In a virtual criticism of Israel, India on Saturday expressed 'dismay' over the 'disproportionate' use of force that has led to civilian casualties in 'occupied Palestine' and demanded an immediate end to the cycle of violence.

In a statement in New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry said the use of force in 'occupied Palestine was unacceptable'.

"The government of India is dismayed at the continuing violence in occupied Palestine, particularly in the Gaza Strip," MEA spokesman Navtej Sarna said.

Events this week, including the disproportionate use of retaliatory force, have led to avoidable civilian casualties, including the death of innocent children. This is unacceptable, he said.

"India strongly urges an immediate end to the cycle of violence by all parties concerned so that the focus is not lost on the process of dialogue-driven conflict resolution," Sarna said.

Thirty-three people were killed on Saturday as Israeli forces and Palestinian rocket squads fought pitched battles in the Hamas-controlled Gaza region.

At least 63 people, many of them civilians, have been killed since fighting flared on Wednesday after Israel launched air strikes on suspected Hamas hideouts in Gaza Strip.