India says it regrets escalation of violence in Sri Lanka

In response to Sri Lankan government's decision to unilaterally withdraw from the Cease Fire Agreement (CFA), India says "what is required in Sri Lanka is a settlement of political, constitutional and other issues within the framework of united Sri Lanka".

Indian Ministry of External Affairs in a statement added that Sri Lanka could only achieve lasting peace through such a settlement that is comfortable to all communities in Sri Lanka.

UN urges political solution

It added: "For India, any step that leads to a reduction in levels of violence and human suffering in Sri Lanka is welcome. Unfortunately, what we have seen recently has been an increase in violence, tension and conflict in Sri Lanka".

	Mr. Moon urges both parties to protect civilians as violence escalates

The United Nations have also stressed the need for a political solution to end continuing bloodshed in the island nation.

UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon is “deeply worried” that Sri Lank's withdrawal from CFA comes amidst increasing violence across the country,
his spokesman said on Thursday.

“The Secretary-General urges all concerned to ensure the protection of civilians and enable humanitarian assistance to be provided to affected areas,” the statement added.

US response

The US State Department has joined in the international concern at the end of the ceasefire.

what is required in Sri Lanka is a settlement of political, constitutional and other issues within the framework of united Sri Lanka Indian statement

The move would "make it more difficult to achieve a lasting, peaceful solution to Sri Lanka's conflict", spokesman Sean McCormack said.

"We call on both the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (Tamil Tigers) to avoid an escalation of hostilities and further civilian casualties."