Our Bureau
New Delhi
India has raised serious worries about the deaths of many innocent people in Lebanon after deadly Israeli attacks. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called the situation very troubling as strikes hit Beirut and other areas despite a recent ceasefire in West Asia.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared India’s strong concern during a media briefing in New Delhi on Friday. “We are deeply concerned by reports of a large number of civilian casualties in Lebanon,” he said. Lebanese authorities reported at least 300 people killed in Israeli air strikes on Wednesday, marking one of the worst days in the ongoing conflict.
India, as a key contributor of troops to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), stressed its commitment to peace in the region. “As a troop contributing country to the UNIFIL that is invested in Lebanon’s peace and security, the direction of events is very disturbing,” Jaiswal added. He made these remarks amid rising tensions, with Hezbollah claiming it targeted Israel’s Ashdod naval base in response to attacks on Beirut.
The strikes came days after US President Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, with status of Lebanon not being entirely clear. Lebanon’s health ministry noted over 300 lives lost in the latest bombardment, adding to fears of wider unrest. Jaiswal underlined that protecting civilians must be the top priority. “India has always emphasised the protection of civilians as the foremost priority,” he stated.
India also urged respect for international law and the sovereignty of nations. “Observing international law, and respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, is essential,” the MEA said. The Indian Embassy in Lebanon is in touch with the community there to ensure their safety.
This comes as rescue efforts continue in Lebanon as India hopes for quick de-escalation.
