From Litani to Beaufort: Givati Brigade commander shares his experience in Lebanon

Israeli soldiers have secured the Beaufort Ridge outpost and Wadi al-Saluki areas north of the Litani River in Lebanon, the IDF announced Sunday. Givati Brigade commander Col. Nethanel Shamka shared his experience of the operation, detailing the initial stages that began weeks prior.

“

The first stage was preparing the crossings over the Litani.

Shamka explained that soldiers first focused on preparing river crossings over the Litani, which involved clearing brush and leveling terrain. Once a position was established, the troops were tasked with clearing the area of terrorists and their infrastructure. "As we advanced along the river or up the ridge, we identified many launchers, weapons, and above us – artillery fire," Shamka recounted, emphasizing the significance of their presence.

Upon clearing the terrain and enemy operatives, the mission was declared a success. Standing on the summit of the ridge, Shamka admitted to experiencing "mixed emotions." He looked towards the protected northern Israeli communities while also remembering the soldiers who died heroically during the operation. The Givati Brigade, primarily engaged in Gaza for years, had to adapt to the distinct terrain of Lebanon, a transition achieved through rigorous training and preparation.

“

As we advanced along the river or up the ridge, we identified many launchers, weapons, and above us – artillery fire. At a time like this, I think to myself how important it is that we are here and what the significance of all this is.

Shamka highlighted the brigade's dedication, stating, "During this period, we did not skip any training, any exercise, or preparation for the new terrain." He added, "We studied the nature of the enemy and the fighting we would encounter, practiced it, and deeply integrated the changes throughout the brigade." Before crossing into Lebanon, Shamka, identifying as a soldier first, felt the weight of responsibility for the thousands of soldiers under his command, a thought that drives him even amidst accomplishments.

“

Standing there, on the summit of the ridge, alongside all the forces that took part, brought mixed emotions. Looking back at the northern communities we are protecting, but also remembering and thinking about the soldiers who fell heroically on the way there.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also acknowledged the IDF's tactical advances against Hezbollah, stating, "Today, we returned to Beaufort differently. We returned united, determined, and stronger than ever." He mentioned speaking with fighters on the northern border who expressed confidence in their achievements.

“

During this period, we did not skip any training, any exercise, or preparation for the new terrain. We studied the nature of the enemy and the fighting we would encounter, practiced it, and deeply integrated the changes throughout the brigade.