IDF Returns to Beaufort Ridge 26 Years After Lebanon Withdrawal
Israeli troops crossed the Litani River and returned to the Beaufort Ridge for the first time since the 2000 withdrawal, as Hezbollah attacks since last month's ceasefire have killed 13 Israelis and fueled growing pressure for a stronger military response
Photo: IDF website
Israeli forces have launched a major operation in southern Lebanon's Beaufort Ridge and Wadi al-Slouqi area, marking the first large-scale ground maneuver in the strategic region since Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon in 2000.
The operation, led by Northern Command and approved by the IDF Chief of Staff, involves forces from the Golani, Givati, and 7th Armored brigades, alongside artillery and special units operating under the 36th Division. The objective is to destroy Hezbollah infrastructure, eliminate militants, and expand Israel's forward defensive line north of the border.
According to the IDF, troops crossed the Litani River and are operating near Nabatieh, a key Hezbollah stronghold in southern Lebanon. Prior to the ground advance, the Israeli Air Force carried out extensive strikes on Hezbollah positions, supported by artillery and tank fire.
The military said the operation is focused on the Beaufort Ridge, where Hezbollah had established significant military infrastructure under Iranian guidance. The area also contained launch sites used for hundreds of rocket attacks against Israeli civilians and military forces.
The offensive follows weeks of escalating tensions despite the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon that took effect last month. Since then, Hezbollah rocket and drone attacks have killed 13 Israeli soldiers and civilians and wounded many others. Schools along the northern border remained closed on Sunday after a weekend of intensified attacks, with residents reporting frequent air-raid alerts throughout the day.
The continued attacks have fueled growing frustration among northern residents, who accuse the government of failing to restore security and deter Hezbollah despite the ceasefire agreement.
The Beaufort Ridge holds deep symbolic significance in Israel. The hilltop fortress overlooking southern Lebanon was one of the most prominent positions held by the IDF during its 18-year presence in the country and was abandoned as part of Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon in May 2000.
The IDF said the operation is part of a broader campaign against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and that forces are prepared to expand their activities if required.