Israel establishes permanent military outposts in southern Lebanon

The Israeli army has begun establishing a new line of permanent military outposts in southern Lebanon, according to reports from Israeli dailies Maariv and Haaretz. The move signals an intention to maintain a long-term presence in the area, employing tactics similar to those used in Gaza, including the mass demolition of homes and infrastructure to clear land for these outposts and a buffer zone.

Citing army sources, Haaretz reported that forces equipped with bulldozers are destroying villages near the border. This strategy mirrors operations in Gaza, where entire neighborhoods were razed. Soldiers serving in Lebanon described the current operations as creating permanent posts that will be manned over time, despite acknowledging the complex terrain and the potential for ongoing friction with Hezbollah.

Israeli forces have maintained five outposts inside Lebanese territory since the 2024 escalation, in violation of a November ceasefire. The army is reportedly planning to double the number of these outposts. While the military denies a formal plan for a permanent security zone after the conflict ends, sources suggest the current actions could lead to a de facto security zone.

The establishment of these outposts comes amid ongoing talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials in Washington, mediated by the US. The daily Maariv suggested this move could increase tensions between Israel and the US due to differing views on Israel's military presence in Lebanon.