Israel captures strategic castle

It is the deepest incursion into southern Lebanon in 26 years

Beirut: Israeli troops have captured the strategic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, marking their deepest incursion into the country in more than 26 years, the military said on Sunday.

The Crusader-era fortress near Nabatiyeh was seized aft­er days of intense fighting and airstrikes in nearby villages where Israeli forces battled Hezbollah members in the rugged terrain. The capture marks a significant gain for Israel in war with Hezbo­llah. The advance came despi­te an April 17 truce and days before Washington talks on June 2-3.

Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee posted a photograph on X showing troops outside the castle, while Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israeli forces had raised the national flag over the site. Israeli military said the operation targeted Hezbollah infrastructure in Beaufort Ridge and Suluki Valley to eliminate direct threats to Israelis.

The capture of Beaufort is a dramatic stage and a dramatic shift in the policy we are leading. Now my directive is to deepen and expand our hold on areas under Hezbollah’s control.

Today, we have returned to Beaufort differently. We have returned united, determined, and stronger than ever.

We are operating on all fronts — in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon.

Israel has eliminated 8,000 Hezbollah terrorists.

Benjamin Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister