Israeli forces have captured the historic Beaufort Castle, a towering medieval fortress in southern Lebanon, in what marks one of the most significant territorial gains since fighting with Hezbollah intensified earlier this year.
The Israeli military announced on Sunday that its troops had taken control of both the centuries-old castle and the surrounding Beaufort Ridge, a strategically important high ground overlooking large parts of southern Lebanon and northern Israel.
The operation comes despite an existing ceasefire and signals Israel’s determination to continue targeting Hezbollah positions that it says threaten communities along its northern border.
Why Beaufort Castle Matters
Perched atop a mountain ridge, Beaufort Castle has long been regarded as one of the most strategically valuable locations in southern Lebanon. Control of the site provides a commanding view of key border areas and surrounding valleys.
Israeli military officials claimed Hezbollah had used the ridge for years as a launch point for rocket and drone attacks, and described the area as a major operational hub developed with Iranian support.
According to Israel, hundreds of projectiles targeting both civilians and soldiers were fired from positions around the ridge.
Escalation Despite Ceasefire
The capture follows a sharp escalation over the weekend, when Hezbollah reportedly launched one of its heaviest barrages toward northern Israel since the ceasefire was announced in April.
The attacks forced authorities to close schools and impose security restrictions across several Israeli communities near the Lebanese border.
Israeli officials said the military operation aimed to dismantle Hezbollah infrastructure, destroy launch sites and prevent future attacks from the area.
Casualties Reported
The Israeli military confirmed that one Israeli soldier was killed during the operation.
Neither the Lebanese government nor Hezbollah immediately commented on Israel’s announcement or claims regarding the capture of the fortress.
Wider Conflict Still Active
Although a broader ceasefire remains in place, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has continued intermittently for months.
Hezbollah entered the regional conflict in support of Iran earlier this year, launching rockets and drones into northern Israel. In response, Israel intensified military operations along the Lebanese frontier, seeking to push Hezbollah forces farther away from the border.
Israeli troops are also reported to be operating near Nabatieh, one of Hezbollah’s key strongholds in southern Lebanon.
The seizure of Beaufort Castle not only gives Israel control of a historic landmark but also strengthens its military position in one of the most contested regions along the Israel-Lebanon border.