India welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon on Wednesday, expressing hope that the development would contribute to peace and stability in the region. The ceasefire, brokered by the United States and France, came into effect early Wednesday after 14 months of deadly clashes between Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah. The violence, rooted in the Israel-Gaza conflict, intensified in September following the killing of several Hezbollah leaders.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel thanked outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden for his role in securing the agreement, emphasizing Israel’s freedom to enforce the truce terms. Netanyahu indicated that the ceasefire’s duration would depend on conditions in Lebanon and affirmed Israel’s intent to focus on the “Iranian threat” while maintaining pressure on Hamas in Gaza.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, “We welcome the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. India has consistently called for de-escalation, restraint, and dialogue. We hope these developments lead to peace and stability in the wider region.” External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had earlier expressed concern over the instability caused by conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine.

The ceasefire agreement, effective for 60 days, mandates the withdrawal of both Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants from southern Lebanon. While the deal aims for a permanent end to the conflict, Israeli officials warned of resumed strikes if Hezbollah violates its terms. Meanwhile, displaced residents of southern Lebanon have begun returning home, marking a hopeful shift after prolonged hostilities. The ceasefire does not extend to Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas in Gaza but represents a significant step toward reducing tensions in the region.

India welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon on Wednesday, expressing hope that the development would contribute to peace and stability in the region. The ceasefire, brokered by the United States and France, came into effect early Wednesday after 14 months of deadly clashes between Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah. The violence, rooted in the Israel-Gaza conflict, intensified in September following the killing of several Hezbollah leaders.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel thanked outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden for his role in securing the agreement, emphasizing Israel’s freedom to enforce the truce terms. Netanyahu indicated that the ceasefire’s duration would depend on conditions in Lebanon and affirmed Israel’s intent to focus on the “Iranian threat” while maintaining pressure on Hamas in Gaza.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, “We welcome the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. India has consistently called for de-escalation, restraint, and dialogue. We hope these developments lead to peace and stability in the wider region.” External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had earlier expressed concern over the instability caused by conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine.

The ceasefire agreement, effective for 60 days, mandates the withdrawal of both Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants from southern Lebanon. While the deal aims for a permanent end to the conflict, Israeli officials warned of resumed strikes if Hezbollah violates its terms. Meanwhile, displaced residents of southern Lebanon have begun returning home, marking a hopeful shift after prolonged hostilities. The ceasefire does not extend to Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas in Gaza but represents a significant step toward reducing tensions in the region.