Milan, Feb. 18 (LaPresse) – Israeli forces withdrew at dawn today from several towns and villages they had occupied in southern Lebanon, while maintaining a presence at five points along the border with Israel.
Al Jazeera reported the news, citing the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA). According to the NNA, Israeli troops have withdrawn from Yaroun, Maroun al-Ras, Blida, Meiss el-Jabal, Hula, Markaba, Odaisseh, Kfar Kila, and Wazzani.
Lebanese soldiers and UNIFIL forces have been deployed in the "liberated" towns, while engineers and workers are removing dirt barriers, unexploded ordnance, and grenades.
Lebanese officials have urged residents not to return to their villages until the army has inspected the areas vacated by the Israeli military.
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