Day Cabinet Approved Budget While Settlers Crossed Line

The Mikati cabinet's first session approved the 2025 budget by decree, with the World Bank subsequently announcing an $11 billion reconstruction cost estimate. Morning headlines focused on Israeli settlers entering Lebanese territory near Houla for a religious visit to Rabbi Ashi's tomb, prompting Lebanese Army statements about sovereignty violations.

By afternoon, Judge Bitar resumed port blast investigations, questioning three suspects despite procedural constraints. Reports emerged of Trump offering direct nuclear talks with Iran, while coverage continued of Syrian coastal region violence, including claims of 52 Alawite executions.

Evening brought a sharp escalation as Israel conducted 30 airstrikes across south Lebanon within 20 minutes, marking the most intense operations since November. Human Rights Watch released a report criticizing Hezbollah's targeting practices during recent confrontations.