'Israeli occupation has led to catastrophe'

Lebanon envoy to India Rabie Narsh blames Tel Aviv for conflict, says it may spiral into a wider regional war

- Yeshi Seli

ON the anniversary of the Hamas' attack on Israel, the war has spread from Iran to Lebanon, which is facing missile attacks by Tel Aviv. Lebanon Ambassador to India Rabie Narsh tells Yeshi Seli that the consequences of Israel's attack have been catastrophic. Excerpts:

What is the toll of the recent attacks by Israel?

Lebanon is currently facing Israel's brutal onslaught. Tel Aviv has been unleashing an array of advanced and devastating weaponry, including extremely heavy bombs each weighing 2,000 pounds, as well as internationally banned munitions like white phosphorus. The consequences have been catastrophic-more than 2,100 civilian deaths and 11,000 people wounded. Around 1.2 million people have been displaced. We are facing a severe humanitarian crisis.

How are you countering the attacks? Collateral damage?

Our government with support from international organisations and NGOs swiftly mobilised people and resources to assist the displaced. Temporary shelters have been set up.

Schools have been converted into makeshift shelters to house the displaced. In the process, the government is facing severe financial crisis. The Lebanese government is already taking care of approximately 2 million Syrian refugees.

The humanitarian crisis will deepen with unabated attacks by Israel. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has appealed to the international community for more aid to Lebanon for managing the overwhelming burden.

Today is the first anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel. What are your views on the attack?