New Delhi: India on Friday expressed deep concern over rising civilian casualties in Lebanon following intensified military strikes by Israel, describing the situation as “very disturbing” and urging strict adherence to international law.
Speaking at an official briefing, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, said New Delhi is closely monitoring the developments as violence in the region continues to escalate.
“We are deeply concerned by reports of a large number of civilian casualties in Lebanon,” Jaiswal said, reiterating India’s consistent position that the protection of civilians must remain a top priority in any conflict.
The statement came days after Israel launched one of its heaviest offensives since the conflict began, striking over 100 alleged command centres and military targets linked to Hezbollah across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon. Explosions were reported across multiple regions, marking one of the deadliest phases of the ongoing hostilities.
According to Lebanese authorities, at least 254 people were killed and hundreds injured in a single day, highlighting the rapidly worsening humanitarian situation.
The escalation has also raised questions over the effectiveness and scope of the ceasefire framework reportedly involving the United States and Iran after weeks of intense conflict that had brought the region close to a wider war.
India, which contributes troops to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), termed the situation particularly concerning given its role in maintaining peace in the region. “As a troop contributing country to UNIFIL that is invested in Lebanon’s peace and security, the direction of events is very disturbing,” Jaiswal added.
Reaffirming its diplomatic stance, India stressed the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity while calling for restraint from all sides.
The government also confirmed that steps are being taken to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in Lebanon, with the Indian Embassy maintaining close contact with the community amid the ongoing crisis.
