Day Five Hills Cast Long Shadows

Israel's partial withdrawal from South Lebanon materialized while maintaining control of five strategic points, prompting Lebanon to announce plans to petition the Security Council. Residents began returning to border villages on foot as the Lebanese Army deployed south of the Litani.

UN officials Blaskhart and Lazzaro warned that any delay in full Israeli withdrawal constitutes a violation of Resolution 1701. The US Ambassador confirmed increased military aid to the Lebanese Army, while the government extended the suspension of Iranian flights.

A tripartite meeting at Baabda Palace resulted in demands for immediate Israeli withdrawal, while Israeli minister Saar suggested the five points could be vacated if Lebanon "abides" by agreements. Evening reports indicated IMF openness to new aid negotiations, while Beirut Airport announced flight suspensions for Sunday's planned Nasrallah funeral.