Israel Expands Military Presence in Syria, Raising Concerns of Occupation

Israeli forces have established new bases and checkpoints in Syrian territory, citing security needs, as locals report displacement and resource loss.

• Israeli troops have advanced into a UN-patrolled buffer zone in Syria, constructing at least two military outposts and planning a third, according to satellite imagery.
• The Israeli military claims the operations are necessary to protect northern Israel, but Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated the troop presence is indefinite.
• Local Syrian officials and residents describe the actions as an occupation, reporting displacement, restricted access to grazing lands, and destruction of protected areas.
• Israel justifies its advances by stating the 1974 ceasefire agreement is void following the collapse of Assad's regime in December, while Syria's new leader has committed to upholding the agreement.
• The developments follow Israel's broader strategy of operating beyond its borders to counter perceived threats, with similar actions in Gaza and Lebanon.

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