Israel Expands Positions in Southern Lebanon as Officials Warn of Long-Term Occupation

Israel is consolidating its military presence in southern Lebanon, with UN peacekeepers reporting four new bases and nine positions overall in areas seized during the 2024 conflict. A BBC visit found Israeli troops, roads, surveillance drones, fortified buildings, and demolition activity near the border. Israel says the deployments are necessary for a security zone against Hezbollah. Lebanese officials and rights groups accuse Israel of violating the ceasefire, destroying civilian infrastructure, and preventing displaced residents from returning to their villages safely