The IDF struck a Hamas command center inside Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza after evacuation warnings, asserting military control over 40% of Gaza territory as part of an expanded strategy. The attack coincided with intensifying internal dissent as 250 former Mossad officials and 200 doctors joined Air Force reservists in supporting prioritization of hostage return.
By afternoon, Houthi missile launches from Yemen triggered widespread alerts across central Israel, with IDF reporting successful interception. Hamas released a disturbing proof-of-life video of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander appearing physically and mentally distressed after 555 days in captivity, with his explicit plea "Why am I not home?"
In diplomatic developments, US-Iran nuclear talks continued with "positive atmosphere" though reports indicated the US did not demand complete nuclear dismantlement. The day was further marked by ethnic violence, with three Arab-Israeli men murdered in separate incidents across Arab communities.