim for yeshiva students by Sukkos.

- More than 50,000 people have signed a petition urging organizers to keep NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani out of the 25th anniversary 9/11 ceremony at Ground Zero.

- The petition cites Mamdani's "public positions, associations, and responses to rhetoric that many perceive as hostile" to the values of the families impacted by 9/11.

At the Woodbourne shul in the Catskills 

Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva Rav Malkiel Kotler currently in EY visits gedolei Yisroel Rav Moshe  Shternbuch shlita, Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman shlita and Rav Ezriel Auerbach Shlita 

Lakewood residents are frustrated with increased traffic and road closures during Bein Hazmanim. While major road projects have traditionally been scheduled during this period to reduce disruptions, many families have stayed in town this year, and camp carpools have added even more vehicles to already crowded roads.

Lakewood is no longer the quiet, empty town it once was during Bein Hazmanim. A large workforce remains active, and the town has become a destination for shopping, restaurants, and simchas, bringing in many out of town visitors who offset those who leave.

With more construction and road closures taking place throughout the year, some residents question whether scheduling major work during Bein Hazmanim still makes sense. Those who contacted the township engineering department were told the timing was intentional, but many locals say the result has been significant congestion and frustration.

While many families may be away on vacation, it appears that some township officials are the ones taking a break avoiding public criticism and difficult conversations with residents. This comes right after the Township Committee approved a significant tax increase that could add roughly $1,000 or more to their annual property tax bills including the ssketchers.

Elected officials say the construction is necessary but have so far not explained what is going in and how it will benefit the quality of life and have dismissed criticism as complainers and kvetchers.

Trump says the "Board of Peace" has reached an agreement "for the COMPLETE DISARMAMENT of Hamas and all other armed groups in Gaza."

- US official to Barak Ravid: We are not asking Israel for anything other than to fulifil their commitments under the 20-point plan. If they don't do that, President Trump will be very disappointed. I don't think the Israelis want to escalate this issue with us now.

- A senior US official said the negotiations were very sensitive in the months leading up to this breakthrough and that implementation of the agreement would begin in the coming weeks. The official added that Israel did not like the fact that the US had included Turkey and Qatar on the executive board of the Peace Council, but together with Egypt, they were very helpful to the process

- Trump: “Today, the Board of Peace reached a HISTORIC agreement for the COMPLETE DISARMAMENT of Hamas and all other armed groups in Gaza. This is a monumental step toward lasting PEACE and SECURITY.

This agreement is a critical step towards Gaza finally being governed by a new Palestinian government that will work closely with the Board of Peace to help the Palestinian people. At the same time, Israel will have the security it deserves, with Gaza no longer used as a base for terror attacks.

This is a major milestone in the implementation of the Trump 20-Point Plan. The agreement will be carried out in carefully structured phases. As disarmament is completed, Israeli forces will withdraw, and the International Stabilization Force will work with a new Palestinian police force to take responsibility for Gaza being safe for its residents and its neighbors.

One year ago there was a violent raging war, humanitarian crisis and hostages kept in brutal captivity. We have made historic progress and there is still much work to do.

I want to thank the mediators—Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye—for their important efforts, and especially my outstanding team, whose tireless work made this historic breakthrough possible.

The threat that emerged from Gaza on October 7 will NOT be allowed to rebuild!

Under this agreement, Gaza will finally be in the hands of a new Palestinian government that serves its PEOPLE.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL ON THIS AMAZING DEVELOPMENT, THAT EVERYBODY SAID COULD NEVER BE ACHIEVED!

DONALD J. TRUMP
President of the United States of America”

- US Central Command says it has completed “a heavy wave of strikes” on dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targets in Iran, a day after the Iranian military force targeted American troops in the region with ballistic missiles.

- President Donald Trump reportedly lashed out at aides during a meeting last week due to frustration over his military options against Iran and inability to close a deal to end the conflict.

 US official tells NBC News. “The president is exasperated,” a Trump ally who has spoken with the president in recent weeks tells NBC News. “I don’t think he believed it was going to be this difficult to get the Iranians to agree to a deal. There was not a real strategy for how long or what they should do to get to the endpoint,” the Trump ally adds. “He did not intend this to be a long, drawn-out war.”

- Houthi rebels declare that they were not behind a drone strike yesterday that hit a US-owned-and-operated gas storage ship in the Egyptian port of Damietta.

- The Israeli Air Force bombed another four Hamas weapon depots across the Gaza Strip overnight, the military announces.

- Iranian sources tell NYT that Egypt drone strike was designed to showcase Tehran’s capabilities

- Pakistan confirms that negotiations between the United States and Iran are “ongoing” , particularly on the Strait of Hormuz and to de-escalate,”

- Iran’s IRGC says three members killed in US strike on the northwestern province of Zanjan.

- Swiss Air will resume flight operations on the route between Zurich and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on August 1,

- An ambulance driver from the Galilee has been charged this morning with espionage for Iran, which included spying on President Isaac Herzog and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich during a visit to a northern hospital.

- Hamas said set to agree today to give up its heavy weapons if IDF leaves Gaza and ends strikes

- Discussions with Hamas and mediators underway in Cairo are “making progress” on disarmament, The roadmap under discussion “creates a process for the elimination of all tunnels, depots of weapons, and any weapons production facilities,” If implemented, “there will be no more terror infrastructure in Gaza” at the end of the process, says a official. Hamas will not be able to control developments from behind the scenes, as Hezbollah has done in Lebanon.

- PM Netanyahu Responds to Vice President Vance's Statements Against Israel

Q: J.D. Vance recently told Joe Rogan (podcast) that Israel is trying to sabotage the end of the war with Iran. He said that there are elements in your system who are trying to influence American public opinion so that the war continues. How do you respond to that?

Netanyahu: That is not true. I had a very good conversation with the Vice President this morning, and I think we made it clear that this is not our policy. Individual people in our system can have their own opinions, but I determine the policy of the government - and that is not our policy

Chasunas:

Olshin - Mandelbaum Lake Terrace

Mintz - Lederer Ateres Blima

Berenbaum - Zaks Ateres Chaim Elazar

Goldsmith -  Shlessinger Fountain Ballroom 

Blum  - Eckstein Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Simchas Chosson V'kallah at 2 local  out of town weddings dancers needed. For 2nd dance

Ateres Esther hall Oak st.

Eagle Ridge 2 Augusta

- LPD Traffic Alert: Joe Parker Rd will be closed from Spy Glass Blvd to Lanes Mill Rd for emergent Ocean County construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

Tu B'Av 5786 No Tachnun

People begin wishing each other a Kesiva Vachasima Tova

Rav Chaim Kanievsky would inspect a Esrog on Tu B'Av for the upcoming yom tov of Sukkos.

Weather: 85° Sun and clouds mixed.

Today 15 Av is the Yartzeit of Rav Amram ben Diwan zt"l His kever in Ouazzane, Morocco is regularly visited by those who come to daven and beseech Hashem for a refuah shleimah in the zechus of the tzaddik.

- Slick City Indoor Action Park Is Coming to the Former Stop & Shop in Toms River (Feder Status)

- Uman Uman Rosh Hashanah Travel challenges: Ukraine Warns Pilgrims, Israel Tightens Exit Controls

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry is urging Breslov pilgrims to reconsider traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah, citing the ongoing war with Russia, missile attacks, and the inability to guarantee visitors’ safety. Travelers who do go are warned that martial law remains in effect, including curfews and restrictions on movement and gatherings.

Meanwhile, Israel has closed a loophole that allowed some Chareidi men with exit bans to leave the country ahead of Uman travel. Previously, some reportedly bypassed automated passport gates by closely following another traveler who was allowed to leave. Under the new system, those with travel restrictions are flagged during airline check-in and prevented from boarding.

- Trump: "Does anybody have any idea how much Money and Prestige the United States Supreme Court has cost our Nation with their negative Rulings on Birthright Citizenship and TARIFFS? The answer, TRILLIONS AND TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS! President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- Trump: "The most powerful thing a president has they say is the power of pardon. [Fauci] was pardoned by Biden... the only thing I know that he signed was Hunter Biden's pardon. He probably didn't sign this one."

- Lakewood Traffic Woes During Bein Hazmanim

For years, Lakewood has typically scheduled major road construction during Bein Hazmanim to minimize disruptions. This year, however, the timing appears to have backfired, as many families have remained in town and camp carpools have added more vehicles to the roads.

With several main arteries closed, traffic has become a major headache across Lakewood. Residents who contacted the township engineering department were told the construction was intentionally scheduled for this period, but those staying in town are bearing the brunt of the congestion.

- Lakewood Police arrested two suspects in separate burglary investigations this week.

William Ordenana-Arauz, 48, of Lakewood, was charged after detectives recovered nearly $450,000 in cash during a commercial burglary investigation at a business on Ocean Avenue. Police say he allegedly stole more than $300,000 from the business where he had previously worked.

Mashon Wilson, 35, of Pennsauken, was charged in connection with two July burglaries, including a Cross Street residence and a school on Massachusetts Avenue. He faces multiple charges, including burglary, theft, trespassing, and hindering apprehension.( LPD)

- Yellow tape shaped like swastikas was found inside Ohel Shulamit on Spruce Street in Lakewood on Wednesday morning, after someone placed them on multiple surfaces throughout the shul, including seforim shranks, a wall monitor, and a coffee urn. There were no reports of broken glass or other damage.(Meaningfulminute)

- A Mega Millions player in Florida wins Tuesday night's $800M jackpot. Tonight's Powerball jackpot is $663 million.

- New concrete island barriers are being installed on Route 9 between Route 88 and 2nd Street to make it easier for drivers to turn left onto Route 88 South. The roadway has been widened, and new sidewalks have also been installed as part of the project.

- Fauci, at a Senate hearing: "I will invoke my right under the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution to refrain from answering your questions." Sen. Rand Paul warns Fauci there will be “repercussions” for what he calls obstruction of a congressional investigation.

- Bike4Chai kicked off this morning from the Kalahari Resort in PA, with riders spending the day on the road before returning to the resort tonight. Tomorrow morning, they'll continue their ride to Camp Simcha p[assing Hawks Nest overlooking the Delaware River.

Team Central Jersey has raised an impressive $2,952,597.84 in support of the cause.

- Dr. Anthony Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment 111 times and refused to answer lawmakers' questions during Wednesday's Senate hearing. Senator Rand Paul, who has repeatedly accused Fauci of misleading the public about COVID-19's origins and the government's pandemic response, pointed to Fauci's newly released COVID-era diaries, arguing they conflict with his public statements during the pandemic. After hours of stonewalling, Paul announced the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee will vote next week on a resolution to hold Fauci in contempt of Congress, arguing the pardon means he cannot invoke the Fifth Amendment for matters covered by it.

 - Sen. Rand Paul delivers opening remarks as Anthony Fauci testifies before the Senate committee.PAUL: "1,000,000 Americans DIED from COVID-19. Some estimates say close to 15,000,000 people died worldwide." "The COVID lockdown could never have been inflicted without you aiding and abetting." "The American people deserve an APOLOGY! Instead of an apology, you have avoided responsibility."

- The Lakewood Planning Board last night approved the township ordinance for the CHEMED Medical Village on Airport Road. Residents of Farmers Drive again raised concerns about the Kaminetz school expansion, including the removed fence and cul-de-sac changes. The board added a requirement for a new fence along the property line, with no sidewalks or future connection between the properties. Residents said they paid premium prices for their approximately $1 million lots with the expectation of maintaining the existing layout.

- London yeshiva B"M Elyon leaders announced that, following a letter from rabbis requiring it to accept every student, its administration will step down and hand control of the institution over to the rabbonim as it is a struggling financially and is not equipped to accommodate more students 

- Giyus: IDF: Record Number of Charedi Soldiers Drafted. The IDF says about 4,000 Haredi men were drafted over the past year, up from 2,800 the previous year and 1,800 annually before the October 7 war.

- 77 years after The death of Theodore Herzl, the remains of his paternal grandparents were dug up from the grave in Belgrade to be reburied in Israel. The WZO World Zionist Organization initiated and led the endeavor, which lasted more than four years, and personnel from ZAKA's Special Operations facilitated the transfer the remains for burial in Israel.

- Nichum Aveilim 

Shiva for Rabbi Heshy Maryles Z'L children will be going to LA on Wed, Siblings will will be in Lakewood Thurs- Sunday 1175 Buckwald Shachris 8am, Mincha 8pm, Maariv 10 pm

Shiva for Bayli Sanders A'H is at 9 Rockbridge Ct Lakewood shachris 8:45 am, Mincha/Maariv 8pm getting up Sunday 

Shiva for Miri Krepell A”H is at 36 Hope Hill Ln Lakewood.

Shuva for Dovy Melcer Z"L is at 24 Bradshaw Lakewood Shachris 8am, Mincha/Maariv 7:55 pm

Shiva for R Moshe Rosenblum Z": 28 HIghland DR Jackson getting up Friday noon

- With Israeli elections three months away, Chareidi parties have begun campaigning. Facing disappointment among some younger voters, parties are turning to marketing firms to reconnect with voters, with some warning of possible mass arrests of yeshiva bochurim without strong Knesset representation.

A new Chareidi party, Hakahal, has launched with primaries to choose its Knesset candidates. Meanwhile, Degel HaTorah MK Yitzchak Pindrus criticized yeshiva bochurim who follow rabbinic leaders in protests that include blocking traffic.

-  A Academy bus crashed into the a residential home in the early morning hours of Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at the intersection of Whitesville Road and East Veterans Highway in Jackson, 

- Trump: Many more people died of Covid under the Biden Administration than under the Trump Administration. “Operation Warp Speed” was a SPECTACULAR SUCCESS, in fact, many say, one of the most successful things ever done by an American President. I overrode Fauci on this. His ideas were CRAZY! Also, I said from the beginning that the Virus came from the Wuhan Laboratory in China. Fauci strongly disagreed, always trying to protect China. I Inherited Fauci, who was there since the 1980’s, but with each passing day, relied less and less on him. He made too many bad calls, like on MASKS. Remember at the beginning he was an anti-masker. He then switched to a super-masker. In any event I didn’t let him shut the Country down, although he wanted to. I went the Federalist way, and let the governors decide. The Republican governors did a much better job than the Dumocrats. Fauci was largely taken out of play, and then along came Sleepy Joe Biden, who made Fauci a “King!” I called Biden to tell him Fauci was no good, either didn’t have a clue, or was dishonest. The call was well received, but sadly, not acted on. Biden went on to give Fauci vast destructive power. The rest is history! President DJT

- New Jersey residents who paid sales tax again when registering an e-bike at the MVC may be eligible for a refund from the New Jersey Division of Taxation. The issue affected some owners who had already paid sales tax when they originally purchased their e-bikes. Applicants can file a refund claim if they were charged in error.

- Nissim at Gitty Gardens in *Woodridge*, as a large tree fell onto a bungalow. Baruch Hashem, nobody was injured.(BP24)

- The August Social Security Payments: Social Security payments will be sent on Aug. 12, 19, and 26, based on birth dates. SSI recipients will receive their August payment early on July 31 because Aug. 1 falls on a Saturday.

- Audio: Validating the practice of finding a mate on Tu Bav

- The WSJ reports that CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper has presented Trump with plans for a 10 to 14 day air campaign targeting Iran’s missile arsenal. Trump has yet to decide whether to authorize the full operation or opt for a narrower strike.

- The Iranian news agency 'Tasnim', associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, was suspended on X, most likely because it posted videos calling for the killing of Trump and the First Lady

- Trump on Iran: "It's going to be straightening out. In the meantime, we're going to be hitting them very hard because it's our term to hit them. We had five rocket shot going 8,500 miles an hour, and all five rockets were knocked out. Down to the ground, but they nevertheless took a shot. So it's our turn."

- Trump was asked about reports of a shipment of 400 shoulder missiles from China to Iran via Pakistan. This is despite China's president promising not to sell weapons to Iran. Trump responds, "That would be surprising. He told me he wouldn't be involved in that. He knows I would be very disappointed if that happened."

- NYT: About 20 Iranian advisors were killed tonight in US and Saudi strikes against pro-Iranian militias in Iraq. According to him, the targeted sites were specifically chosen due to the presence of Iranian advisors and to damage the militias' ability to launch missiles and drones.

- Reuters: A US tanker carrying liquefied gas was struck by a drone off the northern coast of Egypt

- Senior Israeli political figure in a briefing to journalists in Washington: "The decision regarding Iran is in the hands of Trump. Everything is on the table, from an agreement to a significant attack. Iran is well aware that Israel will respond forcefully if it is attacked. Mojtaba Khamenei is certainly alive. Iran currently has approximately 1,500 ballistic missiles."

- President Donald Trump said the U.S. will retaliate strongly against Iran after an overnight missile attack on U.S. forces in Jordan. He called it a surprise attack, said troops had only minutes to intercept the missiles, and vowed that Iran would face a severe military response. The situation remains ongoing.

- The Israeli military says a Hezbollah drone struck an unmanned armored bulldozer in southern Lebanon, describing it as the first such incident since a late-June ceasefire framework. No injuries were reported, and Israel is reportedly considering a response.

- Senior advisor to the Iranian regime, Marandi: “Iran is fully prepared for all-out war.”

- PM Netanyahu met last night at Blair House with VP Vance. Sources: "It was a good meeting."

- Israeli authorities announced charges against a former member of a classified Israeli military unit, alleging he had contact with an Iranian intelligence operative and attempted to provide information.

- Strait of Hormuz: A Iranian lawmaker asserting Iranian claims over the strategic waterway and saying Tehran will not back down.

- Iranian TV: US attack on a site in the border strip of the city of Piranshahr, in West Azerbaijan, northwestern Iran

-

. ואם תמצא לומר איז דאך שווער, ואם תמצא לומר אזוי איז נאך מער שווער, אלא על כרחך איז אויס גישפארט 

During the Sheva Brachos for the great-grandson of Rav Dov Lando Shlita, Rabbi Yisrael Meir Shoshan sang the historic "Lumdisheh" melody of Rav Baruch Ber Leibowitz zt"l. Rav Lando was visibly moved by the beloved yeshiva tune, creating an inspiring moment that highlighted the enduring connection between generations of Torah learning and tradition. The song's words, drawn from classic yeshiva learning, are: "And if you would say... it is very difficult. And if you would say it this way... it is even more difficult. Rather, it must be concluded..." : 

ואם תמצא לומר איז דאך שווער, ואם תמצא לומר אזוי איז נאך מער שווער, אלא על כרחך איז אויס געשפארט

אמר רבן שמעון בן גמליאל: לא היו ימים טובים לישראל כחמישה עשר באב וכיום הכיפורים, שבהם בנות ירושלים יוצאות בכלי לבן (בגדים) שאולים, כדי לא לבייש את מי שאין לה, ובנות ירושלים יוצאות וחולות (רוקדות) בכרמים, ומה היו אומרות: "בחור שא נא עיניך וראה מה אתה בורר לך? אל תיתן עינך בנוי, תן עיניך במשפחה. שקר החן והבל היופי אשה יראת ה' היא תתהלל

Tu Bav the day that chazal say There were no better (i.e. happier) days for the people of Israel than the Fifteenth of Av and Yom Kippur, since on these days the daughters of Israel/Yerushalayim go out dressed in white and dance in the vineyards. What were they saying: Young man, consider whom you choose (to be your wife)? (Ta'anis, Chapter 4) It served as a matchmaking day for unmarried women during the time of the second bais hamikdosh. 

Chasunas: 

Grubin - Schechter Fountain Ballroom

Gross - Goldberger kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Heineman - Zucker Bais Faiga

Klein - Fromowitz Lake Terrace 

Sussman  - Shonfeld Ateres Esther 

Drebin  - Turetsky Ateres Blima 

Shemtov - Levy Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Weather: 65° Thunderstorms, some strong early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Damaging winds, large hail and possibly a tornado with some storms.. Chance of rain 100%.

Bein Hazmanin summer 5786 14 Av No Tachnun by Mincha erev Tu B'Av

Weather: 83° Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. Chance of rain 30%.

Tonight: 67° chance of scattered thunderstorms overnight. Potential for flooding rains. Chance of rain 90%.

Heavy rain and severe thunderstorms are expected to hit New Jersey on Tuesday with the potential for “life-threatening flash flooding,” damaging winds and tornadoes. A flood watch has been issued for 18 counties starting at 8 a.m. and continuing into Wednesday.

-A tornado watch has been issued for part of New Jersey with heavy rain and severe thunderstorms The watch is in effect for Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Ocean and Salem counties until 10 p.m.

- Trump administration reportedly moves to end a $3,600,000,000.00 Medicare drug plan subsidy.

- Armed man with a hammer stormed a Jewish day camp at the Lev Leviev School (Queens Gymnasia) in Queens today.He shoved a child into a fence. Heroic counselors tackled him to the ground one was bitten during the struggle. Child and counselor taken to hospital by Queens Hatzalah. Suspect in NYPD custody. Detectives investigating whether this was a hate crime.

- Monroe Township, New Jersey is facing a $300 million lawsuit from Hexa Builders LLC, a Princeton-based development company, which is accusing local officials of changing zoning rules to block a proposed data center.

- President Trump said a 16-year-old lifeguard who rescued a 10-year-old boy from massive waves in Santa Cruz will be honored at the White House with a “High Civilian Honor.”

- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill says she informed @AAGDhillon that her administration "will not provide the personal information of thousands" of residents, saying the request "had no legal basis."

- Road crews are constructing a concrete island on Rt 9 in Lakewood at 1st street along Madison Ave.

- Giyus: High Court Freezes Law Protecting Bnei Torah. Israel's Supreme Court, sitting as a nine-justice panel, has temporarily suspended a newly passed law that halted the arrest of bnei Torah who have not registered for military service. The decision follows petitions claiming the law was passed through an improper legislative process. In an unusual move, the government did not defend the law. Instead, the Knesset's legal adviser argued that the legislation was enacted unlawfully and should be invalidated. The court also allowed attorney Natan Rosenblatt to speak on behalf of the chareidi community, despite not being a party to the case. He argued that recent court actions have unfairly targeted the community and said the draft places bnei Torah in conflict between Torah guidance and state law. Justice David Mintz questioned his argument, suggesting it reflected a sectarian viewpoint. TJV

- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill says the New Jersey Division of Elections has begun removing more than 4,500 people who were improperly registered to vote, while the remaining 2,100 registrations will be sent to county election officials for further review.

- BDE: Petirah of Dovy Melcer Z”L, 42, originally from Lakewood and Florida, was niftar suddenly Tuesday morning. He was the son of Mr. Fredy and Susan Melcer of Lakewood. He lived in Miami for the past 5 years. A short Levaya will take place today 6:30 pm in Lakewood followed by Kevurah at the Bais Olam Shiva at 24 Bradshaw rd  Lakewood. 

- A large fire broke out Tuesday morning at the Agri Star meat processing plant in Postville, sending heavy smoke into the area. The company said the fire will cause disruptions to normal production and delivery schedules as operations are affected

- Traffic, despite bein hazmanim schedule: Lakewood Police are advising drivers of two roadwork projects beginning today. Route 9 between 2nd Street and Route 88 will undergo upgrades for about two weeks, while Cedar Bridge Avenue between Hurley Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive will have gas line work for about one week. At least one lane in each direction will remain open during both projects, with police assisting traffic as needed.

- Lakewood planning board meeting today 5:30 pm watch livestream Here See agenda Here  correspondence board will voteon ondnance for the CHEMED medical village 

- Reports of ICE agents making arrests in Lakewood today 

- New federal data reveals more Americans now use marijuana daily than alcohol or cigarettes.

- Giyus: The High Court  Bagatz appears almost certain to strike down a law passed two weeks ago banning the arrests and prosecution of charesim for draft dodging  after taking just an hour and a half on Tuesday to hear petitions against the legislation, during which time the justices barely challenged claims that the law is discriminatory and should be struck down. Representatives of the Knesset’s legal adviser and the attorney general both said that the law should be annulled, with the former arguing that the manner in which the legislation was passed severely violated Knesset procedure, and the latter asserting that the law creates unconstitutional discriminatory enforcement in the criminal justice system.

- The Sadigura Rebbe shlita celebrated the bris of his son today, with hundreds of chasidim gathering to participate in the joyous simcha and share in the special occasion.

- President Trump responds to Dr. Anthony Fauci's newly released diary entries from the pandemic, where Fauci took aim at the administration and fixated on his own rise to fame. "He wanted to close everything down and I didn't... If I would have taken his advice, the whole country would have been closed down." "I didn't agree with what he was saying or what he was doing."

- A M7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Kyushu, Japan, reaching the maximum shindo 7 intensity and prompting a brief tsunami advisory. 40-50 people injured, no confirmed deaths. Over 150,000 told to evacuate.

- According to IDEMIA, the non citizens registered to vote in New Jersey wasn't their software's problem. It was a setting approved by NJ officials that prompted people who said they were non-citizens to register to vote anyway. IDEMIA said they were listed as non-citizens in the info transmitted to state officials.

- Sen. Lindsey Graham’s casket is carried up the Capitol steps and into the Rotunda, where a ceremony honors his life and decades of public service.- President Trump and world leaders, including Ukrainian President Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu are expected to attend. 

- Next Sunday, Lakewood will host a promotional event for the new Nachal residential development in Yerushalayim, located near the Ramat Eshkol, Sanhedria, and Givat Hamivtar neighborhoods. The event will feature a community run and walk through Pine Park, followed by a free family festival with finisher medals, branded T-shirts and visors, complimentary food, carnival games, snow cones, popcorn, photo magnets, live music, and a festive finish-line celebration for participants and their families.

- Audio recordings that Biden fought for years to keep private have now been released by the Justice Department following a long legal battle. At one point in the recordings, then-Vice President Biden is heard telling the ghostwriter of his memoir, “Promise Me, Dad,” that “some of this may be classified,” apparently referring to volumes of notes at his home that included classified information.

- A New Jersey appeals court ruled that Colts Neck must contribute $2 million toward a sewer system for a proposed affordable housing development on Route 34. The decision is a victory for Seta Realty Corp., which plans to build the project on a 14-acre property, and supports the township's efforts to meet its affordable housing obligations.

- A coalition of prominent Jewish legal organizations is sharply criticizing New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after he failed to appoint a single Jewish member to an influential committee that helps recommend judicial nominees, accusing his administration of continuing a pattern that has left many Jewish New Yorkers feeling excluded and ignored.

- Jackson township meeting tonight large crowd expected as several items on the agenda.

- Giyus: Erev Tu B'Av there will be a atzeres Tefillah in Yerushalayim at the kever of Shimon Hatzadik.

- U.S. Central Command says U.S. and Saudi forces carried out precision strikes in eastern Iraq on July 28, targeting Iran backed militia weapons and logistics sites after more than 30 drone attacks over the past 72 hours.

CENTCOM said the attacks on U.S. forces were unsuccessful and warned the IRGC and its proxies to halt further attacks or face additional military action.

- CENTCOM: At 5:45 p.m. ET today, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran in an attempted surprise attack on U.S. forces based in the Middle East. All Iranian missiles were successfully intercepted. U.S. forces remain vigilant and at a high state of readiness.

- US official: Iran launched missiles towards an US base in Jordan. Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles in an attempted surprise attack on US forces based in the Middle East. All Iranian missiles were successfully intercepted. 

- Senior U.S. official tells Reuters: Iran is exaggerating its demands regarding the Strait of Hormuz, and the international community is rightly rejecting them.

- No tolls or fees will be imposed on Hormuz shipping as part of deal with Iran — US official

- A new deal between the US and Iran is emerging. 2 regional diplomats: There is progress in the attempt to resolve the crisis around the Strait of Hormuz. The solution focuses on a temporary solution: namely, the operation of a middle route in Hormuz - between Omani territory and Iranian territory.

- Benjamin Netanyahu says his “excellent” meeting with US President Donald Trump was one of the best sit-downs the two leaders have ever had.“It was a meeting with full cooperation,”

- During the meeting, Israel presented the US with inside information that shows a very significant and concrete reconstruction process in Iran. This specific reconstruction process is being carried out with the assistance of a foreign country- Ch 13

- Israeli source in Washington: Trump did not demand an Israeli withdrawal in any sector during the meeting.

- According to sources involved in the negotiations between the US and Iran, the concessions on the American side are substantial. Among other things, Trump's people are expressing a de facto willingness to pay Iran for the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, contrary to all international norms. It should be noted that, according to the Iranians, since the US blockade of the Strait of Oman was lifted, it has sold oil worth $18 billion. - Israel Hayom

- A senior Israeli official with inside knowledge of the meeting: “It was a very positive meeting, You can see the chemistry between the leaders. The Prime Minister and the President reiterated the message that Iran will not be allowed to have nuclear weapons: in a deal or not. The leaders discussed the partnership between the US and Israel And also opportunities in the Middle East - expanding agreements

- Trump, in his meeting with Netanyahu at the White House:"We took down their nuclear facilities and we'll take down the cursed mountain easily if we don't make a deal"

- Senior White House official: In an interview with Fox News, President Trump wanted to send a strong message to Netanyahu before their meeting.

- Axios Report: Senior U.S. officials believe economic pressure is hurting Tehran more than the bombing campaign. Iran is struggling to pay its fighters, at risk of a bank run, and facing gasoline shortages. One official: "They're more scared of Treasury than the War Department."

- IDF killed a Palestinian Islamic Jihad commander who led a cell that abducted Israeli civilians during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack.

 - Trump: "Frankly, if I were not President of the United States, Israel today would not exist"

- Reporter to Trump: Netanyahu will tell you Iran is fortifying Pickaxe Mountain?

Trump: I don't need Bibi to tell me that. Bibi is telling me that because he wants me to stay involved...Because of the space force, we have the greatest cameras in the world focused on. We know exactly what's going on. I know exactly what's going on at Pickaxe. It's not a big problem

- Trump on Iran: "The bridges are gonna be gone. Less than 2 hours, the major bridges. The power plants, in one day. If I can avoid doing that, I'd like to avoid.. They know I'm going to do that if they don't make a deal."

- Ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s meeting with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, mediators believed they were close to a breakthrough that would revive the memorandum of understanding signed by the US and Iran last month, However, the intermediaries were awaiting a final decision from Trump after his meeting with the Israeli leader.(TOI)

- Israel Defense Minister Katz: We can say for sure that the Iranians are trying to harm Prime Minister Netanyahu "We really want to attack Iran's energy targets and set it back 40 years - the US is not approving at the moment for economic reasons"

- Israeli Defense Minister Katz reveals: US fighter jets taking off from Israel to strike Iran, and the Iranians know

- Three young Iranian men were executed in Iran for protesting 

- Spokesperson for the Iranian Khatam al-Anbia Command: The President of the United States has announced that he will compensate the vessels damaged during the war imposed on Iran, using Iran's frozen assets. We warn: any company or country that receives funds originating from Iran's frozen assets will not be allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

- According to a CNN report, PM Netanyahu has been trying to secure an invitation to the White House for weeks. Trump's circle  has been reluctant to meet, and several White House officials have expressed frustration that Israel is trying to secure a meeting through leaks to the media

- Kremlin: Iran should view Ukraine's attack on an Iranian ship in the Caspian Sea as a direct attack on Iran itself

Chasunas:

Goldberg - Garfinkel Bais Faiga 

Weiss - Grunwald Ne'emas Hachaim

Kravetz - Neger  Lake Terrace

Hirth  - Levin Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Kaplinsky  -  Berger Fountain Ballroom 

Goldberg - Fruchthandler Ateres Esther

Nekritz - Drillman Cedar Palace 

 - Adopt a kollel Gabbaim appreciation event tonight in Lakewood divrei Chizuk Rav Uren Reich shlita 

Kiddush Levana

Bein Hazmanim summer  5786, 13 Menachem Av

weather: 84° Partly cloudy early then heavy thunderstorms this afternoon Chance of rain 100%.

Strong thunderstorms could hit New Jersey with flash floods, damaging winds Tuesday.

Second half summer day camps begin today for girls

- London Rabbonim say : No Year 7 Classes Until Every Boy Has a School Place

In a strongly worded letter dated today 13 Av, dozens of London rabbonim in Golders Green instructed six major Jewish schools that they may not open their Year 7 classes this Elul until all 20+ boys currently without a school placement are accepted. The directive  also prohibits any school or individual from running alternative Year 7 programs in the interim.

- Tens of thousands of T-Mobile customers across New Jersey are reporting service issues with the network this afternoon, which also seems to be affecting the company's 5G internet system. T-Mobil has not yet released a statement regarding the outage.(One Jersey)

- Trump: "BREAKING NEWS: The Failing New York Times, after 10 years of harassment, slander, and libel, just failed again in their desperate attempt to have our powerful Defamation Lawsuit against them dropped. As we requested, the Highly Respected Judge has called for an updated complaint, which will lay out, in extreme detail, all the ways in which The Times has repeatedly and consistently acted, with actual malice in defaming me, my family, our Great MAGA Movement, and America, itself. We will continue to hold The Times and their “comrades” in the Mainstream Media accountable for publishing, promoting, and dealing in Fake News. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- Trump:  "I said we will never be a socialist country. But I was right. We're going to be a communist country. That's what they want." "This is a serious threat because they're going to promise all sorts of things. In one year, the country will be absolutely bankrupt. You'll live in squalor. You'll live in fear. You won't have police. You won't have firemen. You won't have anybody." "We're a very nice party. We shouldn't be so nice, to be honest with you.

- Deal, NJ: A Pizzeria employee from Long Beach area was fired after parking outside a shul with a Palestinian flag displayed on his vehicle. The restaurant apologized, said it is apolitical, and stated the employee's actions did not reflect its values.(JV)

- Trump: "Let's get rid of Daylight Saving time stuff, okay? We have a bill in. Hopefully the Senate is gonna approve that one. It's called the weave. But I had a father ..

 - Trump: “A lot of countries would not survive without us, and you know who wouldn't survive without us? Israel. Bibi's coming; he'll tell you, if I didn't get involved and if I didn't blow up those nuclear facilities, essentially, soon to be nuclear weapons, the dust, as I call it, Israel would have been terminated months ago”

- Mamdani publishes names and addresses of all NYC property owners who could be hit with new pied-à-terre tax The move follows a widely panned X post by the mayor in which he put wealthy residents on notice to “check your mailbox when you’re back in the five boroughs.”

- ICE launches a major immigration enforcement “blitz” in New York City

- Update: levaya/Kevura for Mrs. Chance Eisgrau A"H in Lakewood bais olam @3pm

- Powerball reaches $633M for Monday night drawing

- Moishes discount supermarket in Howell expected to open before the Yomim Tovim 

- BDE: Petira of Chava Miriam (Miri) Krepell A”H 14-year-old daughter of R' Pinny and Malky Krepell of Lakewood , following an illness of approximately a year and a half. She was a Talmidah at Bnos Devorah/Shiras Devorah schools. The levayah will take place on Monday at 1:30 p.m. at the Lakewood Chapel off 7th street.

Zoom link for Levaya Here Passcode:485807

Shiva at 36 Hope Hill Ln Lakewood.

- BDE: Petirah of Reb Tzvi Heshy Maryles Z"L originally from Los Angeles. Levaya Monday 11 am at the Lakewood chapel with kevura at the bais olam. Shiva in Lakewood 1175 Buckwald Ct

542 N Highland Ave other Aveilim wil be sitting in LA starting Wednesday at 542 N Highland Ave Shachris 8:00 AM Mincha 8:00 PM Mariv 10:00 Pm

- New Kosher Asian Restaurant Coming to Jackson Bao, a new Asian-style restaurant owned by the team behind BUN, is set to open next month. "Bao" means "bun" in Chinese. 21 S Hope Chapel Rd, Jackson Township, NJ 08527 next to Kalamata(Federstatus)

- Lakewood planning board meeting tomorrow including an application for a school building 1244 & 1250 Ridge Ave

- New York Post editorial argues New Jersey's noncitizen voter registration issue was caused by the state's Division of Elections not its software vendor—and criticize Gov. Mikie Sherrill for disclosing the problem only after the Justice Department demanded records, calling it a sign of broader election oversight failures.

- Reporter: 9/11 survivors are calling on you not to go to the memorial service. How do you feel that they're trying to keep you away?

Mamdani: "I will stand alongside them at the 9-11 commemoration. We will never forget!"

- Trump: John Thune should not allow the United States Senate to “leave town” until it passes The Save America Act or, far better still, TERMINATES THE FILIBUSTER, where Republicans can then quickly pass everything they ever dreamed of, including a full and deep throated SAVE AMERICA ACT, the Budget, and the ever looming Debt Ceiling disaster, 1929! The Dumocrats will do it on day one, and can’t believe how lucky they got with this Senate leadership. Remember, stupidity always brings LOSING & DEATH! President DJT

- NYT: The Democratic Party is so short on cash that leaders at its headquarters have undertaken a new gambit to mask the severity of the problems: asking vendors not to send bills until after the midterm elections”

Trump: Whichever Party Terminates the Filibuster FIRST will be the Party that survives and thrives. If the Dumocrats win this race, however, America will rapidly become nothing more than a Third World Nation! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- The New Jersey Office of Weights and Measures (OWM), which regulates certain aspects of the sale of gasoline, is "conducting inspections" into Freedom Fuel Network gas stations to ensure that they are compliant with State law. The network of Philadelphia-area gas stations, includes several locations in New Jersey, came under scrutiny in recent weeks after they dropped their per-gallon price to well below the going rate.

Video: Segulah of Rav Gamliel Rabinowitz shlita for a shemira during being Hazmanim to have Salt

- Trump to Barak Ravid: "We are having deep talks with Iran. If they don't succeed, we will return to a powerful military operation."

-Regional officials told the Associated Press: Progress has been made in efforts to bridge the gaps between the United States and Iran.

- CBS Poll: Most Americans are unhappy with how the war with Iran is unfolding, with 63% saying they feel "very" or "somewhat" badly about the conflict. Most expect the war to continue for months or years, and 76% believe it has been more difficult than the Trump administration anticipated

- Fox: The U.S. hasn't launched strikes on Iran for the past three nights, but the White House says military action is still on the table. Officials say Washington is weighing diplomacy, economic pressure, and a naval blockade that is reportedly costing Tehran hundreds of millions of dollars a day. At the same time, Israel remains on high alert, Netanyahu is warning of a "very, very forceful" response to any attack, and tensions continue rising after Ukraine says it struck Iranian military cargo vessels in the Caspian Sea. 

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s meeting with US President Donald Trump is scheduled to take place at 11 a.m. local time in Washington, DC, on Tuesday Three hours later, he will attend the funeral ceremony for late US Senator Lindsey Graham in the Capitol.

- Iranian Foreign Minister spokesman Bakai said that "Iran will not allow the US to decide when the war will end" and that "the talks between Iran and Oman regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz were positive"

- IDF says it destroyed Hamas tunnel hundreds of meters long .A Hamas tunnel spanning hundreds of meters in the northern Gaza Strip was recently demolished by combat engineers, the IDF says.

- The IDF intercepted two drones near the Jordanian border a short while ago. According to the IDF, the UAVs did not enter Israeli territory. The launch origin is under investigation, and no sirens were activated in accordance with protocol.

- The commander of Hamas’s internal security forces in the central Gaza Strip was killed in an Israeli strike yesterday, the military announces.

- IDF: 4 Palestinians detained for alleged involvement in stealing soldier’s gun in West Bank

- Saudi Arabia was attacked by drones launched by Iran-backed militias in Iraq, says the kingdom’s Defense Ministry spokesman, Major General Turki Al-Maliki.

- NBA star Kyle Kuzma criticizes New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for Mamdani’s video last week acknowledging that he could not arrest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “This is 2026. People cosplaying as things they don’t have the authority, the talent, or the track record to actually be. Just for content. A mayor playing president. A founder playing operator,” Kuzma says on X in response to Mamdani’s video statement.

- Zelensky said that Iran supplied Russia with drones for the war from its very early days, and he considers this direct involvement in the attack. "Without any escalation on our part, Iran began supplying Russia with weapons," said

Petira of Mrs. Chani Eisgrau a"h Wife of Reb Menachem EIsgrau shlita of Passaic daughter of Rav and Mrs. Benzion Kokis shlita,mashgiach Ruchni at BMG. She was in her mid 40's. 

She was a tzadeikes and role model who was sovel yesurim for over 15 years b-ahava. She was the most dedicated and loving mother to her family bsimcha and emunah even while suffering tremendously

The levaya will take place Monday, July 27, at 12:00 PM at Yeshiva Gedola of Passaic, 55 Ascension Street, Passaic

There will be additional seating for women in the Yeshiva dining room

Live hook up HERE 

Kevura will be at the Lakewood Beis Olam

782 E 7th St, Lakewood, NJ at 3pm.

Shiva will be at 288 Aycrigg Avenue, Passaic

המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שאר אבלי ציון וירו

Chasunas:

Deutsch  - Zachai Ateres Reva 

Sorcher  - Franco Lake Terrace 

Weintraub  - Ehrlich Ateres Esther 

Wolbe - Goldenberg Cedar Palace

Sasoon - Betesh Kesser moshe Yehuda 

Taplin - Miller Bais Faiga 

Abrams  - Krausz Ateres Blima 

Elbaz  Ne'emas Hachaim

 Weather: 82° Plentiful sunshine

Bein Hazmanim 5786

- LPD traffic Alert: Starting tomorrow July 27 NJDOT contractor advises that they will upgrading Route 9 from 2nd St to Route 88 construction expected to last 2 weeks - there will always be at least one lane of traffic in each direction. 

NJNGAS contractor advises they will be upgrading gas lines on Cedarbridge Ave from Hurley to MLK construction expected to last one week - there will always be one lane open each direction Both contractors scheduled during this time period with much lighter traffic. Police will be on hand to assist as determined to be necessary

- 13-mile delay GSP North in Monmouth County to to a concert at the PNC arts center and  beach traffic heading home.

- BDE: Tragic  Petirah of 4  year old Baily Sanders A”H, daughter of  R' Moshe and Rina Sanders, after being pulled out of a pool. Levaya details TBA.

- Wedding season resumes BH

- Visiting day in the Catskills for second half sleep away camp

-A proposed downtown Toms River apartment complex remains uncertain as the township works to finalize its affordable housing plan. An Ocean County Superior Court judge has given Toms River until late August to complete the plan, leaving questions about whether the development .

- BMG Honors Dozens of Avreichim Joining Community Kollelim

A Seudas Preidah was held for dozens of BMG talmidim preparing to join community kollelim around the world. More than 160 yungeleit are expected to join kollelim this coming zman, including approximately 80 BMG talmidim. The event recognized their commitment to spreading Torah and strengthening communities. Ichud Hakollelim continues to help connect avreichim with community kollel opportunities across North America and beyond. (Lakewood Shopper)

Why you need Hatzolah

Nj.com- In an emergency, every second counts. But at least nine New Jersey counties exceed the state's recommended average EMS response time of 15 minutes, according to state data from June 2025 through June 2026. Warren County has the longest average response time at 22 minutes. Ocean County averages about 15 minutes right at the state's recommended maximum, meaning response times there generally meet, but do not beat, the benchmark.

- Prime Minister Netanyahu fires back at New York City Mayor Mamdani. “He’s fomenting hate. He’s supposed to be the mayor of all New Yorkers.”After Mamdani called him a war criminal and said he was not welcome in New York, Netanyahu accused the mayor of turning groups against each other and spreading fear.

Netanyahu said he still plans to attend the UN General Assembly and speak for Israel from the UN podium.

- President Donald Trump posted an AI-generated image depicting an enormous air-filter barrier stretching across the U.S.-Canada border, a tongue-in-cheek image that came as tensions between the two countries continue to rise over wildfire smoke and trade.

As the summer of 5786/2026 begins, the kollel yungeleit of Lakewood and bochurim of BMG are entering their well-deserved bein hazmanim break. This short vacation offers a time to recharge before returning to the shtender for the upcoming Elul Zman.

Of course, limud haTorah continues throughout the community, with many local botei medrashim offering special bein hazmanim programs for bochurim and youngeleit staying local as their wife's are working 

Still there's a noticeable shift in pace. During these weeks, Lakewood is often filled with a sense of calm and serenity, as families take time to relax or head out on vacation.

While in the past the streets would noticeably quiet down and traffic would ease during this time, the recent growth of surrounding neighborhoods and nearby towns means that the peaceful, empty roads may soon become a thing of the past.

- Trump to the WSJ: "We have far more munitions than anyone in the world, and far more than we need."

- Israel approves the entry of a multinational security force into Gaza as part of Trump’s proposed peace plan

- Zelenskyy claims he has evidence that Russia helped Iran target American military bases.

- Trump Posts AI Images of U.S. Forces Seizing Iranian Tanker and Striking Kharg IslandAround 3:30 p.m, Trump posted vivid AI images on Truth Social, including one captioned 'It's Our Oil Tanker Now!' showing him claiming an Iranian tanker, another of a flaming ship titled 'No More Engines,' and a third styled like a movie poster for 'STRIKE ON KHARG' with U.S. jets hitting the island's oil terminal.

- Trump paused strikes near the Strait of Hormuz on Friday. CENTCOM commander Brad Cooper had recommended halting the campaign, arguing most objectives were met and further limited strikes would achieve little. Warnings over dwindling interceptor supplies also weighed on the call. Iran and Oman are now negotiating to reopen the strait. 

- I24News: According to sources familiar with the matter, the US's lack of interceptors is just an excuse to pause the war; there is no shortage of interceptors, according to them. The leadership in Israel doesn't know why the US decided to talk to the Iranians again.

- Senior Iranian official to Reuters: We will hold our fire as long as the U.S. does the same.

- Netanyahu: Any direct or indirect Iranian attack on Israel would be a “grave mistake” and receive a strong response. The conflict could end either with regime change in Iran or with Tehran paying a heavy price for its regional aggression. He also said he plans to attend and address the UN General Assembly

- Report on Al-Arabiya Saudi channel: The US and Iran sent their responses to a Pakistani-Qatari proposal to resume talks

 - “We are currently focused on Iran," Netanyahu said in the conversation. According to Netanyahu, if Israel shows Hezbollah that it is threatening it with a broad attack, it may deter it, but if we do carry it out, "they will have no reason not to go all the way against us, and that is not in our interest at the moment."

- WSJ: The late Senator Lindsey Graham planned to fly to Florida in early March to convince President Trump to join Israel in striking against Hezbollah in Lebanon. However, before the trip, he spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and the latter made it clear to him that the move would go too far in the midst of the war against Iran, according to excerpts from a documentary filmed on Lindsey Graham's life in recent years.

- The Iranian Mehr News Agency reports explosions in the Strait of Hormuz after a tanker hit a naval mine in the strait on a shipping route not approved by the Revolutionary Guards

- Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa:”We are avoiding confrontation with Israel and have no interest in it. We are working to achieve a security agreement with Israel, with the participation of a group of countries.

- Settlers attacked several Palestinian towns and villages overnight Saturday, torching two mosques, a home and several vehicles and spraying graffiti claiming “revenge” for the killing of an Israeli in a deadly clash on Friday.

 Weather low °56 tomorrow 83° Generally sunny. 

- Motzei Shabbos Nachamu kumzitz  concerts and bonfires across the catskills and summer camps.

- DHS: 75,000 NONCITIZENS are called for jury duty in New Jersey  every year. It’s clear New Jersey’s government databases are unreliable in ensuring only Americans are voting in American elections and serving in jury pools.

- Motzei shabbos Nachamu The Skulener Rebbes of Lakewood ans Williamsburg will jointly hold the annual Seudas Hoda'ah at the Ateres Wertheimer Hall in the luxurious Hamaspik Resort in the Catskill Mountains

- A federal appeals court has refused to reinstate key portions of President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at tightening mail-in voting rules, dealing a significant setback to the administration just months before this year’s midterm elections and potentially setting the stage for a Supreme Court battle.

- Bein Hazmanim traffic 

LPD Alert: starting Monday July 26 NJDOT contractor advises that they will upgrading Route 9 from 2nd St to Route 88 construction expected to last 2 weeks - there will always be at least one lane of traffic in each direction. NJNGAS contractor advises they will be upgrading gas lines on Cedarbridge Ave from Hurley to MLK construction expected to last one week - there will always be one lane open each direction Both contractors scheduled during this time period with much lighter traffic. Police will be on hand to assist as determined to be necessary

Powerball Jackpot $600 million next drawing Monday night.

A large fire broke out at the kever of the  Bal HaTanya in Ukraine during Shabbos. Heavy damage was caused to the site, including the shul and Hachnosas orchim house. The local police have opened an investigation.

- A group of families of victims killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks has launched a petition urging organizers of the 25th anniversary commemoration at the National September 11 Memorial to bar New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani from attending the ceremony.

BDE. Petirah of R' Dovid Einhorn Z"L one of the prominent elder Vizhnitzer chassidim,  from pre war Europe was niftar  erev shabbos a few days after celebrating his 100th  birthday 

R' Dovid, a Holocaust survivor who endured the horrors of the Auschwitz death camp, was one of Borough Park's most beloved and recognizable figures. Neighborhood residents knew him well as the elderly Yid who would regularly sit on the bench at the corner of 13th Avenue and 46th Street, across from Taam Eden Bakery, greeting every passerby with a warm smile and a kind word. He  held a hachnksas sefer Torah last week. Levaya tomorrow in BP.

Yesterday, President Trump ordered the US military not to carry out any new attacks in Iran, effectively ending a nearly two-week period in which attacks had been conducted daily. Sources said the decision reflects both Trump's desire to allow more room for diplomacy and the assessment that, as long as a decision is not made to resume a broader military campaign, the current level of attacks has reached its limit in terms of effectiveness. (Axios)

- Israeli media reported Saturday that Jerusalem had been prepared for a major escalation in the war over the weekend, which never came. Despite the pause, Israeli leaders still estimate that US President Donald Trump would soon be compelled to step up military action, the reports said.

- The order to halt the attacks was issued several hours after an Omani delegation arrived in Tehran for talks on a new agreement to open the Strait of Hormuz. Two regional sources familiar with the negotiations said that progress had been made in the talks, and that an agreement between Oman and Iran could be reached as early as this weekend. In that case, Trump would have to decide whether to accept the proposed agreement.

- Trump in a phone call with a French journalist: If Iran does not meet our demands 100%, the war will resume with full force.

- The Israeli security cabinet meeting tomorrow will focus on the future of the Gaza Strip and the Peace Council. It is estimated that ahead of the meeting with Trump, PM Netanyahu intends to advance "initiatives" regarding the Gaza Strip. (Israel Hayom)

-New York Times, President Trump has allegedly shelved, at least for now, plans for a major escalation against Iran.  The key concern: a broader U.S. attack could trigger a powerful Iranian response and rapidly drain America’s Patriot missiles and other interceptors in the Middle East.

- US President Donald Trump’s abrupt change of planes when departing Turkey earlier this month  from the new Qatar-gifted Air Force One to the older model was the result of information on a “credible threat” by Iranian proxies to attempt to harm him, The New York Times reported Friday.

   Friday, July 24, 2026 shabbos Nachamu / י' אב  תשפ"ו ערב שבת ואתחנן/ נחמו 

 נַחֲמוּ נַחֲמוּ עַמִּי יֹאמַר אֱלֹהֵיכֶם. דַּבְּרוּ עַל-לֵב יְרוּשָׁלִַם וְקִרְאוּ אֵלֶיהָ כִּי מָלְאָה צְבָאָהּ כִּי נִרְצָה עֲו‍ֹנָהּ   

-Candle lighting: 8:00 pm

-Shkia/Sunset 8:18 pm

Weather shabbos 

Day 81°Mainly sunny.

כִּי נִחַם ה' צִיּוֹן נִחַם כָּל חָרְבֹתֶיהָ וַיָּשֶׂם מִדְבָּרָהּ כְּעֵדֶן וְעַרְבָתָהּ כְּגַן ה' שָׂשׂוֹן וְשִׂמְחָה יִמָּצֵא בָהּ תּוֹדָה וְקוֹל זִמְרָה

from previous years

Friday, July 24, 2026 / י׳ אב תשפ״ו

ערב שבת פרשת ואתחנן שבת נחמו

Candle lighting 8:00 pm

Shkiah/Sunset 8:18 pm

Weather: 82° mainly sunny

Shabbos day 81° Sunshine 

- LPD Alert:  starting Monday  July 26 NJDOT contractor advises that they will upgrading Route 9 from 2nd St to Route 88 construction expected to last 2 weeks - there will always be at least one lane of traffic in each direction. NJNGAS contractor advises they will be upgrading gas lines on Cedarbridge Ave from Hurley to MLK construction expected to last one week - there will always be one lane open each direction Both contractors scheduled during this time period with much lighter traffic. Police will be on hand to assist as determined to be necessary

- Motzei shabbos Nachamu The Skulener Rebbes of Lakewood ans Williamsburg will jointly hold the annual Seudas Hoda'ah at the Ateres Wertheimer Hall in the luxurious Hamaspik Resort in the Catskill Mountains.

- Traveling away for Shabbos Nachamu There's construction on Rt. 17 to the Catskills 

- Charles Kushner, the father of Jared Kushner and a lifelong New York real estate investor, says he is relocating to Florida because of what he describes as antisemitism from Mayor Zohran Mamdani and First Lady Rama Duwaji.

Kushner cited Mamdani’s refusal to attend the Israel Day Parade, his threats concerning Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the first lady’s social media activity related to the October 7 massacre.

- The Jewish man stabbed outside a synagogue on the Upper West Side of Manhattan yesterday has been identified as Moshe Grunhaus.

According to multiple sources, Moshe was in the process of moving from New York to Florida, possibly "at least in part due to frustrations about Mamdani."

- E-ZPass users who mount their transponder in the upper-right corner of the windshield instead of in the center, may be paying a higher fee when using the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's tunnels and bridges.

According to the agency, drivers are charged a "mid-tier" rate, which is the midpoint between the actual toll and the toll-by-mail amount for those without E-ZPass, when a transponde.(Onejersey)

 - U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Security Alert: Due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex, with the potential for unforeseen escalation. U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution, stay alert, and be prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and other travel disruptions

-LPD Alert: All Lakewood Township Phones are down. Dial 911 for Emergencies only.

- Long lines at Local Barber shops as the 9 days conclude heading into Shabbos Nachamu

- Chazan Yitzchok Meir Helfgot will be at the Yeshurun Shul in Yerushalayim for shabbos Nachamu.

- The Lakewood Police Department will host “Chill with a Cop” giving out free Rita's Ices (Taemipol Hashgacha) on Sunday, July 26, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lakewood Town Square. Residents can meet local officers, enjoy refreshments, and connect with representatives from various law enforcement and emergency agencies.

- Gourmet Glatt south sourdough tasting with dips special for today Crave sourdough challah $12.99

- LSTA Update: Transportation negotiations begin Monday, with bus routes continuing to be assigned and adjusted through the start of school. Parents can view their transportation status in the LSTA portal beginning August 1, with updates posted as more routes are secured. Families should ensure all required forms are submitted and balances are paid to avoid delays. Bus passes, including pickup and drop-off information, will be available only through the portal before school starts.

- Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen Speaks on Respecting One’s Own Kedushah

In his Tisha B’Av drasha, Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen shlita spoke about the idea that every Yid is his own “Bais Hamikdash” and emphasized the importance of having self-respect and dignity.

He criticized trends he felt diminish a person’s sense of respect, including leaving the second shirt button open, which he described as not befitting a Yid’s dignity. He also addressed the habit of coming home and spending time scrolling from chat to chat on a smartphone, saying that such behavior is not in keeping with the way a Yid should conduct himself.

- A Tesla Cybertruck driver lost control and slammed into a concrete divider while exiting the southbound Garden State Parkway at the Lakewood Toll Plaza (Exit 89) on Wednesday evening. New Jersey State Police said the crash occurred at approximately 5:52 p.m. No additional information about injuries or the cause of the crash was immediately released.

- Giyus: Attorney General Urges High Court to Strike Down Draft Arrest Freeze Law

Israel's Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, has asked the High Court of Justice to invalidate the law freezing the arrest of Charedi draft evaders, arguing it has "no legal basis to stand."

- The Living L’Chaim Tisha B’Av video “Letting Go” has surpassed 285,000 views, drawing widespread attention and engagement.

- PM Netanyahu will fly to Washington on Monday, where he will meet with President Trump and participate in the memorial service for Lindsey Graham.

- NJ E-Bike Deaths Rise as New Safety Laws Face Criticism

Several New Jersey teenagers have died in e-bike and e-moto crashes as their popularity continues to surge among younger riders. Recent victims include a 16-year-old Southampton wrestler, a 15-year-old from Lincroft, and other children ages 12 to 14.

New laws that recently took effect aim to increase safety by adding age restrictions, registration requirements, and insurance rules. However, some parents who lost children in crashes say the laws would not have prevented what happened and are calling for stronger enforcement and education.Officials say many young riders are using powerful electric motorcycles that are often mistaken for regular e-bikes, while police report seeing riders as young as 10 to 14 years old on these vehicles. (NJ.com) 

- A Secret Service agent is under investigation for allegedly leaking sensitive details about Vice President JD Vance's security detail. The agent has been suspended and placed on administrative leave.

A Breslover Chasid thanks Hashem after he found the missing 4 year old boy under a tree at the Beach near Ashkelon

- US sources told the New York Times that the facilities at Pickaxe Mountain are carved deep into the mountain. However, Iran fears that the US could carry out a ground commando raid on the complex, in which special forces would enter and destroy it from the inside.

- WSJ: Bahrain and Kuwait secretly attacked Iran using fighter jets – their first "revenge" strikes against Iran.

- Commander of the Iranian Khatem al-Anbiya in a new “equation”: “For every Iranian citizen who dies a martyr, one US soldier will be sent to h.. 

- The International Criminal Court's criminal chamber fired Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, who is accused of harassment.

- Trump: “President Xi, at our recent meeting in Beijing, China, told me that he would not, under any circumstances, give or sell Weapons to the Islamic Republic of Iran — And that statement included Chinese Companies. Considering our relationship, I take him at his word and, besides, l am doing him very big favors, also. Likewise, President Putin, despite the horrible War going on in Ukraine (The relationship remains, as it does with President Zelenskyy), told me that he would not sell Weapons to Iran. He understands that I do not sell Weapons to Ukraine, but to NATO Countries. They pay full price, and how those Weapons are distributed, I have no idea. Therefore, two major Countries that people speak of often in terms of Iran are, in my opinion, not participating. If they did, it would be very bad for them — Certainly not in their best interests. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP”

- U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Security Alert: Due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex, with the potential for unforeseen escalation. U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution, stay alert, and be prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and other travel disruptions.

- PM Netanyahu will fly to Washington on Monday, where he will meet with President Trump and participate in the memorial service for Lindsey Graham.

- Boy, 4, who went missing on Ashkelon beach is found alive. A volunteer search party has found Yuval Kogan, 4, who went missing yesterday on a beach in Ashkelon, after a daylong search.

The boy is reported to be alive and well he was sitting under a tree. Celebrations break out on the beach upon news of his being found.

- Two Israelis killed in Palestinian Terrorist attack  in West Bank 

A shooting near Gilad Farm in the northern West Bank on July 24, left two Israelis dead and four others wounded. The victims, 32-year-old Benayahu Melet HYD, a member of the settlement's emergency response squad, and Yuval Ezra, 27, from Herzliya, were killed while trying to assist a group of hikers during an attack. Israeli authorities said the hikers were initially assaulted with rocks and clubs by Palestinian  arabs from the area, before the terrorist seized a responder's weapon and opened fire killing 2 Israelis. The IDF said it later located and killed the terrorist and recovered the  stolen gun. At least four Palestinian terrorists were killed and four wounded during the incident. The attack prompted Israel to reinforce military deployments in the West Bank amid heightened regional tensions.

- Joint statement from the IDF Spokesperson and the Shin Bet: In an operation in the heart of Nablus, soldiers from the IDF SF Duvdevan unit, under the command of the Samaria Brigade and with guidance from the Shin Bet, arrested two terrorists who participated in today's shooting attack. The terrorists, who were injured during the attack, were evacuated to a hospital in Nablus, where they were arrested by security forces and transferred for further investigation. The identities of all the terrorists who participated in the attack are known, and security forces are working to apprehend them.

- Iran threatens to attack Israel: Two Iranian officials told the New York Times that the country's armed forces are preparing for the possibility that the war will expand - if Trump carries out his threats to attack Tehran and the country's vital infrastructure. They claim that if this happens, Iran will expand the fighting to the regional arena, including through attacks on Tel Aviv, and the closure of the Bab al-Mandab Strait by the Houthis

- The Iranian Revolutionary Guards are calling on the "public" to report the location of US military personnel in the Middle East. So they can attack them: “The public can report to the Revolutionary Guards about the new deployment locations of the occupying American military personnel, via the official public relations account of the Revolutionary Guards on Telegram, or via 'Contact' on the Revolutionary Guards website."

- Iran reports: The US military fired missiles at the headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Zibaknar on the shores of the Caspian Sea in the northern part of the country, causing damage at the site.

 Lakewood area Supermarkets open until 12am for Shabbos shopping

- Kiddush Levana 

- Daf Yomi

- One hour learning seder after the fast at BMG Herzka building Bais Yitzchok and Bais Aaron B"M from 10:00pm - 11:30pm in memory of the Mashgiach Rav Mattisyahu Solomon Ztl. And a zechus Refuah shleima for Rav Shmuel Kamenetzky shlita and Rav Mordechai Rosenbaum shlita. 

- Due to backlog, some local Friday night mikvaos are open in the developments, inquire within

- Tonight Chumash Shiur by Harav Yeruchom Olshin shlita 11:30 pm at B"M Ateres Bracha live 646-726-9977  

- LPD Traffic Alert: James St will be closed from Williams St to River Ave. MLK Dr will be closed from Lois Ln to Pine St for planned NJNG construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

- A historic record, as a total of 3,703 Jews ascended the har habayis on Tisha Bav which most halachick authorities forbid. 

- Over 100,000 visited the kosel over Tisha B'Av according to Israeli media

- Lakewood police arrested a 29-year-old Howell man after responding to reports of shots fired at the High Point Apartment Complex on July 22, 2026. The suspect allegedly fled from officers, crashed into another vehicle injuring an uninvolved driver and then fled on foot before being apprehended. He faces multiple charges, including eluding, illegal handgun possession, aggravated assault, and drug offenses, and is being held in the Ocean County Jail pending court proceedings. The investigation remains ongoing.

-Halachos of Motzaei Tisha B'Av that falls on Thursday night. 

By Harav Aaron Dovid Wilner shlita Monsey.

- Generally, every year, on the 10th of Av, the restrictions apply until Chatzos (i.e. showering, hair-cutting, washing clothes, music, and wearing fresh clothes). However, this year, since the 10th is Erev Shabbos, l'kovod)Shabbos, these restrictions are relaxed. Bathing and hair-cutting are allowed, preferably friday morning but, if need be, Thursday evening. If it is not for kovod Shabbos, the restrictions still apply. A shower that not for kovod Shabbos is only mutar with lukewarm water.

Regarding doing laundry, even though there are those that are machmir until Friday, there is a strong heter to do laundry Thursday night. Laundry on Friday is permitted without limitation

Listening to music is not permitted until chatzos. Eating meat and drinking wine, unless it is a seudos mitzvah, should be postponed until chatzos on Friday. (Harav Aaron Dovid Wilner shlita Rav Sharei Tefila Monsey)

Tonight in shuls across EY yiddin gathered for a Atzeres tefillah responding to the call by Rav Dov Landau due to the gezeiras giyus 

       At the close of Tisha B'Av

A Gur Bochur was freed tonight from IDF military jail after the chasidim protested a few days ago. He was welcomed tonight with singing and dancing at Yeshiva Sfas Emes.

Recording calling for atzeres Tefilla after the fast on gezeiras giyus

       Motzei Tisha B'Av Belz Yeshiva

- CENTCOM U.S. forces started another night of strikes against Iranian military targets at 6:45 p.m. ET today. This is the 13th consecutive night of strikes aimed to hold Iran accountable and diminish threats from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to commercial shipping.

- NYT: Iran turned down a ceasefire proposal from President Trump delivered to Tehran by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, according to Iranian and Iraqi officials

- Updated: Two men one Jewish wearing a kippah and one Asian were stabbed in separate attacks on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Both victims were hospitalized and are expected to recover. Police arrested 51-year-old Raul Morales, who witnesses and victims said yelled "Allahu Akbar" during the attacks. The NYPD is investigating a possible hate crime, says there is no known connection between the suspect and the victims, and is not seeking any other suspects. (NY Police commissioner)

- Israeli defense officials expect the U.S. will request Israel join strikes on Iran

- State Department tells U.S. citizens in the Middle East to prepare for EMERGENCY travel.

- Western intelligence agencies believe that Iran may launch the first strike against Israel (ynet)

- Trump: "I am considering a massive attack. Larger than anything that has been done before. I am close to making a decision."

- The conflict with Iran is rapidly escalating as the U.S. reportedly surges troops, military assets, and equipment to the region while expanding strikes deeper inside Iranian territory. President Trump warned Iran and the Houthis they will face devastating consequences for any further attacks after Iran launched overnight strikes on U.S. bases in Kuwait and Bahrain

- 0aTrump on Iran They're not ready yet. They need more of the same. They have evil intentions. We cannot let them have a nuclear weapon. This should've been done for 50 years by other American presidents — or other countries. If we don't do it, nobody else is.

- The U.S. Senate blocked a resolution that limits Trump's powers to initiate a war against Iran.

- B-1 bombers are launching from the U.K. for the first time, and Iran is now warning the British bases hosting them are legitimate targets. The U.S. says more than 50,000 American troops are now in the region as additional personnel, including combat medics, deploy to support operations. At the same time, U.S. forces carry out a 12th straight night of strikes on Iranian military targets, while President Trump warns civilian infrastructure could be targeted if Iran continues threatening commercial shipping.

 כל המתאבל על ירושלים זוכה ורואה בשמחתה          

Check this page for updated content, programing, and Tisha b'Av resources.

Zmanim for Lakewood 5786

Fast begins 8:20 pm

fast is over 9:09 pm

Chatzos 1:03 pm

Watch LIVE at the Kosel HERE or HERE

Kinnus events tonight

- BMG: Maariv begins 9:10 pm in most Botei Medrashim, Rav Chaim Ginsburg shlita will recite megilas Eicha in the Yoshon B"M

 there will be a tikkun chatzos 1:00 am at the Bais Moshe  B"M Clifton and 10th st. With a drasha by Rav Yisroel Neuman shlita 12:40 am

- Maariv with Rav Yitzchok Dwek tonight at Khal Etz Chaim 21 Cedar st 8:30 pm

- Rav Yitzchok Sorotzkin shlita at KZY 175  Sunset 

- Mordy's shteible inspiration and miggunim Maaariv 9:10

Nusach Teiman על נהרות 8:50

Torah anytime dial in phone # 605-605-2220

Shachris in BMG 8:20 am

- Kinos & Inspiration with Harav Dovid Goldwasser  at Yeshiva Chemdas HaTorah, 950 Massachusetts Ave., Lakewood, NJ. Shacharis: 8:00 AM

Kinos & Inspiration: 8:45 AM – 1:45 PM

Mincha: 1:45 PM

The program will include:

Historical perspective on Churban Bais HaMikdash, Halachos pertaining to Tisha B’Av 

Commentary and background of the Kinos

Divrei Hisorerus

Nigunei Hisorerus by R’ Binyomin Pruzansky

Open to men and women

- Kinus at Chai Lifeline Shul in Jackson 90 N County line rd Shachris 9am kinnos led by Rabbi Yitzchok Feldheim and Rabbi Tzvi Housman

- The Rav Kalman Krohn Ztl Tisha BAv  program at BMG will take place after Mincha in the Beren dining hall with Rav Aharon Burstowsky shlita

-List of Torah Learning permissible on Tisha Ba'v

- The Book of Iyov (Job) and its commentaries

- The Kinos (Lamentations) said on Tisha b'Av may be studied

- Talmud: Gittin 55b - 58b; Moed Katan Chapter 3 (Laws of Mourning)

- Talmud Yerushalmi: Last Chapter of Ta'anis

- Shulchan Aruch: Laws of Tisha b'Av; Laws of Mourning

- 5:00pm  Tisha B’Av Program at Khal Zichron Yaakov in Lakewood with Rav Dovid Merling, Rav Yitzchok Dweck, Rav Uri Deutsch, Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen, Rav Nosson Levin.

Mincha 7:40 pm

Watch Live HERE

-FREE Watch free Tisha B'Av content from Oorah HERE including new for this year

Lakewood area Supermarkets open until 12am

- A Special Feature Shiur for Tisha be'Av from Rav Michoel Sorotzkin Here

- Shachris in BMG botei medrashim is 8:20am

-Rabbi Aaron Kotler will be leading the Kinnos at KNA ( Roberts shul) Shachris is at 8:55 am

-Lakewood Residence shul (madison ave/1st) Shachris 8:20/Borchu 8:40 kinnos 9:20-1:00; each kinna briefly explained by Rabbi Ralbag

- Kinus for Women and high school Girls at Ateres Reva hall 10:15 am- 1:15 pm to Listen live call   Chayeinu 712-432-3055 (additional call in 732-839-3003 ID 776-382-8466#)

- Live Kinnus hookup from camp Agudah midwest led by Harav Yitzchok Margereten shlita 9:45 am Dial in 605- 313-5329 code 374200

- Rabbi Milstein will be sharing periodic divrei hisorerus throughout davening andb kinus  at Ishay Yisroel 110 Miller Road

- Chayeinu kinus programming on phone throughout Tisha Bav for Men, Women & Children 712-832-5656

Phone for kids Rav Kolman Krohn ztl and Rav Aaron Burstowsky 712-832- 5656 400#

24 hour programing on Lakewood radio stations 107.9 & 104.7

-Audio Rav Gifter in English on Tisha Bav Here

 1,958 years since the churban bais Hamikdosh Fast of תשעה באב begins 8:20 pm tonight is over 9:09 pm tomorrow night

Cbatzos today is 1:03 pm

Weather: 83° Mostly sunny  Tisha B'Av high 82

 The big Supermarkets open today until 6 pm and on Tisha Bav from 1:00 pm to 12am/1am

Weather: 88° Sun and clouds mixed Tisha B'Av high 82

-The US House has just PASSED the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with the SAVE AMERICA ACT ATTACHED sending it to the Senate before it heads to President Trump's desk

Final vote: 216-212 7 Republican NAYs, while 6 Democrats voted YEA

- LPD Traffic Alert: Vermont Ave will be closed from Chestnut St to Rt 70, avoid the are until further notice do to police activity. No threat to the public.

 - A suspect accused of firing multiple shots in the High Point area  in Lakewood was arrested after leading Toms River and Lakewood police on a pursuit before crashing on Chestnut Street and fleeing into nearby woods. Lakewood officers chased the suspec and took him into custody according to reports

- CNN poll reveals President Trump’s approval rating among his own party is higher than any other president this century.

- Beth Medrash Govoha issued a letter thanking Lakewood Police and the Ocean County Sheriff's Office for their rapid response to a suspected emergency on the yeshiva's campus. The incident was determined not to involve an active threat. Rabbi Yosef Heinemann signed the letter on behalf of BMG, praising the professionalism of first responders and reaffirming the yeshiva's commitment to maintaining a secure environment for the Talmidim in partnership with local law enforcement

- TAG offices will close today at 4 pm 

- .LPD Update:

Lakewood Police Investigate Report of Possible Gunfire at BMG Campus

LAKEWOOD, NJ – Just prior to noon today, the Lakewood Police Department received multiple 911 calls reporting what callers believed to be gunfire at the BMG campus, with several individuals seen running from the area.

Officers from every division of the Lakewood Police Department responded immediately. Upon arrival, officers made entry into the buildings and began securing the campus while conducting a systematic search to ensure the safety of everyone on scene.

As the investigation progressed, officers determined that the sounds believed to be gunfire were likely caused by a construction worker operating equipment on the campus. Out of an abundance of caution, every building on the campus was searched. No threat was located, and the campus was determined to be safe.

At no time were students, staff, visitors, or nearby residents in danger.

Chief Gregory Meyer praised the rapid response of officers and emphasized the importance of taking every report seriously.

- A large police presence was seen Wednesday noon at the BMG 7th Street campus  during first seder following a report of what sounded like shots fired. After an investigation, security determined the noise likely came from some other source. Roads are closed with police helicopters flying above. The zman ends Friday morning.

- Lakewood: A 20-year-old Lakewood resident was critically injured Tuesday night after being struck by a vehicle at the intersection of James Street and Ridgeway Place. Police said the driver, who was turning from James Street onto Ridgeway Place, remained at the scene, called 911, and showed no signs of impairment. The investigation is ongoing.

- Toms River: An Orthodox Jewish shul on Old Freehold Road is seeking township approval for a major expansion that would more than double its size, adding over 4,000 square feet to its existing 3,000-square-foot building. APP

- Trump: 35,152 is the new number just released by Homeland Security of non-citizens registered to vote in New Jersey. These are just the ones that got caught. The real numbers will prove to be many times this amount. They are all Dumocrats! Republicans, get smart and straighten out our Crooked Elections! Pass The Save America Act!!!

- Trump, while receiving the remains of American soldiers killed in the Middle East: "This is one of the hardest things I have to do as president – but there is no choice; it must be done. Iran will pay a heavy price."

- Unusual warning from the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem: It calls on its citizens staying in Israel to take special precautions, especially in Tel Aviv–Jaffa and Herzliya, due to the “increase in violence by criminal organizations.” Amit Segal 

- A 20-year-old woman was found safe early Wednesday morning after an extensive search involving Lakewood Shomrim, Chaveirim, Hatzolah, Toms River Police, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office. She was located around 12:30 a.m., evaluated by Hatzolah, and transported to a hospital for further evaluation

- Elon Musk sounds the alarm that there are SIGNIFICANTLY more illegals and noncitizens voting than admitted by Gov. Sherrill and that Democrats will soon justify allowing them to vote this has always been the gameplan!

- NJ Gov Mikie Sherrill There is a chance for scattered thunderstorms across parts of New Jersey this afternoon, particularly in southern and eastern parts of the state. Please monitor your local forecast, keep your devices charged in case of outages, use caution if you're traveling, and never drive through flooded waters. Stay safe, New Jersey.

- The man accused of firebombing a federal building in New York was previously arrested for slashing a religious Jewish man’s tires near a Pro-Palestine protest on August 3rd 2025.

Kinnus events tonight

- BMG: Maariv begins 9:10 pm in most Botei Medrashim, Rav Chaim Ginsburg shlita will recite megilas Eicha in the Yoshon B"M

 there will be a tikkun chatzos 1:00 am at the Bais Moshe  B"M Clifton and 10th st. With a drasha by Rav Yisroel Neuman shlita 12:40 am

Last day of the zman at Yeshiva Ateres Shlomo Bochurim take tests on masochist Bava Basra

 Wednesday, July 22, 2026 ח׳ אב תשפ"ו ערב ט׳ באב Lakewood

Chatzos: 1:03 pm  

Fast begins at Shkia:/sunset 8:20 pm

1. After Chatzos (1:03 pm) on Erev Tisha B'av some poskim hold the minhag is not to learn anything which is Assur on Tisha Bav itself. Only that which is Muttar to learn on the 9th of Av. (see below for permissible learning)

2. We do not say tachnun after Mincha on erev Tisha B'av. One may not take a leisurely stroll unless he does it commonly for health reasons.

3. It is prohibited to fast on Erev Tisha bav. We eat a final meal before the fast, it is called the Seudas hamafsekes סעודת המפסקת the seudah which separates from eating to beginning the fast of Tisha b'av

4. It must be eaten after noon and before shkiah/sunset (at 8:20 pm) and no other meal may be eaten thereafter. One may drink water or eat if he did not assume the fast after the seudas hamafsekes.

5. The Seudas Hamefsekes may be preceded by a regular meal the minhag is to daven mincha in between the 2 meals.

6. The minhag for the seudas hamafsekes is to eat only bread and water, and a boiled egg dipped in ash some dip the bread in Ash.

7. The seudah is eaten seated on the ground or on a stool within 3 tefachim, we do not socialize, we it alone and avoid eating three people together to not have a chiyuv of zimun

8. If One wants to drink water or eat after the seudas hamafsekes untill shkiah it is better if he stipulates his intent verbally to do so before bentching.

9. We may not sit on a chair after sunset. Shoes are to be removed before shkiah.

10. Individuals who will not be fasting should eat a Seudas Hamafsekes.

11. Washing hands in full can only be done till shkiah after shkiah the laws of Tisha Bav begin one can only wash until the knuckles.

On Tisha B'av The 5 Inuyim (afflictions: eating & drinking, washing, Marital rations, etc.) are Rabbinically prohibited the whole day. There are other customs, such as not sitting on a chair, etc. and these are only customary until noon.

 See Halachos for Tisha B'av HERE 

 Based on "A Summary of Halachos of the Three Weeks" by Rabbi Shimon D. Eider ztl

List of Torah Learning permissible on Tisha Ba'v

- The Book of Iyov (Job) and its commentaries

- The Kinos (Lamentations) said on Tisha b'Av may be studied

- Talmud: Gemara Gittin 55b - 58b; Moed Katan Chapter 3 (Laws of Mourning)

- Talmud Yerushalmi: Last Chapter of Ta'anis

- Shulchan Aruch: Laws of Tisha b'Av; Laws of Mourning

- Centcom: At 5:30 p.m. ET today, U.S. forces began launching more strikes against Iranian military targets at the Commander in Chief's direction. The mission will continue to further degrade Iran's ability to threaten civilian mariners and commercial vessels transiting regional waters.

- WSJ: The US is increasing its forces in the Middle East in anticipation of a possible escalation of conflict with Iran. Over the past week, special forces units have been deployed to the region from bases in the U.S., according to flight-tracking data and U.S. officials. At the same time, fighter jet squadrons have been positioned throughout the Middle East, and bombers stationed at bases in the U.S. and the U.K. are on high alert in anticipation of a possible expansion of operations.

 - Trump warming Iran: "Not ready for a deal right now, but it will be ready soon."

- British Foreign Office: Due to the security situation and regional escalation, we have ordered the evacuation of diplomatic teams from Iran. The embassy in Tehran continues to operate remotely.

- Trump on Iran: "They're getting hit so hard, and they want to make a deal -- but I say they're not ready to make a deal because every time they make a deal they want to change it and everything. They're not ready."

- Reuters: The US is investigating whether Russia provided Iran with information about CIA command centers in the Middle East after Iran attacked them.

- Ghalibaf is making their position very clear: “The equation of this war is clear: either all or none!. In a region where we do not sell oil, no one will sell oil. If our security is not ensured, no infrastructure will be safe, and the security of the strait is in the absence of American forces. We have repeatedly said that the situation of the strait will not return to pre-war conditions.”

- The US informed Israel that they plan to escalate strikes on Iran in the coming days, including the use of heavy bombers, possibly using them in strikes on Pickaxe Mountain. KAN11 News

- Iranian news agency Tasnim, affiliated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, quoted a military source as saying: "If the US attacks a bridge or power plant in Iran, Iran will strike at bridges, infrastructure, and energy facilities related to US interests"

- Washington Post: The Trump administration is considering launching a military attack in Mali against the terrorist organization JNIM (Jamaat al-Nusra wal-Muslimeen), affiliated with al-Qaeda, which has grown very strong in the past year and threatens the situation in the country and the government

- Trump Threat: "From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT, including those located next to, or in, the Capital City of Tehran. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has advised airlines not to operate in Jordanian airspace, citing a rapid deterioration in security and repeated Iranian missile and drone attacks affecting the country. Th

- Explosions are heard in Israel's southernmost city of Eilat amid an Iranian ballistic missile attack on the neighboring Jordanian city of Aqaba. No missiles struck Israeli territory according to the IDF.

- The Jordanian army: Four missiles launched from Iran were intercepted, and two fell in uninhabited areas

- IRGC says they hit US military bases in Bahrain and Jordan. 

- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson: There is no nuclear activity at Iran's Kolang Kouh (Pickaxe mountain)

- Oil price surges Brent crude jumped over 3% to $95 as Houthi threats to Saudi tankers in the Red Sea imperil Riyadh’s main Yanbu export bypass.

- 4 tankers altered course in the Red Sea after Yemen’s Iran-aligned group warned international shipping companies against using Saudi Arabian ports. 2 vessels were redirected toward the Suez Canal, while 2 others signalled open-water destinations.

- Israeli security cabinet will meet Sunday night.

- Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller on Iran: If the regime keeps choosing the path of conflict, they aren't going to have the capability of being able to wage war, nor will they have an economy to support a war machine. That's the choice they face. It's never been clearer.

-  Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US is open to the Middle East conflict and is willing to engage with Iran, but Tehran is not serious about talks. "If they are serious, we are serious. If they are not, we will do what is necessary to protect our interests and the interests of our allies."

- Rome will host the seventh round of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon on August 4, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani tells parliament.

- The Iranian Khatem al-Anbiya Command responds to Trump's statement that he will attack Pickaxe Mountain: “The United States, the criminal state, is threatening to attack the nuclear facilities and other sensitive sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran. We announce that if the aggressive and terrorist army of the United States carries out this threat, it will be considered an escalation of the war in the region, and all the interests of the United States, its allies, and the countries that support it will become the target of a powerful attack by the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran."

- NYT: Trump decided to separate the agreement to establish a civilian nuclear facility in Saudi Arabia from the condition that it recognize the State of Israel and normalize relations with it. This idea was at the heart of the Biden administration's plans, but since the October 7 massacre, it has waned

Another year, we find ourselves once again sitting on the floor if Mashiach has not yet arrived.

Chazal teach us:

"כל המתאבל על ירושלים - זוכה ורואה בשמחתה. ושאינו מתאבל על ירושלים - אינו רואה בשמחתה."

"Whoever mourns for Yerushalayim will merit to see her joy, and one who does not mourn will not see her joy."

We hope and pray that this Tisha B'Av will be the last. We await the Geulah and long for the day to be transformed into a moed a time of celebration speedily in our days.

Perhaps this should be the last Tisha B’Av not only because of our longing for redemption and geula, but also because we’ve forgotten what we’re truly mourning, and how to mourn.

We live in a time where the weight of Tisha B’Av has sadly been diminished. Sitting on the floor, reading Kinnos in shul, is no longer the experience many of our children are growing up with. The day has been diluted taken over and, at times, even misused.

Ask a child today what Tisha B’Av means, and too often the first thing that comes to mind is “movie day.” Marketers target the date for high-profile video production releases, premiers, and sometimes even ideological agenda driven messaging. What was once a day of national grief has, in some circles, become a day of distraction.

Yes, modern technology allows us the comfort of our homes to hear inspiring shiurim and live-streamed drashos. And many of these messages are filled with sincerity calling for ahavas chinam, addressing the dangers of lashon hara and sinas chinam. But perhaps the emotional preparation and internal reflection these messages encourage should begin before Tisha B’Av, in the days leading up to it.

Tisha B’Av is not a day to anticipate it is a day we should long to transform. Not into a day of digital programming, but into a Yom Tov. משום דאיקרי מועד.

May we merit to see that day soon.

Halachos of Motzaei Tisha B'Av that falls on Thursday night. (for reference only. Contact your LOR)

 (See chart below from Rabbi Neustadt)

By Harav Aaron Dovid Wilner shlita Monsey.

- Generally, every year, on the 10th of Av, the restrictions apply until Chatzos (i.e. showering, hair-cutting, washing clothes, music, and wearing fresh clothes). However, this year, since the 10th is Erev Shabbos, l'kovod)Shabbos, these restrictions are relaxed. Bathing and hair-cutting are allowed, preferably friday morning but, if need be, Thursday evening. If it is not for kovod Shabbos, the restrictions still apply. A shower that not for kovod Shabbos is only mutar with lukewarm water.

Regarding doing laundry, even though there are those that are machmir until Friday, there is a strong heter to do laundry Thursday night. Laundry on Friday is permitted without limitation

Listening to music is not permitted until chatzos. Eating meat and drinking wine, unless it is a seudos mitzvah, should be postponed until chatzos on Friday. (Harav Aaron Dovid Wilner shlita Rav Sharei Tefila Monsey)

--‐-----------------------------------------------------------------------

להגדיל תורה ולהאדירה

Halachos for Tisha B'Av Thursday and Erev Shabbos this year by Rav Doniel Neustadt shlita Rav of Pine River Village senior community in Lakewood. The similar calendar year took place 3 years ago.

ShQUESTION: Do the restrictions of the Nine Days remain in effect until chatzos of Friday when Tishah b’Av falls on Thursday?

DISCUSSION: The poskim rule that due to the honor of the approaching Shabbos, several of the restrictions of the Nine Days that normally remain in effect until chatzos of the tenth of Av, are lifted.(25) But they debate whether the restrictions are lifted as soon as the fast is over on Thursday night, or if they remain in place until it is actually erev Shabbos – on Friday morning. The poskim also debate whether or not these restrictions are completely suspended and these activities are permitted even for non-Shabbos needs, or if they are lifted only when they are needed for the sake of Shabbos. We will briefly review the various restrictions and the opinions of the poskim:

* Laundry – Although some poskim suggest waiting until Friday morning to do laundry,(26) the consensus of contemporary authorities is that doing laundry is permitted immediately on Thursday night.(27) Whether or not it is permitted to wash laundry which will not be used for Shabbos is a matter of dispute: Some permit it outright,(28) while others only allow adding such laundry to the load which is being washed for Shabbos use.(29)

* Haircuts, Shaves, Hot Showers and Baths – If possible, it is recommended to wait until Friday morning.(30) If this will prove difficult or impractical, it is permitted on Thursday night as well.(31) Whether or not it is permitted to shower or bathe when doing so is clearly not for the sake of Shabbos, e.g., one is planning to take another shower closer to Shabbos, or whether it is permitted to go swimming for pleasure, is a matter of dispute: Many permit it,(32) while others do not.(33)

The following activities have no connection at all with the approaching Shabbos. Thus all of them are forbidden until chatzos on Friday:

* Eating meat(34) and drinking wine.(35)

* Playing music and dancing.(36)

* Wearing freshly laundered clothes.(37)

* Reciting shehecheyanu.(38)

FOOTNOTES:

26 Harav M. Feinstein (oral ruling, quoted in Kitzur Hilchos Bein ha- Meitzarim, pg. 32); Toras ha-Moadim, pg. 13, quoting Harav C. Kanievsky

27 Siddur Ya’avetz; Harav Y. Kamenetsky (Emes l’Yaakov, O.C. 558, note 527); Harav Y.Y. Fisher (Even Yisrael 7:27); Harav N. Karelitz (Chut Shani, vol. 2, pg. 328); Harav S. Wosner (mi-Beis Levi, Bein ha-Meitzarim, pg. 37); Lehoros Nosson 2:36; Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 42:5; Machazeh Eliyahu 86.

28 Harav M. Feinstein (Kol ha-Torah, vol. 54, pg. 8); Harav N. Karelitz (Chut Shani, vol. 2, pg. 328)

29 Harav S.Z. Auerbach (Tikunim u’Miluim 42:16); Harav S. Wosner (mi-Beis Levi, Bein ha-Meitzarim, pg. 37) Shevet ha-Kehasi 3:182.

30 To satisfy the view of several poskim who allow these activities only on Friday morning; see Be’er Moshe 3:79 and Toras ha-Moadim, pg. 13.

31 Harav Y.Y. Fisher (Even Yisrael 7:27); Machazeh Eliyahu 86.

32 Harav N. Karelitz (Chut Shani, vol. 2, pg. 328); Harav C. Kanievsky and Harav S. Duvlitzky (quoted in Nechamas Yisrael 40:8). See also Machazeh Eliyahu 86.

33 Koveitz Hilchos Bein ha-Meitzarim, pg. 84. This may be the opinion of Harav S.Z. Auerbach (quoted in note 5) as well.

34 It is permitted, however, to eat a meaty dish on Thursday night if no meat or poultry is actually visible, e.g., clear chicken soup; Beiur Halachah 558:1, s.v. shelo.

35 Aruch ha-Shulchan 558:2. A minority opinion holds that it is permitted to eat meat and drink wine on Friday morning after Shacharis; see Orchos Chaim 558:1, quoting Rav Levi Yitzhchak of Barditchev.

36 Machazeh Eliyahu 86.

37 Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasah 42, note 16.

38 Machazeh Eliyahu 86.

By Rabbi Neustadt, courtesy of Dr. Jeffrey Gross and Torah.org.

Weather: 82° Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers this afternoon. High Chance of rain 60%. Tonight Thunderstorms likely this evening. A few storms may be severe.

A flood watch has been issued for 14 New Jersey counties for Tuesday, with multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms that could inundate parts of the state with up to 4 inches of rain. Ocean county is not in the flood watch zone

- WSJ: Trump approves landmark 30-year nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia in a big win for the Saudies. The deal could mean large profits for US companies but is also likely to raise concerns about nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, as the Saudis will be able to enrich uranium

 - Zohran Mamdani admits he does NOT have the power to arrest Benjamin Netanyahu, following a “legal review, but says Netanyahu is not welcome in NYC.

- JD Vance responds to New Jersey illegal votes: If only there was a way to stop this type of “software error” that allowed non citizens to vote in our elections. I hope Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim will join us in voting to pass the SAVE America Act to ensure that only eligible American voters can participate in New Jersey elections, and all elections across the United States

- The DOJ has launched a full investigation into the state of New Jersey for “unlawful dilution of American votes. DOJ is moving to FORCE NJ to hand over a copy of their entire voter roll after admitting to enrolling fraudulent voters. In addition, AAG Dhillion is requesting the 6,600 foreign individuals identified as being registered’s full names, dates of birth, nationalities, residential addresses, and registration dates and locations

- 6:25 pm A severe thunderstorm warning issued for Ocean county at 30 mph.HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts. REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 645

- NJ Assembly GOP 45 states have some form of voter ID. New Jersey does not. Today we learned 6,600 undocumented immigrants were improperly registered to vote through the MVC and the system had no backstop to catch it. Voter ID is not a conspiracy theory. It is exactly the kind of safeguard that catches exactly this kind of failure. Democrats have blocked it every time.

- The National Weather Service is investigating reports that two tornadoes may have touched down in Morris County during Tuesday's severe thunderstorms. Survey teams are assessing the damage to determine whether the storms were officially tornadoes

- Trump posts: “Afghanistan War: 20 years, 2,000 DEAD.

Iraq War: 9 years, 4,600 DEAD.

Vietnam War: 19 years and 5 months, 58,220 DEAD.

Korean War: 3 years and 1 month, 36,574 DEAD.

Venezuela War: 1 day, 0 DEAD.

Iran Military Conflict: 4 months, 18 DEAD.”

-The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch in New Jersey as waves of strong thunderstorms have been moving across the region. Tuesday’s tornado watch was issued at about 2:05 p.m. and covers all 21 counties in New Jersey, as well as the New York City and Philadelphia metro areas. It is effective until 9 p.m. Tuesday.

- Trump: "After meeting with the President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, who has done a remarkable job working to transform his Country, I am hereby directing my Administration to allow all U.S. airline carriers to fly directly to Lebanon so that Americans can easily visit this beautiful land. Hopefully, other Countries will do the same. Enjoy! President DONALD J. TRUMP" 

- Update 3:30  JCP&L power restored 

- President Trump's push for permanent Daylight Saving Time is facing growing opposition from Senate Republicans, including Sens. Tom Cotton, Mike Rounds, and James Lankford. With several GOP senators objecting to the plan, the Sunshine Protection Act appears unlikely to advance in the Senate. (Foxnews)

- Hundreds of talmidim of Yeshivas Brisk  HGRM"D gathered at the Kosel tonight to daven for a American bochur who has been sitting in jail for several weeks following allegations involving damage to light rail construction equipment near Bar-Ilan Street in Yerushalayim. The bochur, a talmid of Brisk, was arrested in a late-night raid while wearing pajamas. Police claim they have evidence connecting him to the incident, while the bochur denies any involvement. His attorney maintains that he was mistakenly identified and that the case was built based on his appearance as a ben Torah, including his yeshivish clothing and suspenders.

The family claims that he has been suffering in jail, including being denied tefillin and clean clothing for an extended period. Following the arrest, hundreds of his fellow talmidim gathered at the Kosel, led by the Rosh Yeshiva, Harav Yitzchok Zev Soloveitchik, to daven and cry out for his release and a yeshuah. His friends said they will continue their efforts until he is freed. (M.Weisberg)

- 2:45 pm: Power outage Lakewood Cedarbridge corporate park area due to transformer fire,rt 88 Ridge Cedarbridge Ave corridor  effected. Hundreds of cars leaving office buildings at ave of the states.

JCP&L says 1106 customers out no ETR yet

- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill admits the state “accidentally” registered over 6,600 foreigners to vote, and some of them actually voted dhe acknowledged that a software error in the state MVC system led to more than 6,600 people who had indicated they were not U.S. citizens being mistakenly registered to vote. The administration said fewer than 400 of those individuals voted and that an investigation and corrective measures are underway.

- Rav Dov Landau: Remarks I made in a private conversation were published, and in the hatred of the ignoramuses  Amei Haaretz , they referred to these words with distortion and with complete lack of understanding! See video below

- Tips on how to prepare for the fast of Tisha B'Av this Wednesday evening according to Rabbi Yechezkel Aschayek author of the sefer חיים בריאים כהלכה One should start preparation from the morning 2 days before by drinking 50 % more water of your daily intake. Drink 20 minutes before eating and after meals, don't drink until the food is digested in order not to dilute the acids that digest the food. The food should be chewed well before swallowing in order for the body to digest it and not have it sit in the stomach. One should increase protein starting 2 days before, such as eggs fish etc. By the seudas Hamafsekes one should drink 20 minutes before and no need to drink afterwards

- At this past Thursday’s Lakewood Township Committee meeting, it was business as usual. The meeting moved quickly, aside from the mayor’s statement explaining why residents will be facing a major tax increase of hundreds of dollars. Notably, there was no discussion about the recent power outages that left many residents without electricity. Committee members did not respond or comment on the tax increase, and despite the mayor’s repeated claims that online meetings would increase public participation, there were no public comments submitted either online or during the meeting.

- Lakewood Night out against crime is August 11 at Blueclaws stadium 

- New Jersey state police conducting traffic enforcement in Lakewood 

- Hespedim tonight coinciding with the end of Shiva for Rav Yehoushua Max ZT"L at Yeshiva Ohr Olam 999 Vermont avenue, Lakewood.   8:15 pm divrei Hesped by Rav Yeruchom Olshin shlita, his shver Rav Shimon Spira  shlita, Rav Nossson Levin shlita and Rav Yosef Spira shlita and others.

Over $1.9 million raised so far out of $2.2 million goal for keren Almana and 10 Yesomim Donate HERE 

- The Lakewood Police Department will host “Chill with a Cop” giving our free Rita's Ices on Sunday, July 26, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lakewood Town Square. Residents can meet local officers, enjoy refreshments, and connect with representatives from various law enforcement and emergency agencies.

-  Trump: People and Companies are pouring out of Dumocrat run Blue States at levels never seen before! If this trend continues, these States will become the “Ghettos” of the Future — No people, no money, no hope. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Another company leaves New Jersey: Mars Wrigley is leaving New Jersey after nearly 90 years, relocating its headquarters from Newark to Chicago this fall. The move will result in 307 New Jersey employees being laid off by Oct. 16, though the company says it will create about 600 jobs in Chicago.

- NJ U.S. Sen. Andy Kim has introduced the MediKids Act, which would automatically enroll all newborns in Medicaid's preventive healthcare program. The proposal would provide coverage through age 26 unless families opt out, aiming to reduce the number of uninsured children in the U.S.

-  House to vote this week on legislation restricting stock trading by members of Congress & their families.

- Giyus: The Vaad hayeshivos called on to yeshiva bochurim residing abroad with Israeli citizenship, urging them to act responsibly upon their arrival in the country to study and to immediately contact the office. This comes after dozens of cases in recent times of bochurim who are unable to leave the country due to failure to arrange their status as required.

- A disturbing social media trend has people filming drivers in the Lakewood area and blaming the Orthodox Jewish community for reckless driving without evidence targeting an entire community based on isolated incidents or assumptions is simply old-fashioned antisemitism.

- South Florida’s cost of living has surpassed New York City’s metro area for the first time, according to a federal report. Rising housing prices, insurance costs, dining, and other expenses pushed the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach area to become the second-most expensive metro region in the U.S., behind only San Francisco.

- Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, to the Mayor of New York, Mamdani: "Your threat has no legal basis whatsoever. We all know that the United States is not a member of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. Muammar Gaddafi, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and Yasser Arafat – they all stood at this podium. They were dictators and supporters of terrorism. Benjamin Netanyahu is not like them. He is the elected Prime Minister of a democracy fighting against terrorism. The person who needs to be arrested is not our Prime Minister – but you, Mr. Mamdani. Prime Minister Netanyahu will arrive in New York. He will stand right here at this podium. He will speak on behalf of the State of Israel. He will defend the citizens of Israel – and there is nothing you can do to prevent that."

- HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced he is withholding more than $1 billion in Medicaid payments to California and Minnesota over suspected fraud concerns. Kennedy said the states must provide documentation proving the funds are being used lawfully before payments resume.

- The most significant finding from last israeli poll: Almost all voters in the opposition bloc prefer a government with Arabs/going to new elections/forming a government with Netanyahu but not a government with the Charedim. (Ishay Cohen)

- Two asumed ICE agents were chased out of a NJ Starbucks in Burlington county by customers screaming 'you're monsters!' and calling them Nazis.

- Amit Segal at 12: During the struggle over the draft, Charedi PR people received a great deal of money from elements in the protest that wanted to bring down the Netanyahu government

- The New Jersey Supreme Court unanimously ruled that Jackson Township cannot use eminent domain to seize private property solely to trade it to a private developer in exchange for land that will become public open space. The court found the township exceeded its legal authority and failed to deal fairly with property owners by not fully disclosing that the condemned land would be transferred to a developer. The decision upholds a lower court ruling, reinforces limits on eminent domain, and sends the case back to the trial court to determine what remedy, if any, the affected property owners should receive. (NJVindicator)

- A 9-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy died after the 30-foot boat they were riding in with their grandparents struck a channel marker Sunday night on Barnegat Bay in Berkeley Township, Ocean County. The children were thrown into the water, recovered by the adults aboard, and taken to a hospital, where they were pronounced dead. New Jersey State Police are investigating the crash

Rav Dov Landau: Remarks I made in a private conversation were published, and in the hatred of the ignoramuses  Amei Haaretz , they referred to these words with distortion and with complete lack of understanding

- U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) successfully completed the 11th consecutive evening of strikes against Iran. CENTCOM assets targeted Iranian military operations centers, maritime capabilities, aircraft hangars, drone storage facilities, and military logistics infrastructure to further degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz

- Reports from Iran: Widespread wave of attacks in several locations east of Tehran.

- CENTCOM announced another wave of strikes on Iran - this is the 11th in a row. "The strikes are intended to continue to damage Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

- Trump: “Afghanistan War: 20 years, 2,000 DEAD.

Iraq War: 9 years, 4,600 DEAD.

Vietnam War: 19 years and 5 months, 58,220 DEAD.

Korean War: 3 years and 1 month, 36,574 DEAD.

Venezuela War: 1 day, 0 DEAD.

Iran Military Conflict: 4 months, 18 DEAD.”

- Trump: "After meeting with the President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, who has done a remarkable job working to transform his Country, I am hereby directing my Administration to allow all U.S. airline carriers to fly directly to Lebanon so that Americans can easily visit this beautiful land. Hopefully, other Countries will do the same. Enjoy! President DONALD J. TRUMP" 

-Sources claim an Iranian missile struck the Israeli embassy area in Bahrain.

- Several B-1 bombers took off from the UK a short while ago.

- According to Israeli estimates, the Iranian leadership believes there is no need to compromise, assuming that Trump will back down and allow it to maintain its control over the Strait of Hormuz

- WSJ: The US, Israel and Lebanon are exploring several options for dismantling Hezbollah. One proposal is for the US to train, equip, and supervise elite units of the Lebanese army, which would gradually replace Israeli forces in southern Lebanon and eventually try to dismantle Hezbollah, if necessary. Other options include Syria's help in blocking Hezbollah's supply routes, or relying on continued Israeli military operations to weaken the organization.

- The Assessment in Israel: Trump will significantly escalate the attacks. Attacking Iranian infrastructure sites and senior officials will lead Iran to fire on Israel. Netanyahu convened a 6-hour security consultation, during which he spoke with SOS Rubio

- Trump announces the US military will be striking Iran's Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility, where Iran stores the nuclear centrifuges that were moved from other sites. "Normally I wouldn't say that...we'll be hitting that area pretty soon, very heavily, and there's not a thing they can do about it."

- Trump says Iran wants to "desperately meet." He adds that until Iran is willing to meet in a meaningful way, "we have no interest."

- President Donald Trump downplays concerns regarding a potential Houthi blockade of the Red Sea, saying that if it does happen the U.S. military will be forced to take action. "We take care of things. If something like that happens, we take care of it.” “We've done that with the Houthis before, and we haven't heard from them in a while since we did what we did."

- CENTCOM: "Since early May, CENTCOM forces have helped facilitate the transit of approximately 900 commercial vessels and 450 million barrels of crude oil."

- Iranian President Massoud Pazakhian: "Our relationship with the Supreme Leader is getting stronger day by day - and so we can solve our problems under his guidance"

- An Iranian official begins meetings with mediators in Pakistan as diplomats seek to salvage the collapsed interim deal between Iran and the United States, even as both countries continue to launch attacks for a 10th day of renewed fighting.

- Finance Minister Smotrich after the lengthy security discussion last night: “The State of Israel has no interest in joining the contained confrontation between Iran and the United States, the current situation is the best one for us.”(Amit Segal)

- Fox News from an official US source: Trump will decide within days on expanding the conflict against Iran. The US military is preparing strike options. Israel will likely participate in the operation if Trump decides to expand the war significantly.

- WP: US intelligence estimates that the latest strikes by the US military in Iran are not having a significant impact on the leadership in Iran and are unable to soften Tehran's stance in negotiations. Intelligence notes that the US and Iran are currently stuck in an undefined intermediate state between peace and war, and Trump's current path of escalating conflict leads to a "dead end."

- The Jordanian military says three ballistic missiles launched by Iran at the kingdom were intercepted.

- The Iranian army says it has targeted a US base in Kuwait with missiles, as President Masoud Pezeshkian said the conflict had morphed into a “full-scale war.”

- A Hamas terrorist who took part in abducting Nurit Cooper, Amiram Cooper, and Alexander Dancyg from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7, 2023, onslaught was killed in a strike earlier this week, the IDF announces.

- Iranian Communications Minister Sattar Hashemi said that the US strikes in southern Iran have damaged mainland Iran's communications infrastructure with the Qashqai and Kharag islands in the Strait of Hormuz. He said that fiber optic infrastructure was attacked in parts of southern Iran, forcing authorities to use radio and satellite infrastructure to maintain communication continuity temporarily

- Air India extends the suspension of its flight services to and from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport through September 30 amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

- Lebanese army troops began deploying in the southern Lebanese town of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh this morning after Israeli forces withdrew from the area, the Lebanese Armed Forces says in a statement, in line with a US-brokered plan for “pilot zones” in the south.

- Bahrain’s military says it intercepted a number of Iranian attacks.

- WSJ: Israeli intelligence estimates that Iran moved thousands of uranium enrichment centrifuges to tunnels at the mysterious nuclear facility on Mount Pickaxe, near the facility in Natanz, in the fall. This is a development that could increase concerns that Tehran is working and preparing to revive its nuclear program

If you were out shopping this week you should have noticed the same scene playing out in store after store. Parents with children, bochurim, and teenagers of sleepaway camp age were filling carts with cases of instant soup, boxes of cereal, pickles, croutons, snacks, nosh drinks, and enough food to stock a pantry. Many were walking out with bills of $150 to $300 just for the food they're schlepping up to camp.

And that's before the camp canteen. Parents are expected to load money onto camp accounts, only to replenish them within the first week because "everyone else is buying," "I'm still hungry," or "the canteen has better food." Today's camp canteens aren't just selling chips, licorice, ices, and slush like they once did. Many now offer full takeout-style menus.

Add to that the extra clothing, equipment, and countless other camp expenses, all on top of camp tuition that already runs into the thousands of dollars.

When did all of this become normal?

Three weeks away from home is supposed to be an experience. Camps are not starving children. They are well fed, mostly. Yet somehow we've created the expectation that every camper also needs to bring an entire pantry from home and have unlimited spending money waiting for them.

And it's not just sleepaway camp. Day camp has become the same. Before every trip, children "need" special nosh, snacks, drinks, and treats. Every evening throughout the summer, parents can be seen negotiating in the snack aisle as kids bargain over which candy or treats they'll get only to repeat the same conversation a few days later.

So who's responsible? The camps? The parents? Society? Probably a little of each.

The real issue is that the bar keeps moving. What was once considered an extra has become an expectation, and today's expectation quickly becomes tomorrow's necessity. Families feel pressured to keep up, even when they can't comfortably afford it.

Maybe it's time to ask whether all of these extras are really making our children's summers better or simply making parents spend more, stress more, and sometimes even go into debt just to keep up with what has somehow become "normal."

Weather: Low 67° Mostly clear this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Tomorrow morning thunderstorms

- Atzeres Tefilah for gezeiras Giyus at Ateres Esther hall downstairs of  BMG Herzka Building

10:30 pm with the participation of the Roshei Yeshiva

- String of neighborhood parlor meetings  for a Almana and 10 Yesomim. Donate Here

 - Tonight: A Maamad Tikkun chatzos to cry over the churban will take place Monday night into Tuesday morning at Khal Zichron Yaakov 175 Sunset rd Lakewood 12:15am with participation of the Mara D'asra Rav Dovid Merling shlita and a live hook up shmuz by Rav Gamliel Rabinowitz shlita 12:30am followed by the recital of tikkun chatzos. The program begins at 12:15 am Audio

Hook up phone number 425-436-6357 access code 589104

Weather: 82° Abundant sunshine tomorrow Tuesday Threat of severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, flooding, hail in forecast Tuesday

 Tish B'av day hgh of 81 clear 

- Day camps begin today, boys and bochurim head off to sleep away camps. 

- The US State Department reissues a warning to American travelers across the entire Middle East due to rising tensions and fighting with Iran. Issuing a “Worldwide Caution” alert, the State Department tells Americans currently in the Middle East to “exercise caution and heightened vigilance” and be prepared for the possibility of canceled flights and travel disruptions. It also calls on all Americans to reconsider any travel to the Middle East

- New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill drew criticism after blaming President Trump for the deaths of three American servicemembers in the Iran conflict. Critics accused her of politicizing the tragedy, while some also renewed scrutiny of her Naval Academy disciplinary record and criticized her on immigration policy asking how many deaths were committed by Illegals in New Jersey.

- President Trump imposes 50% tariff on a range of Canadian goods, claiming unfair treatment over U.S. autos, alcohol and cheese.

- Drinking up to five cups of coffee a day is safe for most adults, and regular coffee consumption may be linked to a lower risk of stroke, diabetes and heart failure, according to a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association

 - Tonight:  A Maamad Tikkun chatzos to cry over the churban will take place Monday night into Tuesday morning at Khal Zichron Yaakov 175 Sunset rd Lakewood  12:15am with participation of the Mara D'asra Rav Dovid Merling shlita and a live hook up shmuz by Rav Gamliel Rabinowitz shlita 12:30am  followed by the recital of tikkun chatzos. The program begins at 12:15 am Audio

 Hook up phone number 425-436-6357 access code 589104 

- Giyus: Gur Chassidim, joined by the Gerrer Rebbe, held a protest Monday night outside Military Prison 10 over the arrest of draft evaders. Clashes broke out with police after some protesters pushed toward the entrance of the prison's outer fence.

Another group of chasidim went to Tel Aviv and held a protest outside the home of the Attorney general who has enforced the arrests. 

In Yerushalayim protests broke out along the light rail  tracks.

- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill signed a bill today that prohibits landlords from using algorithms to coordinate rental prices, making New Jersey the fourth state in the country to ban such practices. The bill takes effect in 12 months. (Onejerseyschorr)

- Trump: Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested, in any way, shape, or form, while in the United States of America. He is fighting against the Islamic Republic of Iran, which recently killed 52,000 innocent protestors, and has spent the last 47 years killing American Soldiers, and others. The only ones that should be arrested are the people that led Iran into this unprecedented SPIRAL OF DEATH AND DESTRUCTION, something that should have been dealt with years ago, by previous Presidents! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Ancient Discovery in Ir David: Archaeologists announced the discovery of charred wooden beams preserved in plaster, believed to date back more than 2,500 years to the destruction of the First Beit Hamikdosh. Researchers say the find provides rare physical evidence of the destruction period described in biblical accounts.

- Sen. John Fetterman reveals he will leave the Democratic Party if it officially adopts an anti-Israel platform.

- Today Lakewood Fire Expo at blueclaws stadium 11am - 2pm free event 

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- Beef prices are expected to rise by about 8% starting July 27, driven by the smallest U.S. cattle herd in more than 70 years. With supply shrinking and demand remaining strong, grocery stores and restaurants may raise prices or absorb the higher costs. Kosher meat industry will be affected according to GKRF

- Tips on how to prepare for the fast of Tisha B'Av this Wednesday evening according to Rabbi Yechezkel Aschayek author of the sefer חיים בריאים כהלכה One should start preparation from the morning 2 days before by drinking 50 % more water of your daily intake. Drink 20 minutes before eating and after meals, don't drink until the food is digested in order not to dilute the acids that digest the food. The food should be chewed well before swallowing in order for the body to digest it and not have it sit in the stomach. One should increase protein starting 2 days before, such as eggs fish etc. By the seudas Hamafsekes one should drink 20 minutes before and no need to drink afterwards

-Tragedy in Yerushalayim one person died when a Porch balcony collapsed in yerushalayim's Rechavia neighborhood on KKL street injuring 4 while Emergency responders working to extract unconscious man trapped under collapsed who was later pronounced dead. He was 80 years old.

- Giyus: Ger rebbe will be joined tonight by thousands of chasidim who will protest with an atzeres tefillah outside prison 10  tonight on behalf of those arrested for draft evasion.

- Enrollment in New Jersey public schools for the current school year fell to the lowest levels recorded in almost a quarter-century, diving past pandemic lows to reach depths not seen since the 2001-2002 school year. According to figures recently released by the state Department of Education, public school enrollment declined by 23,732 students in the 2025-2026 school year to about 1.4 million, the lowest level drop that appeared driven mostly by falling birth rates. (Onejersey)

-Faa news reports Major Defeat for Jackson Township Council: NJ Supreme Court Rejects Reina Land Swap

The New Jersey Supreme Court has rejected a controversial land-swap agreement involving former Jackson Township Mayor Mike Reina and developer Eichorn. The long-awaited ruling is being viewed as a major setback for the township’s leadership and a victory for opponents who challenged the deal. See story here

- Andy Burnham has formally taken office as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom following an audience with King Charles III at Buckingham Palace on Monday. 

- A major reversal in the nationwide lettuce investigation: The FDA now says a Taylor Farms sample that initially tested positive for Cyclospora was actually a false positive.

After laboratory experts re-reviewed the result, the agency says there are currently no confirmed positive product samples. But the recall remains in effect as officials continue investigating an outbreak that has sickened more than 1,600 people across five states.

- A suspect was taken into custody Monday morning after deploying an incendiary device near the entrance to 26 Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan, home to ICE, FBI, DHS, and immigration offices. 

- String of parlor meetings taking place to raise funds for a Almana and 10 Yesomim Donate to Keren Zichron Yehoshua HERE 

- BDE: The levaya of Reb Dovid Berger z"l, Lakewoods long time sofer is scheduled for today Monday 11:30 am at the Lakewood Chapel off 7th street. Followed by Kevura at the adjacent bais Olam.

- President Donald Trump said the Boeing 747 he received from Qatar and recently began using as Air Force One will soon undergo a comprehensive upgrade. After being asked why he was flying on a plane without visible missile defense systems, Trump said the aircraft already has "a lot of capabilities," but will be sent in about a month for additional upgrades, a process he said will take roughly one month.

- FBI Warning: Scammers are increasingly impersonating owners of vacant properties and attempting to sell the land without the owners' knowledge or permission. Using fake IDs, email addresses, and phone numbers, fraudsters pose as legitimate owners to deceive real estate professionals and buyers into fraudulent transactions.

- Agudah: “Will Daylight Saving Time become permanent?” 

That was the most frequently asked question we received this week and the answer may depend on what you do today. In the many meetings, emails, and texts exchanged this week between us and Senators and their staff, one thing became clear: many Senators have not yet decided how they plan to vote. However, they are facing enormous pressure to pass the bill. 

That’s why it’s so important for you to take action today and share with Senators your concerns with permanent DST. Sunrises after 8 am, and in some places 9 am, for weeks and even months in the winter will increase the danger for children walking to school. It will also disrupt our religious practices such as delaying the start time of shacharis minyanim and the ability of employees to get to work on time after davening. Please take two minutes and contact your Senators today.

Click here to take action now Here 

- Degel HaTorah responds to Netanyahu comments on Rav Dov Landau shlita: "The words of our great Torah sages are the Holy of Holies of the Jewish people, and by their teachings we live. Whoever does not live the world of Torah and does not understand the depth of their words would do better not to rush to interpret them and certainly not to attack them. Beware of their burning embers

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu  publicly condemns the words of  Rav Dov Lando shlita who denounced those in the religious Zionist community who serve in the army, at a meeting with heads of the Mir Yeshiva, at his home in Bnei Brak: “I am speaking about those with knitted kippas that are required to go.”“If the state sends people, soldiers, for the honor of the state, and they kill people, is that also permissible? It’s very much murder. So they incite murder. They wage wars not only for the sake of salvation, but for the honor of the state,” he said.

In a statement released by his office, Netanyahu condemns the comments.“IDF soldiers, secular and Haredi, leave their homes, their work and their families, and risk their lives in order to protect the State of Israel, its citizens and all of the nation of Israel,”“They deserve deep appreciation, gratitude, and full support from all segments of the public, and certainly from the world of Torah,” the statement reads.

Thousands of Ger Chasidim  protesting arrests of Yeshiva Bochurim by IDF 

Gerer rebbe at the protest (YiShai Yerushalami)

      At the Ger Hafgana outside prison 10

- WSJ: Israeli intelligence reportedly believes Iran moved thousands of uranium-enrichment centrifuges into the Pickaxe Mountain underground site after last year’s strikes on its nuclear facilities. Israel shared the findings with the U.S., raising concerns Tehran could rebuild parts of its nuclear program.

- U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) completed another round of strikes against Iran at 9 p.m. ET, July 20. U.S. forces struck Iranian military command centers, maritime capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and air defense systems to degrade Iran's ability to continue attacking commercial vessels flowing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Commercial vessel transits through the vital international maritime corridor continue. Since early May, CENTCOM forces have helped facilitate the transit of approximately 900 commercial vessels and 450 million barrels of crude oil.

- The US State Department reissues a warning to American travelers across the entire Middle East due to rising tensions and fighting with Iran. Issuing a “Worldwide Caution” alert, the State Department tells Americans currently in the Middle East to “exercise caution and heightened vigilance” and be prepared for the possibility of canceled flights and travel disruptions.It also calls on all Americans to reconsider any travel to the Middle East.

- A U.S. source regarding the possibility of talks between the U.S. and Iran: "Currently, President Trump is focused on ensuring that Iran pays a price for its violations of the MOU and for its continued acts of terrorism in the Strait of Hormuz. In addition, the President will ensure that Iran also pays for the recent deaths of US soldiers. These strong measures will continue until the President decides otherwise, but talks between our countries are ongoing."

-  The 10th Night in a Row. The United States Army Has Launched Another Wave of Strikes: "Intended to Continue and Impair Iran's Military Capabilities"

- Pentagon spokesperson: About 100 U.S. military personnel were injured in Iranian attacks on American bases in the Middle East this month. Most of them have returned to duty.

- Under Trump's directive: Israel will attack Iran only if attacked, the security system raises alertness level.

-Trump: Every time Iran "  kil ls an American Soldier they will pay for that killing many timeQs over! This directive has been passed on to Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Daniel Caine, and every Leader in the Military. President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump: Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested, in any way, shape, or form, while in the United States of America. He is fighting against the Islamic Republic of Iran, which recently killed 52,000 innocent protestors, and has spent the last 47 years killing American Soldiers, and others. The only ones that should be arrested are the people that led Iran into this unprecedented SPIRAL OF DEATH AND DESTRUCTION, something that should have been dealt with years ago, by previous Presidents! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- The Kuwaiti Army says it is intercepting Iranian missiles and drones incoming into its country after "heinous Iranian aggression."

- Maariv reports An American source familiar with the internal discussions said that the US is planning a broader war in Iran. Experts estimate that Israel will also join at some point.

- IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi: "Based on the wise orders of the Supreme Leader, we will teach the U.S. an unforgettable lesson now that it has once again chosen the path of error, aggression, and adventurism."

- President Trump slaps 50% tariff on ANY country supplying Iran with military weapons, on ALL goods sold to the US "There will be no exclusions or exemptions!" Effective immediately 

- Rubio "You can't have an MOU that's alive if they're violating the terms... The U.S. always remains open to a diplomatic solution. We've tried multiple times with Iran and we'll continue to try... but their behavior is what we're responding to and their behavior is they're launching missiles and drones against ships."

- The US announces the commencement of “pilot zone operations” in southern Lebanon, where Lebanese Armed Forces are slated to deploy in place of withdrawing Israeli troops.

“Today, pilot zone operations began in the villages of Froun, Srifa, and Zawtar Al-Gharbiya in accordance with the Trilateral Framework and under the auspices of the Military Coordination Group for Lebanon,” the US State Department says in a statement. However, two of the three villages mentioned notably don’t have Israeli forces located there.

- Hamas-affiliated media outlets in Gaza report that three people were killed and several others were wounded in a strike on a vehicle in the Mawasi area near Khan Younis, in the southwestern Gaza Strip.

- Yemen’s Houthi terrorists have reportedly imposed a blockade against Saudi Arabia.

- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian says his country was in a “full-scale war” with the United States and that Tehran should accept the repercussions of the conflict.

- A senior Iranian source to Reuters: The mediators proposed a 10-day ceasefire for attacks that would allow finding ways to revive the temporary ceasefire between Iran and the US

- Bahrain’s civil aviation body says that Iran had targeted its air navigation systems with drones today, though traffic remained unaffected.

- New Hamas leader replaces Sinwar, Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas’s lead negotiator in Gaza talks, has been elected as the new Hamas leader

-The Pentagon did not disclose that dozens of US soldiers were injured and several helicopters were damaged in Iranian strikes last week, several anonymous US officials tell The New York Times.

- Washington Post': A U.S. administration official reveals that offensive and defensive capabilities against Iran are limited due to a shortage of long-range ammunition and air defense systems.

- IRGC: "We thank the residents of Jordan and the soldiers of the Jordanian Army for their cooperation and the precise information you provided, which allowed us to strike with precision and destroy 20 buildings in which soldiers of the United States Army were stationed in the Al-Azrak base area"

- The Washington Post, citing U.S. officials, reports that the Trump administration is preparing for a broader conflict with Iran following a week of escalating attacks that have killed at least three, and possibly four, U.S. service members.

According to the report, the Pentagon is increasing the number of military aircraft in the region as officials plan for expanded operations, though some officials warn that dwindling stocks of air defense interceptors and long-range munitions could limit the scope and duration of the campaign.

                   כל רודפיה השיגוה בין המצרים

Weather: 83° Abundant sunshine. Areas of smoke and haze are possible, reducing visibility at times.

5 Av Yartzeit of the ארי הקדוש thousands flock to his kever today in Tzfas.

5 Av today marks the 86th yartzeit  of Rav Chaim Ozer Grodzensky  Zatzal.

Sunday learning programs for boys  begin today in neighborhood shuls throughout the summer. 10:30am - 11:30 am

-  Trump praises Giant Eagle for lowering prices, says it helps working families, and urges other grocery chains to do the same while criticizing the Biden administration over inflation

- String of parlor meetings taking place to raise funds for a Almana and 10 Yesomim Donate to Keren Zichron Yehoshua HERE

- BDE: Petirah of Reb Dovid Berger z"l, of Lakewood he was a well-known sofer in the Lakewood community for many years, who was niftar suddenly today after suffering a heart attack at the age of 76. Known for decades of expert work writing sifrei Torah, tefillin, and mezuzos, he was also remembered for his humility and kindness. He was actively involved with safrus until his Petirah and was present at many hachnosas sifrei Torah.

The levaya is scheduled for  tomorrow Monday 11:30 am at the Lakewood Chapel office 7th street. Followed by Kevura at the adjacent bais Olam.

- BDE: Petirah of Mrs. Gittel Zlata Bernstein A"H after complications from severe injuries she sustained last year  while crossing Route 9 by evergreen  Lakewood in March 2025. She was 73. Wife of Rav Efraim Bernstein. Her Levaya will be held tomorrow Monday at 10:00 am in Lakewood at the chapel office 7th st followed by Kevirah in Long Island at Elmont, New York.

- Vice President Vance and his wife announced the birth of their fourth son

-Some Spanish players  were celebrating their World Cup final win with the Palestinian flag.

- Grocery shopping day off to camp sales and parcel takeout at local supermarkets. GG notice the weekly email with the sale flyer has grammatical and pricing errors please see in-store pricing instead

Powerade at GG .99 Watermelon at Aldi $4.65

- Border czar Tom Homan says ICE agents will soon surge i.n New York

- President Trump at Metlife stadium for world cup game. Fans were crossing the highways surrounding the stadium to get to the game.

-Israeli airline Israir is calling on British authorities to investigate a series of incidents that damaged its aircraft, suspecting they may be targeted acts against the airline. The latest happened Thursday at Luton Airport, where a pushback tug struck an Israir plane, forcing passengers to disembark and the flight to be cancelled. Israir says it's the third such incident in under a year.

- The Israeli Prime Minister's Office rejected Zohran Mamdani's criticism, arguing that the ICC has no jurisdiction over Israel, dismissing its arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu as illegitimate, and suggesting former ICC prosecutor Karim Khan issued it to deflect attention from misconduct allegations. The statement also defended Israel's conduct in the war against Hamas and accused Mamdani of attacking Israel while ignoring problems in New York

- Traffic alert: 9 Northbound all lanes closed South of Prospect St in Lakewood Twp due to downed pole and wires. Motorists are advised to follow the posted detour.

- The Kinus Tisha B' av program for ladies and girls will take place this year at a different location at Ateres Reva hall Tisha Bav day 10:30 am - 1:15pm

- Giyus: Ger chasidim planning another mass protest  tomorrow night outside prison 10 after IDF arrests a Ger bochur for draft evasion. The Gerer rebbe shlita will join in the atzeres with Maariv and Pirkei Tehillum.

- Gur bochurim held an atzeres tefilah at the kevarim of the Gur admorim with the participation of Mekubal Rav Yaakov Adas shlita.

- Based on current estimates, Lakewood property owners could see their annual tax bills increase by close to $1,000 when the proposed municipal tax increase is combined with expected school and fire district tax increases. The proposed municipal tax increase would add approximately $144 per $100,000 of assessed value, or about $720 annually for a home assessed at $500,000. Township officials have cited higher snow removal costs as a factor in the proposed increase. Some residents have questioned the need for a permanent tax increase, noting that property taxes were not reduced in previous years when the township reported budget surpluses. 

- Starting today New Jersey's law requiring owners and operators of electrical bicycles to obtain motorized bicycle licenses, registration, and insurance goes into effect today. As of today, to operate an e-bike in New Jersey, riders must be at least 15 years old and have either an e-bike license or a valid driver's license.

-The address  store at American Dream mall will be closed today.

- Campaign launched today by Charedi factions demanding their own knesset representatives in the frum parties. Charedi youths are demanding to allocate them a representative in Shas and United Torah Judaism. According to them, they enjoy the support of tens of thousands of frum voters. The faction they established is called "the Haredi Public," headed by Motti Leitner, the deputy mayor of Beit Shemesh. Today they launched a street campaign costing more than 2 million shekel and held talks with the frum parties.

- NJ Governor Mikie Sherrill: All eyes will be on New Jersey today as Spain and Argentina meet in the FIFA World Cup Final. Use NJ transit.

- SCN food benefits in NY have been temporarily suspended due to a lack of funding.

- Vaad L'Mishmeres Shatnez Warning: Custom Suits! Recent findings highlight the crucial need to test for shatnez custom suits, even when guaranteed by the tailor that no linen will be used. A recent order for four suits was placed with A Custom Tailor. The loyal customer consistently specified that the under-collar fabric should be made from cotton and clearly requested no linen be used. However, as usual, all suits were returned with linen collars, not in accordance with the customer's specifications. In addition, one of the sleeve heads had a wool and linen fabric. Furthermore, both sleeve heads were made with different materials. In fact, all four suits had different sleeve head materials, totaling eight different fabric choices used across the suits' sleeve heads.

- Video: Rav Dov Landau the Medinah and Mizrachi are sending soldiers to die for the honor of the country and not to save others

 - Trump on Iran: "We hit them very hard again tonight, and we did that in honor of the probably three great patriots." "Those great patriots were out there fighting [so] that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon." "Iran has been very, very badly damaged. They've lost everything almost militarily... We control the Strait; they don't control anything."

-The U.S. announced that it has launched a wave of strikes in Iran. for first time strikes are also being carried out in the north of the country. At the same time, the Iranians continue to fire towards Kuwait and northern Iraq.

- False alarm some sirens went off in the Gaza Envelope area.

- Prime Minister Netanyahu in an unusual statement: "There is a possibility that we will find ourselves in an unusual security situation."

- Report CH 14: The U.S. has updated Israel that it intends to escalate the attacks on Iran in the coming days.

-The US is deploying additional F-35s and F-16s to the Middle East as the war with Iran escalates -American officials to the NYT

- CENTCOM confirmed additional U.S. military casualties following Iranian attacks in Jordan and Iraq. Two U.S. service members were killed and one remains missing after an Iranian attack in Jordan on July 17. Unidentified remains were later recovered at the site and are undergoing examination.

- A new Qatari proposal has been presented to halt the exchange of blows between the US and Iran. The US will cease its attacks in exchange for Iran opening TWO shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz for 10 days. In the West, skepticism remains about accepting the proposal as is, with some saying the US will not be satisfied with just 10 days.

- The Israeli Prime Minister's Office rejected Zohran Mamdani's criticism, arguing that the ICC has no jurisdiction over Israel, dismissing its arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu as illegitimate, and suggesting former ICC prosecutor Karim Khan issued it to deflect attention from misconduct allegations. The statement also defended Israel's conduct in the war against Hamas and accused Mamdani of attacking Israel while ignoring problems in New York

- The IDF says interceptor fragments fell in an open area near the southern city of Eilat earlier, amid an Iranian ballistic missile attack on Jordan

- Israel Defense Minister Katz: "We have made it clear that if Iran fires missiles at Israel, we will strike it with force, without any outside approval or conditions.

- IDF fires interceptors over Eilat as US downs Iranian missiles targeting nearby Aqaba in Jordan

- Jordan’s military says it intercepted three Iranian missiles targeting the kingdom, while a fourth landed in a remote area.

Unconfirmed reports that Iranian Missile fragments also fell in Israel territory.

- Missiles launched from Iran at Jordan’s southern city of Aqaba a short while ago were intercepted by American air defense systems, according to initial IDF assessments.

The IDF launched Iron Dome interceptors amid the missile attack to shoot down fragments that had potentially threatened the nearby city of Eilat.

- Israeli Senior security official: The Revolutionary Guards are not fools; they launch missiles at Aqaba in Jordan knowing that a slight deviation of the missile - the strike will be in Israeli territory.

According to Saudi channel Al-Hadath, citing an Israeli security source: “Mojtaba Khamenei is not in Iran.

- Al-Hadath reports from an Israeli source:

 The internal disputes inside Iran constitute an existential threat to the Iranian Revolutionary Guards.

 -The US does not want Israel to join the campaign - even if Iran attacks Israel.

 -Iran planned to eliminate Israeli officials to avenge the elimnation of Khamenei.

- Trump: Republicans should add Iran to the Russian Sanctions Bill. That’s what Lindsey wanted to do, and it was going to happen. IMPORTANT!!! President DJT

- Jordan closed its air and sea ports following a "specific and imminent threat"

- WSJ: Iran has adapted to U.S. attacks, launching missiles that travel at very high speeds and can maneuver as they fly toward Earth, according to U.S. officials. Iran’s ability to hit sensitive targets has also raised concerns that the regime is receiving targeting assistance from China or Russia, U.S. officials said

- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the strike that eliminated Iranian leader Ali Khamenei at the start of the war: Holding meetings in those days was not unusual, but the fact that the enemy knew about the meetings was the result of an intelligence breach that apparently still exists and has not been resolved

Fragments fell in Jordan as seen from Eilat

Weather: Tonight  69° cloudy skies after midnight. Chance of rain 

Earlier thunderstorms shabbos afternoon hit the area with radar showing 1- 3 inches of rain fell. A flood alert is in effect until 12am.

Tomorrow 84° Abundant sunshine. Areas of smoke and haze are possible, reducing visibility at times. 

- Torrential downpours from strong thunderstorms shabbos day triggered dangerous flash flooding across parts of New Jersey that resulted in stranded vehicles in high water, the shutdown of major highways and air travel and reports of property damage. In addition, thousands of homes and businesses were in the dark because of power outages caused by downed trees and power lines.

- Some Poskim (Chazon Ish) would take off their Bigdei shabbos after Havdalah.

- BDE: Petira of Rebbetzin Shulamis Schiff A"H wife of Rav Sheah Schiff ZTL of Bais Shraga in Monsey and Daughter of Rav Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz Zatzal she was 98. Levaya in Monsey Sunday morning 10am in Bais Shraga

- New Jersey e-bike riders will need a license beginning Sunday, July, 19 as part of sweeping new regulations designed to make the popular transportation method safer.

- Mikie Sherrill has refused to fly NJ  flags at half staff for Senator Lindsey Graham despite Whitehouse proclomation.

- AIPAC withdraws online fundraising support from Democrats who voted to eliminate $3.3 billion in aid to Israel.

- PSA: Traffic Alert: World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium game starts at 3pm 82000 expected

- Community of Chavat Gilad in Samaria evacuated as wildfire reaches homes. Residents of  chavat Gilad evacuated after fast-moving wildfire reaches community, destroying about 13 homes; additional fires break out in other areas of Israel.

- A three-car accident occurred on Friday afternoon on Route 17B near Farsite Bungalows in *Monticello*. Hatzolah treated 11 patients, including a child who suffered serious head injuries. Firefighters and police responded to the scene as well, and Route 17B was closed in both directions. (BP24)

Philanthropist R' Yoeli Landau purchased the rights to the new Chumash 'הבנת המקרא' previously known as Pshuto shel mikra from Leshem publishers.(M Weisbsrg)

- CENTCOM. the eighth consecutive night of attacks. "The strikes are designed to further degrade Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and swiftly punish Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces who launched attacks against American service members in Jordan last night,"

- Iran is firing missiles that travel at extremely high speeds and can maneuver as they streak toward the earth, per U.S. officials. Iran’s ability to hit sensitive targets has also raised concerns that it’s getting targeting help from China or Russia. WSJ

- The U.S. Department of State advises US citizens to reconsider traveling to the Middle East.

Washington issues Worldwide Caution alert amid concern that Iran will target Americans overseas 

- The US is moving aircraft from bases in the region, including the central CENTCOM base in Qatar (Al Udeid).

- 2 American soldiers were killed in an Iranian missile attack on a base in Jordan, 1 is still missing, and multiple others injured.

- Heavy US strikes against Iran, mainly in the Bandar Abbas port area.

- Massive increase in US refueling/combat aircraft to MidEast.

- Dozens of US fighter jets have landed at the Lakenheath base in the UK (approximately 36 aircraft currently, about 12 of each model: F-35, F-22, and F-15).

- NYC Mayor Mamdani Says He is Considering Arresting Bibi Netanyahu If He Visits NYC

“I believe that PM Netanyahu belongs in the Hague. He's a war criminal … There is an active conversation with our legal department in seeing what the prospects are we have here in our Municipality.

US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, replies to Mamdani:  "Here's why your threat to arrest PM Netanyahu in New York during the UN General Assembly will not materialize:

1. The United States is not a party to the Rome Statute, which forms the basis of the International Criminal Court.

2. The UN Headquarters Agreement provides diplomatic protections to visiting heads of state.

3. Heads of state have immunity.

4. Federal authority supersedes the wishes of any local mayor.

This is pure political theater."

The Ohev Yisrael  the Opta Rebbe said Shabbos Chazon is the highest Shabbos of the year.

Rabbi Levi Yitzchok of Berditchov, said that on this Shabbos "Chazon" every Jew is given a personal vision of the 3rd Bais Hamikdash.

Friday, July 17, 2026 / ג׳ אב תשפ״ו

 ערב שבת פרשת דברים שבת חזון

Candle lighting 8:05 pm

Shkiah/Sunset 8:23 pm

Weather Shabbos day 83° Scattered thunderstorms in the morning becoming more widespread in the afternoon. Heavy downpours are possible. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Chance of rain 90%.

שבת חזון היא הפטרה השלישית והאחרונה מתלתא דפורענותא

יש הנוהגים לשיר את הפיוט "לכה דודי" במנגינה של "איכה", ויש שנהגו: לשיר במנגינה של קינת "אלי ציון", הנאמרת בסיום  קינות של תשעה באב (מנהגי פרנקפורט).ויש שלא נהגו כן, והטעם: כדי שלא להראות אבלות בפרהסיא בשבת (דרכי חיים ושלום)

וְאָשִׁיבָה יָדִי עָלַיִךְ וְאֶצְרֹף כַּבֹּר סִיגָיִךְ וְאָסִירָה כָּל בְּדִילָיִךְ. (הפטרת שבת חזון) שבת שלום

Video Kabolas shabbos chazon to the tune of nigun Eli Tzion

Friday, July 17, 2026 / ג׳ אב תשפ״ו

 ערב שבת פרשת דברים שבת חזון

Candle lighting 8:05 pm

Shkiah/Sunset 8:23 pm

Weather: 87° Partly cloudy. Areas of smoke and haze are possible, reducing visibility at times.

Shabbos day 83° Scattered thunderstorms in the morning becoming more widespread in the afternoon. Heavy downpours are possible. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Chance of rain 90%.

Air quality alert until 1200 am Motzei shabbos 

Air quality index in Lakewood today 167 Unhealthy

Air quality is unhealthy. Sensitive groups and some others may experience adverse health effects

Potential power outages Shabbos afternoon Widespread severe thunderstorms are expected to hit New Jersey on Shabbos with the potential for flash flooding, damaging winds, hail and the threat of isolated tornadoes, forecasters say.

“A significant weather event is looking more likely Saturday,” the National Weather Service said early Friday. “Multiple rounds of showers and storms are expected, which may begin before noon and extend after sunset.”

- Admor Kosson shlita will spend shabbos in Lakewood with the bochurim of yeshiva Ateres Tzvii

Admor Kaliv shlita will be at the B:M Shemen Lmincha in Brook Hill

NEWS Updates:

A Reminder That Can Save a Life

Please make sure you have a system in place whenever you take a baby in the car not just to a morah or daycare, but even for a quick errand. Following yesterday's heartbreaking tragedy in Baltimore, and several recent close calls  this wwek that, b'chasdei Hashem, ended safely, this is an important reminder for everyone. Use a reminder system, such as newer car seat safety alerts, a phone reminder, or a buddy system where someone checks that the baby was taken out of the car. A simple reminder can save a life. Husband and wife should check especially on Friday afternoons.

- US issues travel warning for Israel and the region: "Fear of escalation, reconsider any travel

- Clarification: The rumors circulating that the FBI raided Rockland Kosher in connection with the SCN service pause are false. Rockland Kosher confirmed directly to Rockland Daily that no such raid took place.

- BDE: Petira of Rebbetzin Shulamis Schiff A"H wife of Rav Sheah Schiff ZTL of Bais Shraga in Monsey and  Daughter of Rav Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz Zatzal she was 98. Levaya in Monsey Sunday morning 10am in Bais Shraga

-White House to meet with FIFA President Infantino over wildfire smoke health concerns ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final in New Jersey. — Sky News

-Trump: “We are holding Canada responsible for the fact that they are not properly maintaining their Forests, and Brush therein, and the United States is being unnecessarily invaded by filthy, polluted, and unhealthy air, the quality of which is dangerous, and totally unacceptable! I will call the Prime Minister during the day to find out what they are going to do about it. The cost is incalculable! Canada has refused to engage in basic Forest Management and Debris Removal, knowing that such refusal will lead to exactly this result. This is Willful Negligence, and becoming a yearly occurrence, costing the United States Billions of Dollars, which cost of this pollution must of necessity be added to the TARIFFS Canada is currently paying. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP”

-The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals just ruled that New Jersey's anti-gun law banning possession of "assault weapons" and "large capacity magazines" to be Unconstitutional 

big win for the 2nd Amendment

- Giyus: A Tzanz Chasid was released erev shabbos from IDF miliary prison following a large protest last night by the rebbe with thousands of chasidim.

- United Airlines is reportedly allowing some passengers to change their flights for free if they don't want to land at Florida's newly renamed President Donald J. Trump International Airport.

- The New Jersey Attorney General and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness are conducting a joint investigation into a recent spate of burglaries and harassing phone calls targeting at least 10 Masjids and Islamic Centers across the state.

- Tucker Carlson said president Trump is weak.claiming he "betrayed the United States for the benefit of a foreign power," In an interview with the Bloomberg news agency, Tucker Carlson said, "I don't think Trump is the strongest person in the world. Many presidents have, in one way or another, resisted attempts to control them from the outside and he didn't. That's why he's weak."

- Thousands Attend Lake Carasaljo Fireworks; Pedestrian Safety Concerns Raised

Thousands of Lakewood residents gathered at Lake Carasaljo for the Independence Day drone and fireworks show. Despite poor air quality, the event went on as planned, and township officials accommodated the community by keeping the show free of loud music during the Nine Days. 

After the event, however, thousands of people were left to walk along and cross Route 9 without police officers or crossing guards to assist. Many pedestrians crossed through moving traffic as vehicles were not stopped.

- A Reminder That Can Save a Life

Please make sure you have a system in place whenever you take a baby in the car not just to a morah or daycare, but even for a quick errand. Following yesterday's heartbreaking tragedy in Baltimore, and several recent close calls that, b'chasdei Hashem, ended safely, this is an important reminder for everyone. Use a reminder system, such as newer car seat safety alerts, a phone reminder, or a buddy system where someone checks that the baby was taken out of the car. A simple reminder can save a life.

-Trump: Great reviews on speech last night. Big audience. Pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT!!! Thank you! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- China declares it has “never” interfered in U.S. elections.

- Faith communities see big challenges in daylight saving time proposal

Rabbi Dr. Josh Joseph, executive vice president and COO of the Orthodox Union, one of the largest Jewish organizations in the U.S., said that there are ramifications for the broader community as well. "It is worth considering all of the effects of the change, including its impact on children walking to schools and buses in the dark, before rushing to make it law." More

- PSA: Traffic Alert: World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium

Anyone traveling on Sunday should be aware of major traffic delays around MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, due to the FIFA World Cup Final. More than 80,000 fans are expected to attend the match, which kicks off at 3:00 p.m. President Donald Trump is also expected to attend, resulting in heightened security and additional traffic restrictions.

Heavy traffic is expected to begin Sunday morning and continue through approximately 9:00 p.m. Motorists should allow extra travel time and, if possible, avoid the area around the Meadowlands during those hours.

- Israel officially entered election season early Friday after the Knesset voted to dissolve itself, ending the 25th Knesset following a dramatic overnight session. Coalition leaders, including Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, worked until the final moments to secure the needed 61 votes, with several absent lawmakers brought back to the Knesset to cast the decisive votes

- Trump: The Reflecting Pool, so badly damaged by Deranged Vandals, has be emptied as the massive slash gets repaired. We got it through the great July Fourth Weekend. What kind of animals would do such a thing? We are looking for a Vandal Proof material, but such a thing should not have been necessary. The Scum in Court will hopefully be prosecuted to the MAX. President DJT

-Bloomberg News Agency, citing CIA Director John Ratcliffe: “Russian conscripts arriving at the front in Ukraine survive on average only 20 to 30 minutes before being killed or wounded. This is due to Ukraine's extensive use of drones operated by artificial intelligence."

- A 20-year-old Lakewood man was charged after police said he fled from officers on a stolen ATV before abandoning the vehicle and attempting to escape on foot. Lakewood police responded to the Prospect Street area at about 9:50 p.m. July 13 after the owner of a stolen dirt bike and ATV reported finding the vehicles.

-To summarize Trump's address last night: Trump announces that China stole the election data of 220 million voters, had the ability to influence and “massage” the Presidential Intelligence Daily Briefing, and that the CIA and others covered it up.

 - A classified document released by the WH reveals that China produced tens of thousands of fake driver's licenses and sent them to the US. The plot would then have Chinese nationals in the US cast mail-in ballots

- A new frum political group, representing dozens of frum communities and independent local leaders, is calling on Knesset members Moshe Gafni and Aryeh Deri to give it a spot on their parties' Knesset candidate lists. The group has recently met with senior party officials, as polls show younger frum voters are losing confidence in longtime leaders over issues such as poverty, military conscription, and people leaving the frum community.

- US issues travel warning for Israel and the region: "Fear of escalation, reconsider any travel.

- CENTCOM launched a round of strikes against Iran at 3 p.m. ET today for the seventh consecutive night. The strikes are designed to continue degrading Iranian military capabilities at the Commander in Chief's direction.

- Advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader: The period of both negotiation and fighting is over. If the United States continues the war in the next two to three days, Iran will move to a phase of all-out attack aimed at destroying the enemy. If this strategy is implemented, Iran will no longer be content with just responding to attacks against it, but will act proactively and offensively. In such a situation, no political border will protect against Iran's attacking forces

- A massive US military airlift activity above Europe today towards bases in the Middle East.

- After the Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia this week, Pakistan warned Iran that any attack on Saudi Arabia would be considered an attack on it.

-A directive from Iran's Supreme National Security Council orders media outlets not to publish details on civilian infrastructure damage, the scale of destruction, or service disruptions, citing "wartime conditions." Reports must avoid causing public fear or highlighting the enemy's success. For damage and outages, outlets are told to use vague phrases like "under review and troubleshooting." Iran International.

- The Trump administration has informed Israel that it intends to send dozens of additional refueling planes to Israel in the coming days, in preparation for a possible expansion of the war against Iran, three senior US and Israeli officials said.

- Following a Situation Room meeting Tuesday, Trump is considering a major offensive in Iran wider in scope than the current Strait of Hormuz strikes. The U.S. bombed at least seven bridges around Bandar Abbas yesterday, a key IRGC hub in the strait, a U.S. official tells Axios.

- The IRGC Navy warns U.S. forces are approaching “zero hour,” claiming American naval movements are under constant surveillance.

- CENTCOM announced yesterday that it destroyed a surveillance tower at the Bandar Lengeh port, which is part of a maritime surveillance network along the coast of Iran in the Persian Gulf. This network has been used for decades by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to monitor and target commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

- The IDF eliminated Ahamad Hamdan, who served as Muhammad Deif's right-hand man, a Hamas company commander who held hostages and was responsible for documenting them at the liberation "ceremony" in Gaza

- Trump In his speech on election security Thursday night, said the US is “winning big in Iran and you will see the fruits of that labor very, very shortly.”

- Iran says 8 killed in US strikes on bridges

- Tehran missiles targets Qatar, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, while threatening to strike civilian infrastructure across region.

Kuwait: Desalination plant and power plant damaged by Iranian attacks

- Iran Revolutionary Guards announced that they had attacked the US Al-Udeid base in Qatar, and warned other countries hosting US bases in the region that further attacks against Iran would result in "more severe" responses

- The United States has reportedly carried out its largest wave of strikes in Iran during the current round of fighting, targeting major transportation and maritime infrastructure.

Iranian reports say five bridges in southern Iran, an airport, a railway station, and Chabahar Port were struck. An observation tower at the port later collapsed, and at atleast seven people were reportedly killed.

The attacks aim to isolate the strategic coastal area in Bandar Abbas (Hormuz) and cut off logistical routes as a preparation for a future attack.

- Iran has told its regional allies, including Hezbollah, to prepare for the possibility of a broader conflict amid military escalations with the United States. Leaders of the Iran-backed regional “Axis of Resistance” told allies that the period of waiting is nearing an end and that preparations for military scenarios have become a priority.

- Reuters: Gunmen boarded the tanker "Asana" carrying chemical products in the Gulf of Aden, near the Yemeni coast, and it appears they now control the ship. Reports say it was pirates a d not the Houthis.

Halachos for Erev shabbos in the 9 days (Based partially on Rabbi Shmuel Felder Sefer)

Erev Shabbos in the nine days שבת חזון הלכות

- One may cut their Nails for Shabbos since it is not yet shavua shechal bo.

- One may polish their shoes only with liquid polish according to most poskim.

 - One may brush a hat on erev shabbos since it is not considered washing clothes.

 - Showering is a machlokes if you are allowed kol gufo, the minhag is to be meikel but to use only warm water.

- Tasting food that is fleishigs, some poskim- Mekor Chayim (551:9) writes "A woman who needs to taste the Shabbos foods while cooking may do so on Friday afternoon after midday" others hold you can taste but not swallow and must spit it out. (Shmiras Shabbos Khilchasa 42:61 on Erev Shabbos during the Nine Days, you may also taste the food. However, one should try not to swallow food containing meat ingredients)

- Children may eat meat before Shabbos up to 2 hours before the zman according to Rav Moshe Feinstein in Igros Moshe, others (Eliyahu Rabba) hold they may start even from Chatzos. this year 1:02 pm

- If one makes an early Shabbos on Erev Shabbos Chazon he may eat Meat after the Plag. Lakewood Plag is 6:51 pm.

- If one forgot to try on clothing prior to Rosh Chodesh he may put on the clothing on shabbos

- On Motzei Shabbos for Havdala it's preferably to have a koton drink the kois. If no koton is available one may drink by himself wine, if he does so every week ( Better not to get into a safek of Chamar Medina by drinking Beer or coffee) If he sometimes drinks Grape juice he should only make havdala on Grape Juice.

- Some Poskim (Chazon Ish) would take off their Bigdei shabbos after Havdalah.

Weather: 67° Partly cloudy skies. Visibility reduced by Smoke

The air quality in many areas of NJ got worse tonight , reaching "unhealthy" levels, because of the wildfire smoke that's drifting down from Canada.

- Fireworks and drone show at the Lakewood lake 8:45pm

- Tonight Shloshim event for Mordy Klughaupt Z"L at Bais Faiga 7:45 pm 

- Chumash Shiur by Harav Yeruchom Olshin shlita 11:30 pm at B"M Ateres Bracha live 646-726-9977  

- President Trump's 9PM address tonight will involve CHINA and might be "the most important Oval Office address since the Cuban Missile Crisis," per Sen. Bernie Moreno

Watch Live Here or Here

- The National Weather Service in Mount Holly NJ has issued a Tornado Warning for... South central Ocean County in southern New Jersey... Southeastern Burlington County in southern New Jersey...Warning including Mystic Island NJ, Tuckerton NJ and North Beach Haven NJ until 8:30 PM EDT

At the Drone show tonight over Lake Carasaljo 

 Lakewood Budget Includes 14.4-Cent Tax Increase; Mayor Blames FEMA Decision and State Aid Cuts 

At Thursday's Township Committee meeting, Mayor Ray Coles announced that Lakewood’s upcoming municipal budget will include a 14.4-cent tax increase, calling this year’s budget introduction one of the most difficult he has faced in years.

The mayor cited two major factors behind the increase: Winter storm costs: Back-to-back blizzards and snow/ice storms caused widespread disruption, with Lakewood spending approximately $8 million on cleanup and recovery. Coles said the Township normally would have expected FEMA reimbursement, but New Jersey’s application was not approved by the federalgovernment who approved,  applications from other states.

Loss of state municipal aid: Coles said Lakewood’s growing population has far outpaced the state’s outdated aid formula, which was created in the 1970s. He noted that Lakewood has grown from about 30,000 residents to more than 150,000, making it one of the largest municipalities in the state, yet it ranks near the bottom in state aid per capita.

The mayor said state officials recognize Lakewood’s efficiency and limited workforce and determined the Township should receive about $25 million in aid instead of the approximately $5 million it currently receives. He said changing the formula requires legislative action, and local representatives have already sponsored legislation in Trenton to address the issue.

Coles added that Lakewood had received $7–8 million in state grants two years ago and expected an increase this year, but the elimination of those funds created an additional $8 million budget gap.

The mayor placed much of the blame for the tate increase on the loss of state aid and FEMA reimbursement.

This is for the municipal budget only. The school district and fire budgets are seperate.

 Laws of the nine days  Based on "A Summary of Halachos of the Three Weeks" by Rabbi Shimon D. Eider ZTL according to the Ashkenazic custom. 

- If one forgot to try on clothing prior to Rosh Chodesh  he may put on the clothing on shabbos

- On Motzei Shabbos for Havdala it's preferably to have a koton drink the kois. If no koton is available one may drink by himself wine, if he does so every week ( Better not to get into a safek of Chamar Medina by drinking Beer or coffee) If he sometimes drinks Grape juice he should only make havdala on Grape Juice. (Rabbi Shmuel Felder Sefer)

- Some Poskim (Chazon Ish) would take off their Bigdei shabbos after Havdalah.

 Article from Ohr Somayach Institutions www.ohr.edu

In addition to the restrictions that apply to the entire three-week period, during the nine days between the 1st of Av until after Tisha B’Av the following restrictions on pleasure and joy also take effect:

(The following is according to the Ashkenazic custom, for the Sephardic custom please consult the rabbi.)

Activities of pleasure and joy

One should not purchase an object of joy that will be available after Tisha B’Av for the same price.

Building for beauty or pleasure not required for dwelling should be suspended.

Building for a mitzvah like a synagogue, place of Torah study, or a mikva is permitted.

Painting, wallpapering and general home decoration should not be done.

Similarly, one should not plant for pleasure.

Eating Meat and drinking Wine

The custom is to refrain from eating meat and poultry or drinking wine and grape juice during the nine days. This also pertains to children.

The prohibition of meat includes foods cooked with meat or meat fat. However, foods cooked in a clean vessel used for meat may be eaten.

Eating meat and drinking wine is permitted for Shabbos. Even one who has ushered in the Shabbos on Friday afternoon before sunset, or extends the third meal of Shabbos  late into Motzei shabbo may also eat meat and drink wine at those times.

Similarly, one may drink the wine of Havdallah. Some have the custom to give the wine to a child of 6-9 years old, or to use beer for Havdallah.

Meat and wine are also permitted at a meal in honor of a mitzvah like bris milah, Tidying Habem and a siyum completing a masechte or other books (consult a competent rabbi for details).

A person who requires meat because of weakness or illness, including small children and pregnant or nursing women who have difficulty eating dairy, may eat meat. However, whenever possible poultry is preferable to meat.

Laundering 

Laundering is prohibited even for use after Tisha B’Av. One may not even give clothing to a non-Jewish cleaner. (Although one may give it to him before the 1st of Av, even though he’ll wash during the nine days.)

The prohibition of laundering includes linens, tablecloths, and towels.

A person who has no clean clothes may wash what he needs until the Shabbos before Tisha B’Av.

Children’s diapers and clothing that constantly get dirty may be washed by need even during the week of Tisha B’Av, in private.

Laundering for the purpose of a mitzvah is permitted.

One may polish shoes with liquid or wax polish, but should avoid shining shoes.

Wearing Freshly Laundered Clothing 

It is forbidden to wear freshly laundered clothing during the nine days. This includes all clothing except that which is worn to absorb perspiration.

Therefore, one must prepare before the nine days by wearing freshly laundered suits, pants, shirts, dresses, blouses and the like for a short time so that they may be worn during the nine days. Socks, undershirts and underwear need not be prepared.

Here too, the prohibition of using freshly laundered items applies to linens, tablecloths, and towels.

One may wear freshly laundered Shabbos clothing, as well as use clean tablecloths and towels. Changing bed linen though is prohibited.

Since one may wear freshly laundered garments on Shabbos , if one forgot or was unable to prepare enough garments before the nine days, he may change for Friday night and then change again on Shabbos  morning. These garments may then be worn during the week.

This will apply only to clothing that is suitable to wear on Shabbos, since wearing a garment on Shabbos for the sole purpose of wearing it during the week is forbidden.

Fresh garments and Shabbos clothing may be worn in honor of a mitzvah for example at a bris milah for the parents, mohel, and sandek.

Wearing or buying new clothes repairing garments

While wearing new clothing that doesn’t require the blessing “sh’hecheyanu” is permitted until the 1st of Av, during the nine days it is prohibited even on Shabbos.

One may not buy new clothes or shoes even for use after Tisha B’Av, except in a case of great necessity, for example for one’s wedding.

If one forgot or was unable to buy special shoes needed for Tisha B’Av, he may do so during the nine days.

Making new garments or shoes for a Jew is permitted until the Sunday before Tisha B’Av. Afterwards it is permitted only for a non-Jew.

Repairing torn garments or shoes is permitted.

Bathing and Swimming

The custom is not to bathe for pleasure even in cold water.

Bathing in cold water for medical reasons or to remove dirt or perspiration is permitted.

 (Where cold water is required, hot water may be added to cold water as long as the mixture is not comfortably warm.)

Soaping or shampooing and washing with hot or warm water are prohibited - unless it is required for medical reasons or to remove the dirt and perspiration.

Swimming is prohibited except for medical reasons. Similarly, one may take a quick dip in a pool to remove dirt or sweat.

Bathing for a mitzvah is permitted, therefore a woman who needs to bathe for her immersion should consult a competent rabbi.

A man who immerses in a mikva every Friday may do so in cold water this Friday. But one who omits immersing occasionally because he is too busy or because of the cold may not.

One who bathes every Friday in honor of Shabbos with hot water, soap and shampoo may do so on the Friday before Tisha B’Av.

Ohr.edu

Weather: 94° Sunshine and clouds mixed. Expect widespread areas of smoke and haze, reducing visibility at times.

Thick smoke from wildfires that are burning out of control in Canada has caused New Jersey’s air quality to deteriorate to unhealthy levels. The Air Quality Index used by the Environmental Protection Agency showed readings as high as 162 in Ocean County, Readings of 151 to 200 are considered unhealthy for everyone, not just people with respiratory issues.

Tonight Shloshim event for Mordy Klughaupt Z"L at bais Faiga 7:45 pm 

- Trump: "U.S. spy agencies began learning about the compromise of voter registration files in 2020 when they discovered that tens of millions of voter data, think of that tens of millions of voters' data in 18 states have been bought, stolen, or hacked by China."

-Trump claims hundreds of thousands of "dead people" are on U.S. voter rolls.

- Trump accuses China of working through American contacts to influence U.S. business leaders against him during his first administration.

-Trump accuses China of illicitly acquiring 220 million U.S. voter files in what he calls the largest election-data breach in history, starting during the 2020 election.

- President Trump BLASTS the left-wing radical networks like ABC and NBC for refusing to air his speech tonight."In a rare move, NBC and ABC fake news have both said that they would not cover this speech." "They knew what it was about because they don't like the topic, know how corrupt our system is, and don't want to reveal it. But they and others in the media are part of a plot!"  "They want to continue this fraud for whatever reason. They want to keep it going. They want to protect the radical left."  "They can't have a great country. And that's true. You can't have a great country without free and fair elections."

- Keren Zichron Yehoshua launched for a Almana and 10 Yesomim Donate HERE

- Major Tax increase anounced at the committee meeting today ahead of the 2026 Budget. Lakewood Mayor says the increase is due to the back to back snowstorms and the cuts to municipal aid from the  state and cuts from FEMA to New Jersey.

- Lakewood mayor addresses concerns for Music in the 9 days at Fireworks show 

At Thursdays Township Committee meeting, Mayor Ray Coles announced that the fireworks show will go on as scheduled tonight. Addressing concerns about the event taking place during the Nine Days, the mayor said there will be a DJ at the amphitheater, but noted that attendees who prefer not to hear the music can stand in other areas where it will not be audible. Mayor Coles did not address concerns about the day's air quality. He also announced that he would not be attending the fireworks event, explaining that his wife recently underwent surgery

- WH Press Sec confirms Trump will attend World cup final game on Sunday at Metlife stadium. Game starts at 3pm expect traffic if coming back from the catskills early, 82,000 fans expected.

 "On Friday, the president will travel to New York City to attend a FIFA reception at Trump Tower, followed by his attendance on Sunday at the FIFA World Cup, between Spain and Argentina."At Metlife stadium in New Jersey.

- A White House teleprompter operator has been placed on unpaid administrative leave after a report alleges he profited from online bets on Kalshi because he had prior access to President Trump's speeches:

- Karoline Leavitt appears to confirm President Trump will be declassifying documents surrounding breaches in election security

- Giyus: President Isaac Herzog’s office reportedly asked Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara to explore alternatives to arresting Haredi draft evaders, including possible economic sanctions. The proposal was aimed at reducing tensions, but the attorney general reportedly did not respond, and Herzog did not bring it before the government, believing it would not advance.

- A Total employment in New Jersey decreased by 300 jobs in June, however, the unemployment rate in the state decreased by 0.2% to 4.5%. The May estimate was revised downward by 800 jobs, resulting in a April-to-May net gain of 1,400 jobs, down from the preliminary estimate of 2,200 jobs gained.(Onejerseyschorr)

- Governor Mikie Sherrill: As smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to impact air quality in our region, I’ve directed NJ TRANSIT and the New Jersey Turnpike Authority to make select quantities of masks available to commuters and at rest areas along the Turnpike and Parkway. The Port Authority will also be distributing masks.

- Tonight Shloshim event for Mordy Klughaupt Z"L at bais Faiga 7:45 pm 

- Nichum Aveilim:

Shiva for Rav Yechiel Drillman Ztl at 29 Pointsetta ct Lakewood getting up Friday afternoon

Shiva for Mrs. Rochel Lichtenstein A"H at 300 Carey St getting up Monday morning

- Rav Asher Arieli Shlita is sitting shiva on the passing of his sister Mrs. Miriam Stern A"H wife of Rav Dovid Asher Stern shlita, she was 62.

- Giyus: police esrimate 10,000 Sanzer Chassidim gathered outside a military prison to protest the arrests of two chasidim from their community who were detained over draft-related issues. They were joined by the Sanzer rebbe shlita.

- Giyus: Protests taking place today, Highway 4 in response to the arrests of yeshiva students 

- Lakewood Independence day Fireworks and drone show scheduled for tonight.The show will take place at Lake Carasaljo, viewable from both North and South Lake Drives. The drone show will begin at 8:45 pm; and lead into the fireworks show at approximately 9:00 pm.

Lakewood township committee meeting today virtual only watch livestream Here see agenda Here 

On the agenda: Introducing the 2026 municipal budget. Ornances on the agenda including the vacation of a portion of Beaumont Street, the acceptance of donated land on Brill Street, Ferndale Avenue, and Wayne Street, the public sale of three township-owned parcels, the private sale of a parcel on County Line Road East, and the first reading of a proposed private sale of a 22,000-square-foot portion of township-owned land on Wood Avenue with a starting bid of 750k. 

public can submit emails during the meeting via [email protected]

- According to reports on Trump's national TV address to the nation set for today, Trump is going to release major bombshells regarding the CIA having then hiding critical foreign election interference information.

- While Lakewood girls' schools have yet to confirm their start dates for the upcoming school year, many of the boys' mesivtas and batei medrash are expected to begin the Elul zman on Thursday night, Rosh Chodesh Elul. Bochurim will return from camp just one day earlier before resuming the zman. This marks a change from previous years, when the Elul zman typically began only after Shabbos.

- NJ Investigates JCP&L Over Power OutagesThe NJ Board of Public Utilities opened investigations into JCP&L over reliability issues and its response to July storms that left thousands without power. Residents cited long outages and poor communication, while JCP&L said it deployed 5,700 workers and is making major system upgrades.

- Jackson 21 Townhouse Pool Schedule Sparks Debate Over Gender-Separate HoursA pool schedule at The Club at Jackson 21, a 465-home townhouse community, has sparked controversy after setting separate swimming hours for men and women during parts of the day. The policy, supported by many Orthodox Jewish residents for reasons of modesty, allows only limited co-ed swimming hours. Some non-Orthodox residents argue the rules are discriminatory, while supporters say the HOA is accommodating religious beliefs. The HOA has discussed possibly adding a second pool as a solution. The issue follows previous legal disputes over gender-separated pool schedules in Orthodox communities. APP reports 

- Poll: Most New Jerseyans Want to Keep Full-Service Gas 

A new Fairleigh Dickinson University poll finds 64% of New Jersey voters want to keep the state’s full-service gas law, while only 24% support allowing self-service pumps. Support remains strong across political parties, genders, and age groups. A bill to allow drivers the option of pumping their own gas has been introduced but has not advanced.

- Mamdani proposes banning NYC landlords from requiring both proof of income & a credit check  while forcing landlords or brokers to pay any credit-check fees.

- New Jersey's law requiring owners and operators of electrical bicycles to obtain motorized bicycle licenses, registration, and insurance is scheduled to go into effect on July 19. But the law, which is considered the toughest in the nation, is causing a lot of confusion and the Motor Vehicle Commission has struggled to interpret the new law - with confusing and conflicting information on its website and manual for e-bike owners.(Onejerseyschorr)

- NJ Opens Investigations Into JCP&L After Reliability Failures and July Outages

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) has opened two proceedings involving JCP&L, including an enforcement case over the company’s failure to meet reliability standards in 2022–2024 and a new review of its response to the July heat wave and severe storms that left thousands without power. Residents and officials complained about lengthy outages, poor communication, and slow restoration during dangerous heat. JCP&L said it deployed about 5,700 workers and is investing billions in system upgrades. The BPU is accepting public comments as it reviews the utility’s performance.

. Secretary of State Rubio: "Here in the United States, the share of left-wing terrorist attacks and plots has risen to levels not seen in decades. In Germany, far-left violence has jumped by more than 40 percent in just the last year alone."

- Ocean County Doctor, founder of the Jasper Spine Institute of Brick, along with his daughter & her 2-year-old girl died in a plane crash in upstate New York on Monday night

List of Kosher restaurant menus for the 9 days courtesy of great Kosher restaurants

https://www.greatkosherrestaurants.com/nine-days-menu-and-specials/

CENTRAL JERSEY Lakewood area

Agripas – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at Westgate Plaza 84 Hillside Blvd Lakewood, NJ 08701.

Bonsai – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 2186 Lakewood Rd, Toms River, NJ 08755.

Bridge Turkish Grill – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 315 Raritan Ave, Highland Park, NJ 08904, United States.

Burger Bar – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 2080 W County Line Rd Unit C5, Jackson Township, NJ 08527

Char Q – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 2 Augusta Blvd, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Flysh – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 32 Cross St Ste 105, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Fortune Cookie Chinese – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 48 Monmouth Rd, Oakhurst, NJ 07755-1654

Glatt Gourmet – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 1094 River Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Hamisada – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 5325 US-9, Howell Township, NJ 07731

Ishtabach – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 2164 U.S. 9, Toms River, NJ. View their Nine Days Menu here.

Kipshuto – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 37 S Clifton Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701, USA

Lipa’s Munch – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 1001 Madison Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Mike’s Chicken – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 700 Cedarbridge Ave Unit 7, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Nicki’s – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 115 2nd St, Lakewood, NJ 08701

PH Modern Grill – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 681 River Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Salt Steakhouse – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 15 Morris Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740

The Loft Steakhouse – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 1600 NJ-70, Lakewood, NJ 08701.

Tomahawk Steakhouse – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 700 Cedarbridge Ave Unit 4, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Yapchik – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 1757 Madison Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701

Yussi’s Deli – Will be open during the Nine Days. Located at 234 2nd St, Lakewood, NJ 08701

- CENTCOM Today at 9:40 p.m. ET, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) completed its latest major wave of strikes against Iran.U.S. forces, including fighter jets, aerial drones, and warships, launched precision munitions that hit dozens of Iranian military targets such as coastal surveillance and air defense sites, military logistics infrastructure, and maritime capabilities. This was the sixth consecutive night of U.S. strikes against Iran. At the Commander in Chief's direction, CENTCOM is further degrading Iranian military capabilities and holding Iran accountable for recent attacks on commercial shipping. More than 50,000 U.S. service members are operating across the Middle East and remain vigilant, lethal, and ready."

- U.S. Central Command CENTCOM: At 2 p.m. ET today, U.S. forces began conducting a new wave of strikes against Iran for the fifth consecutive night to further degrade Iranian military capabilities

- Israel is preparing for a possible escalation in the exchange of fire between the United States and Iran next week following recent remarks by US President Donald Trump and ongoing diplomatic developments, Channel 12 reports. Israel believes the US may begin targeting Iranian civilian infrastructure, in line with Trump’s recent comments. Until now, US strikes have been focused primarily on Iranian military infrastructure.

- White House Press Secretary Leavitt: Iran continues to talk with the US and is interested in reaching an agreement

-A Hamas commander who invaded Israel during the October 7, 2023, onslaught was killed in an airstrike in the northern Gaza Strip earlier today, the army announces

- US expands strikes into Tehran area as Iran threatens to ‘resist until the end’

- Reuters: Iran ordered Houthis to block Bab al-Mandeb Strait if Trump carries out his threats and attacks power plants

- Israeli strikes killed at least five Hamas terrorists in the Gaza Strip today.

- Four Hamas weapon depots were destroyed in Israeli strikes in the central Gaza Strip overnight, the IDF announces.

- AP: The US increased the strikes on Iran tonight, hitting more northern targets. For the first time since the beginning of the current escalation round - the strikes also reached areas around Tehran

- Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz an inviolable "red line" on Thursday, warning that any U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure, including the power plants and bridges President Donald J. Trump has threatened to target, would trigger retaliatory strikes against critical infrastructure across the Gulf region.

- Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz spoke overnight with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The two discussed recent U.S. military operations in Iran and agreed to continue close U.S.-Israel coordination in response to any future developments.

Hashkafa with Rav Gershon Ribner shlita

A dignified noble scion reduced to solicitation
Youngerman goes from rags to riches The Rabbis escape the Holocaust as their communities perish Strategic investing in your religious portfolio

 Weather Tonight: 70°  Thunderstorms this evening, then skies turning partly cloudy after midnight. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Chance of rain 70%.

- Yeshiva Gedolah of Clifton R"Y Rav Yehuda Schwartz shlita,Rav Nosson Levine shlita, pbuilding expansion reception at 10 Bear Trail Jackson 

- Smoke from the Canadian wildfires have now spread over most of New Jersey and is expected to linger through Thursday and perhaps into Friday, potentially causing visibility restrictions and poor air quality across the state.

According to the National Weather Service, this smoke event is not expected to be as severe as the similar event that occurred in June 2023.(One Jersey)

Weather: 101° Sunny to partly cloudy. Areas of smoke reducing visibility at times

Air quality alert due to smoke from Canadian wildfires 

An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. today for Monmouth, Middlesex, Somerset, Ocean, and southeastern Burlington counties, with heat index values up to 107 degrees. Dangerous heat and humidity could cause heat-related illnesses, and temperatures will remain very hot on Thursday, with heat indices near 100 degrees.

NJ Governor Mikie Sherrill Smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to reach New Jersey later this evening, affecting our air quality. Sensitive individuals should limit time spent outdoors and avoid strenuous activity.

Today Rosh chodesh marks the 26th yahrzeit of the Bobover Rebbe Rav Shlomo Halberstam the Divre Shloime zt"l, Thousands expected at the Tziyun located ad Floral park cemetery Deans, NJ 

-Trump is expected to reveal Chinese meddling in U.S. elections, including alleged compromises of voter data — CBS

- Lakewood Fireworks  and drine show are scheduled for tomorrow evening but the current smoke conditions may be a factor while officials have yet to announce any changes.

- Smoke from Canadian wildfires reaches the Lakewood area this evening 

- NJ Governor Mikie Sherrill We are excited to welcome Spain and Argentina to New Jersey for the World Cup Final this Sunday!

In just four days, one in three people across the globe will tune in to watch the final match take place right here in the Garden State.

-Trump on Truth Social: Iran has allowed an American Citizen, who was wrongfully detained in December of 2024 under the “presidency” of Sleepy Joe Biden, to leave the Country. She is now safely outside of Iran, and in good condition. The United States of America appreciates this gesture of Goodwill by Iran!

- The fight over daylight saving time is heating Supporters say permanent daylight saving time would end disrupted schedules, give families more evening sunlight, and boost businesses across multiple industries. But airlines are warning the change could ripple through aviation, impacting sunrise times, passenger schedules, crew and aircraft positioning, and coordination with global flight networks. Sleep experts are also pushing back, arguing permanent standard time is healthier than permanent daylight saving time because it better lines up with the body’s natural clock.

- Channel 13 News poll for this evening: The anti‑Netanyahu bloc achieves for the first time the majority needed to form a government with 61 seats without the arab parties 

- More than 100 House Democrats vote to cut off aid to Israel. The US House overwhelmingly rejected Rep. Thomas Massie’s amendment to cut billions in aid to Israel by a 104-314 vote.

All but one Republican voted against it. Nearly half of voting Democrats supported the cut.

- The Knesset voted Wednesday 65-51 to pass a law significantly weakening the powers of the attorney general The legislation, which is currently set to enter into effect in January 2027, two months after the next elections, would effectively strip the attorney general of authority over the government by allowing ministers to reject the attorney general’s currently binding legal positions.

- A new New Jersey law taking effect July 17 expands Family Leave Act protections by covering employers with 15 or more employees instead of 30. The law also reduces the employment requirement from 12 months to 3 months and lowers the minimum hours worked from 1,000 to 250, extending job protection to more than 400,000 additional workers in the state.

- Power was out briefly along the Pine Street corridor and Cedarbridge corporate park. It has since been restored

- The Sanzer Rebbe along with thousands of his Chassidim will gather tomorrow evening at 7:00 p.m. outside Prison 10 for a Atzeres tefillah rally, protesting the arrest of two bochurim f

affiliated with the Chassidus for draft dodging 

- A moment of silence in the Israeli Knesset in memory of Senator Lindsey Graham

- BDE: Petirah of Reb Yissochor Tzvi Halevi Lowy Z"L of Brooklyn father of R' Yitzchok and R' Eliyohu of Lakewood Kevura in Lakewood today 4:30pm

- The U.S. military is moving ahead with plans to build a “mission training center” for F-16 fighter jets stationed at the 177th Fighter Wing in Egg Harbor Township, on the edge of Atlantic City International Airport, the latest element of a multipart push to expand air power in South Jersey.(OneJersey)

- For the 9 days lakewood restaurants will have extended hours Mendelsohn's pizza n Toms River/Lakewood open until 9 pm

Fleishig restaurants will have Parve menus in addition there will be fleishigs available for shabbos and siyumim 

- Giyus: A Hafgama was held outside the Tel Hashomer Recruitment Office against the scheduled conscription day for Charedi tracks in the IDF. Demonstrators gathered to protest the ongoing draft efforts targeting yeshiva students. In yerushalayim members of the Eidah hacharedis protested in front of the lishkat Giyus on Rechov Rashi 

- Netanyahu to travel to D.C. Saturday for Lindsey Graham’s funeral.

- Firefighters responded to a fire Wednesday at at Atlantic Coast Recycling of Ocean County on  New Hampshire Avenue. It was put out shortly after

- As they do on many Rosh Chodesh mornings, members of Women of the Wall gathered at the Kosel today for their monthly provocation as hundreds of seminary girls and other women assembled nearby, reciting Tehillim loudly to drown out the group. 

- The Lakewood Fire District plans to construct a memorial monument at the corner of Monmouth Avenue and Fifth Street commemorating the 50th anniversary of the loss of two Lakewood firefighters.

- Lakewood Township is expected to introduce its 2026 municipal budget, though the full details have not yet been released. There is a possibility of a tax increase, following reductions in state funding and municipal aid from Trenton.

- President Donald Trump is directing ICE officers to resume conducting traffic stops, rejecting a recent Department of Homeland Security decision to suspend the tactic following two fatal shootings involving ICE agents in Maine and Texas. “We CANNOT give up one of I.C.E.’s most important and effective Crime Fighting tools, THE TRAFFIC STOP!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Once we do, we are playing right into the criminal’s hands.”

- Giyus: The new law freezing the arrest of yeshiva bochurim who have not reported for the draft comes into effect at a particularly sensitive time just one week before the start of Bein Hazmanim, during this period, many travel, take trips, and spend more time on the roads and in public areas, leading to increased interaction with police officers. Officials warn that despite the temporary freeze, the coming weeks could still see a significant number of encounters and possible arrests before the law is fully implemented or enforced.

- Trump calls on New York to reverse its data center moratorium “immediately,” warning it could hand AI leadership to China.

- Arkia Airlines will expand and upgrade its Tel Aviv-New York route in response to strong demand, adding Monday and Wednesday flights between Tel Aviv and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport in August and September.

-Lakewood Police Arrest Suspect Twice in One Week Lakewood Police arrested Anthony Bivins Jr., 48, after two separate investigations. He was first charged in connection with a residential burglary and theft of tools, and days later was arrested again for allegedly stealing a vehicle from a local repair shop.

- Neptune Township has joined more than 25 New Jersey municipalities in restricting data centers and in addition they voted to restrict Department of Homeland Security detention centers within the municipality.

-New Jersey beer sales rose about 10% during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making it the second-biggest drinking host region after Massachusetts.

- Benjamin Netanyahu on Zohran Mamdani: "I think Zohran Mamdani secretly hates America. He champions Hamas, which wants to massacre every Jew on Earth. Those who hate the Jews and Israel ultimately hate America."

- NJ Assembly GOP: A $150,000 earner with a $400,000 home in New Jersey pays roughly $21,350/year in state and local taxes.

The same person in Florida: $4,300.

That's a $17,000 difference. Every year.

And we just raised taxes another $800 million

.

Petirah of  Harav Yehoshua Max זצ"ל, who was niftar at the age of 44 following an illness from the dreaded machalah, רח"ל.

Reb Yehoshua was a distinguished talmid chacham a Gaon and  Baki in all Sugyos and served as the Rosh Kollel of Kollel Zichron Yehoram, which was established in memory of his father, Reb Yehoram Max ז"ל. He was a talmid of Yeshivas Rabbeinu Chaim Berlin and maintained a close relationship with the Rosh HaYeshiva, Harav Aharon Schechter זצ"ל. He was his chavrusah and he prepared the shiurim with the Rosh Yeshiva.

He devoted his life to Torah and Avodah despite enduring yesurim from the illness.

He leaves behind his wife (nee Spero)  and 10 yesomim, ranging in age from just 2 to 19 years old. The family resides in the Ridge area of Lakewood he was a mispalel at B"M sharei Orah

Dayan Brody shlita.

A short levayah will take place today  in Lakewood at 11:00 a.m. at the chapel on Seventh Street. The aron will then be taken to Yeshivas Rabbeinu Chaim Berlin on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn for an additional levayah, followed by kevurah at Beth David Cemetery in Elmont, Long Island.

Zoom link for Levaya in Lakewood 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81764884715?

Passcode: 810284

The family will be sitting shivah at 15 Cherry Street, Lakewood.

- U.S. Central Command says its latest wave of strikes against Iran has been completed.CENTCOM said U.S. forces struck Iranian command centers, air defense sites, missile and drone capabilities, and coastal surveillance facilities to further degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The military said the strikes were carried out at the direction of the Commander in Chief as the U.S. continues operations against Iranian military targets.

- WSJ: President Trump is leaning towards expanding U.S. military activity in Iran after days of briefings from his top advisors. Among the options being considered are: expanding airstrikes, sending ground forces to seize Iranian islands near the Strait of Hormuz, and bombing Mount Pickaxe.

-Trump on Truth Social: Iran has allowed an American Citizen, who was wrongfully detained in December of 2024 under the “presidency” of Sleepy Joe Biden, to leave the Country. She is now safely outside of Iran, and in good condition. The United States of America appreciates this gesture of Goodwill by Iran!

- US launches new round of Iran strikes, as Bahrain and Kuwait come under attack

- CENTCOM began a new wave of attacks against targets in Iran. The US is striking military targets used against vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz

- JD Vance accused Israel of funding influence campaigns to derail US-Iran negotiations and smear supporters of the deal through media outlets such as Time magazine: “When I open up the pages of Time magazine and see that there’s a literal foreign influence campaign being funded to tank the very deal that I was pursuing, and many of the people receiving that money were attacking me in completely dishonest ways, my response is: Go to ,,,,

 -Reporter: Is Iran being given a deadline before it starts bombing bridges?

 Trump: I don't like setting deadlines, but they know very well – it's in their best interest to behave well.

- IDF eliminated 3 Hezbollah terrorists in South Lebanon

- Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament and head of the Iranian negotiating team, prepares the Iranian public for the possibility of war: “We must always be ready for war and stand to the last drop of blood for the security of the state and our national interests. We have never sought war, and we do not seek it today, but we must always be prepared for conflict. At the same time, the tools of diplomacy and negotiation must also be used to promote and establish national interests.”

- President Trump announced that Iran contacted him earlier expressing a desire to negotiate a deal. Iran denies.

- Trump on Fox News: "Netanyahu is amazing as Prime Minister during wartime. Our relationship is great despite some differences of opinion here and there. Without me, Israel would be destroyed, and you can ask him"

- CENTCOM has launched another wave of strikes on Iran, after a 7-hour continuous strike last night.

- Report on the Emirati website Aram News from political sources in Lebanon: Hezbollah is preparing a plan for military escalation against Israel, which includes intensive attacks on cities in the north. It is claimed that the terrorist organization is waiting for the green light from Tehran to begin the attack, and has already begun to strengthen its forward positions north of the Litani River

- Senior advisor to the Iranian regime, Marandi: “For weeks, the Trump regime has been secretly planning heavy airstrikes and a land invasion with backing from Arab dictatorships. Iran, meanwhile, has quietly prepared for a major confrontation. If Trump launches this assault, those Persian Gulf Arab regimes won't survive.”

- A senior US official: The talks among the US, Israel, and Lebanon concluded after two days of intensive, positive discussions in Rome. We agreed on the framework and guidelines for a pilot regional process, which will be completed and implemented in the coming days. We will now move on to expanded technical discussions, which will focus on implementing all aspects of the framework agreement aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

- President Trump held a meeting last night in the White House Situation Room to discuss plans for new strikes against Iran, which will be broader in scope than the bombings currently being carried out in the Strait of Hormuz, according to three sources familiar with the details. The meeting was also attended by senior members of Trump's national security team, including VP Vance, SOS Rubio, SOW Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Steve Witkoff, and other senior officials - Axios

That was quick after a 20 hour pause the arrests have resumed.

 In a dramatic intervention, the High Court of Justice freezes the implementation of a law passed by the Knesset yesterday banning the arrest of ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students as  draft dodgers.

In response to petitions against the law, the court orders that a hearing on the legislation be held as soon as possible and issues a temporary order preventing the law from coming into effect pending a further decision.

Justice Ofer Grosskopf, who issues the temporary order, also issues an interim order demanding the government explain why the law should not be struck down, based on previous High Court rulings on the issue and the arguments of petitioners, which he says, have “significant weight.”

Several petitions were filed against the law immediately after its passage, arguing that the legislation was discriminatory since it bans arrests for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students who have failed to obey conscription orders while allowing arrests for non charedi draft-dodgers to continue.

The law — part of a last-minute legislative blitz by the government that addresses, among other things, Haredi demands to ensure blanket draft exemptions for yeshiva students — grants tens of thousands of  yeshiva students immunity from arrest until late January 2027, and extends that protection to those who become eligible for military service after it takes effect, effectively eliminating the threat of arrest and making it easier to refuse to enlist during that period. It also suspends ongoing criminal proceedings against those already facing enforcement measures.

On Monday, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir called the proposal “inconceivable,” saying it was “clearly and unequivocally inconsistent with the IDF’s needs” and amounted to “providing mass exemptions from prosecution.”

Some 72,000 ultra-Orthodox men aged 18 to 24 are currently believed to be eligible for military service, but have not enlisted. The IDF has said repeatedly in recent months that it urgently needs 12,000 new recruits amid the ongoing multifront conflict. The law has drawn fierce opposition from reservists, Knesset legal advisers and much of the public.

 Today the U. S. House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Act by a wide majority. Agudath Israel of America and its constituents understand the popular desire to “lock the clock.” We are concerned, however, that by choosing permanent daylight saving time (DST) for the entire country it will put children at risk and affect our religious practices.

Permanent DST would mean sunrises after 9 am in some parts of the country for weeks in the winter thereby causing many of America’s schoolchildren to head for school – by foot, by bicycle, or by bus – in the pre-sunrise darkness and putting them at increased risk.

For the Orthodox Jewish community, an unintended, yet compelling, consequence of such legislation is the effect it will have on our fundamental religious practices. In Jewish law, morning prayers, and the rituals associated with them, must be recited no earlier than at specified times. The later sunrise occurs; the later synagogue services must begin. The extension of DST will create an extreme hardship on observant Jews. It would be extraordinarily difficult – if not impossible – to arrive on time for a job and will effect the start time of our schools.

The last time this happened in the 1970’s the popularity of the measure dropped dramatically once Americans experienced one dark winter and Congress had to reverse itself within a year.

We are hopeful that the Senate will consider all of the effects of DST and compare them to the effects of permanent standard time or maintaining the status quo before rushing into this major change.

 יעלה ויבוא 

- Yeshiva Emek HaTorah R"Y Rav Weinberger shlita annual Dinner at Lake Terrace hall 

Weather 74° Clear skies. Hazy.

- The late sunrises in the winter are a big concern of opponents and they point to the fact that Congress already tried this once and people didn't like it. 

Erev Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av 5786

Reminder 9 days begins tonight 

Shkiah 8:25 pm

Yom Kippur koton Erev Rosh Chodesh Av

Weather 95° Plentiful sunshine. Hot

Tomorrow Rosh Chodesh Av 101° mainly sunny. Near record high temperatures

 Dangerous heat, humidity to make it feel like 100+ degrees Wednesday.

The National Weather Service said residents should prepare for “highs in the upper 90s to near 100 degrees and maximum heat indices between 100-109 degrees for most of the area,”

Extreme heat warnings have been issued for eight counties from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, while the rest of the state is under heat advisories.

Final Day for boys learning programs before camp begins

Today 29 Tamuz is the 921st Yartzeit of רש"י

- Agudath Israel of America Rabbi AD Motzen:  While the House passed a bill today to make daylight saving time permanent we are hopeful that the Senate will have a robust discussion on the merits and consider our serious concerns of cold dark winter mornings on child safety and the effect of DST on our religious practices.

- Giyus: Charedi leaders are reportedly preparing for the possibility that Israel's courts could invalidate the newly passed law freezing the arrest of yeshiva Bochurim for draft evaders. As a backup plan, they have advanced a proposal to ask President Isaac Herzog to intervene and help halt the arrests of draft evaders if the law is overturned.

- Avigdor Lieberman in the Knesset: "Who would have believed it would be easier to enlist Mahmoud Ahmadinejad than the Charedim?"

- President Trump meets with 5 Holocaust survivors heimishe bubbies in the Oval Office some from Boro Park.

- Jackson Township, New Jersey has abruptly cancelled their Council meeting scheduled for tonight after municipal officials were notified of a "potential safety concern involving the meeting location." Township officials say they are working with the State Fire Marshal’s Office and are awaiting further guidance, but have not offered additional information.(Onejersey)

- House votes 308-117 to make daylight saving time permanent, sending the bill to the Senate. 

- The US House has passed HR 193, a bill to make Daylight Savings Time permanent. The bill now heads to the Senate where it has an uncertain future. If permanent daylight saving time is enacted, summers would remain the same as they are now, though there would be later sunrises and sunsets. However, winter netz and shkiah would drastically change.

 In New York, the latest Netz /sunrise when daylight saving time ends in the fall is 7:20 a.m., and the earliest Shkiah/sunset is 4:28 p.m. But with permanent daylight saving time, the latest Netz/sunrise in NYC would be 8:20 a.m., and the earliest Shkiah/sunset would be 5:28 p.m. NY and NJ have to opt in if the federal law is voted on 

- Brisk Rosh Yeshiva Delivers First Shiur After Two-Month Absence After a two-month absence due to health issues, Brisk Rosh Yeshiva Rav Avrohom Yehoshua Soloveitchik shlita delivered his first shiur this week. Doctors have permitted the Rosh Yeshiva to resume giving limited shiurim, though he remains unable to leave his home. To accommodate the limited space, the shiur on the current sugya was delivered only to the yeshiva's bochurim, while the yungeleit were not in attendance. The resumption of the shiur was welcomed with great joy by his talmidim.(Bechatzros)

- A senior White House official tells Barak Ravid that "at this point" there is no Netanyahu visit on President Trump's schedule next week. Kann had reported that Netanyahu plans to fly to the U.S. in the coming days and stay in Washington early next week.

- U.S. House advances the SAVE America Act bundling Voter ID, proof of citizenship, and ending the seasonal clock change into must-pass national security funding. Passed 215-211.

- President Trump teases his "very big announcement" that's set to be made to the nation on Thursday night. "It's really big news. It's really, really big news. And our country has to shape up. But that's what we're going to be talking about Thursday... it doesn't get bigger, because without free and fair elections, you don't have a country."

- Lindsey Graham's sister Darline Graham Nordone has officially been SWORN IN as interim US Senator of South Carolina 

- Infectious disease doctor advises avoiding fresh produce even if washed as the explosive diarrhea outbreak spreads rapidly throughout the U.S.

- Knesset Passes Bill Freezing Arrests of Yeshiva Bochurim and youngeleit

The Knesset voted 58-54 to approve a coalition-backed law temporarily halting the arrest and prosecution of ultra-Orthodox men who are considered as evading military service.

The law grants tens of thousands of Yeshiva students immunity from arrest until November 30, extends that protection to newly eligible recruits, and suspends ongoing criminal proceedings, effectively removing the threat of arrest and significantly reducing Charedi enlistment during that period.

 Yesh Atid and Yisrael Beytenu parties both petition the High Court of Justice against a law banning arrests and prosecution of Haredi draft dodgers, effectively freezing most Haredi enlistment, moments after it passed in the Knesset, accusing the coalition of advancing “mass Haredi draft evasion” while “trampling the principle of equality in bearing the burden.”

- With the reopening of the BMG Lakewood freezer on Motzaei Shivah Asar B'Tammuz, baruch Hashem, numerous engagements have been announced over the past several days mazel Tov to all 

-BDE: Petirah of Rav Mordechai Beck, zt"l, Rosh Yeshivas Tiferes Moshe and and Kehal Segulas Yisroel in Monsey. He was 80 years old and collapsed from a heart attack this morning on his way to yeshiva. Leaving thousands of his talmidim in mourning. Levaya will take place in Monsey today at 5:30 pm at his Yeshiva on College Road corner Dolson Road. Kevurah in Monroe Satmar bais olam

Update Rav Modche Beck levaya will be at 5:30. He lived in Lakewood in the early 70's and was a talmid of Reb Schneur Zatzal in addition to being a talmid of Brisk.

- BDE: Petirah of Mrs, Rochel Lichtenstein A"H wife of Rav Shmuel ZTL who was a Rav in Flatbush. Sons, Rav Simcha of Lakewood R' Dovid Monsey R' Yehoshua, R' Simcha and daughters Mrs, Norman, Kleinman, Rubin, Berkowitz.

Levaya in Lakewood at the chapel off 7th st 4pm with kevura at the adjacent bais olam. Shiva in Lakewood at 300 Carey st.

- JSOR 2026 Summer Kosher guide is now available Here .

- Lakewood independence day fireworks and drone show scheduled for this Thursday night 8:45pm at the  Lake. So far no rain in the forecast 

- ICE agents have been directed to largely suspend vehicle stops until further notice following recent deadly shootings in Maine and Texas. CNN

- Giyus: The Eidah HaChareidis is organizing what is expected to be a massive protest on Wednesday, Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av, outside the Tel HaShomer military draft office, following a public call by the Badatz.

Thousands of participants from Yerushalayim and other chareidi communities are expected to attend in protest of efforts to draft bnei yeshivah into the IDF. Members of the Badatz are expected to lead the demonstration and address the crowd.

- NJ Governor Mikie Sherrill A Heat Advisory and Extreme Heat Warning have been issued across New Jersey beginning Wednesday, with high temperatures expected to persist through Friday. Check in on your neighbors, keep your pets indoors, and stay hydrated. Visit http://nj.gov/heat for heat safety and resources.

-A bipartisan Bill Would Make Standard Time Permanent Nationwide. A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced the "Sunshine for Our Kids Act of 2026," which would make standard time permanent across the U.S., ending the twice-yearly clock changes. Supporters say permanent standard time would improve children's health, safety, and sleep, while the House is also considering a separate bill to make daylight saving time permanent instead. 

-If you dont like an early shkiah on shabbos in the winter Congress may finally have good news. A Trump-backed bill that would allow states to keep Daylight Saving Time year-round is moving closer to a full House vote after advancing out of the House Rules Committee.

President Trump celebrated the move, calling the twice-a-year clock change a "ridiculous" ritual and urging Congress to pass the measure

If the house bill is enacted, it  could significantly affect the frum Orthodox community. In some areas, netz would occur after 8:00 a.m. for roughly two months, making davening vasikin far more difficult while many children would be traveling to school before sunrise. An advantage would be a later shkiah on Friday in the winter.

So far, frum organizations have largely remained silent on the proposed legislation.

- The Wandering Que Kosher BBQ smokehouse in Englewood, NJ will close their doors for the final time after 20 years 

- A 33-year-old Canadian  woman was arrested after allegedly slapping a teenage girl wearing clothing with the words “Trump” and “ICE” on the boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach.

- Ponovezh Yeshiva finalized admissions for next year’s Shiur Alef, accepting 477 bochurim out of nearly 650 applicants.

- Knesset Legal Adviser Sagit Afik said MKs with children or grandchildren who would directly benefit from the proposed law freezing the arrest of ultra-Orthodox draft evaders must disclose a potential conflict of interest before participating in today's debate or vote.

The bill would suspend arrests and legal proceedings against draft evaders until November 30. Afik clarified that affected MKs may still vote after making the required disclosure.

- Giyus: The Gerer Rebbe reportedly warned that if a Ger chassid arrested for draft evasion was not released, tens of thousands of Ger chassidim would stage a major protest outside Military Prison 10. The bochur was later released after a medical issue was raised.

- New Jersey Ranks No. 3 for Fatal Road Rage Crashes A new LendingTree study found New Jersey ranks third in the nation for the highest share of fatal crashes involving aggressive or careless driving. Of the state's 638 fatal crashes in 2024, 288 (45.1%) were linked to road rage or reckless driving. The report also found New Jersey had the nation's highest accident rate, with 31.5 crashes per 1,000 drivers.

- Jackson Traffic Alert: Bethel Church Road Construction Begins July 20

Motorists in Jackson Township should expect traffic delays starting July 20 as sidewalk and pedestrian safety improvements begin on Bethel Church Road between South New Prospect Road and the Howell Township border. The project is expected to last 6 to 8 weeks, with alternating traffic and an eastbound detour in place during construction.

- Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing criticism following claims that New York City lost more than $10 billion in tax revenue as wealthy residents continue leaving the state. Critics argue his policies could accelerate the exodus of high-income taxpayers, pointing to reports that New York lost roughly $11 billion in taxable wealth in a single year, while Florida gained about $21 billion through interstate migration.

- CDC is investigating a Cyclospora outbreak in 31 states, with 800 confirmed cases and 86 hospitalizations. The parasite causes severe, often prolonged watery diarrhea. The illness is believed to be linked to contaminated fresh produce, though the source has not yet been confirmed.

- Around 20 FBI Agents along with Capitol Police were spotted at Senator Lindsay Graham’s residence earlier. The federal agents were seen entering his home and around the perimeter.

Law enforcement sources say federal agents are investigating the Senator’s sudden death out of an abundance of caution, as no new evidence has emerged indicating foul play

Minyanim: Mincha/Yom Kippur Koton ער"ח אב תשפ"ו Lakewood Tuesday, July 14, 2025 / כ״ט תמוז תשפ"ו

Please post additional minyanim or corrections in the comments section.

- See more zmanim HERE 

- Satmar Forest ave 1:40, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30, 6:30 7:30

- Lutzk 1:45, 3pm, 4pm, 5,pm. 6. pm, 7pm in the Simcha hall

- Kahanow shul 185 Miller rd 1:05

- Ishay Yisrael 1:10 pm 110 Miller Rd

- Babad Toms River 1:15 pm and 6:15 pm 

- Zichron Shneur Oak Knoll 1:35

- Chayei Yisroel 11 Gudz 1:30

- Meor Chaim R Herzka shul 1:10 pm

- Lev Avos 1:30

- Chasam Sofer Ridge 1:30 pm 

- Kol Shimshon 1:45 and 7:00 pm in the Otzar

- Mordy's Shteibel 1:30 pm

- Central court shul 1:15 and 4:00 pm upstairs

-Viyalipol 1142 E County Line 1:35 pm

- Somerset walk- Mincha Yom Kippur Katan 1:35 and 7:00 pm

-Lakewood Commons Yom Kippur Katon Mincha 1:35

-Hearthstone Tiferes Shmuel 1:15 (941 Princewood Ave)

- B"M Westgate 1:40 & 7:30 pm

- Sterling Forest 1:30

- Kol Arye 1:30 pm in B"M

- Prospect Square 1:30 or 6:30 317 Blanch

-Williams street shul 1:40 Ezras Nashim open

- Old Shul 1:40

- BMG Maariv B"M 1:45 pm 

-Alumni B'M 1:45 pm

- Arlington 1:45 and 7:00 pm

- Bais Shabsi Pawnee rd 1:45

- Prospect Heights 1:45 pm

-B"M Kelmwoods westgate 2:45 pm (Ezras Nashim open)

- Kollel Choshen Mishpat 625 forest 3:00 pm

- Chateau Park Sefard 6:30 pm

- Breslov 423 6th street 7:25 pm

- Babad 1767 Whitesville Toms River 6:20

- Breslov 944 E County Line 7:35 pm

- Hampshire Heights 6:15

-Hearthstone 911 Heartstone 6:15

- Lakewood Residence courtyard shul 7:40 pm 1st between forest and madison-direct entrance to shul 45 minutes before shkia (ezras nashim too)

- Oak and vine 74 Broadway 7:40

Sanz Klausenberg Oak and Vine 8:30

- Trump holds Situation Room meeting with top officials to discuss a “massive” new offensive in Iran. Axios reports 

- CENTCOM states U.S. forces have finished a seven-hour wave of strikes against dozens of Iranian military sites. These targets, located near the Strait of Hormuz and along the country’s coast, included missile and drone facilities, naval assets, and coastal defense systems. The operation followed hours after the U.S. reinstated its naval blockade affecting vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports

- Report: Iran's drones in Kuwait struck a compound housing Halliburton and the U.S. military's biggest Kuwaiti supplier...The drone strikes reportedly hit Halliburton, the American oil services and logistics giant with U.S. government contracts, at the Mina Abdullah compoun.

-Trump on the Iranian leadership: "I knew the 1st group...no longer with us.""Knew the 2nd group...no longer with us.""3rd group...they're stopping a deal.""You'd better make a deal, or you're not gonna have anybody left."

- Iran fires missiles at Jordan 

- Trump refuses to rule out ground war on Iran

- Trump  interview: “Ultimately, we'll hit energy targets in Iran. Next week comes the bridges. We're going to knock out all of their power plants. We'll knock out all of their bridges unless they get to the table and negotiate” : "We already hit Kharg Island as you know twice... as far as taking it is concerned, if we degrade them far enough and deep enough back, I would do that."

- Trump interview: The Strait of Hormuz: "It's open if people want to go through it. We're not opening it for Iran. That's the only one it's closed for... Now, a lot of things have happened in the last few months—pipelines are being built. We're coming up with great alternatives, including Texas, including Alaska."

- The US Naval blockade on Iran has officially started as of 4 PM ET. U.S. forces resumed the naval blockade against vessels transiting to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas today at 4 p.m. ET. There are currently more than 20 U.S. Navy warships and hundreds of military aircraft operating across the Middle East. American forces remain vigilant, lethal, and ready.

- US official to ABC News: The US is attacking Iran at this hour. The attacks have been ongoing for several hours.

- President Trump tells Israel to withdraw its forces from Lebanon and Syria, Axios reports. Netanyahu refused.

- Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for the National Security Committee in the Iranian Parliament: "The memorandum of understanding" no longer exists - This is because the United States has officially started a war and violated the terms of the agreement."

- Trump on Iran: “You know, we had a deal two days ago. It was done. And then all of a sudden, they couldn't do it. They didn't like something about the deal. They couldn't do it. And they shot first. And that was a big mistake that they shot first because we have been knocking the hell out of them. They're very difficult people. 47 years, we put up with it”

- Senior US Central Command officials have voiced frustration to the IDF and Israel’s defense establishment after Transportation Minister Miri Regev ordered a temporary halt to additional US aerial refueling aircraft landing at Ben Gurion Airport, the Ynet news site reports. US officials argue that the decision undermines the operational needs of American forces amid rising tensions with Iran, stressing that the tankers are a critical component of Washington’s regional deterrence and defense posture.

- Trump:".The days of Iran killing hundreds of thousands of people, including 52,000 protestors, are OVER and, most importantly, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!"

- Trump: "Oil is flowing like never before, thanks to the awesome Power of the United States Military. A special salute to Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Dan Caine, and Commander of the United States Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper. Because of them, and all members of the Most Powerful Military anywhere in the World, BY FAR, the Strait of Hormuz is open to ALL Ship traffic except for Iran — and that is because of their lying, violent, malicious leadership, which is taking them down the path of TOTAL DESTRUCTION. We will therefore have a FULL Blockade, but only on Ships coming to and from Iranian ports, or carrying anything have to do with Iranian cargo. Based on highly productive conversations with Middle East leadership, I have decided to replace the 20% United States Reimbursement Fee with Trade and Investment Deals that the various Gulf States will be making into the United States. Those Investments will be MASSIVE but, at the same time, extraordinarily good for them, and their future. As everyone is aware, we have the largest Dollar Investment into the United States, of any Country in History, but these new Investments will make that Number even larger, and we will see Factories, Plants, and Equipment pour into the United States at Historic levels, which will create additional millions of High Paying AMERICAN Jobs! America is WINNING again, winning like never before. The days of Iran killing hundreds of thousands of people, including 52,000 protestors, are OVER and, most importantly, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warns Tehran that Israel will respond overwhelmingly to a strike on its territory.“We are prepared for every scenario,” “I have one message for Iran’s leaders: Do not count on there being calm if you attack us, Do not expect a repeat of what happened before, because there will be no repeat. The previous response was powerful enough, but any further attempt to harm us will be met with a different response far more powerful.”

- Kuwait said it is intercepting projectiles over its airspace, after Iran ramped up strikes on the Gulf in recent days, as tensions rise with the United States and its allies over the crucial Strait of Hormuz waterway.

- Iran announces: The railway bridge that was attacked just a few days ago, on July 9, has been successfully restored and freight trains have begun to pass over it. As a reminder, the bridge serves as a key link in the cargo route from China and Russia to Iran.

- Iran Revolutionary Guards claim that a US Patriot radar and other US Navy assets

 - A senior official in Tehran tells CNN that Iran will respond forcefully if Trump carries out his threats and attacks Pickaxe Mountain. He says the price will be US soldiers and their partners in the region

- Senior Iranian official to IRNA news agency: Four areas in Bushehr city hit by US strikes. 

 - “Blood for blood, an eye for an eye": The new billboard placed in Tehran's Palestine Square with a threat in Hebrew דם תחת דם עין תחת עין.

- Amid escalation with Iran, US freezes removal of refueling tankers from Ben Gurion Airport, threatening flight cancellations for tens of thousands of passengers during the peak July travel month, according to the Israel Airports Authority. TheAuthority warns that unless additional US aircraft will continue to be removed from  Ben Gurion, as many as 50,000 flights might be canceled.

- Iranian Army Spokesperson: "The Strait of Hormuz will not be opened through war, terror, and aggression from the USA. Respecting the rights of the Iranian people is the only way to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. We are committed to avenging the blood of the victims, especially the blood of the leader.

- Reports: 7 terrorists killed in IDF strike on Hamas police station in northern Gaza.

- A Norwegian tanker was hit by an explosion caused by an unidentified device off the Omani coast in the early hours of the morning, a crisis response company said.

 Weather: Tonight 65° Clear skies. tomorrow 96° Sunny. Very hot.

- Yeshiva Bais Yosef R"Y Rav Yankel Nekritz Shlita annual paerlor meeting at 35 Glen Ave N Lakewood 

- Yeshiva Heichal hTalmud R"Y Rav Moshe Weiss shlita, annual parlor meeting at the Emporio Show room 6601 Rt 9 Howell Guest speaker Rav Nosson Muller from Chicago

- Montreal community Kollel Lakewood parlor meeting 1293 Shafto avenue 7:30 pm 

- Many Vorts B"H as BMG freezer opens

Tomorrow erev Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av