What to know as Israeli forces' historic Lebanon incursion complicates an Iran deal

Israeli forces have launched their deepest incursion into Lebanon in more than a quarter-century, capturing a symbolic fort overlooking the region, despite a nominal U.S.-brokered ceasefire. This military action presents a significant challenge to an emerging deal aimed at extending the Iran war ceasefire, as Iran insists that any agreement must also halt fighting in Lebanon.

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Qatar called it a "dangerous escalation."

Qatar has condemned the situation, labeling it a "dangerous escalation," while Germany's foreign minister has stated it is a cause for "serious concern." The United States has not yet commented. On Sunday, Israeli forces seized Beaufort Castle, also known as Al-Shaqif, a strategic site that offers commanding views into northern Israel. This fort, with a history dating back to the 12th century, was previously held by Israeli forces for 18 years before their withdrawal in 2000.

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Germany's foreign minister said it was cause for serious concern, according to German press agency dpa.

Israel has warned Lebanese civilians in the south to evacuate or face the consequences. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam accused Israel on Saturday of "implementing a policy of total destruction of cities and towns." Since the conflict began on March 2, over 3,300 people, including children, have been killed in Lebanon, with approximately 1 million displaced. In contrast, at least 25 Israeli soldiers and a defense contractor have been killed in Lebanon or northern Israel, along with two civilians in northern Israel.

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implementing a policy of total destruction of cities and towns.

Orna Mizrahi, a former deputy director in Israel's National Security Council, noted that the military's return to Beaufort feels like "going in circles," questioning the purpose. She suggested Israel will likely relinquish control eventually, even as Defense Minister Israel Katz vows to make it part of a permanent security zone. Mizrahi emphasized that the military presence alone will not resolve the issue with Hezbollah, stating, "Yes, we are damaging them in the operations, but in parallel we need to pursue a political and diplomatic solution."

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a symbol of a heroic battle for our fighters but also "a symbol of deep division between us."