Israeli soldier killed in drone strike amid Beaufort capture

An Israeli soldier was killed and three others were wounded in a drone attack in southern Lebanon early Monday, as Israeli forces continue to expand ground operations in the region. The fatality marks the latest casualty in renewed hostilities between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group.

The Israel Defense Forces identified the fallen soldier as Staff Sergeant Adam Tzarfati, 20, from Rosh HaAyin. He served in the elite Maglan reconnaissance unit of the Commando Brigade. According to military statements, the incident occurred around 1 a.m. near the village of Yohmor, close to the historic Beaufort Castle. An explosive-laden drone struck the soldiers, killing Tzarfati. One soldier was seriously wounded and two others sustained light injuries; all were evacuated for medical treatment.

Tzarfati’s death follows the killing of another soldier, Staff Sergeant Michael Tyukin, 21, in a separate drone attack on Saturday. Official data indicates these are among at least 14 Israeli soldiers killed since a ceasefire took effect in mid-April, part of a broader toll since hostilities reignited in early March.

The attack occurred in an area where Israeli forces have recently...