Beaufort Castle: Israel captures historic Crusader fortress in Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have taken control of the Beaufort Ridge outpost in southern Lebanon, a strategic location offering a commanding view of the surrounding region. This move is part of ongoing operations aimed at neutralizing the threat posed by Hezbollah to northern Israeli communities.

Pictures released by the military reveal the ruins of Beaufort Castle, locally known in Arabic as Qal'at al-Shaqif, or "Castle of the High Rock." The fortress's history stretches back to 1139 when it was captured by Crusader forces led by Fulk the Younger, who ruled the Kingdom of Jerusalem with his wife, Queen Melisende.

After its initial capture, the castle was gifted to the lords of Sidon, and construction of the stone fortress is believed to have begun shortly thereafter. However, its strategic importance made it a target. In 1187, Saladin, leading the Muslim forces against the Crusaders, besieged Beaufort Castle. Despite initial negotiations with its Crusader lord, Reynald of Sidon, the castle eventually surrendered to Saladin in 1190 after a prolonged siege, following the garrison's refusal to surrender when Reynald was taken prisoner.