Israel Captures Crusader Castle in Deepest Lebanon Incursion

Israeli troops have captured Beaufort castle, a strategic Crusader fortress in southern Lebanon, in an incursion marking the deepest into the country in over 25 years. This significant development follows days of intense fighting and airstrikes against Hezbollah members in the rugged region.

The capture of the historic Beaufort fortress, built around the 12th century and strategically overlooking the Litani River, is a major escalation. Israeli forces previously held the castle from 1982 until their withdrawal in 2000.

This operation by Israel, which has expanded its ground invasion and designated areas up to the Zahrani River as a combat zone, has led to displacement of over 1 million people in Lebanon. The conflict, which began on March 2, has resulted in thousands of missiles and drones exchanged across the border.

Exchanges of fire continue, with Hezbollah claiming attacks on Israeli troops and a tank near the border. Lebanon's state-run news agency reported airstrikes inflicting casualties. The conflict has resulted in 3,350 deaths in Lebanon and 25 Israeli soldiers killed.