'Exercise restraint, return to the path of dialogue & diplomacy': India after Israeli strikes on Iran

PTC News Desk: India expressed concern on Saturday over rising Middle Eastern tensions following Israel's attacks on Iran. 

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs stated, "We are deeply concerned by the evolving escalation in West Asia and its ramifications for peace and stability in the region and beyond. We reiterate our call to all concerned to exercise restraint and return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy." “The ongoing hostilities are to nobody’s benefit, even as innocent hostages and civilian populations continue to suffer. Our Missions in the region are in contact with the Indian community,” it added.

On Saturday, Israel bombed Iranian military sites, with the IDF claiming that scores of its jets launched three rounds of strikes against missile factories and other targets before sunrise. 

According to media, Iran claimed its air defences effectively resisted the strike, but two soldiers were killed and certain areas sustained "limited damage." 

Tehran's foreign ministry stated that Iran is "entitled and obligated" to protect itself, but that it also "recognises its responsibilities towards regional peace and security," a more conciliatory remark than before escalations.

Two regional officials briefed by Tehran told Reuters that multiple high-level discussions were held in Tehran to assess the extent of Iran's retaliation. According to one official, the damage was "very minimal," but "several Revolutionary Guard bases inside Tehran and near the capital were also targeted."

Iranian news sites released images of passengers at Tehran's Mehrabad Airport, which appeared to show little damage. Local media reported blasts in the capital and nearby military posts for several hours, according to the Associated Press.

"Iran attacked Israel twice, including in locations that endangered civilians, and has paid the price for it," stated Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari.