Israeli troops have captured a mountain topped with a Crusader-era castle in southern Lebanon, their deepest incursion into the country in more than 26 years. The seizure of Beaufort castle near the city of Nabatiyeh followed days of intense fighting and airstrikes in nearby villages. The operation occurred despite a nominal ceasefire and shortly before talks scheduled in the United States.
Israel has expanded the scope of its operations, sending troops across the Litani River — which previously served as a de facto boundary — and designating the area up to the Zahrani River a combat zone. Some residents have already fled due to heavy strikes in recent days, though people remain in many of the area's towns. The move marks a significant escalation in the conflict and reduces prospects for a near-term peace agreement.
Hezbollah overnight claimed two attacks targeting Israeli troops and a Merkava tank in the southwestern town of Bayada near the border. In recent days, the group has said it has engaged Israeli forces in several towns just north of the river near Nabatiyeh and the castle. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported a rising death toll, though specific figures were not provided in available sources.
The deepening incursion increases the risk of broader Middle Eastern conflict, with regional instability potentially affecting nearby states and energy markets. The capture comes as diplomatic efforts, including US-mediated talks, hang in the balance. International observers warn that further escalation could draw in additional actors.
Critics argue that the incursion undermines the ceasefire and may provoke a stronger Hezbollah response, potentially prolonging the conflict. The Lebanese government has condemned the operation as a violation of sovereignty, though its capacity to respond remains limited.