Israeli forces withdraw from southern Lebanon villages under ceasefire agreement

Israeli forces have withdrawn from border villages in southern Lebanon as part of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement, but they remain in five strategic locations, which Lebanese leaders call a violation of the deal. Lebanese soldiers are clearing roadblocks and checking for unexploded ordnance in the areas vacated by Israeli troops. Many villagers are eager to return home, but most houses are heavily damaged or destroyed. Israeli officials state that their troops will stay in a buffer zone to prevent ceasefire violations. Lebanese leaders and U.N. officials have criticized the ongoing Israeli presence, calling it an occupation.