Morning editorial priority was dominated by President Trump’s confirmation of 'serious' nuclear negotiations with Tehran. However, this diplomatic optimism was quickly countered by Ayatollah Khamenei’s televised warning that any U.S. strike would trigger a 'regional war.' By midday, editors pivoted to the unannounced visit of IDF Chief of Staff Zamir to Washington, framing it as critical coordination for a potential strike despite the diplomatic track. In the early afternoon, internal focus shifted to the first mutual reopening of the Rafah crossing for pedestrians since October 7, though right-leaning outlets highlighted security concerns regarding reduced Israeli oversight. Simultaneously, a domestic scandal emerged as survivors and families of hostages accused government coordinator Gal Hirsch of political extortion to protect the Prime Minister. By evening, the narrative returned to the military standoff, with reports of a massive U.S. 'armada' positioning in the Middle East as Trump responded to Khamenei’s threats.
