BAGHDAD, April 8 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi government on Wednesday strongly condemned the Israeli attacks targeting civilians in multiple Lebanese cities, including capital Beirut, which left hundreds killed or injured.
In a statement, Iraqi government spokesperson Basim al-Awadi noted that Israel has pursued an aggressive approach, aimed at fueling conflict and instability, which demonstrates the country's deliberate intent to undermine the newly-achieved truce.
The attacks also reflect Israel's persistence in committing more crimes, in disregard of international law and global peace and security, al-Awadi said.
He urged the international community, relevant organizations, and major countries to fulfill their responsibilities, taking decisive actions to prevent further crimes and protect innocent civilians.
A two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran took effect early Wednesday. Israel claimed it would comply with the truce, but insisted the agreement does not cover Lebanon, although Pakistan, the mediator of the deal, said it does apply to Lebanon.
The Israeli military said Wednesday it has completed "the largest coordinated strike across Lebanon" since the start of the regional conflict, hours after the U.S.-Iran truce came into effect.
So far, the strike has killed at least 254 people and injured 1,165 others, with densely populated neighborhoods in the capital, Beirut, among the hardest hit, according to the latest data provided by the Lebanese Civil Defense. ■
