Ceasefires and construction: How Israel is cementing its presence in Lebanon and Syria Submitted by Daniel Hilton on Wed, 06/10/2026 - 12:56 Satellite imagery shows Israel has developed a string of bases from the Mediterranean to the Yarmouk River in newly occupied territory. Sources say it looks like they're here to stay Israeli soldiers operate at Beaufort Ridge in southern Lebanon, in this handout image released on 31 May 2026 (Israeli military/handout via Reuters) On With its sweeping panoramas of south Lebanon and flags rising over 1,000-year-old battlements, the footage Israel released last week of its troops seizing Beaufort Castle was intended to provoke awe and anger. The Crusader castle is certainly an impressive landmark with a poignant history.