Any attack on Iran 'unaceptable international bahaviour' : India

New Delhi, Jul 14 (UNI) India today warned against ''imminent'' use of any military force against Iran saying it would have disastrous consequences for the entire region, and reaffirmed commitment to negotiations for resolving the crisis while calling upon the international community to exercise restraint.

Responding to questions about reports suggesting the imminent use of military force against Iran, External Affairs Ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna here said there is no military solution to the issues that are being discussed between Iran and the international community.

Expressing grave concern at the statements threatening the use of military force against Iran, the spokesman said India is against any such military attack, which constitutes ''unacceptable international behaviour.'' ''There is no military solution to the issues that are being discussed between Iran and the international community. India continues to support negotiations and diplomacy, rather than the threat or use of force,'' the spokesman said.

He said a military strike on Iran would have disastrous consequences for the entire region, affecting the lives and livelihood of five million Indian residents in the Gulf, and the world economy.

''India calls upon all Governments concerned to exercise restraint and choose the peaceful path of persuasion and negotiations,'' the spokesman added.

Reports during the past few days have said US President George Bush had given Israel an ''amber light'' to prepare for a military strike against Iran.

The reports quoting a senior Pentagon official said the US President had told Israel that he would back a military strike on Iran's main nuclear sites if diplomatic talks fail.

''Amber means get on with your preparations, stand by for immediate attack and tell us when you're ready,'' newspapers quoted the official as saying.

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