The day opened with reports of Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon and Hezbollah drone attacks, but the dominant story quickly became the political firestorm over insults to Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi. Videos of Hezbollah supporters insulting the patriarch circulated, prompting widespread condemnation from President Aoun, Speaker Berri, Prime Minister Salam, and religious leaders. Hezbollah itself warned against sectarian strife, calling the videos a plot. By afternoon, legal action was initiated against the perpetrators. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes continued, destroying a convent in Yaroun and causing casualties. The US approved $8.6 billion in arms sales to Middle Eastern allies. Iran signaled readiness for diplomacy or confrontation, while preparations for a third round of Lebanese-Israeli negotiations were reported.