Arabic version: إسرائيل تلتقط قلعة استراتيجية في جنوب لبنان

According to BBC News,

Israel’s military has confirmed the capture of Beaufort Castle, a strategic fort in southern Lebanon, as it expands its ground offensive against Hezbollah. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have warned residents south of the Zahrani river to evacuate, stating that anyone near Hezbollah elements, facilities, or means of combat endangers their life. This warning marks the second evacuation notice issued in recent days as Israeli operations intensify.

The IDF reported that a significant number of ground soldiers are involved in the operation, which is currently expanding to additional areas beyond the initial demarcation line at the Litani river. The capture of Beaufort Castle, a historic site constructed by the Crusaders 900 years ago, represents a strategic victory for Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the event as a dramatic stage and dramatic change in military policy, emphasizing that Israel is taking the initiative in its confrontations with Hezbollah.

In response to the escalating conflict, Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported injuries to 13 hospital staff due to an airstrike near Hiram hospital in Tyre. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot criticized Israel’s actions, labeling them a major mistake and calling for a United Nations Security Council meeting to discuss the situation.

The ongoing military operations have resulted in significant casualties, with over 3,300 reported deaths in Lebanon since the conflict reignited in March. Meanwhile, a fourth round of negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese delegations is scheduled to take place in Washington, although Hezbollah is not participating. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned Israel’s strategy as a scorched-earth policy, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by civilians caught in the crossfire.