India says deeply concerned by reports of civilian casualties in Lebanon

India is "deeply concerned" by reports of civilian casualties in Lebanon, the Indian foreign ministry said on Friday, two days after Israel's worst bombardment in its war with Lebanon killed more than 300 people.

Israel invaded Lebanon last month in pursuit of Hezbollah after the group fired into Israel in support of Iran, as the US-Israel war on Iran raged.

"India has always emphasised the protection of civilians as the foremost priority. Observing international law, and respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states is essential," India's foreign ministry said in a statement.

India and Israel have close ties and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel days before the war broke out.