A pre-dawn Houthi missile reached central Israel, triggering sirens in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with interceptor debris falling near Modi'in. Hours later, a Houthi drone was intercepted before reaching Israeli airspace. These attacks coincided with the Houthis' rejection of US mediation efforts.
The morning brought renewed rocket fire from Gaza for the eighth consecutive day, including an anti-aircraft missile targeting an IDF helicopter near Be'eri. UNRWA prepared to cease operations in Gaza and the West Bank following new Israeli legislation.
By afternoon, an Israeli delegation departed for Qatar following Netanyahu's special discussion. Netanyahu, recovering from prostate surgery, requested a two-week postponement of his criminal trial testimony. By evening, Israeli officials expressed cautious optimism about reaching a hostage deal, while the US signaled increased strikes against Houthi targets.
