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Israeli Forces Capture Beaufort Castle in Lebanon Despite Ceasefire
Confirmed
In Short: Israeli forces have captured the Beaufort medieval castle in southern Lebanon, expanding their offensive despite a temporary ceasefire, as Prime Minister Netanyahu declared a 'decisive shift'.
Israeli forces have captured the strategic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, marking a significant shift in their offensive against Hezbollah, according to the Israeli military. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the capture as a 'decisive stage' in their policy, emphasizing the importance of protecting Israeli communities on the border.
The operation, involving a 'significant number of IDF ground soldiers,' has led to further displacement of civilians and destruction of infrastructure, according to reports. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed serious concern over the Israeli army's advance into southern Lebanon.
The castle, which was captured 44 years ago during the First Lebanon War and occupied until 2000, has now been retaken by the Israeli army. Netanyahu stated that the Golani Brigade had returned to raise the Israeli flag above the site, signaling an extended presence in the region.
The rapidly expanding Israeli operation includes the destruction of villages and the capture of additional areas, indicating a planned extended presence. Meanwhile, Lebanon's Health Ministry reported injuries to hospital staff and significant damage to Hiram hospital in Tyre due to an airstrike.
What's confirmed
- The Israeli military has captured the strategic site of Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, in what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described as a "decisive shift" in its offensive against Hezbollah.
What's still developing
- The latest evacuation warning is the second time in recent days that Israel has told residents to leave the entire south of Lebanon below the Zahrani river.
- The spokesman said a "significant number of IDF ground soldiers" were involved in the operation, which was "currently expanding to additional areas".
- "Israel's military escalation in Lebanon has killed and displaced civilians, destroyed infrastructure, and eroded space for diplomacy," Cooper wrote on X.
- German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said the Israeli army's advance further into southern Lebanon was a "cause for serious concern".
- The Israeli army captured it 44 years ago in what's known in Israel as the First Lebanon War.
- In a statement on Sunday following its capture, Netanyahu said it was "a decisive stage and decisive shift in our policy".
- "We have broken the barrier of fear. We are taking the initiative, we are operating on all fronts - in Syria, in Gaza, in Lebanon," he said.
- He said the Golani Brigade, which took it then, had returned and raised the Israeli flag above it.