Iraq's vice president has accused Israel of carrying out "massacres" in Lebanon -- the harshest criticism yet of the Jewish state from a top official of the U.S.-backed Iraqi government.

Adel Abdul Mahdi (file photo)

Vice President Adel Abdul Mahdi Monday in Baghdad denounced what he called "horrible massacres carried out by Israeli aggression."

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Tony Blair says there is a real chance for agreement on a U.N. Security Council resolution that can achieve a complete and sustainable end to the Israel - Hezbollah conflict.

British Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett Monday, said the Israeli airstrike that killed nearly 60 Lebanese civilians in the village of Qana underscores the urgent need for the Security Council to take action.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Shinzo Abe said Monday all sides involved in the conflict should agree to a cease-fire, and do their utmost to prevent civilian casualties.

Indonesia's government calls Israel's actions a gross violation of international law.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has also issued a statement of condemnation. Around 3,000 protesters braved heavy rain in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi Sunday to voice opposition to the air strike.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.