Israel expanding presence in Lebanon, officials say

Key facts

• Israel is expanding its presence in southern Lebanon, establishing new bases and demolishing villages.
• Israeli officials aim to create a long-term 'security zone' to protect northern Israel.
• The Israeli military has established four new bases in invaded areas, bringing the total to nine.
• Human rights groups state some Israeli actions may amount to war crimes.
• Lebanese officials report over 5,000 Israeli violations of a ceasefire deal since June.
• A US-brokered deal for 'pilot zones' and Hezbollah disarmament has stalled.

Israel is reportedly expanding its military presence in southern Lebanon, establishing new bases and demolishing villages, according to officials and a BBC report. The area under Israeli control constitutes about 5% of Lebanese territory and extends up to 10km from the border. Israeli officials state their objective is to create a long-term 'security zone' to protect northern Israel from rocket and drone attacks by Hezbollah.

Human rights groups suggest that some of Israel's actions, including the deliberate destruction of civilian infrastructure, could amount to war crimes. Hundreds of thousands of Lebanese remain displaced. The Israeli military claims destroyed buildings were used by Hezbollah for military purposes and that operations comply with international law.

Despite a ceasefire announced in June, Lebanese intelligence officials report over 5,000 Israeli violations, including air strikes and incursions. Hezbollah has not attacked Israel since the ceasefire but has targeted Israeli troops within Lebanese territory. A Lebanese intelligence official stated that Israel's actions aim to prevent people from returning to their villages for years.

A US-brokered deal involving 'pilot zones' for Lebanese army deployment and Hezbollah disarmament has stalled, with Hezbollah opposing the terms and Israel claiming the Lebanese military has not done enough. A European diplomat familiar with the situation suggested the situation is heading towards a 'Gaza-like situation' with Israelis entrenching themselves.