Israel-Lebanon ceasefire: India hopeful of wider West Asia peace

India welcomed the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire that took effect on Wednesday, expressing hope it would lead to peace and stability in the wider region and recalling it had always advocated return to dialogue and diplomacy.

"We welcome the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon that has been announced. We have always called for de-escalation, restraint and return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy. We hope these developments will lead to peace and stability in the wider region,'' the Indian government said in a statement.

As Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar said earlier this week, India had been in touch with both Iran and Israel at the highest levels to advocate restraint and enhance communication. India has also been calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, while condemning deaths of civilians and underlining the significance of adhering to international humanitarian law.