Reacting to the recent escalation in conflict in the Middle East, with Israel responding to militant groups Hamas and Iran-backed Hezbollah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his concern on Tuesday about the instability affecting peace and security in the region.
Jaishankar described Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel a “terrorist attack” while speaking at the conversation at the Carnegie Endowment in the US
The External Affairs Minister also emphasized that any country, even during disputes, should act in accordance with international humanitarian law, being mindful of potential damage and implications for civilian populations.
“…We regard the October 7th incident as a terrorist attack. We understand that Israel had a need to respond, but we also believe that any response by any country must take into account international humanitarian law and be careful about any damage or implications for civilian populations…” Jaishankar Said.
“We are very concerned about the possibility of a broadening conflict, not just in Lebanon but also regarding the Houthis and the Red Sea, and to some extent, anything that may happen between Iran and Israel. So, while it is one thing to be concerned…,” he added
PM Modi Calls Netanyahu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi dialled Israeli counterpart Netanyahu.and asserted that terrorism has no place in our world. The PM in a tweet said, “Spoke to Prime Minister Netanyahu about recent developments in West Asia. Terrorism has no place in our world. It is crucial to prevent regional escalation and ensure the safe release of all hostages. India is committed to supporting efforts for an early restoration of peace and stability.”
“To operate to achieve the goals of the war”
The IDF announced that it is targeting Hezbollah positions near the Israeli border using air and artillery strikes to support ground operations. While no timeline for the mission was provided, the military emphasized its commitment to achieving the war’s objectives and ensuring the safety of Israeli citizens, aiming to enable residents of northern Israel to return to their homes.
Israel issues a warning for residents to evacuate another 24 villages in southern Lebanon
The Israeli military has warned residents to evacuate another 24 villages in southern Lebanon. This warning, issued on Wednesday, follows the military’s announcement of limited ground operations near the border aimed at combating the Hezbollah militant group. The affected villages are located in a UN-declared buffer zone established after the last war between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006.
