Israel captures Crusader fortress Beaufort in southern Lebanon

The Israeli military has according to its own statements captured the Crusader fortress Beaufort in southern Lebanon. The castle, built in the 12th century and situated at over 700 meters elevation, was last under Israeli control 26 years ago. Units from the Golani brigades raised their flag on the strategically significant facility.

The conquest of the fortress is more than a tactical success: It brings Israel considerable strategic advantages in southern Lebanon, as the castle represents a key position for monitoring and controlling the region. Israeli Defence Minister Israël Katz announced the capture on social media, emphasizing the significance of the success for the Israeli public.

Ceasefire effectively not upheld

The Israeli army is continuously expanding its ground operations in Lebanon. This occurs against the backdrop of massive escalation: the ceasefire agreed in April between Israel and the Iran-allied Hezbollah militia is effectively not being upheld. According to reports, clashes occur almost daily, despite the truce officially being in force for three months.

Hezbollah responds to Israeli advances with renewed shelling. The Shiite militia repeatedly fires on Israeli territory, further turning the spiral of mutual attacks. While fighting in southern Lebanon intensifies, negotiations over a permanent ceasefire are running in parallel—so far without visible progress.

The capture of Beaufort shows that Israel is not only maintaining but actively expanding its military presence in Lebanon. Experts see in this a signal that Tel Aviv does not expect a stable ceasefire in the short term and is instead working towards military objectives in southern Lebanon.