Israeli forces have carried out their deepest military incursion into Lebanon since withdrawing from the country more than 25 years ago, despite a US-brokered ceasefire that remains officially in effect.

On Sunday, Israeli troops captured the historic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, marking one of the most significant advances into Lebanese territory in decades. The Israeli military said it intends to further “deepen and expand” its control over areas that were previously under the influence of Hezbollah.

Authorities have designated a large portion of southern Lebanon as a combat zone and issued evacuation orders for civilians, instructing residents to move north immediately for their safety.

The latest escalation comes at a sensitive time, as Israel and Lebanon are engaged in their first direct talks in decades. New discussions between officials from both countries are expected to take place in Washington