Hamas's theatrical release of four female Israeli soldiers dominated morning coverage, with the militants staging a public ceremony in Gaza City before handing them to the Red Cross. The soldiers' return to Israel coincided with widespread judiciary protests, as magistrates walked out during Minister Nordio's speeches across Italy. The protests centered on proposed reforms affecting prosecutorial independence.
By afternoon, attention shifted to Prime Minister Meloni's statements from Saudi Arabia regarding Minister Santanchè's position following her indictment. Meloni's careful messaging suggested the minister should make her own evaluation about continuing in office.
The evening brought claims from CIA sources about Covid-19's probable laboratory origin, while Italian media tracked the aftermath of Monte dei Paschi's surprise bid for Mediobanca, with political divisions emerging between coalition parties.