Israel Takes Control of Beaufort in South Lebanon After 26 Years
2026-05-31
Israeli forces expand advance in south Lebanon
Israeli Defence Minister Katz said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on the 31st that Israel had taken control of the strategic Beaufort position in south Lebanon. It was the first time Israel had held the site in 26 years. Israel has been widening its offensive in south Lebanon as part of military operations against Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Shi'ite Muslim group.
Beaufort sits on elevated ground about 5 km inside Lebanon from the border with Israel and is near Nabatieh, a major southern city regarded as an important Hezbollah stronghold. Known for Beaufort Castle, which was built in the Middle Ages, Israeli forces occupied the castle and raised the Israeli flag there.
Move may affect talks
Iran has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for oil shipments, and is calling for an end to fighting in Lebanon in negotiations aimed at ending hostilities with the United States. The Israeli military's move is likely to cast a shadow over such talks.
According to Israeli media, the Israeli military seized Beaufort during the 1982 invasion of Lebanon and held it until its withdrawal in 2000. Prime Minister Netanyahu said on the 29th that military operations were being carried out beyond the Litani River in south Lebanon, about 30 km from the border.
A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect on April 17 under US mediation. Even so, the Israeli military appears to have accelerated its offensive, with the United States also seemingly acquiescing. Israel and Lebanon are continuing intergovernmental talks to try to contain the situation, but Israel believes the Lebanese government lacks the ability to rein in Hezbollah and has not eased its military campaign. Lebanese Prime Minister Salam on May 30 criticised Israel's offensive, saying it was not only a violation of sovereignty but also an attempt to erase Lebanon's history.
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