Lebanon pursues talks as Israel continues ceasefire violations
Israeli forces occupy strategic Lebanese hilltop position while Lebanon continues to stick to diplomatic option under US sponsorship
BEIRUT, Lebanon (MNTV) — Lebanon remains committed to negotiations with Israel, a Lebanese official said, as Israeli forces expanded attacks and incursions deeper into Lebanese territory ahead of US-mediated talks in Washington.
Israeli airstrikes targeted areas north of the Zahrani River, while the Israeli military said it would continue operations against Lebanon. Israel has also accused Hezbollah of repeatedly violating ceasefire arrangements, which Hezbollah denies initiating.
Tensions have intensified following Israel’s announcement that its forces had taken control of Beaufort Castle, a strategic hilltop position known locally as Qalaat Al-Shaqif.
The development comes ahead of a fifth round of negotiations between Lebanese and Israeli representatives scheduled to take place in Washington.
A Lebanese official, talking to Arab News, said that the latest escalation may be linked to Beirut’s rejection of Israeli demands for the Lebanese army to immediately disarm Hezbollah during recent discussions in Washington.
The source said such a move could trigger internal instability and carry serious consequences for Lebanon.
According to the official, the Lebanese government has already taken steps regarding Hezbollah’s military capabilities and is pursuing a gradual approach that takes into account the country’s political and security sensitivities.
The source also argued that the Lebanese army’s limited resources make the issue particularly challenging, noting that even extensive Israeli military operations have failed to completely halt Hezbollah attacks.
Lebanese officials maintain that the country has little alternative but to continue pursuing negotiations despite the rising tensions on the ground.
Military analysts say Israel’s occupation of Beaufort Castle could significantly enhance its strategic position in southern Lebanon. The site overlooks large areas of Nabatieh and Marjeyoun and provides broad surveillance and fire-control capabilities over surrounding terrain.
Lebanese military sources warned that control of the position could allow Israeli forces to advance toward Ali Al-Taher Hill, potentially extending operational reach toward areas between the Litani and Zahrani rivers.
Observers say the move may be intended to strengthen Israel’s bargaining position before diplomatic talks, while Hezbollah is also seeking to demonstrate its ability to exert military pressure through counterattacks extending beyond the immediate border region.
The seizure of Beaufort Castle has renewed concerns about a possible expansion of Israeli military operations and the prospect of a deeper and more prolonged presence in southern Lebanon.
Israel previously used the hilltop fortress as a military base during its occupation of southern Lebanon, which ended in 2000 as a result of strong resistance from fighting groups.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council is expected to hold an emergency session at the request of France to discuss the latest developments.
Lebanese officials are seeking international support during the meeting, while French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot reaffirmed France’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and for negotiations as the only path toward a lasting resolution.
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