Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Tuesday August 4 News Updates Lakewood

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

- 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.




Iran/Israel Updates Tues Aug 4

- 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.

Monday, August 3, 2026

Hashkafa Q&A

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

Oif Simchas Monday 20 Av

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 



Monday August 3 News Updates Lakewood

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 Israel Updates Monday August 3rd

- 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



Sunday, August 2, 2026

Oif Simchas Sunday 19 Av

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.

Iran Israel Updates Sunday August 2nd

- 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."

Sunday August 2 News Updates Lakewood

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.

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Iran Israel Updates Motzei Shabbos Eikev

- 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." 

Friday, July 31, 2026

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פר' עקב תשפ"ו שני דנחמתא

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

Another kumzitz Niggun

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 News Updates Lakewood

 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 Israel News Updates Friday July 31

- 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

Thursday, July 30, 2026

Oif Simchas Thurs 16 Av

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%.

Thursday July 30 News Updates Lakewood

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 Traffic Woes During Bein Hazmanim

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.

Iran Israel Updates Thurs July 30

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

Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Oif Simchas Wednesday Tu B'Av Lakewood

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.

Wednesday July 29 Tu B'Av News Updates Lakewood

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 

Iran Israel Updates Wed July 29

- 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

Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Video: Niggun Limud ואם תמצא לומר

. 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

Oif Simchas Tuesday ט"ו ב'אב TU B'Av

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%.

Tuesday July 28 News Updates Lakewood

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.