India concerned over rising civilian deaths in Lebanon
India on Friday expressed deep concern over rising civilian casualties in Lebanon, as Israeli military operations continue despite a fragile two-week ceasefire aimed at halting the month-long conflict. Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the situation as “very disturbing,” particularly given India’s longstanding engagement in peace efforts across West Asia.
Reiterating New Delhi’s position, Jaiswal emphasised that protecting civilian lives remains a top priority. He noted that India is “deeply concerned” by reports of significant civilian casualties in Lebanon. “As a troop-contributing country to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, which is invested in Lebanon’s peace and security, the trajectory of events is very disturbing,” he said. He added that India has consistently called for adherence to international law, stressing that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity is essential in resolving conflicts.
The developments come as a ceasefire reportedly brokered between the United States and Iran faces increasing strain. While Tehran has maintained that the truce includes a halt to Israeli operations in Lebanon, both Washington and Israel have rejected that interpretation.
Reports indicate that Israeli strikes targeting Hezbollah positions have continued despite the agreement. Lebanese authorities say a recent wave of attacks resulted in hundreds of deaths, raising fears of a broader regional escalation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed suggestions that a ceasefire applies to Lebanon, stating that military operations against Hezbollah will continue.
“There is no ceasefire in Lebanon,” Netanyahu said, adding that Israel would persist with its campaign until security concerns are addressed. He also indicated that his Government is preparing for direct negotiations with Lebanon, aimed at disarming Hezbollah and pursuing what he described as a potential “historic peace agreement.”
Meanwhile, Nawaf Salam is expected to travel to Washington, DC, for further discussions, as diplomatic tensions grow over differing interpretations of the ceasefire and the risk of wider conflict looms.
India on Friday expressed deep concern over rising civilian casualties in Lebanon, as Israeli military operations continue despite a fragile two-week ceasefire aimed at halting the month-long conflict. Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the situation as “very disturbing,” particularly given India’s longstanding engagement in peace efforts across West Asia.
Reiterating New Delhi’s position, Jaiswal emphasised that protecting civilian lives remains a top priority. He noted that India is “deeply concerned” by reports of significant civilian casualties in Lebanon. “As a troop-contributing country to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, which is invested in Lebanon’s peace and security, the trajectory of events is very disturbing,” he said. He added that India has consistently called for adherence to international law, stressing that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity is essential in resolving conflicts.
The developments come as a ceasefire reportedly brokered between the United States and Iran faces increasing strain. While Tehran has maintained that the truce includes a halt to Israeli operations in Lebanon, both Washington and Israel have rejected that interpretation.
Reports indicate that Israeli strikes targeting Hezbollah positions have continued despite the agreement. Lebanese authorities say a recent wave of attacks resulted in hundreds of deaths, raising fears of a broader regional escalation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed suggestions that a ceasefire applies to Lebanon, stating that military operations against Hezbollah will continue.
“There is no ceasefire in Lebanon,” Netanyahu said, adding that Israel would persist with its campaign until security concerns are addressed. He also indicated that his Government is preparing for direct negotiations with Lebanon, aimed at disarming Hezbollah and pursuing what he described as a potential “historic peace agreement.”
Meanwhile, Nawaf Salam is expected to travel to Washington, DC, for further discussions, as diplomatic tensions grow over differing interpretations of the ceasefire and the risk of wider conflict looms.
The government is also closely monitoring the safety of Indian citizens in Lebanon, where around 1,000 Indians are currently residing. India’s embassy remains in regular contact with the community to ensure their safety amid the escalating situation.
- MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal
