Jericho: Two former Palestinian fighters have revisited the memories of one of the most intense battles of the 1980s in southern Lebanon, after reports that Israel once again raised its flag over the strategic Beaufort Castle.
According to Beyond Time News, the veterans reflected on the 1982 confrontation that left a deep mark on the history of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) during Israel’s military operations in Lebanon.
Memories Return After Beaufort Castle Developments
Former fighter Moin Al-Taher, now 74 and living in Jordan, said recent developments brought back painful memories of the June 1982 battle for Beaufort Castle.
He recalled how Israeli forces subjected the fortress to continuous artillery and air strikes. He described the scene as one of heavy destruction, with the ancient structure engulfed in flames during the bombardment.
Al-Taher said the fighting reached its peak on June 6, when Israeli forces intensified their assault on the site.
PLO Fighters Defended Strategic Stronghold
During the 1982 conflict, Beaufort Castle served as a key defensive position for Palestinian and Lebanese fighters aligned with the PLO.
Al-Taher said around 30 fighters were stationed at the fortress, including members of the “Jarmaq Battalion.” The group included fighters from the Palestinian territories, Lebanon, and Yemen, operating under the Fatah movement led by Yasser Arafat.
He said fighters resisted the assault for more than 60 hours before the position was overrun.
Intense Bombardment and Last Stand
Al-Taher recalled that Israeli airstrikes had already severely damaged the castle in the previous year. Fighters later reinforced the structure by digging trenches, bunkers, and an underground tunnel nearly 150 meters long.
He said the site became a symbol of resistance due to the daily bombardment it faced.
According to him, Israeli attacks were so frequent that military communications often reported repeated shelling of the castle.
Personal Accounts From the Battlefield
Al-Taher also described how he attempted to reach the castle during the fighting after hearing reports of a downed Israeli aircraft.
However, he said his vehicle came under fire during the attempt, and he was wounded by shrapnel before reaching the position.
He added that communication and movement were extremely difficult during the height of the battle.
Fighter Later Turned Historian
Another former fighter, Mohammed al-Qarout, now 69 and living in Jericho, also served in the PLO ranks in southern Lebanon.
After leaving military life, he joined the Palestinian Authority and later focused on documenting the history of Fatah and its military campaigns, including the Beaufort Castle battle.
He has since collected photographs, documents, and personal accounts related to that period.
Archival Images and Wartime Memories
Al-Qarout shared historical images showing fighters stationed at the castle and a long ladder used to access the fortress after its entrance was destroyed.
He said the battle became one of the most significant confrontations of the 1982 Lebanon war.
According to his account, the defenders held the position until the end of the engagement, which he described as lasting more than 60 hours.
Strategic Importance of Beaufort Castle
Both veterans highlighted the strategic value of Beaufort Castle, noting its elevated position overlooking northern Israel and the occupied Golan Heights.
The fortress has changed hands multiple times throughout history, passing through Crusader, Ayyubid, Ottoman, and modern-era control due to its commanding location.
Military analysts have long considered it a key observation point in southern Lebanon.
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1982 War and Aftermath
The 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon aimed to push the PLO out of the country. The campaign eventually reached Beirut and led to the evacuation of PLO leadership.
Beaufort Castle became one of the symbolic battlegrounds of that wider conflict.
Later Developments in the Region
In recent years, the site has again drawn attention amid renewed regional tensions. Israel has acknowledged military activity in and around the fortress area during ongoing confrontations with Hezbollah.
Photographs have shown Israeli forces operating in the region, further highlighting the site’s continuing strategic relevance.
Reflections on Changing Regional Dynamics
Al-Taher compared the 1982 conflict with current regional struggles, noting differences in political and military realities.
He said today’s conflicts involve different actors and conditions, but the broader struggle for influence in southern Lebanon continues.
He also suggested that internal divisions within Lebanon may influence future developments in the region.
Conclusion
The recollections of former Palestinian fighters provide a rare firsthand perspective on the intense battle for Beaufort Castle, a site that remains deeply tied to Lebanon’s modern military history.
As regional tensions continue, the fortress once again stands as a symbol of the area’s long and complex conflict history.
FAQs
What is Beaufort Castle?
Beaufort Castle is a historic fortress in southern Lebanon known for its strategic position overlooking northern Israel.
Who fought in the 1982 battle for the castle?
Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) fighters defended the site during the Israeli invasion of Lebanon.
Why was the castle important?
Its high elevation made it a key military observation point in the region.
What happened during the 1982 battle?
The castle was heavily bombarded, and PLO fighters held the position for more than 60 hours before it was captured.
Why is the site discussed today?
It has regained attention due to renewed regional tensions involving Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
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