IDF pushes further into Lebanon, capturing Beaufort Ridge outpost

On 31 May 2026, Israeli troops captured Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon after crossing the Litani River, in what outlets described as Israel's deepest incursion into Lebanon in 26 years. Netanyahu ordered a deeper incursion, and Katz said troops will remain at the castle as part of a security zone in south Lebanon. The Israeli military reissued an evacuation warning for all of southern Lebanon and said it launched strikes on Hezbollah. One Israeli soldier was killed in a Hezbollah drone strike.

Lebanon's prime minister said Israel was pursuing a 'scorched earth' policy as airstrikes hit the south, and an Israeli strike near a hospital wounded 13 staff. Hezbollah fire continued on northern Israel, and Israel said it intercepted two missiles launched from Lebanon. Haaretz reported that Israeli military officials fear a withdrawal under fire if a Lebanon deal is signed. The push came despite a ceasefire and while US-Iran talks hung in the balance.