Desk : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday claimed that Israeli forces have taken control of the historic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, despite an ongoing ceasefire between the two sides.
In a televised address, Netanyahu said, “Last night, our heroic soldiers captured Beaufort Castle and proudly raised the flag of the State of Israel and the Golani Brigade there.” He described the move as a symbol of “national unity and military determination.”
Netanyahu further stated that the operation marks a significant shift in Israel’s military strategy. According to him, Israeli forces have crossed the Litani River and secured strategic high ground, with orders to further strengthen operations in areas previously under Hezbollah control.
He also claimed that thousands of Hezbollah fighters have been targeted in recent operations and said the Israeli military is active on multiple fronts, including Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), in a statement released on Telegram, confirmed that operations have been underway for several days in the Beaufort Ridge and Wadi al-Saluki areas of southern Lebanon. The objective, it said, is to dismantle Hezbollah infrastructure and ensure the security of Israel’s northern border communities.
According to the IDF, the operation involved coordinated airstrikes, artillery fire, tank operations, and engineering efforts to secure strategic positions. The military said its aim is to extend the “forward defense line” and strengthen security along the border regions.
The Israeli military also indicated that operations could expand further toward the Nabatieh area, a known Hezbollah stronghold in southern Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu also reiterated an expansionist approach regarding the Gaza Strip, stating that Israel is gradually moving toward control of around 70 percent of the territory. He claimed that Israel currently controls about 60 percent of Gaza, up from 50 percent previously.
Following these statements, concerns have grown over escalating regional tensions, as international observers continue to express alarm over ongoing military operations in Gaza and southern Lebanon.