Israel's defense minister KATZ said Israeli forces will maintain a garrison at the strategic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon as part of a 'southern Lebanon security zone'. KATZ said the Israeli flag was raised again on high ground overlooking the Galilee after a 26-year withdrawal and that forces have re-established control of Beaufort Castle and will remain stationed there. He said control of the castle and expanded ground operations are intended to send a clear signal to opponents, warning

Israel's defense minister KATZ said Israeli forces will maintain a garrison at the strategic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon as part of a 'southern Lebanon security zone'. KATZ said the Israeli flag was raised again on high ground overlooking the Galilee after a 26-year withdrawal and that forces have re-established control of Beaufort Castle and will remain stationed there. He said control of the castle and expanded ground operations are intended to send a clear signal to opponents, warning that those who threaten Israeli civilians will progressively lose strategic assets.