Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz dominated headlines with an unprecedented threat to "seize" and potentially "annex" parts of Gaza if Hamas fails to release hostages, prompting swift French opposition. Foreign Minister Barrot declared France "opposed to any form of annexation," as reports emerged of two French UN workers "seriously injured" in Israeli strikes on UN buildings.
London's Heathrow Airport closure following a fire-induced power outage disrupted global air travel, affecting over 1,300 flights as anti-terrorism police investigated the incident.
President Macron abruptly ousted EDF CEO Luc Rémont after tense electricity price negotiations, proposing Bernard Fontana as replacement. The decision surprised analysts who noted Rémont had successfully improved nuclear production.
The day concluded with jihadist Mehdi Nemmouche receiving a life sentence for torturing French hostages in Syria, defiantly declaring at trial: "I was a terrorist, I will never apologize."