Erev Shabbos Nachamu in Yerushalayim

from previous years

Friday July 24 News Updates Lakewood

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 

- 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

Iran Israel Updates Friday July 24

- 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.

Motzei Tisha B'Av Lakewood 5786

 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

Halachos of Motzei Tisha B'Av that falls on Thursday night

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 is 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

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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.   

Iran Israel Updates

- 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.

Tisha BAv Lakewood 5786

 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

Wednesday July 22 Erev Tisha B'Av News updates Lakewood

 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

Halachos for Erev Tisha B'Av 5786/2026

 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

Iran/Israel News Updates Wed July 22

- 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

This Should Be The Last Fast of Tisha B'Av

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.

Tuesday July 21 News Updates Lakewood

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

Iran/Israel News Updates Tues July 21

- 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

The New Cost of Camp: When Extras Become Expectations

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."

Monday 7 Av Events

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

Monday July 20 News Updates Lakewood

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

Iran Israel News Monday July 20

- 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.

Sunday July 19 News Updates Lakewood

                   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