Haddad militia expands control in south Lebanon

The Israeli-backed militia of Maj. Saad Haddad expanded its control of southern Lebanon, setting up a new position in the port of Sidon, witnesses said.

The move followed by a day a statement by Israel's chief negotiator, David Kimche, that Israel would be ready for a partial pullout from the occupied nation if Palestinian guerrillas first left the eastern and northern regions. In an interview with Beirut's Central News Agency, Mr. Kimche said Israel would then agree to the limited withdrawal with the Syrians.