Sunday’s operation put the Beaufort Ridge outpost and Wadi al-Saluki north of the Litani River under IDF control, extending what Israel calls a security zone beyond its border.
Weeks of preparation preceded the move: Givati forces built crossings over the Litani, cleared brush and terrain, then swept the ridge and river approaches for militants, launchers and other weapons under artillery fire.
Col. Netanel Shamaka said the brigade had to adapt from years of Gaza fighting to Lebanon’s terrain, but training and preparation let it establish a defensive line after clearing enemy operatives and infrastructure.
Benjamin Netanyahu called the capture a "dramatic" policy shift and said Israel has killed 8,000 Hezbollah fighters since the war began, including 3,000 during Operation Roaring Lion and 700 in the past month.