Israeli Forces Capture 900-Year-Old Beaufort Castle Amid Renewed Conflict in Lebanon

Israeli troops have taken control of the historic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, which dates back to the Crusader era. The hilltop castle provides a strategic vantage point over southern Lebanon and northern Israel. This marks Israel’s most significant military advancement into Lebanon in 26 years.

Video footage displays the Israeli flag atop the 900-year-old castle as black smoke rises from the nearby town of Arnoun. Israel’s operation in Lebanon is expanding rapidly, suggesting plans for a prolonged presence in the region. Previously, Israel controlled the castle during an 18-year occupation that ended in 2000. The current military push continues Israel’s longstanding conflict with Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group.

In recent days, Israel has deployed ground troops and increased air strikes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to intensify operations against Hezbollah, despite an official U.S.-brokered ceasefire still in effect. This situation risks complicating diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Iran aimed at ending the conflict. Iran insists that any agreement must also resolve the Lebanese conflict.

“Our brave soldiers have captured the Beaufort once again,” stated Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, “and they will remain there as part of the security zone in Lebanon.”

Lebanon’s Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, has condemned the Israeli invasion. Speaking to the nation, he warned that Israel’s actions would deepen the divide with the Lebanese population. Israeli attacks have demolished entire villages and displaced over 1.2 million people. Lebanon’s health ministry reports that more than 3,300 people have died, with women, children, and first responders making up about 20% of the casualties.

Salam has demanded an immediate ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces. He emphasized that negotiations, tough as they might be, are necessary to prevent further harm. Despite being officially at war, Israeli and Lebanese officials have been meeting in Washington to discuss possible solutions. Lebanon agrees that Hezbollah should be replaced by the national army, but lacks the capability to enforce disarmament. Hezbollah has refused to disarm while Lebanon remains under attack.

A Medieval Castle at the Heart of Modern Conflict

The Beaufort Castle, a medieval structure from the 12th century, is renowned for being a well-preserved example of Crusader architecture. Its strategic position offers commanding views over the region. Israel first captured the castle in 1982, ousting the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Israel retained control until its withdrawal in 2000. The recent recapture was prompted by alleged Hezbollah activities in the area.

The castle is located about nine miles from the Israeli border and plays a pivotal role in military strategy. Israel has also extended its operations to areas around the Lebanese city of Nabatiyeh, over 20 miles from the border.

“This sends a clear message to our enemies: anyone who threatens Israeli civilians will lose their strategic assets,” remarked Katz.

Prior to the castle’s capture, Lebanon’s culture minister reported that it had suffered damage from Israeli strikes. Over the past week, Israeli forces have intensified their operations, involving tanks and daily airstrikes, according to U.N. peacekeepers. Hezbollah has responded with fewer attacks, some involving drones, which have resulted in Israeli casualties.

U.N. figures reveal that Israel launched more than 3,300 projectiles and airstrikes over a single week, while Hezbollah fired 187 projectiles in response. Netanyahu has confirmed that Israeli forces crossed the Litani River, indicating they are approximately 20 miles inside southern Lebanon.

Iran played a significant role in establishing Hezbollah during the 1980s to counter Israeli invasion efforts. Iran regularly voices support for Hezbollah and insists that peace talks must address conflicts affecting both Iran and Lebanon. However, Netanyahu is keen on pursuing aggressive actions against Hezbollah.

Israeli and Lebanese military officials met at the Pentagon to discuss ceasefire implementation but reported no progress. The Lebanese delegation excluded Hezbollah representation. Jane Arraf reported from Beirut and Greg Myre reported from Tel Aviv.