India on Friday (April 10, 2026) expressed “deep concern” over the loss of civilian lives in Wednesday’s (April 9) Israeli bombing of the Lebanese capital, Beirut.
Speaking at a press briefing at the National Media Centre, the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, said respect for “sovereignty and territorial integrity” within the international state system is “essential”.
“We are deeply concerned by reports of a large number of civilian casualties in Lebanon. India has always emphasised the protection of civilians as the foremost priority. Observing international law, and respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states is essential,” said Mr. Jaiswal, who stopped short of mentioning Israel. He said the Indian Embassy in Beirut remains in close touch with the Indian community in Lebanon for its “safety and security”.
Israel’s deadly strikes in Lebanon spark outrage, condemnation from rights bodies
The MEA’s comments came after Israel struck nearly 100 targets in Beirut on Wednesday (April 9), claiming that they served as command and control centres of Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group in Lebanon that has been fighting against Israel as the U.S.-Israel war on Iran intensified. The Israeli strikes in Beirut left over a hundred dead and several hundred more injured. Many victims are still lying buried under collapsed apartment blocks.
