India Backs Historic Pause: Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Spurs Regional Diplomacy

India has thrown its weight behind the newly-established ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) affirming the nation's support for stability initiatives in the region. During a media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal lauded this diplomatic progress, emphasizing that 'India welcomes every step towards peace.'

The truce, which began on Thursday, marks a pivotal moment in Israel-Lebanon relations and comes amid US President Donald Trump's efforts to broker a historic meeting between the leadership of both countries. This is seen as part of Washington's broader strategy to resolve tensions with Tehran, as Iran remains resolute in negotiations, demanding a Lebanese ceasefire in any deal framework.

While addressing queries regarding Pakistan's role in the peace process between Iran and the US, Jaiswal commented that New Delhi is vigilantly monitoring the West Asian conflict situation. The ongoing hostilities were spurred by a military offensive launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28, which escalated when Hezbollah, backed by Lebanon, initiated rocket attacks on Israel on March 2.

US President Trump, via Truth Social, expressed aspirations for a positive response from Hezbollah, urging responsibility and peace during the truce. He proposed that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun could potentially meet at the White House, a meeting expected for the first time in 44 years. However, despite optimism for an understanding involving Hezbollah, the complex on-ground dynamics persist.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined that troops would continue to operate within a 10-kilometre security zone to avert infiltration and missile strikes, reinforcing Israel's objectives of Hezbollah's disarmament and securing a lasting peace from a robust position. The truce remains fragile, as Israeli artillery was reported to have targeted specific Lebanese towns shortly after its introduction, highlighting persistent volatility.

Amid tensions, Beirut saw celebratory fireworks greeting the truce initiation, with hopes pinned on achieving a permanent peace solution through this decisive ten-day frame, driven by US diplomatic efforts. (ANI)