Israel expands ground offensive in Lebanon, captures strategic Beaufort Castle

The Israeli army (IDF) is intensifying its ground operations in southern Lebanon against the Hezbollah group, significantly widening the areas targeted by evacuation orders. Israeli forces recently reissued warnings for civilians to leave all localities south of the Zahrani River, signaling a deeper incursion into Lebanese territory.

The IDF has confirmed taking control of Beaufort Castle, a major strategic point situated on a high ridge above the Litani River. This medieval fortress, built by Crusaders about 900 years ago, offers extensive visibility over the entire border region. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz noted the return of the Golani Brigade to this location 44 years after heavy fighting in the same area, with the Israeli flag once again raised.

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Anyone who is near Hezbollah's elements, facilities, or combat equipment is putting their life in danger.

Control of this ridge is considered essential by Tel Aviv to protect northern Israeli communities from rocket and drone attacks. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the development as a "dramatic stage and a policy change," stating that Israel has seized the initiative and is acting on multiple fronts simultaneously in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. For Lebanon, the loss of this historic monument marks the advance of Israeli forces toward the city of Nabatieh, a frequent target of bombings.

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a dramatic stage and a policy change

The expansion of Israeli operations beyond the initial Litani River line has sparked international concern. France, citing its historical ties to Lebanon, urgently requested a UN Security Council meeting. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called the situation a "major mistake for Israel," emphasizing that prolonging operations and occupying Lebanese territory deeply cannot be justified.

On the ground, the human toll continues to rise. Lebanon's Ministry of Health reported that an airstrike near the Hiram Hospital in Tyre injured 13 medical personnel and caused significant material damage. Since the resumption of large-scale hostilities, triggered by Hezbollah's rocket attacks in response to the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, authorities in Beirut estimate that over 3,300 people have lost their lives in Lebanon, while the death toll among the Israeli army has reached 25.

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a major mistake for Israel