The Israeli military has expanded its ground operations in southern Lebanon, warning all residents south of the Zahrani river to evacuate.
A military spokesman said a 'significant number' of ground soldiers were involved, and operations were 'currently expanding to additional areas.'
Israel confirmed it captured the historic Beaufort Castle, a Crusader fortress commanding views from a ridge above the Litani river. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a 'dramatic change in our policy. We have broken the barrier of fear.'
On Sunday, Lebanon's Health Ministry reported 13 hospital staff injured in an airstrike near Hiram hospital in Tyre, causing significant damage. France requested a UN Security Council meeting, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot calling the operations a 'major mistake for Israel.'
Beaufort Castle, fought over for 900 years, was previously captured by Israel in a 44-year-old battle. Defense Minister Israel Katz said control of the castle was key to protecting Israeli border communities.
Since March, after Hezbollah fired rockets in response to the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Lebanese authorities report over 3,300 deaths and 25 Israeli military fatalities. A fourth round of negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese delegations is due in Washington this week.