New Delhi: Amid anger over recent Israeli attacks on Lebanon, India on Friday expressed deep concern over the high number of civilian casualties caused by air strikes two weeks after the US-Iran ceasefire announced on Wednesday. The attack killed more than 300 people, according to reports from the region. In response to media inquiries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that as a troop-contributing country to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which is committed to peace and security in Lebanon, the direction of the development of the situation is very disturbing. The ministry did not name Israel. The ceasefire has come under pressure amid disputes over Lebanon’s inclusion in the agreement. While Israel insists this is not the case, Iran calls the attacks a flagrant violation of the deal. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said: “India has always emphasized that the protection of civilians is a top priority. Adherence to international law and respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity are crucial.” He added that the Indian Embassy in Lebanon remains in close contact with the Indian community to ensure their safety. India has welcomed the temporary ceasefire, expressing hope that it will promote freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and bring lasting peace in the region. Pakistan appeared ready to host talks between the United States and Iran on Saturday to secure a still-fragile ceasefire. U.S. Vice President Vance said on his way to Pakistan that he looked forward to the negotiations, which he believed would yield positive results. However, he warned Tehran not to “play” the United States. “As the President of the United States has said, if the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we are certainly willing to open our hands. If they want to play us, then they will find that the negotiating team is not that receptive,” Vance said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel was ready to start talks with Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah and establish peaceful relations.
