Israel army says vast tunnel network uncovered under Beaufort castle

The Israeli military revealed on Sunday the uncovering of an extensive tunnel network beneath the Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, characterizing it as a fortified strike hub built by Hezbollah to threaten Israeli territory.

Israeli soldiers recently regained control of the Crusader-era castle, a strategically significant location that Israel previously occupied for nearly two decades. The military asserted that the tunnel network, constructed within a civilian area, provided Hezbollah with operational control over the Galilee Panhandle region, situated just six kilometers from the Israeli town of Metula.

According to the military, the network was funded by Iran and designed to accommodate hundreds of fighters. Within one kilometer-long tunnel, troops discovered six underground shafts, a weapons storage room, an anti-tank missile launcher, missiles, grenades, ammunition, combat equipment, advanced medical supplies, and living quarters including showers, restrooms, an operating room, and kitchens.

Footage released by the military depicted narrow tunnels, similar to those found under Gaza, equipped with amenities such as washrooms, clothing trunks, beds, a folded wheelchair, and other household items. The elevated position and proximity to the Israeli border make Beaufort Castle a valuable strategic asset as Israel continues its ground operations in Lebanon.

Israel previously captured the fortress during its 1982 invasion of Lebanon after intense fighting with Palestinian militants who were using the castle's historic underground tunnels. The castle sustained damage from heavy bombardment during that conflict. Israel utilized it as a primary observation post, particularly for electronic surveillance, until its withdrawal in 2000.