France has called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council following Israel’s expanded ground offensive in southern Lebanon and capture of the historic Beaufort Castle.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Paris recognised Israel’s right to self-defence, but stressed that the continued military campaign and the growing occupation of Lebanese territory could not be justified.
Israeli troops reportedly took control of Beaufort Castle, also known as Qalaat al-Shaqif, near the southern Lebanese city of Nabatieh. Israeli broadcaster Kan aired footage showing the Israeli flag raised over the centuries-old fortress, which sits on a strategic hilltop roughly 15 kilometres from the Lebanon-Israel border.
The Crusader-era site, protected under UNESCO heritage status, was previously occupied by Israel for 18 years before its withdrawal from Lebanon in 2000.
The seizure of the castle would mark a significant military advance for Israel in its ongoing confrontation with Hezbollah, which has intensified since March 2.
Israel’s latest push deeper into Lebanese territory comes despite a ceasefire agreement that took effect on April 17 and has faced repeated violations. The current operation represents Israel’s deepest incursion into Lebanon in more than 25 years.
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