Netanyahu arrived in Washington as Hamas launched rockets at southern Israel, injuring several in Ashkelon. The morning was dominated by former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen's explosive revelation that Netanyahu once asked him to disqualify Bennett from the security cabinet based on false military service claims. Bennett responded that Netanyahu suffered from "paranoia" and wanted to "eliminate" him.
Security forces arrested nine suspected infiltrators on Highway 6 after a dramatic chase, while reports emerged of a new Egyptian proposal offering to release 8 hostages in exchange for a 40-70 day ceasefire.
During his White House meeting with Netanyahu, Trump unexpectedly announced direct talks with Iran would begin Saturday, warning Tehran would be "in great danger" if negotiations failed. Netanyahu expressed conditional support for a deal that would "fully stop Iran's nuclear program" while promising to resolve trade barrier issues with the US.