Why Israel has captured Lebanon’s historic Beaufort Castle

Israeli troops have captured Beaufort Castle, a 900-year-old fortress in southern Lebanon, in what Israeli officials describe as a key strategic gain in the country's expanding military operation against Hezbollah.

The fortress, known in Arabic as Qalaat al-Shaqif, sits atop a rocky ridge about 700 metres above sea level near the city of Nabatieh. Built by Crusaders in the 12th century, the castle has long been regarded as one of the most important military positions in southern Lebanon because of its commanding view over the surrounding region, Al Jazeera reports.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced the capture on Sunday (May 31), saying the Israeli flag was once again flying over the site. He said Israeli troops would remain at the castle as part of what he described as a security zone in southern Lebanon. Images released by Israeli officials showed Israeli and military brigade flags raised over the fortress.

Military analysts and local observers say the castle's elevated position provides a significant tactical advantage. From the ridge, forces can monitor large parts of southern Lebanon, including areas around Nabatieh, the western Bekaa Valley, northern Israel and the occupied Golan Heights. Israeli officials say securing the position will help disrupt Hezbollah operations and strengthen border security.

The castle has a long history in regional conflicts. Palestinian fighters used it as a base before Israel captured it during its 1982 invasion of Lebanon. Israeli forces occupied the site until withdrawing from southern Lebanon in 2000.

The latest advance comes despite a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon that was announced in November 2024. Fighting intensified after the outbreak of the Israel-Iran war earlier this year, with Hezbollah launching attacks against Israel and Israeli forces responding with air strikes and ground operations inside Lebanon.

According to Lebanese health authorities, more than 3,400 people have been killed and over 10,000 wounded in Israeli attacks since March. Israeli forces reportedly captured Beaufort Castle following days of clashes and air strikes around the fortress and nearby villages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to deepen military operations in Lebanon, saying forces would expand control over areas previously held by Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Israel has issued new evacuation orders for several villages in southern Lebanon, signalling the possibility of further military action in the region.

The capture of Beaufort Castle is likely to reinforce Israel's military position in southern Lebanon while raising fears of a prolonged and widening conflict along the border.

By Aghakazim Guliyev