Israel's withdrawal had been postponed from the original 60-day deadline - which fell on 26 January - stipulated in the ceasefire. The positions where Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops have been deployed are in mountainous terrain on the edge of the internationally recognised border between Lebanon and Israel.

Israeli forces pulled out of populated areas in southern Lebanon, but retained control over strategic border points as a deadline passed 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.