Israeli forces pulled out of populated areas in southern Lebanon, but retained control over strategic border points as a deadline lapsed for both Israel and Hezbollah to leave the region.

The Israeli military is keeping troops at five southern Lebanese posts despite a Tuesday withdrawal deadline and Hezbollah warnings that Israel is violating a ceasefire agreement.

After Israel declared that it would maintain its military in five locations in southern Lebanon for security reasons, the new Lebanese government fears foreign occupation.Lebanon' s political leadership remains steadfast in their viewpoint that Israel has to fulfil all parts of the latest ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah.