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.

Lebanese leaders said they were in contact with the United States and France to press Israel to fully withdraw, branding its continued presence in five places an "occupation" after a ceasefire deadline expired on Tuesday.

Israel’s military said it would maintain a presence in five locations along its border with Lebanon, despite a Tuesday deadline to withdraw troops as part of a cease-fire with Hezbollah.