New Delhi has expressed concern over the civilian casualties caused by West Jerusalems attacks on Beirut and other places

India has described the Israeli bombardment of Lebanon after the announcement of the ceasefire in the Middle East as "disturbing."

On Wednesday, Israel's attacks on Beirut claimed more than 300 lives, as the Jewish state refused to halt its offensive in Lebanon despite a truce being called in the Middle East.

"We are deeply concerned by reports of a large number of civilian casualties in Lebanon," Indian Foreign Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said on Friday. "As a troop contributing country to the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) that is invested in Lebanon's peace and security, the direction of events is very disturbing."

New Delhi has always emphasized the protection of civilians as the foremost priority, he said.

Observing international law and respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states is essential, Jaiswal added.

"Our embassy in Lebanon remains in close touch with the Indian community for its safety and security," the spokesman said.

Israel stepped up air strikes across Lebanon, pounding central Beirut, just hours after the US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire.

The escalation comes in an apparentviolation of the truce, which mediators said was meant to include Lebanon, despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's insistance that it does not apply.

India has not condemned the US and Israel for their strikes on civilian targets or the assassination of top Iranian leaders. New Delhi has instead chosen to express concern and offer condolences.

The South Asian nation, which has strong ties with the US, Israel, and Iran has also ruled out the possibility of mediating in the conflict, but has encouraged dialogue between the warring parties.

(RT.com)