Unifil counts eight fortified bases among 30 Israeli military positions in south Lebanon

Israeli troops now operate from around 30 military positions in southern Lebanon, including eight fortified bases, according to the United Nations peacekeeping force. Unifil spokeswoman Kandice Ardiel revealed this to The National, noting that before the March 2024 escalation, Israel had a presence in five fortified positions near the Blue Line.

The eight bases, established amid the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, are fortified with earthworks, observation posts, and restricted road access. Additionally, about 20 ad hoc military positions have been observed by Unifil within the security buffer zone. These outposts are temporary and often utilize existing infrastructure.

The proliferation of bases and outposts signifies an increasingly entrenched Israeli military presence in Lebanon. Israel has also expanded the zone's boundaries, pushing beyond its self-stated "yellow line" through tactics like depopulation and road closures. The shifting boundaries and heightened alert between Israeli and Lebanese forces have led to recent incidents, such as the forced withdrawal of Lebanese troops from a checkpoint at Deir Mimas and the detention of Kfarshouba's mayor.

Residents remain uncertain about the precise boundaries of the Israeli occupation zone, which continues to impact their daily lives.