Israeli forces seize Beaufort Castle, a medieval, Crusader-built fortress on a strategic ridge overlooking southern Lebanon and northern Israel. Multiple reports say the takeover takes place near the city of Nabatiyeh after days of intense fighting and airstrikes against Hezbollah positions in nearby villages. Israel’s military describes the capture as a major advance against Iran-backed Hezbollah, citing an effort to eliminate perceived threats and dismantle Hezbollah infrastructure from an elevated vantage point.

The reports also note that the move happens despite an existing ceasefire framework between Israel and Lebanon that has been repeatedly breached. Several outlets link the timing to heavy Hezbollah fire toward northern Israel shortly before the announcement, including restrictions on schools and movement in Israel.

U.S. Secretary of State discussions with Lebanese and Israeli leaders are also mentioned by some outlets, taking place around the same period as the military operation. Earlier historical reporting notes the castle was previously captured by Israel in 1982 and later withdrawn from Lebanon in 2000.