Israeli army builds new roads linking military posts in southern Lebanon

The Israeli army is building new roads through mountains and valleys in southern Lebanon to connect its military positions, Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) reported Saturday. The work spans the western and central sectors of southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have established military posts on occupied Lebanese territory, according to the agency. NNA said the construction was taking place alongside Israeli demolition operations in the area.

The central sector includes the towns of Aita al-Shaab, Maroun al-Ras, Bint Jbeil and Aitaroun. Maroun al-Ras overlooks the Israeli settlement of Avivim across the border. The western sector includes Naqoura, Yarine, Dhayra, Marwahin and Alma al-Shaab, with the Lebanese army and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) deployed in the area. The Israeli military activity came after US-sponsored military and technical talks between Lebanon and Israel in Tampa, Florida, on Oct. 20-21.

The meetings ended without an announced breakthrough or a joint statement. Reports indicated that the sides agreed to continue negotiations, although disagreements remained over Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and the disarmament of Hezbollah. A framework agreement in June provides for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories in exchange for the deployment of the Lebanese army and the disarmament of armed groups.

Despite the agreement, Israel has continued military operations in Lebanon. Since March 2, the attacks have killed at least 4,386 people, wounded 12,407 and displaced more than 1 million, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.