The United States has reportedly told Lebanese officials that Israel’s military intends to remain in five strategic points inside Lebanon, but will withdraw from towns it still occupies.

Lebanese officials have rejected Israel’s plan to retain control over five locations in southern Lebanon beyond a February 18 withdrawal deadline. Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri said Thursday that US officials informed him of Israel’s intention to withdraw from occupied villages by the deadline but remain in specific positions.

Lebanon wants a "full, total and unconditional withdrawal" of Israeli forces, Youssef Rajji told The National in his first trip abroad since he was nominated as foreign minister last week. Speaking on the margin of a conference in Paris to support Syria's political transition,