Full Breakdown
Israel Captures Historic Beaufort Castle Amid Deepening Lebanon Offensive
6/2/2026, 1:10:26 AM
The Capture of Beaufort Castle
On 1 June 2026 Israeli forces seized the medieval Beaufort Castle (Qalaat al-Shaqif) in southern Lebanon, raising the Israeli flag and the Golani Brigade banner. Defense Minister Israel Katz described the operation as part of a “security zone,” and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had ordered the military to expand the manoeuvre in Lebanon.
Historical and Strategic Background
Built by Crusaders in the 12th century, Beaufort changed hands many times, serving as a PLO base in 1982 before Israel withdrew in 2000. Its 700-metre height overlooks the Litani River, Nabatiyeh, the western Bekaa Valley and northern Israel, giving it strategic high-ground value.
Casualties and Territorial Gains
Lebanese health officials record over 3 400 deaths and 10 200 injuries since 2 March. Israeli sources note two civilian deaths, 23 soldiers killed in Hezbollah attacks and one Israeli soldier killed in the Beaufort operation. Israel now controls about 2 000 sq km, roughly one-fifth of Lebanon.
Official Government Responses
Israel’s defence ministry said the seizure protects civilians and creates a buffer. Netanyahu reaffirmed his order to deepen the grip on Hezbollah-held zones. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam called the action a scorched-earth policy that deepens division. French foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot said prolonged occupation “cannot be justified.” Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee ordered a 1 000-metre evacuation zone.
Criticism and Opposition
Ynet described the northern situation as “intolerable,” arguing the Lebanon offensive does not reduce the threat to Israeli civilians and only raises the war’s cost. Critics warn that displacement and infrastructure damage could erode Israel’s diplomatic standing and fuel further resistance.
On-the-Ground Reporting
Al Jazeera’s Obaida Hitto said the castle gives Israeli forces a “significant tactical advantage against Hezbollah.” The Israeli army’s X post urged residents to evacuate. Lebanese health officials continue to record casualties in villages such as Zebdine and Kfar Sir.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Lebanese authorities list over 3 400 deaths, while Israeli reports cite far fewer civilian casualties. The exact number of displaced persons and the current ceasefire status remain unclear, with each side accusing the other of violations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our heroic soldiers have captured Beaufort once again and will remain there as part of the security zone in Lebanon,” — Israel Katz, Defense Minister
- “instructed the Israeli military to expand the manoeuvre in Lebanon” — Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister
- “Israel must know that its scorched earth policy, collective punishment and expropriation of villages and towns will not achieve security and stability but will instead deepen the divide with the Lebanese people,” — Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister of Lebanon
- “Nothing can justify the prolongation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and its increasingly deep occupation of Lebanese territory,” — Jean-Noël Barrot, French Foreign Minister
Prospects and Diplomatic Outlook
U.S. and Lebanese officials will meet in Washington to discuss the ceasefire; France seeks an emergency UN Security Council session. Israel’s next moves on the ridge will likely depend on diplomatic pressure and the wider security calculus involving Iran, Hezbollah and regional actors.
