A third Houthi missile in a week triggered sirens across central Israel, leading to 25 injuries during shelter rushes. Defense Minister Katz responded by announcing plans to target Houthi leadership in Sanaa, while Israel secured a major Arrow-3 interceptor procurement deal.
By afternoon, the military released its investigation into the deaths of six hostages in Rafah tunnels, acknowledging that IDF operations indirectly prompted their killing by Hamas, while revealing Sinwar's presence in the area. The negotiation team returned from Qatar for "internal deliberations" amid difficulties understanding Hamas's position.
Evening brought the Air Force's October 7 investigation findings, revealing readiness issues and communication failures. Coalition tensions surfaced as Ben Gvir voted against budget legislation and attacked Smotrich, while Minister Levin escalated conflict with the judiciary by restricting judges' academic teaching permissions.