Israel Seizes Strategic Castle in Southern Lebanon

The Israeli army has announced the capture of Beaufort Castle, a 900-year-old fortress in southern Lebanon, along with an adjacent strategic ridge. The operation marks a significant development in Israel's campaign against Hezbollah, despite a ceasefire declared more than six weeks ago.

The offensive focused on seizing control of the Beaufort Ridge and the Wadi al-Saluki area, with the stated aim of dismantling Hezbollah's infrastructure, which has been built with Iranian support. One Israeli soldier was killed during the operation.

The move came after one of the most intense days of Hezbollah shelling of northern Israel since the ceasefire took effect in April, prompting school closures and other security measures. According to the Israeli army, the newly captured position offers a view over much of both southern Lebanon and northern Israel, and has previously been used to launch attacks on Israeli civilian targets. The army said hundreds of missiles had been fired at Israeli civilians and soldiers in the area.

Israeli forces are also operating near Nabatiya, one of Hezbollah's main strongholds in southern Lebanon.

(reuters, bak)