The Gaza ceasefire agreement dominated morning coverage, with implementation set for Sunday 8:30 AM. Egypt announced Israel would release 1,890 Palestinian prisoners in the first phase, while Netanyahu demanded prior verification of prisoner lists. UN Secretary-General Guterres's Beirut visit affirmed the January 26 deadline for Israeli withdrawal from South Lebanon.
Government formation accelerated as PM-designate Salam met with Shiite representatives, suggesting a shift in the duo's previous boycott stance. Walid Jumblatt declared no government could form without Shiite participation.
By evening, news emerged of Saudi Foreign Minister's planned Thursday visit to Beirut, marking the first high-level Saudi engagement since Nawaf Salam's designation. The U.S. announced $117 million in aid to Lebanese security forces, while Israeli troops initiated withdrawal from specific Gaza sectors ahead of the truce.