The municipality of Arnoun denounced in the strongest terms the attack that targeted the historic Beaufort Castle as a result of the Israeli bombing, which affected one of the most prominent archaeological and heritage monuments in southern Lebanon, because of the great historical, national, cultural and humanitarian value that this castle represents, in addition to the repeated bombing and bombing of residential homes and the destruction of neighborhoods and infrastructure, after the townspeople were forcibly displaced from their homes and land. She said that Beaufort Castle, located on the land of Arnoun, is not just an archaeological site, but rather a living witness to the history of the region, its civilization, and the steadfastness of its people over the centuries, and it constitutes an essential part of the Lebanese and human heritage that must be protected and preserved from any attack or destruction. She pointed out that Beaufort Castle had previously been granted “enhanced protection” under the Second Protocol of 1999 attached to the Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property during Armed Conflicts, in 2024, which makes any targeting of it a clear and explicit violation of international laws and conventions related to the protection of cultural and human heritage. She stressed that, in light of this dangerous targeting, the municipality of Arnoun is sending an urgent appeal to His Excellency the Lebanese Minister of Culture, and all international organizations and bodies concerned with the protection of antiquities and world heritage, to take immediate action and take the necessary measures to stop the attacks targeting Beaufort Castle and work to protect this historical landmark from further damage. The municipality confirmed that targeting heritage and archaeological sites is a clear violation of international laws and agreements related to the protection of cultural heritage during armed conflicts. She said that Beaufort Castle will remain a proud historical and national symbol despite all the attacks, and the people of Arnoun and the south will remain loyal to their land, heritage and identity.