Barely a week into the escalating West Asia Conflict, the financial cost of the war is already running into billions of dollars.

West Asia Conflict: Tracking the Rising Cost of War in West Asia 

Countries across West Asia have sharply increased their weapon imports over the past two decades as regional tensions and security risks continue to rise.

US-Israel War with Iran: Tracking West Asia's Arms Stockpile 

West Asia is sliding deeper into war. What began as military strikes last Saturday has now turned into a widening regional conflict, including the Caucasus. Iran says it fired the Khorramshahr-4 ballistic missile with multiple warheads toward Israel, while the IDF claims 90 fighter jets struck around 40 Iranian targets with nearly 200 bombs. How long before the world is dragged into the conflict?  


Israel-Iran War: Iran Fires Heavy-Destruction Ballistic Missile Towards Israel 

The conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has expanded beyond West Asia after a U.S. submarine torpedoed the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka’s coast. The warship had recently participated in naval exercises in India and was returning home when it was struck in the Indian Ocean, marking a dramatic widening of the war zone.


West Asia War: Showdown Over U.S. Sinking Iranian Warship Near Sri Lanka

Amid the escalating Israel-Iran war and widening West Asia conflict, Indian students are anxiously awaiting evacuation as travel disruptions, airspace closures, and security risks intensify across the region. Thousands of Indian nationals, including students in Iran, the Gulf and nearby countries, have been relocated to safer areas like Qom and are in contact with Indian authorities, but many still remain stranded and are seeking urgent repatriation as tensions soar and explosions are reported near their locations.


Israel-Iran War: Indian Students Await Evacuation Amid West Asia Conflict

Expressing concerns over the escalating situation in West Asia, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India has been in regular touch with both Israel and Iran to "advocate constraints" and "enhance communication" in an attempt to resolve the conflict between the two countries.

In his opening remark at the MED Mediterranean Dialogues Conference in Rome, Italy, the Foreign Minister reiterated India's strong condemnation of terrorism, and the abduction of hostages by Hamas, and affirmed support for reaching a ceasefire.

Jaishankar, however, also emphasised the need to abide by international humanitarian law and called large-scale civilian casualties "unacceptable."

"Today I focus my remarks on the conflicts. The situation in the Middle East is obviously deeply concerning, both for what has happened and what may still come. India unequivocally condemns terrorism and hostage-taking. It also regards large-scale civilian casualties in military operations to be unacceptable. International humanitarian law cannot be disregarded in immediate terms. We should all support a ceasefire," EAM Jaishankar said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-jaishankar-set-for-3-day-italy-visit-to-join-g7-foreign-ministers-meet-778800">Also read:&nbsp;India’s Jaishankar set for 3-day Italy visit to join G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meet</a>

"India favours a two-state solution. Our concerns have also been increasing on the widening of the conflict. We have been in regular touch with both Israel and Iran at the highest levels to advocate restraint and enhance communication," he added.

Jaishankar further expressed India's willingness to contribute to meaningful International diplomatic endeavours.

Shifting his focus on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the EAM emphasised "serious destabilising consequences" including the challenge faced by the Mediterranean.

He reiterated India's stand on the situation and said that the disputes in this era cannot be settled by war but only through dialogue and diplomacy.

Watch |&nbsp;S. Jaishankar in Riyadh for first India-Gulf Foreign Ministers' meeting

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"Addressing the conflict in Ukraine is the other urgent imperative of our times. It is well into its third year. The continuation of this conflict has serious destabilising consequences, including for the Mediterranean. What is clear is that no solution is going to emerge from the battlefield. India has consistently held the view that disputes in this era cannot be settled by war. There must be a return to dialogue and diplomacy. The sooner the better. This is a widespread sentiment in the world today, especially in the Global South," Jaishankar said.

He further noted PM Modi's efforts with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine to find common ground in an attempt to end the nearly three-year-long conflict.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has personally engaged leaders of both Russia and Ukraine to this end. this has included his visit to Moscow and Kyiv. Our senior officials remain in continuous touch. We firmly believe that those who have the ability to explore finding common ground must step up to that responsibility," Jaishankar said.

Jaishankar further called for a "closer and stronger" relationship between India and the Mediterranean in the new era of "re-globalising, rebalancing and multi-polarity."

"We are today on the threshold of a new era. It is one of re-globalising, rebalancing and multi-polarity. It is also a more technology-centered future with a premium on the mobility of talent and greener growth. Opportunities in this world are as indivisible as anxieties. A closer and stronger relationship between India and the Mediterranean will serve both of us," he added.

The External Affairs Minister is on a three-day official visit to Italy during which he will participate in the Outreach Session of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Fiuggi, Italy, where India has been invited as a guest country.

He also inaugurated the new Chancery of the Indian Embassy in Rome on Sunday.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Expressing concerns over the escalating situation in West Asia, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India has been in regular touch with both Israel and Iran to "advocate constraints" and "enhance communication" in an attempt to resolve the conflict between the two countries.

Expressing concerns over the escalating situation in West Asia, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India has been in regular touch with both Israel and Iran to "advocate constraints" and "enhance communication" in an attempt to resolve the conflict between the two countries. In his opening remark at the MED Mediterranean Dialogues Conference in Rome, Italy, the Foreign Minister reiterated India's strong condemnation of terrorism, and the abduction of hostages by Hamas, and affirmed support for reaching a ceasefire. Jaishankar, however, also emphasised the need to abide by international humanitarian law and called large-scale civilian casualties "unacceptable." "Today I focus my remarks on the conflicts. The situation in the Middle East is obviously deeply concerning, both for what has happened and what may still come. India unequivocally condemns terrorism and hostage-taking. It also regards large-scale civilian casualties in military operations to be unacceptable. International humanitarian law cannot be disregarded in immediate terms. We should all support a ceasefire," EAM Jaishankar said. Also read: India’s Jaishankar set for 3-day Italy visit to join G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meet "India favours a two-state solution. Our concerns have also been increasing on the widening of the conflict. We have been in regular touch with both Israel and Iran at the highest levels to advocate restraint and enhance communication," he added. Jaishankar further expressed India's willingness to contribute to meaningful International diplomatic endeavours. Shifting his focus on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the EAM emphasised "serious destabilising consequences" including the challenge faced by the Mediterranean. He reiterated India's stand on the situation and said that the disputes in this era cannot be settled by war but only through dialogue and diplomacy. Watch | S. Jaishankar in Riyadh for first India-Gulf Foreign Ministers' meeting × "Addressing the conflict in Ukraine is the other urgent imperative of our times. It is well into its third year. The continuation of this conflict has serious destabilising consequences, including for the Mediterranean. What is clear is that no solution is going to emerge from the battlefield. India has consistently held the view that disputes in this era cannot be settled by war. There must be a return to dialogue and diplomacy. The sooner the better. This is a widespread sentiment in the world today, especially in the Global South," Jaishankar said. He further noted PM Modi's efforts with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine to find common ground in an attempt to end the nearly three-year-long conflict. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has personally engaged leaders of both Russia and Ukraine to this end. this has included his visit to Moscow and Kyiv. Our senior officials remain in continuous touch. We firmly believe that those who have the ability to explore finding common ground must step up to that responsibility," Jaishankar said. Jaishankar further called for a "closer and stronger" relationship between India and the Mediterranean in the new era of "re-globalising, rebalancing and multi-polarity." "We are today on the threshold of a new era. It is one of re-globalising, rebalancing and multi-polarity. It is also a more technology-centered future with a premium on the mobility of talent and greener growth. Opportunities in this world are as indivisible as anxieties. A closer and stronger relationship between India and the Mediterranean will serve both of us," he added. The External Affairs Minister is on a three-day official visit to Italy during which he will participate in the Outreach Session of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Fiuggi, Italy, where India has been invited as a guest country. He also inaugurated the new Chancery of the Indian Embassy in Rome on Sunday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'India unequivocally condemns terrorism, in regular touch with Israel, Iran': Jaishankar at Rome conference

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday (Nov. 21), for crimes against humanity and war crimes, as the West Asia crisis continues.&nbsp;

It further classified the arrest warrants as “secret” to safeguard the conduct of the investigations.&nbsp;

“The Chamber issued warrants of arrest for two individuals, Mr Benjamin Netanyahu and Mr Yoav Gallant, for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024, the day the Prosecution filed the applications for warrants of arrest,” the ICC stated in its statement.&nbsp;

The statement read that the chamber found “reasonable grounds” to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant, at the time of the alleged conduct, each bear criminal responsibility for the following crimes as co-perpetrators for committing the acts jointly with others: the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-to-probe-alleged-war-crimes-in-palestinian-territories-269444">Also read:&nbsp;US Congress invites Israeli PM Netanyahu to speak amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis</a>

“The Chamber also found reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant each bear criminal responsibility as civilian superiors for the war crime of intentionally directing an attack against the civilian population,” it added.&nbsp;

The ICC also issued an arrest warrant for Hamas leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri (also known as Mohammed Deif).

The court “unanimously” decided to issue an arrest warrant for Hamas’s military commander Mohammed al-Masri “for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed on the territory of the State of Israel and the State of Palestine from at least 7 October 2023”.

It further accused him of crims including murder, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence.&nbsp;

Israel, however, has claimed to have killed Deif in an air raid in southern Gaza in July. But the ICC decided to proceed with the warrant, saying it was “not in a position to determine whether [he] has been killed or remains alive”.

<h2>'Antisemitic decision'</h2>

Following this, the Prime Minister’s office declared in a statement on Thursday that the ICC’s “antisemitic decision” to issue arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant “is equivalent to a modern Dreyfus trial.”

The PMO vowed that the court’s decision would not deter Israel from protecting its citizens, adding that it rejected “with disgust” the court’s “false” and “absurd” charges — and asserted that they stem from Khan’s efforts to “save his skin from the serious charges against him for sexual harassment” as well as the beliefs of “biased judges motivated by antisemitic hatred of Israel.”

“That is why the prosecutor lied when he told American senators that he would not act against Israel before he got here and heard its side. That is why he suddenly canceled his arrival in Israel last May, a few days after suspicions were raised against him for sexual harassment, and announced his intention to issue arrest warrants against the prime minister and former defense minister,” the PMO charged.

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday (Nov.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday (Nov. 21), for crimes against humanity and war crimes, as the West Asia crisis continues. It further classified the arrest warrants as “secret” to safeguard the conduct of the investigations. “The Chamber issued warrants of arrest for two individuals, Mr Benjamin Netanyahu and Mr Yoav Gallant, for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024, the day the Prosecution filed the applications for warrants of arrest,” the ICC stated in its statement. The statement read that the chamber found “reasonable grounds” to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant, at the time of the alleged conduct, each bear criminal responsibility for the following crimes as co-perpetrators for committing the acts jointly with others: the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts. Also read: US Congress invites Israeli PM Netanyahu to speak amid ICC warrant controversy and Gaza crisis “The Chamber also found reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant each bear criminal responsibility as civilian superiors for the war crime of intentionally directing an attack against the civilian population,” it added. The ICC also issued an arrest warrant for Hamas leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri (also known as Mohammed Deif). The court “unanimously” decided to issue an arrest warrant for Hamas’s military commander Mohammed al-Masri “for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed on the territory of the State of Israel and the State of Palestine from at least 7 October 2023”. It further accused him of crims including murder, torture, rape and other forms of sexual violence. Israel, however, has claimed to have killed Deif in an air raid in southern Gaza in July. But the ICC decided to proceed with the warrant, saying it was “not in a position to determine whether [he] has been killed or remains alive”. 'Antisemitic decision' Following this, the Prime Minister’s office declared in a statement on Thursday that the ICC’s “antisemitic decision” to issue arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant “is equivalent to a modern Dreyfus trial.” The PMO vowed that the court’s decision would not deter Israel from protecting its citizens, adding that it rejected “with disgust” the court’s “false” and “absurd” charges — and asserted that they stem from Khan’s efforts to “save his skin from the serious charges against him for sexual harassment” as well as the beliefs of “biased judges motivated by antisemitic hatred of Israel.” “That is why the prosecutor lied when he told American senators that he would not act against Israel before he got here and heard its side. That is why he suddenly canceled his arrival in Israel last May, a few days after suspicions were raised against him for sexual harassment, and announced his intention to issue arrest warrants against the prime minister and former defense minister,” the PMO charged. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

ICC issues arrest warrants against Israeli PM Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas leader over war crimes

Iran's Foreign Minister&nbsp;Abbas Araghchi issued a warning on Saturday (Nov 9) that the conflicts between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and the Jewish state&nbsp;and Hezbollah in Lebanon might extend beyond the Middle East.

In a speech aired on state TV, Araghchi warned, “The world should know that in case of the expansion of war, its harmful effects will not be limited only to the West Asia region; insecurity and instability can spread to other regions, even far away.”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian suggested that the possibility of a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon could influence Iran’s actions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-20-people-killed-over-40-others-injured-in-blast-at-railway-station-in-pakistans-quetta-774758">Blast at Quetta Railway Station: Death toll at 26 in attack claimed by BLA</a>

“If they (the Israelis)... accept a ceasefire and stop massacring the oppressed and innocent people of the region, it could affect the intensity and type of our response,” Pezeshkian stated at the beginning of this month.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, Ali Larijani, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, advised caution in Iran’s response to Israel.

“Israel aims to bring the conflict to Iran. We must act wisely to avoid its trap and not react instinctively,” Larijani said on state television.

On October 26, Israel launched airstrikes on military installations in Iran as a response to Tehran's attack on Israel earlier on October 1. Iran’s strike was in retaliation for the deaths of Iran-supported militant leaders and a Revolutionary Guards general.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-truce-talks-presence-of-hamas-in-doha-is-no-longer-accepted-since-us-tells-qatar-774742">'Presence of Hamas in Doha is no longer accepted since...,' US tells Qatar</a>

Iranian officials reported that Israel's October 26 attack resulted in the deaths of four soldiers and minor damage to radar equipment. Additionally, Iranian media noted that a civilian casualty occurred.

Despite warnings from the United States and Israel, Tehran has pledged to retaliate. Last week, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei promised a powerful response against both Israel and the US for their actions toward Iran.

"The enemies, whether the Zionist regime or the United States of America, will definitely receive a crushing response to what they are doing to Iran, the Iranian people, and the resistance front," Khamenei said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a warning on Saturday (Nov 9) that the conflicts between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and the Jewish state and Hezbollah in Lebanon might extend beyond the Middle East.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a warning on Saturday (Nov 9) that the conflicts between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and the Jewish state and Hezbollah in Lebanon might extend beyond the Middle East. In a speech aired on state TV, Araghchi warned, “The world should know that in case of the expansion of war, its harmful effects will not be limited only to the West Asia region; insecurity and instability can spread to other regions, even far away.” Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian suggested that the possibility of a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon could influence Iran’s actions. Also read: Blast at Quetta Railway Station: Death toll at 26 in attack claimed by BLA “If they (the Israelis)... accept a ceasefire and stop massacring the oppressed and innocent people of the region, it could affect the intensity and type of our response,” Pezeshkian stated at the beginning of this month. Meanwhile, on Thursday, Ali Larijani, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, advised caution in Iran’s response to Israel. “Israel aims to bring the conflict to Iran. We must act wisely to avoid its trap and not react instinctively,” Larijani said on state television. On October 26, Israel launched airstrikes on military installations in Iran as a response to Tehran's attack on Israel earlier on October 1. Iran’s strike was in retaliation for the deaths of Iran-supported militant leaders and a Revolutionary Guards general. Also read: 'Presence of Hamas in Doha is no longer accepted since...,' US tells Qatar Iranian officials reported that Israel's October 26 attack resulted in the deaths of four soldiers and minor damage to radar equipment. Additionally, Iranian media noted that a civilian casualty occurred. Despite warnings from the United States and Israel, Tehran has pledged to retaliate. Last week, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei promised a powerful response against both Israel and the US for their actions toward Iran. "The enemies, whether the Zionist regime or the United States of America, will definitely receive a crushing response to what they are doing to Iran, the Iranian people, and the resistance front," Khamenei said. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran warns of potential 'war expansion,' says conflicts could spread beyond the Middle East

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, on Wednesday (Oct 23) said that its fighters have killed more than 70 Israeli officers since the start of the ground war in Lebanon.

The militant group's operations room issued&nbsp;a field summary claiming that apart from the 70 Israeli officers killed at the hands of its fighters, around 600 more have been injured.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:118,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1955}">Hezbollah tally of Israeli losses</h2>

The Iran-backed group's tally also revealed the destruction of 28 Merkava tanks, four military bulldozers, an armoured vehicle, and an APC (Armoured personnel carrier).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:212,&quot;w&quot;:679,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2049}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-confirms-death-of-nasrallahs-heir-apparent-sayyed-hashem-safieddine-769875">West Asia crisis: Israel confirms death of Hezbollah leader Nasrallah's heir apparent Sayyed Hashem Safieddine</a>

Additionally, it said that three Hermes 450 drones and one Hermes 900 drone were downed.

It added that the losses do not include the casualties or damage from missile and drone attacks sustained by Israeli forces inside Palestine.

Hezbollah, as per Al Mayadeen, also said that the "occupation forces" have been unable to fully control or occupy any village along the front lines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:393,&quot;w&quot;:685,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2230}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-sinwar-order-hamas-to-kill-all-hostages-in-case-of-his-death-israels-top-hostage-negotiator-said-this-769930">Did Sinwar order Hamas to kill all hostages in case of his death? Israel's top hostage negotiator said this...</a>

Just last week, Hezbollah in a statement said that it had killed around 55 Israeli soldiers. At the time, the group also said that it had wounded a further 500 soldiers, and destroyed 20 Merkava tanks, four bulldozers, and downed two Hermes drones.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:514,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2351}">Israeli tally</h2>

While Hezbollah claims it has killed 70 Israeli soldiers and officers, Tel Aviv's tally puts the number of troops killed in the ongoing conflict at 50, as per Reuters.

According to the report, Israel has lost around 20 soldiers inside Lebanon since its ground operations began, and around 30 more in Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War: Hezbollah Says Intel Base' Targeted In Tel Aviv

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(With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, on Wednesday (Oct 23) said that its fighters have killed more than 70 Israeli officers since the start of the ground war in Lebanon.

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, on Wednesday (Oct 23) said that its fighters have killed more than 70 Israeli officers since the start of the ground war in Lebanon. The militant group's operations room issued a field summary claiming that apart from the 70 Israeli officers killed at the hands of its fighters, around 600 more have been injured. Hezbollah tally of Israeli losses The Iran-backed group's tally also revealed the destruction of 28 Merkava tanks, four military bulldozers, an armoured vehicle, and an APC (Armoured personnel carrier). Also read | West Asia crisis: Israel confirms death of Hezbollah leader Nasrallah's heir apparent Sayyed Hashem Safieddine Additionally, it said that three Hermes 450 drones and one Hermes 900 drone were downed. It added that the losses do not include the casualties or damage from missile and drone attacks sustained by Israeli forces inside Palestine. Hezbollah, as per Al Mayadeen, also said that the "occupation forces" have been unable to fully control or occupy any village along the front lines. Also read | Did Sinwar order Hamas to kill all hostages in case of his death? Israel's top hostage negotiator said this... Just last week, Hezbollah in a statement said that it had killed around 55 Israeli soldiers. At the time, the group also said that it had wounded a further 500 soldiers, and destroyed 20 Merkava tanks, four bulldozers, and downed two Hermes drones. Israeli tally While Hezbollah claims it has killed 70 Israeli soldiers and officers, Tel Aviv's tally puts the number of troops killed in the ongoing conflict at 50, as per Reuters. According to the report, Israel has lost around 20 soldiers inside Lebanon since its ground operations began, and around 30 more in Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: Hezbollah Says Intel Base' Targeted In Tel Aviv (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Hezbollah claims over 70 Israeli officers killed, 600 injured amid ground war in Lebanon

Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah said on Saturday (Oct 12) that it launched a salvo of missiles at an Israeli military base south of the coastal city of Haifa, as Israelis marked the Yom Kippur holiday.

Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah said on Saturday (Oct 12) that it launched a salvo of missiles at an Israeli military base south of the coastal city of Haifa, as Israelis marked the Yom Kippur holiday. In a statement, Hezbollah said that its fighters struck a base "south of the city of Haifa, targeting the explosives factory there with a salvo of... missiles." Earlier in the day, Hezbollah warned Israelis to stay away from Israeli army sites in residential areas in the north of the country. Hezbollah said that the "Israeli enemy army uses the homes of Israelis in north Israel, and has military bases inside residential neighbourhoods in major occupied cities such as Haifa, Tiberias, and Acre." No sirens sound in Israel Despite Hezbollah's claims that it launched missiles in Haifa, a report by The Times of Israel said that there were no sirens in Israel and there had been no news of any attack. The report said that there had been no IDF (Israel Defense Forces) Command alerts in Israel since shortly before 4 am local time. Also read | West Asia crisis: US wants solution in Lebanon, not broader conflict, says Blinken On Wednesday, residents in Haifa rushed for cover as air raid sirens sounded and blasts were heard overhead in the city. Ballistic missiles arrived just minutes after the alarms first went off, leading to people quickly heading for the nearest shelters, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Hezbollah and Israel have been exchanging near-daily cross-border fire for almost a year, with the group saying it is acting in support of Palestinian ally Hamas over the Gaza war. Israel's UN ambassador's message to Hezbollah On Wednesday, Israel's ambassador to the United Nations (UN) Danny Danon gave a message to Hezbollah. "If Hezbollah wants this situation to de-escalate, it is very simple. They have to do two things," he said. "First, they must immediately stop shelling our civilian communities. Second, Hezbollah must withdraw to the north of the Litani River in accordance with the UN Resolution 1701, which was adopted here in the Security Council in 2006," Danon said. "Until that happens, Israel will continue our operations to degrade Hezbollah’s terror network. We found a lot of weapons in the bunkers next to our border, and we will do whatever it takes to secure our people and enable the 70,000 displaced Israelis to return home safely," he added. US-made munition used in Israeli strike on central Beirut A day after Danon's remarks, two Israeli air strikes killed 22 people and wounded 117 in central Beirut, Lebanese health authorities said. The attacks targeted a Hezbollah official, but security sources said he had survived. Also watch | World DNA: Israel marks Yom Kippur amid global criticism of its Lebanon offensive × This was the deadliest strike on Lebanon's capital city since fighting between Israel and Hezbollah started about a year ago. A report by The Guardian on Saturday said that a US-made munition was used in the Israeli strike on central Beirut. The report said that it found remnants of a US-manufactured joint direct attack munition (JDAM) in the rubble of the collapsed apartment building on Friday afternoon. Jdams are guidance kits built by the American aerospace company Boeing. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Hezbollah launches missiles on Israeli military bases near Haifa

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region.

Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, has also launched a volley of rockets into Israel, pushing the situation closer to a potential wider conflict.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Narsh said, "We call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war...we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war."

The Ambassador also confirmed that India plans to send a medical humanitarian situation to his country very soon. He termed the situation "very bad" in Lebanon and that his government&nbsp;is ready to implement UNSC resolution 1701.&nbsp;

Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, aimed to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah by calling for Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and the militant group's disarmament south of the Litani River. Ambassador Narsh pointed out, "Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah."&nbsp;Full interview:

WION: What is the current situation in Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The situation is very bad in Lebanon. Of course, we are at an all-out war, Israel is waging an all-out war on Lebanon. So far we have more than 2000 innocent souls perished, and more than 10,000 injured, 1.2 million displaced, which is a heavy burden on Lebanon, given we gave two&nbsp;million Syrian refugees also. So the situation is bad, and this reflects the aggressive nature of Israel, which has been waging this war for a twisted and sinister agenda.

WION: What do you expect from the international community at a time when your country is facing the situation?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The international community is our only aim, and our only side to talk to and to ask them to stop this madness from (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu, the international community has also to be responsible, and play an important role in de-escalating the situation in the region. They have, of course, many good offices and negotiations going on, but they have been faced with the war mindset of Israel.

WION: How do you see India's role? Have you briefed the Indian side about the current situation your country is facing?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I have, of course, I am in constant contact with the Indian side. The friendly government of India has always supported Lebanon and given that they have good relations with Israel and very good relations with Lebanon. So yes, they can play, and they are playing a very good role in de-escalating the situation. We know for sure that they have contacted but then again, like any other international player or good offices, the Peace Peace lover state, India, is also faced with the insistence of Netanyahu to go on this war. So we call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war.

WION: So you just said that India is playing a role in de-escalation you can elaborate on that bit. And also have you sent a message to New Delhi that India can send a message to the government in Israel, to Prime Minister Netanyahu, to, of course, de-escalate? Have you sent any messages?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We can't tell the Indians what to do. Of course, we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war. But yes, I know for sure that they are doing their best to see peace prevail in the region.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasrallahs-presumed-successor-safieddine-unreachable-since-fridays-israeli-strike-on-bunker-report-764777">Also read:&nbsp;Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's presumed successor Safieddine 'unreachable' since Friday's Israeli strike: Report</a>

WION: Around 3000 Indians in Lebanon, if you can talk about, is any evacuation plan being readied? Has the Indian government approached you? And also, there are Indian UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. What is the current condition for them?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The current situation of the Indians in Lebanon, there are, like you said, about three to 4000 Indians, they are as safe as any other Lebanese in the country. I mean, of course, the homes, the companies they work for, &nbsp;they are trying to protect them in the same way that they protect themselves. So hopefully they will be safe. There's no campaign to evacuate them from Lebanon. The Indian government has not approached us for that specific reason, hopefully will not reach that point, but we want to see the war stop.

WION: And Indians in the UN?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Indians in the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon), this is the good part, and the beautiful face of India. India has always been investing in peace. So I think the biggest contingent in &nbsp;UNIFIL, the peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, is Indian. You have about 900 to 1000 peacekeeping personnel, and they are doing a great job. They are very much admired and appreciated in Lebanon. And again, on my behalf, on behalf of my government, I extend my appreciation and thanks to the Government of India.&nbsp;

WION: We know there was a plan for a ceasefire, the French and the American proposal for a ceasefire. What was the status? Is the proposal now dead? And had the Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah agreed to it?

Dr Rabie Narsh: This proposal was botched by Netanyahu himself, and yes, there was a peace almost, I mean, ceasefire agreement. Our government has announced its acceptance of the proposal by the French and the Americans and it was almost about to happen, but it turned out that it was a plot by the Israeli government and by Netanyahu, it was part of the plan to assassinate &nbsp;Nasrallah. Now there's, of course, there's always talk to end this crazy war, but there's no light at the end of the tunnels.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War: Nasrallah's Presumed Successor Safieddine Said to Be Target of Latest Strikes

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WION: Any direct conversation happening between the Lebanese government and the Israeli government about the current situation, and how to handle it.

Dr Rabie Narsh: There's no direct contact with the Israeli government, but there's indirect, of course, indirect contact through our friends, as you said, the US, the French, the other European, and of course, there are some talks that are always there. It's always there.

WION: Do you think that this current situation, the war that is happening in your country, can become a larger, broader conflict in the region, which can escalate beyond the borders and can involve other countries?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Of course, there is serious concern that the war would escalate, and we almost at an all out war, but the escalation is always there, and yes, there is a big chance, unfortunately, that this war might even escalate further due to the like I said, the war mindset of Netanyahu And the current Israeli government.&nbsp;

WION: What role Hezbollah has in this war...in your country?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Hezbollah is a Lebanese party. They are Lebanese. All the members of Hezbollah are Lebanese. When it comes to domestic politics Hezbollah plays by the rule of the Lebanese political system. So there is no issue with that. And at the same time, Hezbollah is a resistant group, because our land is occupied. And if you remember, Hezbollah was only created in 1982 when Israel invaded Lebanon. So had there not been an invasion of Lebanon, we might not have seen Hezbollah created. So any occupation calls for resistance. Resistance in Lebanon to the Israeli occupation started long before Hezbollah. So Hezbollah was not the only resistance group, but maybe because during the, I mean, the years, and because of the demographic composition of Lebanon and geographical area, that's why maybe Hezbollah has lasted more and now Hezbollah is the main resistance group, but again, not alone. It's not a secret that Hezbollah gets the support, full support, from Iran, but as a resistance group, the Lebanese Resistance group and as a political party within the government and the parliament, they are represented there. They play by the rules, and they are a Lebanese political party.&nbsp;

WION: What's the plan for implementing the UNSC Resolution 1701, one of the key points is that all non-state actors need to shun weapons, and violence. What's your assessment on that? Will it be implemented by Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: 1701 was issued in 2006, it stopped the war also, again, another war from Israel into Lebanon. So we are ready. Currently, since they established the issuance of this 1701 resolution, we have been called, we have been calling for the full, full implementation of 1701, and we are ready. Currently, we are ready. We announced this many times to the international community that we are ready to apply and to fully implement 1701 with all its items, the issue is that you need the other party to abide by 1701 so Israel is the party who is violating 1701 by violating our airspace, our land, our sea, they are violating 1701 since its issuance.&nbsp;

WION: Does it include defanging the Hezbollah?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah.

WION: We also saw the pager attack. What are your investigations saying? Who is responsible for the pager attack?

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;First, this is a massacre. This is a war against humanity. It's a war crime. And it's not, by the way, an advent by the Israelis. It was considered before, and I read reports that even the Americans considered using this same plot in Afghanistan, but they refrained, because they were afraid that many innocent lives would also be affected. And this is what happened in Lebanon actually because pagers are not only with Hezbollah, the doctors use them, nurses, social workers, and many of these categories have either lost their lives or have been infected with major injuries. So the investigation is still going on, and I mean, there's maybe not just a single report about the investigation over the result of the investigation, but it's clear enough that Israel is behind this.

WION: Do you have any proof? And if you have any proof, will you present it to the international community?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Some things are very clear. They're too clear to have to need the proof. But no, I don't have proof. But maybe this is the only war crime that they did not claim, but obviously, and everyone knows that Israel is behind.

WION: Do you have proof? If you have proof, can you put it in front of the international community?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We have enough proof about this or other war crimes. And there have been, of course, put in front of the international community and asked them to take responsibility, to hold Israel responsible for all war crimes. There are lots of complaints from the Lebanon side to the United Nations to the General Assembly. So yeah, there are lots of them, and Israel has lots of war crimes for us to sue and to follow.

WION: What next for Hezbollah?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I am not an expert on Hezbollah, I don't know how their system works, but as a resistance group all over the world, they never die if you eliminate their head, if the head of any group was eliminated, then another one would replace because the process of liberating occupied land will continue, so whether with Hezbollah or any other resistance, will not allow Israel to occupy our land, and we will fight till we liberate our land.

WION: You must need humanitarian support. Are you getting any humanitarian support from the international community? And what kind of humanitarian support would you require? Have you reached out to India? Is India sending any humanitarian support to your country?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We are getting lots of humanitarian support from all our friends. We have lots of friends in the world, and India is one of our best friends. Also, India has always rushed, I remember, during the covid pandemic, India has rushed to help Lebanon and to send humanitarian aid, medicines, and others. Currently, yes, India also has voluntarily proposed to send medicine, that is currently a big consignment of medicine we are arranging for to be sent to Lebanon. So India has already been, like I said, investing in peace and in humanitarian aid, and that's very much appreciated by my government.

WION: Do you see a divided neighbourhood? Do you feel that the Arab world is silent when it comes to the situation in Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I believe that they are doing their best, their utmost. They are trying what they can do, but, what happened is that they know that even the US themselves, who are, who have the greatest sway on Israel, they said, many American officials said that we can, we have no control over Netanyahu. So if the Americans themselves cannot control Netanyahu, when, when he goes with this all crazy war, then I believe that the other countries in the region would say, I mean, there's nothing much in their hand to do.

WION: What about the Palestinian cause?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: The main cause, if we look at the main cause of all this situation that we are currently facing, is because of occupation. Occupation is the root cause of all evils in our region. And the only solution is to apply the two-state resolution.

WION: Here in India, since the killing of Hassan Nasrallah, we have seen, particularly the Shia community, holding marches, whether it is in Jammu and Kashmir, whether it's in Lucknow, or whether it's here in Delhi, Indian national capital. We in fact saw an event where the Iranian and the lead Palestinian ambassador were also present. So how do you see these marches?

Dr Rabie Narsh: It is not only about Hassan Nasrallah, I've seen even since October 23 when the war on Gaza happened, many Indians from all walks of life in India, from all geographical areas in India, have gone to the street and they have demonstrated. They have shown their support for Palestine.

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region.

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region. Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, has also launched a volley of rockets into Israel, pushing the situation closer to a potential wider conflict. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Narsh said, "We call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war...we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war." The Ambassador also confirmed that India plans to send a medical humanitarian situation to his country very soon. He termed the situation "very bad" in Lebanon and that his government is ready to implement UNSC resolution 1701. Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, aimed to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah by calling for Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and the militant group's disarmament south of the Litani River. Ambassador Narsh pointed out, "Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah." Full interview: WION: What is the current situation in Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: The situation is very bad in Lebanon. Of course, we are at an all-out war, Israel is waging an all-out war on Lebanon. So far we have more than 2000 innocent souls perished, and more than 10,000 injured, 1.2 million displaced, which is a heavy burden on Lebanon, given we gave two million Syrian refugees also. So the situation is bad, and this reflects the aggressive nature of Israel, which has been waging this war for a twisted and sinister agenda. WION: What do you expect from the international community at a time when your country is facing the situation? Dr Rabie Narsh: The international community is our only aim, and our only side to talk to and to ask them to stop this madness from (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu, the international community has also to be responsible, and play an important role in de-escalating the situation in the region. They have, of course, many good offices and negotiations going on, but they have been faced with the war mindset of Israel. WION: How do you see India's role? Have you briefed the Indian side about the current situation your country is facing? Dr Rabie Narsh: I have, of course, I am in constant contact with the Indian side. The friendly government of India has always supported Lebanon and given that they have good relations with Israel and very good relations with Lebanon. So yes, they can play, and they are playing a very good role in de-escalating the situation. We know for sure that they have contacted but then again, like any other international player or good offices, the Peace Peace lover state, India, is also faced with the insistence of Netanyahu to go on this war. So we call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war. WION: So you just said that India is playing a role in de-escalation you can elaborate on that bit. And also have you sent a message to New Delhi that India can send a message to the government in Israel, to Prime Minister Netanyahu, to, of course, de-escalate? Have you sent any messages? Dr Rabie Narsh: We can't tell the Indians what to do. Of course, we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war. But yes, I know for sure that they are doing their best to see peace prevail in the region. Also read: Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's presumed successor Safieddine 'unreachable' since Friday's Israeli strike: Report WION: Around 3000 Indians in Lebanon, if you can talk about, is any evacuation plan being readied? Has the Indian government approached you? And also, there are Indian UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. What is the current condition for them? Dr Rabie Narsh: The current situation of the Indians in Lebanon, there are, like you said, about three to 4000 Indians, they are as safe as any other Lebanese in the country. I mean, of course, the homes, the companies they work for, they are trying to protect them in the same way that they protect themselves. So hopefully they will be safe. There's no campaign to evacuate them from Lebanon. The Indian government has not approached us for that specific reason, hopefully will not reach that point, but we want to see the war stop. WION: And Indians in the UN? Dr Rabie Narsh: Indians in the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon), this is the good part, and the beautiful face of India. India has always been investing in peace. So I think the biggest contingent in UNIFIL, the peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, is Indian. You have about 900 to 1000 peacekeeping personnel, and they are doing a great job. They are very much admired and appreciated in Lebanon. And again, on my behalf, on behalf of my government, I extend my appreciation and thanks to the Government of India. WION: We know there was a plan for a ceasefire, the French and the American proposal for a ceasefire. What was the status? Is the proposal now dead? And had the Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah agreed to it? Dr Rabie Narsh: This proposal was botched by Netanyahu himself, and yes, there was a peace almost, I mean, ceasefire agreement. Our government has announced its acceptance of the proposal by the French and the Americans and it was almost about to happen, but it turned out that it was a plot by the Israeli government and by Netanyahu, it was part of the plan to assassinate Nasrallah. Now there's, of course, there's always talk to end this crazy war, but there's no light at the end of the tunnels. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: Nasrallah's Presumed Successor Safieddine Said to Be Target of Latest Strikes × WION: Any direct conversation happening between the Lebanese government and the Israeli government about the current situation, and how to handle it. Dr Rabie Narsh: There's no direct contact with the Israeli government, but there's indirect, of course, indirect contact through our friends, as you said, the US, the French, the other European, and of course, there are some talks that are always there. It's always there. WION: Do you think that this current situation, the war that is happening in your country, can become a larger, broader conflict in the region, which can escalate beyond the borders and can involve other countries? Dr Rabie Narsh: Of course, there is serious concern that the war would escalate, and we almost at an all out war, but the escalation is always there, and yes, there is a big chance, unfortunately, that this war might even escalate further due to the like I said, the war mindset of Netanyahu And the current Israeli government. WION: What role Hezbollah has in this war...in your country? Dr Rabie Narsh: Hezbollah is a Lebanese party. They are Lebanese. All the members of Hezbollah are Lebanese. When it comes to domestic politics Hezbollah plays by the rule of the Lebanese political system. So there is no issue with that. And at the same time, Hezbollah is a resistant group, because our land is occupied. And if you remember, Hezbollah was only created in 1982 when Israel invaded Lebanon. So had there not been an invasion of Lebanon, we might not have seen Hezbollah created. So any occupation calls for resistance. Resistance in Lebanon to the Israeli occupation started long before Hezbollah. So Hezbollah was not the only resistance group, but maybe because during the, I mean, the years, and because of the demographic composition of Lebanon and geographical area, that's why maybe Hezbollah has lasted more and now Hezbollah is the main resistance group, but again, not alone. It's not a secret that Hezbollah gets the support, full support, from Iran, but as a resistance group, the Lebanese Resistance group and as a political party within the government and the parliament, they are represented there. They play by the rules, and they are a Lebanese political party. WION: What's the plan for implementing the UNSC Resolution 1701, one of the key points is that all non-state actors need to shun weapons, and violence. What's your assessment on that? Will it be implemented by Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: 1701 was issued in 2006, it stopped the war also, again, another war from Israel into Lebanon. So we are ready. Currently, since they established the issuance of this 1701 resolution, we have been called, we have been calling for the full, full implementation of 1701, and we are ready. Currently, we are ready. We announced this many times to the international community that we are ready to apply and to fully implement 1701 with all its items, the issue is that you need the other party to abide by 1701 so Israel is the party who is violating 1701 by violating our airspace, our land, our sea, they are violating 1701 since its issuance. WION: Does it include defanging the Hezbollah? Dr Rabie Narsh: Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah. WION: We also saw the pager attack. What are your investigations saying? Who is responsible for the pager attack? Dr Rabie Narsh: First, this is a massacre. This is a war against humanity. It's a war crime. And it's not, by the way, an advent by the Israelis. It was considered before, and I read reports that even the Americans considered using this same plot in Afghanistan, but they refrained, because they were afraid that many innocent lives would also be affected. And this is what happened in Lebanon actually because pagers are not only with Hezbollah, the doctors use them, nurses, social workers, and many of these categories have either lost their lives or have been infected with major injuries. So the investigation is still going on, and I mean, there's maybe not just a single report about the investigation over the result of the investigation, but it's clear enough that Israel is behind this. WION: Do you have any proof? And if you have any proof, will you present it to the international community? Dr Rabie Narsh: Some things are very clear. They're too clear to have to need the proof. But no, I don't have proof. But maybe this is the only war crime that they did not claim, but obviously, and everyone knows that Israel is behind. WION: Do you have proof? If you have proof, can you put it in front of the international community? Dr Rabie Narsh: We have enough proof about this or other war crimes. And there have been, of course, put in front of the international community and asked them to take responsibility, to hold Israel responsible for all war crimes. There are lots of complaints from the Lebanon side to the United Nations to the General Assembly. So yeah, there are lots of them, and Israel has lots of war crimes for us to sue and to follow. WION: What next for Hezbollah? Dr Rabie Narsh: I am not an expert on Hezbollah, I don't know how their system works, but as a resistance group all over the world, they never die if you eliminate their head, if the head of any group was eliminated, then another one would replace because the process of liberating occupied land will continue, so whether with Hezbollah or any other resistance, will not allow Israel to occupy our land, and we will fight till we liberate our land. WION: You must need humanitarian support. Are you getting any humanitarian support from the international community? And what kind of humanitarian support would you require? Have you reached out to India? Is India sending any humanitarian support to your country? Dr Rabie Narsh: We are getting lots of humanitarian support from all our friends. We have lots of friends in the world, and India is one of our best friends. Also, India has always rushed, I remember, during the covid pandemic, India has rushed to help Lebanon and to send humanitarian aid, medicines, and others. Currently, yes, India also has voluntarily proposed to send medicine, that is currently a big consignment of medicine we are arranging for to be sent to Lebanon. So India has already been, like I said, investing in peace and in humanitarian aid, and that's very much appreciated by my government. WION: Do you see a divided neighbourhood? Do you feel that the Arab world is silent when it comes to the situation in Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: I believe that they are doing their best, their utmost. They are trying what they can do, but, what happened is that they know that even the US themselves, who are, who have the greatest sway on Israel, they said, many American officials said that we can, we have no control over Netanyahu. So if the Americans themselves cannot control Netanyahu, when, when he goes with this all crazy war, then I believe that the other countries in the region would say, I mean, there's nothing much in their hand to do. WION: What about the Palestinian cause? Dr Rabie Narsh: The main cause, if we look at the main cause of all this situation that we are currently facing, is because of occupation. Occupation is the root cause of all evils in our region. And the only solution is to apply the two-state resolution. WION: Here in India, since the killing of Hassan Nasrallah, we have seen, particularly the Shia community, holding marches, whether it is in Jammu and Kashmir, whether it's in Lucknow, or whether it's here in Delhi, Indian national capital. We in fact saw an event where the Iranian and the lead Palestinian ambassador were also present. So how do you see these marches? Dr Rabie Narsh: It is not only about Hassan Nasrallah, I've seen even since October 23 when the war on Gaza happened, many Indians from all walks of life in India, from all geographical areas in India, have gone to the street and they have demonstrated. They have shown their support for Palestine.

Lebanon calls on India to help de-escalate West Asia tensions: Ambassador Narsh

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