Israel Claims Capture of Strategic Beaufort Fortress

Beaufort Castle: (Web Desk) – Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced on Sunday that Israeli forces had taken control of the strategically significant Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon as military operations against Hezbollah continue to intensify.

In a statement, Katz said Israeli troops had captured the Beaufort Ridge after advancing beyond the Litani River, describing the position as one of the most important strategic locations for the protection of northern Israeli communities and military forces operating in the region.

The medieval fortress, also known as Qalaat al-Shakif, overlooks large areas of southern Lebanon and has long held military significance due to its elevated position and commanding views of surrounding terrain.

Video footage from the area showed an Israeli flag flying over the fortress, while sounds of shelling and smoke were visible nearby, indicating ongoing military activity in the region.

The site was previously used as an Israeli military outpost during Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon, which lasted until 2000.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military issued evacuation warnings to civilians living south of the Zahrani River. Military spokesman Avichay Adraee urged residents to move north of the river, citing an expansion of operations targeting Hezbollah positions.

In a separate development, the Israeli army confirmed the death of Staff Sergeant Michael Tyukin, 21, who was killed in southern Lebanon on Saturday.

Israeli Strikes Escalate Across South Lebanon Amid Tensions

According to Israeli military officials, the soldier died in an explosive drone attack carried out by Hezbollah. The incident raised the number of Israeli fatalities since the resumption of hostilities in March to 25, including 24 soldiers and one civilian contractor.

Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified in recent months, increasing concerns over regional stability and the possibility of a broader conflict involving multiple actors across the Middle East.