India expressed serious concern on Wednesday about the new escalation in the Middle East following Iran’s missile assaults on Israel, saying the war must not expand regionally and urging sides to exercise moderation.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that “dialogue and diplomacy” should be used to resolve all disputed issues.
“We are gravely worried about the worsening of the security situation in West Asia, and we renew our urge for all parties involved to exercise caution and protect civilians. It is critical that the crisis does not escalate regionally, and we urge that all issues be addressed via conversation and diplomacy,” the MEA said in a statement.
India’s words came a day after Iran launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, firing over 180 ballistic missiles at the Jewish state.
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Alarms rang throughout Israel, and explosions were heard in Jerusalem and the Jordan River valley. Israelis piled into bomb shelters, and state television reporters lay down on the ground during live broadcasts.
According to the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, hypersonic Fattah missiles were used for the first time, with 90% of them striking their targets in Israel.
According to Israeli Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the majority of missiles were intercepted “by Israel and a defensive coalition led by the US”. “Iran’s attack is a severe and dangerous escalation,” according to his tweet.
There were no injuries recorded in Israel, but one individual died in the West Bank, according to police.
The Middle East has been experiencing volatile security conditions for nearly a year, following Hamas’ historic attack on Israel, which killed approximately 1,200 people and kidnapped over 200 more. The attack sparked a conflict in Gaza, which has killed over 41,000 people.