Israel Seizes Crusader-Era Castle in Deepest Lebanon Push in 26 Years
Israeli forces have captured Beaufort Ridge and the historic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, marking the military’s deepest advance into the country in more than 26 years as fighting with Hezbollah continued despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.
Israel Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the capture in a post on X, sharing a photo of an Israeli flag raised over the castle. He described the Beaufort Ridge as “one of the most important strategic points for defending the settlements of the Galilee and safeguarding the security of our forces.”
The castle, built by the Crusaders on a high cliff overlooking the Litani River some 900 years ago, has long been regarded as a strategic site in southern Lebanon. It served as an Israeli military base during Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon from 1982 until its withdrawal in 2000.
The IDF said it also captured the Wadi al-Saluki area in southern Lebanon.
The capture comes after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced last week that it had moved deeper into Lebanon in response to continued Hezbollah drone attacks that have killed and wounded Israeli soldiers.
Israel said the recent operation is focused on establishing operational control of the Beaufort Ridge and the Wadi al-Saluki area, as well as “degrading Hezbollah and dismantling terrorist infrastructure that was established on the ridge under Iranian direction.”
“From Beaufort Ridge, Hezbollah terrorists managed military and combat activities and carried out numerous attacks,” the military said. Photos released by the IDF showed weapons and artillery seized during the operation.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah reportedly continued attacks on northern Israel.
On Sunday, the IDF said Hezbollah fired five rockets from Lebanon toward northern Israel. Three rockets were launched toward the Kiryat Shmona area, two of which were intercepted. The result of the third interception attempt is under review, the military said.
Two additional rockets were fired toward Tiberias. The IDF said one struck an open area, while the second fell inside Lebanon near where Israeli troops were operating.
