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 Beirut was in contact with Washington and Paris to press Israel to fully withdraw from south Lebanon, branding its presence in five points an "occupation" after a ceasefire deadline expired on Tuesday.

The Israeli military said it would remain in what it called “five strategic points” in southern Lebanon. Lebanese officials have called for Israel’s full withdrawal.