The three-month ceasefire with Lebanon collapsed when six rockets were fired at Metula in northern Israel. Three were intercepted while others fell in Lebanese territory. Israel responded with extensive airstrikes against Hezbollah targets, striking over 200 locations across Lebanon, Syria and Gaza despite Hezbollah denying responsibility for the rocket fire.
Meanwhile, domestic unrest intensified with tens of thousands protesting nationwide against Netanyahu's dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. Opposition leader Lapid threatened a tax rebellion if the government defies the Supreme Court's freeze order. Released hostage Doron Steinbrecker addressed protesters, expressing anger at the renewed fighting.
Netanyahu escalated tensions by releasing "dramatic evidence" - correspondence showing Bar had delayed submitting the October 7 investigation report while opening the "Qatargate" investigation into Netanyahu's aides. The cabinet was scheduled to meet regarding ground operations in Gaza and the Attorney General's dismissal.