Israel says the capture of the historic fortress marks a major shift in its military campaign against Hezbollah.
Israeli forces have seized Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon as the country expands its ground offensive against Hezbollah. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operation as a “decisive shift” in Israel’s strategy, saying troops are pushing deeper into areas previously controlled by the armed group.
The Israeli military also widened evacuation orders across southern Lebanon and confirmed that ground operations are extending beyond the Litani River. Israel says the offensive is aimed at protecting border communities and weakening Hezbollah’s military presence.
Beaufort Castle, located about 14.5 kilometres from the Israeli border, has long held strategic military importance due to its position overlooking the Litani Valley. The site was previously occupied by Israeli forces during their presence in southern Lebanon between 1982 and 2000.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam accused Israel of carrying out “collective punishment,” while France called for an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting over the escalating conflict.
Fighting continues on both sides of the border as ceasefire efforts struggle to hold and regional tensions remain high.
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