The morning was dominated by Friedrich Merz's unexpected rejection as German chancellor, failing to secure enough votes in the first round - an unprecedented event in German politics. By early afternoon, Merz succeeded in a second vote.
Security concerns emerged throughout the day with reports about NATO summit preparations transforming The Hague into a "fortress" with 27,000 police officers. This follows Liberation Day incidents where protesters targeted Prime Minister Schoof with smoke bombs.
Authorities in Gelderland issued a permit to shoot a "problem wolf" following bite incidents, while Schiphol Airport faced criticism for ignoring safety risks by allowing large aircraft on its Oostbaan runway.
The evening brought alarming international developments as Pakistan reported Indian rocket attacks on multiple locations, with India confirming "Operation Sindoor" - marking significant escalation between the nuclear powers.