Israeli media initially focused on Prime Minister Netanyahu's return from the US, with reports of faltering Gaza ceasefire hopes. However, editorial attention quickly shifted to the death of Captain Ra'i Biran in Khan Yunis, killed during a demining operation. This event dominated headlines through the morning, detailing his funeral and an IDF assessment suggesting an operational accident. By late morning, a significant pivot occurred as a New York Times investigation gained prominence, suggesting Netanyahu prolonged the Gaza war to maintain power and prioritize a conscription law over a hostage deal. This political calculation became a central editorial theme. Concurrently, Gaza negotiations remained stalled over IDF withdrawal terms. Late evening reports highlighted a developing story of a Palestinian-American killed by settlers in the West Bank.