New Delhi, April 10: India has expressed deep concern over reports of civilian casualties in Lebanon, describing the recent developments as alarming and urging all parties to adhere to international law.
During an inter-ministerial briefing on the situation in West Asia held in New Delhi, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India’s serious concern regarding the significant number of civilian deaths reported in Lebanon. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace and stability in the region, noting that India contributes troops to the United Nations peacekeeping mission, UNIFIL.
Jaiswal stated, “The safety of civilians has always been our top priority. It is essential to respect international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations.” He also mentioned that the Indian embassy in Lebanon is in constant contact with the Indian community residing there, monitoring their safety closely.
According to the Foreign Ministry, approximately 1,000 Indian nationals are currently in Lebanon.
This statement comes at a time when a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran has been implemented, with peace talks set to commence on Saturday. However, Israel has clarified that this ceasefire does not apply to its military operations in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office supported the U.S. decision to halt attacks on Iran but stated that this temporary agreement does not encompass ongoing military operations in Lebanon.
Just hours after the ceasefire announcement, Israel claimed it had launched a large-scale attack on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, targeting 100 sites within ten minutes. Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated that Lebanon is not part of this ceasefire.
Israel’s ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, stated that Iran’s military capabilities have weakened, but Israel will continue its actions in response to threats from Hezbollah.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) indicated that while operations against Iran have been halted, targeted ground actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon will persist. The IDF affirmed its commitment to take action on all fronts to ensure its security.
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