Israeli military forces have announced that they have taken control of the historic Beaufort Castle and the surrounding highlands in southern Lebanon, marking a significant development in the ongoing confrontation with Hezbollah.

According to the Israeli military, the operation focused on securing the medieval fortress and the strategically important Saluki Valley area. Military officials stated that the objective was to weaken Hezbollah’s presence and dismantle infrastructure allegedly used by the group in the elevated terrain overlooking the border region.

The operation reportedly resulted in the death of one Israeli soldier. No immediate response was issued by Lebanese authorities or Hezbollah regarding the announcement.

Beaufort Castle, one of the most prominent historical landmarks in southern Lebanon, occupies a commanding position that overlooks large parts of southern Lebanon and northern Israel. Control of the site provides a valuable observation point and is considered strategically important for military operations in the area.

The development comes amid continuing instability along the Israeli-Lebanese frontier. Recent days have witnessed an increase in hostilities, including cross-border attacks and military strikes despite the existence of a ceasefire intended to reduce tensions.

Israeli officials claimed that Hezbollah had previously launched numerous attacks from positions located in the surrounding hills and that military operations are continuing to target launch sites and other facilities believed to be connected to the group.

The military also indicated that additional operations are taking place near Nabatieh, a region widely regarded as one of Hezbollah’s key strongholds in southern Lebanon.

The capture of Beaufort Castle represents one of the most significant territorial gains announced by Israel in southern Lebanon in recent weeks and underscores the fragile security situation in the region, where the risk of broader escalation remains a concern despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to preserve the ceasefire.