Israeli troops have seized the 900-year-old Beaufort Castle and its strategic ridge in southern Lebanon, marking the deepest incursion into the country in 26 years. Defense Minister Israel Katz described the capture of the historic strongpoint, which provides a panoramic overlook of southern Lebanon and northern Israel, as a significant tactical victory. Israeli forces previously held the castle for 18 years until their withdrawal in 2000.
The military operation focused on establishing control over the Beaufort Ridge and the Wadi al-Saluki area to degrade Hezbollah's infrastructure and launch sites. The advance followed days of intense fighting and airstrikes near the city of Nabatieh, during which white phosphorus smoke was used as a screen for advancing soldiers. One Israeli soldier was killed during the operation. The broader incursion has so far killed more than 3,370 people and displaced over 1.2 million.
This escalation occurs despite a ceasefire announced more than six weeks ago, with both Israel and Hezbollah accusing each other of violations. While Israeli troops establish a military-controlled zone in the south and order evacuations from various locations, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered attacks on the Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut. These developments come as the two countries prepare for direct talks in Washington on June 2 and 3.