Maakav conducted an exclusive interview with mixed martial arts fighter Haim Gozali amid the controversy surrounding American internet personality and entrepreneur Dan Bilzerian, who has made harsh statements against Israelis and reportedly raised concerns over potential threats toward them. Gozali, one of the figures most closely associated with the development of MMA in Israel, outlined a hardline approach to combating global antisemitism and announced the launch of a new initiative titled "The Jewish Avengers".

According to Gozali, the initiative is intended to confront incitement, racism, and threats directed at Jews worldwide, using strictly lawful means, including public advocacy, legal proceedings, and authorized demonstrations. "It is unacceptable that individuals threaten to murder Jews while authorities remain silent. Jews cannot afford to be indifferent to such horrific antisemitism", he said.

During the interview, Gozali also addressed the widely publicized controversy surrounding Bilzerian, who has reportedly come under scrutiny by U.S. federal authorities over alleged suspicions related to support for organizations designated as terrorist entities. Reports indicate that the inquiry focuses on social media activity, business connections, and financial transactions, although comprehensive official details or final conclusions have yet to be released.

Gozali further told Maakav that the public confrontation that emerged around the case triggered a large-scale wave of reactions in the digital sphere.

"After a long time, I witnessed Israeli unity. Thousands of Israelis reached out to him and flooded his channels. This is only the beginning of the fight against antisemitism", he noted.

According to Gozali, the exposure of what he described as the antisemite Dan Bilzerian’s phone number led to a series of developments online, creating a broader public impact than anticipated. At the same time, Bilzerian reportedly published Gozali’s personal phone number, further intensifying online activity.

Following the disclosure of Gozali’s number on social media, Bilzerian’s own followers began contacting him, requesting Bilzerian’s contact details in order to communicate with him directly or express support.

However, Israelis and Jews around the world sent Bilzerian messages of a less amicable nature.

Gozali added that within a short period, the surge of outreach from Israelis and Jews, in his view, contributed to the shutdown of Bilzerian’s WhatsApp account. He described this development as part of an ongoing digital struggle against antisemitism and incitement online.

He also stated that Bilzerian’s conduct and the resulting exposure served as the immediate catalyst for the creation of the public initiative "The Jewish Avengers". The interview itself, he noted, was not planned in advance but arose directly from the unfolding developments and the public resonance surrounding the case.

According to Gozali, the initiative is intended to operate as a non-profit organization, funded through donations from Israel and abroad and managed under proper governance standards. He said he plans to establish a team comprising fighters, military personnel, legal professionals, and social media figures who will jointly act against antisemitic phenomena on the international stage.

"If they want a media confrontation, we will engage. If they want a legal confrontation, we will proceed accordingly. Anyone seeking a physical confrontation should enter a lawful arena", he said.

Gozali also referred to other events he associates with anti-Israel demonstrations worldwide, including the "Quds Day" rally in London, during which chants of "Death to the IDF" were reportedly heard. According to reports, British police launched an investigation following the incidents, sparking a wider public debate over the boundaries of free speech and public responsibility. In this context, Gozali also mentioned British rapper Bob Vylan, who, according to various claims, led chants during the rally – allegations that prompted political and media reactions in the United Kingdom.

Beyond his public activism, Gozali is regarded as a central figure in Israel’s MMA scene. Born in Bat Yam, he began his professional career in the late 1990s, when the sport had yet to gain widespread recognition in the country. Over the years, he participated in international competitions, including ADCC events, and later became the first Israeli fighter to compete under the Bellator organization at Madison Square Garden – a milestone that underscored the growing presence of Israeli fighters on the global stage.

Alongside his athletic achievements, Gozali has worked to promote the sport in Israel by organizing international events and establishing training frameworks. His public persona has also been shaped by his association with the comic-book symbol "Batman", which became part of his media image. In recent years, he has continued to compete in various arenas while mentoring a new generation of fighters, including his son Aviv Gozali, who has also become a prominent figure in the sport.

Gozali’s activities extend beyond the sporting arena. In his interview with Maakav, he stated that throughout his career he has consistently acted against manifestations of racism and antisemitism, a stance that, he said, is reflected in his social media content and public initiatives. This activism illustrates his ambition to influence broader public discourse and establish a values-driven presence beyond the world of sport.

Maakav has previously covered and documented Gozali’s involvement in various public causes, including participation in protest initiatives against animal abuse, interviews addressing antisemitism, and public support for children facing bullying in the education system. At the same time, Gozali has expressed support for Israel’s security forces and stated that his actions are guided by a commitment to the country’s values and resilience.

Today, Gozali presents a new objective: an international campaign against antisemitism. According to him, his social media accounts have been blocked on several occasions due to his activism against racism, yet a new account on X gained thousands of followers within days. He also maintains large communities on Instagram and Facebook, granting him significant public influence.

The controversy surrounding Bilzerian and the public debate it generated forms part of a broader discourse on the role of influencers in political and security arenas, as well as the impact of social media in shaping public opinion. Meanwhile, the initiative "The Jewish Avengers" proposes a new operational model that seeks to combine legal, public, and media-driven activity in confronting antisemitic phenomena worldwide.

According to Gozali, "It is time to demonstrate that there is an answer to antisemitism. Am Yisrael Chai (The People of Israel Live)".

הפוסט Haim Gozali Declares War on Antisemites Worldwide הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

הפוסט Russia Condemns Israel and Pushes for UN Session הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

Security sources reported to the ODATV network that Turkey will assist Syria's new government and establish air, land, and naval bases in Syria to fight ISIS. This represents a dramatic move that Israel is trying to avoid at all costs, while simultaneously working vigorously to prevent significant Turkish entrenchment on its northern borders.

International efforts to rehabilitate Syria are in full swing and include several actors with competing interests in the region. Syria appears to be nearing the end of its struggle against the PKK terrorist organization, which does not recognize the country's new government, while a new geopolitical reality is taking shape centered on the question of who will control Syrian territory and what the character of the new regime will be.

The ODATV network reports on various processes occurring in Syria, according to security sources in the country. According to the reports, Turkey will assist Syria's new government in establishing its security organizations and army. As part of this, Turkish forces will establish air, land, and naval bases in Syria under the claim of fighting the ISIS terrorist organization – a step that raises deep concern among Israel's security establishment.

Security sources noted that the Five-Party mechanism, established as part of the fight against ISIS and including Turkey and regional countries, convenes from time to time, and that all possible contributions will be made to ensure security and stability in Syria. They also noted that the meeting between President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US President Donald Trump in the coming days will be an important and critical meeting, noting that this meeting will lead to the resolution of many issues related to Syria.

Security sources, who emphasized that the US will withdraw from Syria but leave a symbolic base, said: "Trump no longer thinks that US presence in the Middle East will be beneficial. He is well aware of Turkey's dominance among regional countries. He doesn't want America to get into trouble in the future. As a country, we always say that regional problems should be solved by regional countries and that other parties should not be involved".

These statements indicate a fundamental shift in American policy in the Middle East and open the door to increased Turkish influence in the region. The planned American withdrawal creates a strategic vacuum that Turkey is determined to fill, exploiting Russian weakness following the war in Ukraine and the fall of its ally, the Assad regime.

According to publications, Syria's new government has three main goals: to improve the country's legitimacy and recognition in the international arena, to revive the economy, and to preserve its territorial integrity and federal structure. Scenarios aimed at dividing the country are not being considered, but in practice, growing Turkish control over Syrian territory could lead to a situation of close dependence on Ankara's policies.

This ODATV report comes against the backdrop of reports of a hidden struggle between Israel and Turkey regarding Syria's character. Turkey, as mentioned, claims it is establishing bases throughout the country to help al-Julani's new regime fight ISIS, but Israel sees this as an attempt to take control of Syria and turn it into its satellite. The new security reality presents Israel with complex challenges it has not yet faced.

About two months ago, it was published that the Air Force acted to thwart an immediate attempt by the Turkish army to gain a foothold in Syria with significant forces from Turkish Air Force squadrons. During a lightning operation, led by Air Force Commander Major General Tomer Bar, the force operated and bombed two airfields in recent days that served the Syrian army during Bashar al-Assad's regime.

These are the Tadmor airfield and the T4 airfield. In carpet bombing, the Air Force destroyed both airfields. No structure remained standing. They bombed planes, radar systems, control towers, parking areas, all runways, and all buildings – the warehouses simply destroyed both airfields, said a military source. The Israeli move was designed to prevent the Turks from gaining strategic air reinforcement points that would allow them to deploy significant forces in Syria.

The attack came against the backdrop of Israel's declaration that it has two main conditions regarding Syria: first, complete demilitarization of the country's south of weapons so as not to threaten Israel, and second, freedom of air movement over Lebanon and Syria. Israel conducted contacts with the Turks regarding the country's future where the Israeli government's red lines were clarified, but so far it appears the sides have not reached significant understandings.

The growing tension between Israel and Turkey reflects a broader struggle for hegemony in the region. Turkey is considered a regional power politically, economically, and militarily, and a direct confrontation with it is expected to pose a very significant challenge for Israel. In recent years, Turkey has strengthened its position as a military power while developing a significant domestic defense industry. In 2023, Turkey's weapons exports totaled about $5.5 billion, about half of Israeli exports.

The Turkish army is considered the largest among the armies around the eastern Mediterranean, and Ankara has gained combat experience in recent years in Syria, Libya, and the war between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Turkish military capabilities have developed significantly, including development of advanced unmanned aerial systems, air defense systems, and electronic warfare technologies.

Sources in Turkey claim that the bases will be established on the border with Israel and will provide protection for Syria – if, for example, the Israeli Air Force enters Syrian territory, Turkey promises to attack, but these are only sources heard in the media and are not official. However, these unofficial threats indicate the direction of the wind among the Turkish establishment and the determination to become a dominant player in Syria.

In this situation, Israel prefers Russia in Syria because Russia does not want to conquer Syria or stay in Syria forever, but Turkey sees Syria as its territory and therefore when it is here it will allow doing anything. The Russians, despite their complex relations with Israel, have presented relative stability for years and willingness to coordinate on certain security issues. The Turks, in contrast, are perceived as a more greedy factor whose goal is to achieve complete control over Syrian territory.

Turkey's army is very strong, and Israel's is also strong, but it's preferable that there be no conflict because damage to Israel from Turkey and Syria would be difficult, and Turkey might lose its place in NATO, but sometimes there's a feeling that Turkey is not afraid to lose its place in NATO. The new security reality presents Israel with difficult dilemmas: on one hand, the need to preserve its vital security interests in Syria, and on the other hand, the desire to avoid a direct confrontation with a regional power like Turkey.

The gap between forces is particularly striking when examining quantitative data: the Turkish army has about 775,000 active soldiers and about 380,000 reserve forces, while Israel has about 170,000 active soldiers and about 445,000 reserve forces. In terms of equipment, Turkey has about 3,200 tanks compared to about 1,370 for Israel, and about 1,067 fighter jets compared to about 241 for Israel. However, Israel has a significant technological advantage and higher training level of its forces.

The struggle over Syria also reflects broader changes in the international system. The US withdrawal from the Middle East, Russian weakness, and the rise of regional powers like Turkey are creating a new geopolitical map. In this context, Israel is forced to adapt to a reality where regional players are becoming stronger and more independent in their actions.

The establishment of Turkish bases in Syria will fundamentally change the military balance in the region. A permanent Turkish presence in Syria will allow Ankara to project military power directly on the Israeli border, create close ties with terrorist organizations in Lebanon, and limit Israeli freedom of action in Syria and Lebanon. Simultaneously, the Turkish presence may strengthen the resources and capabilities of various terrorist organizations in the region.

For Israel, the situation presents new operational and strategic challenges. Operationally, it will be more difficult to operate in Syria against Iranian or Lebanese targets when there is significant Turkish presence. Strategically, Israel will be forced to deal with a new threat on its northern borders, considering that Turkey is a NATO member with advanced military capabilities.

The Turkish move in Syria also connects to the broader context of Turkish foreign policy under President Erdogan. Turkey aspires to restore its status as a leading regional power, exploiting the vacuum created by the weakness of traditional players like Iran and Russia. Establishing bases in Syria is part of a broader trend of expanding Turkish influence in the region, which has included activity in Libya, the Caucasus, and the Black Sea in recent years.

Despite Israeli opposition, Turkey appears determined to continue with its plans. The assistance Turkey provides to Syria's new government, including training security and military forces, creates mutual dependence that makes it difficult to remove Turkish presence from the country. Simultaneously, the international legitimacy Turkey receives for its fight against ISIS allows it to justify its military presence in Syria.

The establishment of Turkish bases in Syria also raises questions about the future of peace agreements in the Middle East. A hostile Turkish presence on the border with Israel could undermine regional stability and complicate peace efforts with additional Arab countries. Simultaneously, this could strengthen the Iranian-Turkish resistance axis against Israel and against Western involvement in the region.

Israeli policy toward Syria will be forced to update according to the new reality. Instead of the ability to operate with relative freedom in Syrian territory, Israel will need to carefully consider every action, taking into account possible Turkish response. The situation requires development of new intelligence and operational capabilities, alongside building renewed diplomatic relations with additional regional players.

For Gulf states, primarily Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the establishment of Turkish bases in Syria is also a concern. They see Turkey as a competitor for regional hegemony, and significant Turkish presence in Syria could strengthen Ankara's position in the struggle for regional influence. The situation could lead to multiple alliances and more complex confrontation for all relevant players.

Ultimately, the Turkish move in Syria represents a fundamental change in the Middle East power map. This is a step that could change not only Israel's security situation but the entire regional system. The question is whether Israel will succeed in dealing with the new challenge while preserving its security interests, or whether the new reality will force dramatic changes in its security strategy. The answer to this question will affect not only the future of Israel-Turkey relations but the stability of the entire region.

Photo: AP

הפוסט Turkish Army Heading to Israel's Borders הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

Lebanese authorities announced this week a ban on screening Disney's live-action version of "Snow White" in movie theaters throughout the country. The decision was made following the participation of Israeli actress Gal Gadot, who plays the role of the Evil Queen in the film.

According to official sources, Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad Hajjar made the decision after receiving a request from the local cinema and media regulatory body. The official reasoning is based on the fact that Gadot's name appears on the country's official boycott list of Israel, due to her military service in the IDF and her public support for the State of Israel.

This step is not unusual in Lebanese policy. In the past, screenings of other films starring Gadot, including "Wonder Woman" and "Death on the Nile," were banned for exactly the same reasons.

Gal Gadot, known for her uncompromising support for Israel, has been especially prominent in her positions since the outbreak of the war in Gaza in October 2023. In a speech delivered during the Anti-Defamation League summit in 2024, Gadot strongly criticized voices supporting Hamas around the world. "Celebrating the massacre of Jews is something that cannot be ignored", the actress said in her emotional speech.

The prevailing opinion in the country is that screening films starring actors who support Israel is not compatible with the current national situation and the daily Israeli violations, as they are perceived in Lebanese society.

Recently, Lebanese authorities made a similar decision to ban the screening of Marvel's "Captain America: Brave New World", which features Israeli actress Shira Haas. In this case too, the official reason was identical – a cultural boycott of Israeli creators.

These repeated decisions reflect Lebanon's commitment to a clear policy of boycotting works in which actors with Israeli citizenship participate.

It should be noted that the "Snow White" film was controversial even before the Lebanese boycott was announced. Since the initial announcement of its production, the film became an arena for political and cultural confrontations.

The contrast between Zegler and Gadot became a symbol of the political controversy surrounding the film. Zegler, known for her support of Palestinians since 2021, stands in sharp contrast to Gadot, who does not hide her support for Israel. Gadot, who previously served in the IDF, delivered a passionate speech in support of Israel in 2024, which sparked widespread indignation among audiences in the Arab and international world, especially in light of the ongoing escalation in Gaza and southern Lebanon.

With the release of the official trailer for "Snow White" last year, calls for boycotting the film began to emerge, especially in Arab countries. Under mounting pressure, Disney was forced to reduce the scale of the premiere event in Los Angeles held on March 15, in an attempt to soften public criticism. However, it seems that this move failed to prevent the wave of negative criticism that flooded the film.

Lebanon's decision to ban the screening of the film thus joins a chain of challenges that faced the production of "Snow White", reflecting the political and cultural complexity that accompanies Hollywood productions during the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

While Disney struggles to deal with the many controversies associated with the film, Lebanon's cultural boycott policy against Israel continues to affect the global entertainment industry, leaving Lebanese cinema viewers without the ability to watch the new version of one of the world's most beloved fairy tales.

The ban on screening "Snow White" demonstrates how political conflicts affect the field of culture and entertainment, and how geopolitical tension seeps into every aspect of artistic creation and cultural consumption in the Middle East. The film, intended to be a family entertainment experience, has involuntarily become a point of contention in the ongoing regional conflict, and an echo of the political and military tensions in the region.

As the cultural boycott of Israel continues to expand and affect Israeli creators and artists worldwide, it remains to be seen how this policy will impact the future of international collaborations in the film industry, and whether it will influence the considerations of major film studios in selecting actors in the future.

Israelis are filled with pride for Gal Gadot, and there is no doubt that Lebanon's regressive decision will not pose an obstacle to the continued creativity of Gal Gadot, who is a source of both national and international pride.

Disney has refrained from giving an official response, while Gal Gadot herself has not reacted at all to the Lebanese decision – the loss is Lebanon's alone (perhaps it would have been better for them to admire the acclaimed "masterpieces" such as the "Katyusha" rocket from Hezbollah's fine workshop, or alternatively enjoy the spectacular artistic performance of "Hamas" in its glorious downfall).

Photo: Disney

הפוסט Lebanon Bans "Snow White" Due to Gal Gadot הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

Later in the interview, Bayrakci tried to calm the situation, but repeated the surprising claim. "I don't want confrontations, I would never want such a headache, but here – perhaps people won't believe me – the Turkish army is capable of penetrating Tel Aviv within 72 hours," he said. These statements come at a time when relations between Israel and Turkey are in ongoing tension, especially in light of the war in the Gaza Strip.

This exceptional Turkish threat comes against the backdrop of reports about contacts precisely aimed at improving coordination between the countries. The "Middle East Eye" website reported yesterday that Israel and Turkey are conducting direct talks in an attempt to establish a permanent military coordination channel in Syria, aimed at preventing friction and military escalation between the two countries.

The site also reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it clear to security officials that Israel has a "short window of opportunity" to act against bases in Syria before Turkey takes control of them and places its systems there. This information indicates that Israel is concerned about the strengthening of the Turkish presence in Syria and the possibility that this will limit Israel's freedom of operation in the region.

The "Sonar" research institute headed by Bayrakci is considered an influential body in Turkey, although it has no official authority in making security or military decisions in the country. Nevertheless, the harsh statements made by Bayrakci reflect the mood in certain parts of the Turkish discourse towards Israel.

Israel-Turkey relations have seen many ups and downs in recent decades. In the past, the countries were strategic allies, but in recent years, especially under the rule of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, diplomatic relations have deteriorated significantly. Erdogan himself has repeatedly voiced sharp criticism of Israel's policies, particularly in the Palestinian context.

Despite the high tension, both countries continue to maintain certain economic and commercial ties, and there are attempts from time to time to improve relations. The need for military coordination in Syria, as reported, indicates an understanding by both countries that despite differences, there are shared interests in the regional arena.

The current tension comes against the backdrop of additional regional developments, including the involvement of both countries in Syria, where Turkey holds territories in the north of the country, and Israel occasionally carries out attacks against Iranian and Hezbollah targets.

Diplomatic sources estimate that Bayrakci's statements, even if they do not reflect an official position of the Turkish government, could adversely affect the delicate relations between the countries and efforts to create a coordination channel in Syria.

Security officials in Israel approach such declarations with great caution, but assess that they are mainly rhetoric intended for internal needs in Turkey and not a genuine intention for military action against Israel.

The crisis in the region, particularly the war in the Gaza Strip, has led to the strengthening of anti-Israeli rhetoric in Turkey and other countries in the region, and extreme statements of this kind have become more common in the Turkish public sphere.

Bayrakci's exceptional statement adds to the growing tension in the region and fears of further escalation, as the entire Middle East is in a state of instability and high tension. It remains to be seen how these statements will affect efforts to create coordination mechanisms that prevent direct military friction between Israel and Turkey, especially in the Syrian arena.

Photo: AP

הפוסט Turkey Threatens: Capable of Invading Tel Aviv Within 72 Hours הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

Trump has significantly escalated his threats in recent days, promising that if a new nuclear agreement isn't reached, Iran will experience bombings "like it has never seen before". Tehran responded to the letter Trump sent to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei by refusing direct negotiations with the U.S. as long as sanctions remain in place, but expressed willingness for indirect talks through a third-party mediator. According to a report yesterday on Sky News Arabic, Oman will serve as that mediator.

Trump himself declared last night that he prefers direct talks: "I think it goes faster, and you understand the other side much better than using intermediaries". Without explaining his statement, he claimed he "knows" that Iran does want direct negotiations, despite its public declarations to the contrary.

Against this backdrop, The Wall Street Journal reported at noon that the Trump administration intends to pressure Iran into direct talks. A senior American official told the newspaper that Washington wants to avoid indirect negotiations through "intermediaries on different floors of the same hotel passing messages back and forth". Such negotiations, the source said, could drag on for months or even years.

In the background, Iran continues to enrich uranium to 60% purity, very close to the 90% needed for nuclear weapons. There are also concerns that Iran is secretly working on shortening the path to developing other components of an operational nuclear warhead should it decide to break out toward a bomb. According to reports, Trump set a two-month deadline in his letter to Khamenei, but it remains unclear when exactly the countdown begins from his perspective: from the moment the letter was sent, or from the start of negotiations.

Either way, according to today's report, the U.S. goal in future negotiations with Iran is quite ambitious: The senior official told The Wall Street Journal that the objective is complete dismantlement of Iran's nuclear program. This contrasts with the 2015 agreement that Trump withdrew from three years later, which only imposed restrictions – albeit significant but many of them temporary rather than permanent – on Iran's ability to enrich uranium. Iran has been violating those restrictions since the U.S. withdrawal from the collapsed deal.

Trump's National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, has already declared that the administration's goal is to dismantle all aspects of Iran's nuclear program – uranium enrichment, accumulation of strategic ballistic missiles, and the ability to develop nuclear weapons. These are dramatic demands that will very likely make future negotiations extremely complicated, if not impossible. Iran consistently insists on its right to enrich uranium, ostensibly for civilian purposes, and also opposes any agreement that would limit its missile program. If Iran maintains these red lines, Trump may need to decide between carrying out his threats or "blinking" in the face of Tehran.

Meanwhile, he is backing up these threats with significant force reinforcement. The U.S. has not officially confirmed reports of the B-2 bombers being transferred to Diego Garcia, which is controlled by Britain and leased by the U.S., but has announced the strengthening of its air and naval forces in the region. Satellite images from Sunday initially showed four B-2 bombers parked at the island base, and in new images from Wednesday, their number had increased to six.

100 Meters Underground: Is the "Mother of All Bunker Busters" Still Effective?

This represents a significant show of force by the U.S., which has a total of only 19 bombers of this strategic type, developed in the 1990s at an astronomical cost of $1.1 billion per aircraft (with inflation since then, in today's terms that's about $2 billion per aircraft). The B-2 "Spirit" is a heavy bomber with stealth capabilities, and one of the goals in its development was to expand America's nuclear deterrence – since it can penetrate deep into enemy territory without being detected by radar systems.

The bombers, capable of carrying payloads of up to 18 tons and flying without refueling for distances up to 11,000 kilometers, are also used for conventional purposes, and the U.S. already employed them last year in strikes against the Houthis in Yemen. However, they are used sparingly, often only to send messages to rivals and enemies. Their transfer to an area near Iran constitutes a clear message, as they are currently the only aircraft in the U.S. military designed to carry the massive MOP bomb (Massive Ordnance Penetrator), also known by the code name GBU-57 – a 12.3-ton bomb developed with one central purpose: the ability to strike Iran's underground nuclear facilities.

The development of this bomb began in the first decade of the 2000s, and it is the most powerful non-nuclear "bunker buster," estimated by the U.S. Air Force to be capable of penetrating to depths of about 60 meters. It contains "only" about 2.4 tons of explosives, with most of the weight coming from its armored casing – allowing it to penetrate deep into the ground and "dig" through rocks, soil, and reinforced concrete. The GBU-57 is even heavier than the MOAB, the "Mother of All Bombs", which weighs about 10 tons, but since the latter is not designed to penetrate the ground, it contains a larger amount of explosives.

It has been previously reported that the GBU-57, which has never been used operationally, was developed specifically to enable strikes against the nuclear facility in Fordow, which according to reports was dug into a mountainside at a depth of about 80 to 90 meters underground. In 2022, it was revealed that Iran is building a new underground facility in Natanz at the same depth or possibly even deeper, between 80 to 100 meters. Reports about the excavation of that site raised questions about the effectiveness of using the bunker buster against it, but according to an AP report from about two years ago, American officials discussed dropping two such bombs in succession to ensure the destruction of the site.

The Expulsion from the Strategic Island, and Tehran's Threats: "We Can Reach Any Base"

The six bombers sent to Diego Garcia constitute one-third of the U.S. military's B-2 fleet, and military aviation expert Peter Layton estimated in a conversation with CNN that this essentially represents all the available bombers of this type. "I assume there are one or two at the home base for training and a few more standing by in case of need for nuclear deterrence. The others are in maintenance", said Layton, a former fighter pilot in the Australian Air Force. "Six is a significant number", he noted, emphasizing that if these bombers were intended solely for strikes against underground facilities of the Houthis – as part of the extensive operation the U.S. is currently conducting against Iran's proxies in Yemen – two or three would have sufficed. According to him, transferring six such bombers to the region already constitutes a "dramatic effort", with the message clearly directed at Iran itself.

Diego Garcia Island is located about 3,900 kilometers from Iran's southern shores, but the B-2 has a flight range of 11,000 kilometers, and satellite images distributed this week also showed KC-135 refueling aircraft at Diego Garcia. Tehran has clearly understood the message, and in recent days more and more threats against the base have been heard from Iran. According to the British Telegraph, there are now calls there for a preemptive strike against the base. "Discussions about the island have intensified since the Americans stationed bombers there. The response to Trump's threats should come in action – not words. Every base in the region is within range of our missiles", a senior Iranian official told the newspaper.

In another Telegraph report, an Iranian source promised that any American attack on his country would be met with an attack against the American-British base in Diego Garcia. "There will be no distinction between British forces or American forces if Iran is attacked, from any base in the region or within range of its missiles", the source said. Iranian media has also threatened to strike the island with ballistic missiles and Shahed 136-B suicide drones, which allegedly have a range of 4,000 kilometers, in response to any "hostile action" by the U.S.

Diego Garcia is indeed a tiny island – only 30 square kilometers – but it is the largest among the 60 islands that make up the Chagos Archipelago in the central Indian Ocean. Since the 1970s, the island has hosted a strategic air base that the U.S. leases from Britain, with the current agreement between them continuing at least until 2036. About 2,500 crew members live at the base, mostly Americans with only a minority of Britons, and it has strategic importance for U.S. operations in the region. It greatly assisted the U.S. in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and it has been reported that the CIA also operated "black sites" there – the secret, unofficial facilities that the American intelligence agency established outside U.S. borders where terrorism suspects were tortured.

Right now, the fate of Diego Garcia and the other Chagos Islands is at the center of negotiations between the British government and the government of Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean that claims sovereignty over them. Mauritius, which was also a British colony in the past, has been demanding ownership of the islands that were separated from it by London in 1965. About 2,000 original inhabitants of the islands, descendants of slaves from Africa who were brought there by the French in the late 18th century to establish a coconut processing factory, were expelled by the British to allow the U.S. to establish the strategic base in Diego Garcia.

The UN Decision that Britain Violated, and Israeli Support

Britain did purchase the islands from Mauritius for a paltry sum of 3 million pounds, but Mauritius argues that it was effectively forced to give up sovereignty over them in exchange for receiving its independence in 1968. Many of the displaced people and their children now live in Mauritius, having waged a years-long struggle to return to the Chagos Islands. In 2019, Britain suffered a blow in its attempt to maintain control over them: the International Court of Justice in The Hague ruled that the separation of the islands from Mauritius was illegal.

Following that decision, in the same year, 116 countries voted in favor of a non-binding resolution introduced in the UN General Assembly by African nations, stating that Britain should "withdraw its colonial administration" from the Chagos Islands within six months. Only six countries, including Britain, the U.S., and Israel, voted against. The Israeli delegation explained its vote by saying that the matter should be resolved between Britain and Mauritius. Britain did not meet the non-binding deadline set for returning control of the islands, but in recent years has been negotiating the terms of their return.

In October last year, the Labour government led by Keir Starmer announced an agreement in principle between the parties, under which Britain would transfer control of the islands to Mauritius and lease Diego Garcia for a period of at least 99 years – with the possibility of an extension for an additional 40 years – to allow the continued operation of the base on the island. Following Trump's victory in the U.S. elections, the signing of the agreement was delayed, and several senior officials in Washington criticized it harshly. Marco Rubio, then a senator and now Trump's Secretary of State, said last year that the emerging agreement posed a "serious threat" to U.S. national security.

However, Trump himself recently signaled that he would accept the agreement, and when he met with Starmer in February, he said: "They're talking about a very long-term lease, a very strong lease, for 140 years actually. That's a long time." This week, Starmer's spokesman updated that the agreement is in its final stages before being submitted for approval to the London Parliament.

But now criticism is being heard in the United Kingdom about the agreement, under which London will essentially have to pay to lease an island where a predominantly American base operates. Starmer's government has not disclosed how much it will pay under the agreement, but according to reports in the British press, the amount in question is 90 million pounds ($117 million) per year. "It's like transferring your house to someone else, and then paying to rent it", said Priti Patel of the Conservative Party, who serves as Foreign Secretary in the opposition's "shadow government". "This deal is simply madness".

The criticism intensified this week following the tariffs Trump imposed on all countries of the world, with Britain receiving the minimum rate of 10%. "We aren't using the island ourselves, so isn't it reasonable to demand that the rent be paid in full by those who are using it?". British commentator Paul Nuki wrote in a column. "And if the tenant continues to be the U.S., isn't it reasonable to demand that its president treat us fairly in trade, and completely remove the ridiculous tariffs on British goods?".

הפוסט Bomber Island: Trump's Secret Weapon Against Iran הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

The ceasefire collapsed last night as the Air Force attacked dozens of terror targets throughout the Gaza Strip. The IDF launched a widespread surprise offensive under political leadership directive, for the first time since the ceasefire deal began.

The Prime Minister's Office stated: "Hamas has repeatedly refused to release hostages. The strikes are intended to achieve the war's objectives. From now on, we will act with increasing military power". It was also noted that the operational plan was presented at the end of last week by the IDF and approved by the political leadership.

Following the deterioration of the security situation, schools in the Gaza envelope have been canceled. Palestinian sources reported approximately 100 casualties and injuries in less than an hour from the start of the attack. Hamas later claimed the number had risen to more than 230 dead.

The IDF and Shin Bet confirmed in a joint statement that they are "extensively attacking Hamas terrorist targets throughout the Gaza Strip" and indicated that additional details would be provided later.

Defense Minister Israel Katz stated: "Tonight we returned to fighting in Gaza against the backdrop of Hamas's refusal to release the hostages, and threats to harm IDF soldiers and Israeli communities. If Hamas does not release all the hostages, the gates of hell will open in Gaza, and Hamas murderers and rapists will meet the IDF with a force they have never known before. We will not stop fighting until all hostages return home and all war objectives are achieved".

The Hostages' Families Headquarters responded sharply to the renewed fighting: "The greatest fear has been realized – the government has chosen to abandon the hostages". This response reflects concerns that renewed military action could endanger the lives of hostages still held by Hamas.

According to the IDF spokesperson's announcement, following a situation assessment, changes were decided in the Home Front Command's defense policy. Starting at 2:00 AM, the Gaza envelope guidance area will transition from full activity level to reduced activity level, which does not allow for educational activities. In contrast, the Western Negev and Western Lachish guidance areas remain unchanged – full activity.

The decision to resume fighting comes after a period of complex negotiations that did not yield the hoped-for results from Israel's perspective. According to the Prime Minister's Office, the strikes are intended "to achieve the war objectives as determined by the political leadership, including the release of all our hostages – both living and deceased".

The renewed offensive marks a significant change in Israeli strategy, following a period of relative ceasefire. The IDF spokesperson emphasized the importance of continuing to follow the guidelines published by the Home Front Command through official distribution channels and noted that complete guidelines are updated on the National Emergency Portal and the Home Front Command app.

Recent events highlight the complexity and dynamic nature of the situation in Gaza, as peace efforts and negotiations for the return of hostages face significant obstacles. Nevertheless, Israeli leadership continues to emphasize its commitment to returning all hostages and achieving the defined war objectives.

These developments raise questions about the near future in the region and about the fate of hostages still in Hamas captivity. The international community is watching the escalation with concern, while residents of the Gaza envelope must once again adapt to a tense security reality.

According to official publications, the Prime Minister's Office emphasized that "from now on, Israel will act against Hamas with increasing military power," suggesting an intention to increase military pressure on Hamas in the coming days. The Defense Minister clarified that fighting will continue until all war objectives are achieved, primarily the return of the hostages.

The dramatic developments in recent hours mark a new chapter in the ongoing conflict, as both sides face difficult decisions regarding continuing the struggle or returning to the negotiating table. Meanwhile, civilians on both sides continue to pay the heavy price of the ongoing conflict.

The IDF calls on residents of the relevant areas to heed Home Front Command instructions and to continue following ongoing updates through official media channels. The situation continues to develop, and additional updates are expected in the coming hours and days.

Photo: Palestinian documentation from Khan Yunis, in accordance with Section 27a

הפוסט Ceasefire Collapses: IDF Launches Powerful Strikes on Gaza הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

In a pointed post on X, Gallant attacked the plan to employ private companies for food distribution under IDF protection. "This is whitewashing the beginning of military rule", Gallant wrote, "Everything depends on advance preparation of an alternative entity to replace the IDF in controlling the territory – without this, we're heading towards military rule".

Senior defense establishment officials responded that the plan is intended to prevent a humanitarian crisis and maintain stability in the Strip. "There is no intention to establish military rule", said a senior official, "This is a temporary response to an emergency situation".

However, Gallant, who commanded numerous operations in Gaza during his military service, warns that reality on the ground will dictate different dynamics. "Private companies will distribute the aid, the IDF will protect these companies, and we'll all pay the price", he emphasized.

"Military rule in Gaza is not part of the war's objectives", Gallant added, "but rather a dangerous and irresponsible political act". According to him, deploying IDF forces to secure humanitarian activities will come at the expense of "more important security missions" and endanger the soldiers.

Gallant's sharp criticism comes at a sensitive time, as the Political-Security Cabinet is expected to discuss the detailed aid distribution plan in the coming days. Political sources assessed that the former Defense Minister's statements could influence the discussions and reignite questions regarding long-term military involvement in Gaza.

Historical experience demonstrates the risks in establishing military control mechanisms in populated areas. Once the IDF takes responsibility for ongoing security, it will be extremely difficult to disengage from this commitment without causing chaos.

As of today, tensions on the ground continue, and the question of how to provide humanitarian aid without being drawn into full military control remains unanswered. Gallant's words emphasize the complex dilemma facing Israel: how to maintain humanitarian stability without sinking into the quagmire of long-term military rule.

At this hour, tension in the arena continues to exist, and the issue of providing humanitarian aid without deteriorating into complete military control remains unsolved. Gallant's warnings cast a sharp light on the complex maze facing Israel: how to maintain a stable humanitarian aid system without drowning in the depths of long-term military rule.

Photo: X network, Yoav Gallant

הפוסט Gallant Warns: Heading for Disaster – Military Rule in Gaza הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

Today, the IAA issued a dramatic update: Terminal 1 at Ben Gurion Airport will close to international flights for approximately five months, starting this Friday and running until early April 2025. This decision comes against the backdrop of foreign airlines increasingly avoiding operations in Israel due to complex security conditions.

The figures tell the story: In the first nine months of this year, traffic at Terminal 1 dropped by 73% compared to the same period last year. Only 3,700 flights operated through the terminal from January, compared to 14,000 in the previous year. Passenger numbers also fell sharply, from 2.4 million to just 650,000.

Three key low-cost carriers—Hungarian Wizz Air, Irish Ryanair, and British easyJet—once the backbone of Terminal 1’s operations, have all frozen their flights to Israel. Wizz Air announced it would not resume flights until mid-January 2025, while easyJet postponed its return until the end of March 2025. Ryanair has yet to specify a date for resuming operations.

The escalating tensions with Iran are amplifying uncertainty in the aviation sector. More foreign airlines continue to cancel flights to Israel, with no signs of a turnaround in the foreseeable future. The decline in passenger traffic is evident in daily statistics as well: Yesterday, 47,000 passengers were recorded at Ben Gurion, and today’s numbers are expected to reach 44,000, down from the typical daily range of 60,000-70,000.

Under the new arrangements, all international flights will be concentrated in Terminal 3, while Terminal 1 will be used exclusively for domestic flights until further notice. This measure is intended to optimize staff deployment and address the current security personnel shortages at Ben Gurion.

The decision to close Terminal 1 for international flights underscores the depth of Israel’s aviation crisis and reflects IAA’s assessment that the current situation will likely persist until at least the second quarter of 2025. This step is another layer in the series of challenges facing Israel’s aviation industry in these times.

הפוסט Shutting Down Terminal 1: Deepening the International Aviation Crisis הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.

This impressive achievement highlights the tremendous potential in Israeli sports and brings honor to the nation!

Matan Iglitzki, a 22-year-old Israeli athlete, achieved a remarkable feat at the World Beach Sambo Championships held in the Dominican Republic. Iglitzki won the silver medal in the under-71 kg weight category, becoming the vice world champion in this discipline.

On his way to the medal, Iglitzki successfully competed against opponents from Guatemala, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United States. In the final match, he faced a Russian competitor, considered one of the world's leading figures in Sambo. Despite his great effort, Iglitzki lost this bout but managed to secure the respectable second place.

Sambo is a martial art originating in the Soviet Union, combining elements of wrestling and judo. In Beach Sambo, unlike traditional Sambo, bouts are exceptionally short, lasting only 20 to 30 seconds. Any scoring result awards the winner of the bout.

Shai Geisinger, the General Manager of the Israel Sambo Federation, expressed his joy about the achievement to Channel 5: "My heart is full of joy that we managed to participate in the competition despite the great distance, and I am filled with pride in Matan, who demonstrated exemplary fights and once again succeeded in ascending the winners' podium at the World Championships". Geisinger expressed his deep gratitude to the Eilat Association for its unwavering support throughout the journey.

Channel 5 was also informed that Arik Kaplan, President of the Eilat Association, added: "Even at the ends of the earth, Eilat's athletes continue to climb to the peak of achievements. Matan, you have brought great honor to our country, and we are confident that you will continue to do so in the future and at the 2025 World Games".

Matan Iglitzki himself responded to the achievement: "I am happy to finish the World Sambo Championships in second place and with the title of Vice World Champion for the third time in my life". He thanked his personal coach, Shai Geisinger, who has been with him since the age of 4, and the broader professional team that supported him, including national team coach Pavel Musin, fitness coach Asaf Sitbon, and Sergei Zhuravitsky and Andrey Zhuravitsky for their professional and personal support.

Iglitzki emphasized the importance of the support he received from the Eilat Association, an Israeli association for non-Olympic competitive sports, saying: "My goal was to place the flag as high as possible on Moroccan soil, and I'm proud that I succeeded in doing so".

The Israel Sambo Federation stated: "Matan Iglitzki, a champion in the arena! A champion in spirit!".

Matan Iglitzki reported to the "Maakav" system:

"The competition held last year took place in the Dominican Republic, where the order of contestants was as follows: Guatemala, Trinidad and Tobago, the United States, and Russia.

However, this year the competition was held in the Kingdom of Morocco, facing a hostile audience that continuously jeered, and the order of contestants was as follows: France, the Netherlands, Morocco, and Spain.

"The final match was against a rival from Spain, and to my great disappointment, I did not receive the score I rightfully deserved. I am certain that I emerged victorious from this match. It would have been fitting for the 'Hatikvah' anthem to be played in Morocco, likely for the first time in its history.

However, due to a shameful judging decision, victory was snatched away from me."

Iglitzki's impressive achievement serves as another bright spot in the landscape of Israeli international sports, highlighting the great potential inherent in sports that don't necessarily receive much media attention. His success demonstrates the great importance of investment and support for young and promising athletes, even in disciplines not included in the Olympic Games.

It can be stated with certainty that Matan Iglitzki's achievement at the World Beach Sambo Championships is a source of national pride and emphasizes the necessity of investing in competitive sports in all its varieties and layers. This is another significant step towards placing Israel on the world map in diverse and challenging sports disciplines.

Main photo: From Facebook page: Matan Iglitzki

הפוסט Matan Iglitzki: Vice World Champion in Beach Sambo הופיע לראשונה ב-מעקב.