Israel is constructing military outposts in southern Syria, intensifying local concerns over potential occupation, according to a report by the Washington Post.

Satellite images obtained by the publication reveal the presence of multiple buildings and vehicles at a walled Israeli base near the village of Jubata Al-Khassab in the Quneitra Governorate, signaling a significant military buildup in the region.

The images also show that Israel has established a nearly identical structure five miles to the south of the first base. Both outposts are connected by newly constructed dirt roads leading to the Golan Heights, which Israel has occupied since 1967. Additionally, experts have identified a cleared area a few miles south of these outposts, suggesting the beginnings of a third military base.

The increased Israeli military presence follows the fall of President Bashar Al-Assad's regime in December. Israeli forces moved swiftly to occupy the buffer zone that separates Syria from the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, claiming that the change in leadership in Damascus had rendered the 1974 ceasefire arrangements invalid. Furthermore, reports from local officials indicate that Israeli troops have advanced deeper into southern Syria, taking control of several sites beyond the established buffer zone.

Satellite images and ground reports confirm that the construction of the Israeli military outposts is not a temporary measure, despite Israel's claims. The evidence suggests that Israel is establishing long-term military positions in southern Syria, a fact that has alarmed local communities.

“They are building military bases. How is that temporary?” questioned Mohammed Muraiwid, the mayor of Jubata Al-Khassab, who has witnessed the ongoing construction of a new outpost on the outskirts of his village.

Muraiwid also reported that Israeli bulldozers had razed fruit trees and other vegetation in a protected nature reserve to make way for the new military infrastructure.

“We told them we consider this an occupation,” the mayor said, emphasizing the impact of the military presence on the local community and environment.

In addition to constructing outposts, Israeli forces have reportedly set up checkpoints, closed roads, raided homes, and displaced residents. Protests against the Israeli presence have been met with force, with Israeli troops firing on demonstrators, according to local accounts.