Israel has captured a Crusader-era castle in Lebanon while steadily expanding its ground operations beyond the previously established boundary line.
On 31 May 2026, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) expanded the area where they have advised residents in southern Lebanon to evacuate, including areas south of the Zahrani River, due to ongoing ground operations against Hezbollah.
This latest warning marks the second time in recent days that Israel has ordered residents south of the Zahrani River to evacuate. An IDF spokesperson said a large number of ground troops are involved in this operation, which is continuing to extend into additional areas.
"Anyone near Hezbollah members, their buildings, or weaponry is putting their life at risk," the IDF spokesperson stated.
Shortly before this, the Israeli military confirmed it had successfully captured Beaufort Castle, built about 900 years ago during the Crusades, a strategic site on a high ridge overlooking the Litani River.
This is a clear indication that Israeli ground forces are pushing deeper into Lebanese territory, moving beyond the original boundary line near the Litani River.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the capture as "an exciting step and a major shift in our policy."
"We have broken down the wall of fear. We are on the offensive across all fronts—in Syria, the Gaza Strip, and Lebanon," he said.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Katz recalled the battle 44 years ago when the Israeli army fought to seize this fortress. He said the Golani Brigade, which took the castle then, has returned and raised the Israeli flag atop the castle once again.
For Israel, this victory holds significant symbolic and strategic importance. Conversely, for the Lebanese people, this is the latest historic site to be captured in recent days, as the city of Nabatieh further north increasingly becomes a target for the IDF.
Katz stated that controlling the castle and the ridge it sits on is a crucial step in protecting Israeli communities across the border.
France, which has historical ties to Lebanon, has called for a United Nations Security Council meeting to discuss Israel's military operations.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot told French TV station BFMTV that the situation represents "a major mistake by Israel."
"Nothing justifies Israel's extended military operations in Lebanon, including the deepening occupation of Lebanese territory," Barrot said.
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Source:bbc