Smoke billows from southern Lebanon following Israeli strikes
Expressing ‘utmost concern’ over the dangerous escalation of hostilities in West Asia, India on Monday warned that the conflict is inflicting immense human suffering while dealing a ‘debilitating impact’ to the global economy and critical energy supplies.In a statement, New Delhi called on all parties to de-escalate tensions, ensure that civilians are not harmed and conclude ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution.“India deeply regrets the renewed attacks in West Asia. These developments are a matter of utmost concern to the international community,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.Israel carried out air strikes in western and central Iran after Iran fired missiles at northern Israel.The statement highlighted that the conflict was resulting in immense human suffering and was also hurting global economy.“This conflict has now lasted over 100 days and has already caused immense human suffering. It has also had a debilitating impact on the global economy and energy supplies,” it said.Diplomatic solutionIndia also called for de-escalation of tensions. “We call on all parties to immediately de-escalate tensions, ensure that civilians are not harmed and conclude ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region,” it said.US President Donald Trump, too, asked Israel and Iran to “immediately stop shooting”. Iran initiated, what it warned, will be “a full week of continuous strikes” against Israel. This followed Israeli air strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Beirut on Sunday, which the Israeli military defended as a necessary response to previous Hezbollah rocket fire.However, later on Monday, Iran declared an end to its military operations against Israel, warning that Israel’s further attacks on Lebanon could lead to an escalation.Published on June 8, 2026
