Netanyahu indicated discussions with Northern Command leaders aimed at fundamentally altering the security situation, including potential control up to the Litani River. The Israeli Defense Minister emphasized the need for a larger buffer zone, raising concerns among Lebanese citizens about a possible large-scale invasion. The Lebanese Health Ministry reports over 1,100 fatalities due to Israeli strikes, while UNICEF noted that 370,000 children have been displaced since the onset of the offensive. Chancellor Merz criticized the ground operation as a mistake, warning it exacerbates the humanitarian crisis.