Chicago – May 31, 2026
Israeli forces have captured Lebanon’s historic Beaufort Castle, marking their deepest military incursion into southern Lebanon in 26 years. Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the IDF seized the 900-year-old Crusader fortress and its strategic ridge, which overlooks the Litani River and provides extensive views of the region.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the operation a “dramatic shift” in Israel’s expanded ground offensive against Hezbollah. Israel stated the castle was retaken because Hezbollah was using the area to launch attacks on northern Israel. The IDF has now declared all land between the Litani and Zaharani rivers a conflict zone, ordering civilians to evacuate.
The fortress, UNESCO-recognized as one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Near East, was previously held by Israel from 1982 until its 2000 withdrawal. The capture follows days of fierce clashes and airstrikes targeting Hezbollah fighters in surrounding villages near Nabatiyeh.
This advancement deepens Israel’s military footprint beyond the demarcation zone established after the April ceasefire, as fighting continues despite the nominal truce. Another Israeli soldier was reported killed in recent combat.
