Smotrich on the fighting in the north: "Returning to Beaufort Fortress is a correction of past mistakes"

Statements by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on the campaign in the north

In a series of statements released throughout the day, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich addressed the continuation of the military campaign on the northern border and the IDF's activity in Lebanon. The minister emphasized the importance of the actions for the long-term security of the region's residents.

According to reports on Al Jazeera – a Qatari media outlet known for an editorial line critical of Israel's policies – Smotrich declared that the government is "acting with determination" to ensure "long-term security" for the residents of the north as quoted in Al Jazeera.

Regarding IDF activity in Lebanese territory, Smotrich focused on the concept of "Beaufort Fortress" (Qala'at al-Shaqif). According to Al Jazeera, Nabatieh, Capital of Jabal Amel and Al-Ghad News, the minister claimed that "returning to Beaufort Fortress is an expression of correcting past mistakes." Smotrich further added in the joint publications that "the costs of the war are high, but they are necessary for our security."

Similar remarks were also published by additional channels such as Lebanon News 🇱🇧, Asharq News - Palestine, and Beirut Time, which echoed the minister's message regarding the security necessity of the military moves in Lebanese territory according to Asharq News.