The Israeli Defence Forces have captured a historic Crusader castle in southern Lebanon, a senior military source confirmed late Tuesday. The seizure of the Beaufort Castle, a strategic stronghold overlooking the Litani River, marks the deepest point of Israel’s ground offensive since the 2006 war.
Operation ‘Iron Shield’ has now pushed forces 12 miles into Lebanese territory, sparking panic among Hezbollah commanders, according to leaked intelligence briefings. The castle, perched on a sheer cliff, provides a commanding view of the border region. Its capture gives the IDF direct line-of-sight over Hezbollah supply routes and rocket launch sites.
“This is a game-changer,” a British intelligence analyst told me, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The castle changes the geometry of the battlefield. Hezbollah’s logistics just got a lot harder.”
But the move carries significant political risk. Westminster insiders are already watching the polling impact. Downing Street has resisted calls for an arms embargo, but backbench discontent is brewing. Labour’s shadow foreign secretary issued a carefully worded statement calling for “restraint.” The Tory right is pushing for stronger support.
The ground offensive has drawn sharp condemnation from the French government, which has historic ties to Lebanon. President Macron’s office accused Israel of “violating international law.” The EU is debating sanctions.
Inside the Cabinet, there is a divide. Hardliners argue that weakening Hezbollah is in Britain’s long-term strategic interest. Others fear a quagmire. “We’re watching the region slide into a wider war,” a Foreign Office mandarin told me.
For now, the Beaufort Castle is in Israeli hands. But in this game, castles can be taken back. The real battle is still ahead.
