Why has Lebanese army withdrawn from border towns?

The Lebanese army said its forces have largely withdrawn from some border towns as Israeli troops continue to push a ground invasion into the country.

The Lebanese military said in a statement that troops had to reposition to prevent being dispersed and cut off from support lines.

The military has gradually withdrawn from a handful of border towns. Remaining residents in the Christian-majority communities Rmeich and Ain Ebel have appealed to the Lebanese military and leadership to stay.

The military said it would maintain a group of soldiers in those towns.

Israel has declared southern Lebanon up until the Litani River will be a "security-zone" in its ongoing war with Hezbollah and residents will not be able to return until further notice.

Over 1 million people in Lebanon have been displaced over the past month.