CAPRI (Italy): The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven major democracies on Friday urged Iran and Israel to prevent further escalation after direct attacks between them.

The G-7 ministers said in a statement issued after a three-day meeting on Capri Island, Italy, said they “condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s direct and unprecedented attack against Israel.”

Iran’s actions over the last weekend “mark an unacceptable step towards the destabilization of the region and a further escalation, which must be avoided,” the ministers said.

In light of reported Israeli attacks on Iran on Friday, “we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation,” the G-7 ministers said.

The United States and Britain announced sanctions on Iran on Thursday and the European Union plans to follow suit. “We stand ready to adopt further sanctions or take other measures, now and in response to further destabilizing initiatives,” the ministers said.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told a press conference after the G-7 meeting, “The important thing is to make every effort to prevent further escalation.” Japan is ready to make necessary diplomatic efforts in close coordination with other countries, she said.

On the war in Gaza, the G-7 ministers said, “We call for an immediate release of hostages and a sustainable ceasefire that allows for a surge of the urgently needed humanitarian assistance to be delivered safely throughout Gaza.”

In a separate statement on support to Ukraine in its war with Russia, the G-7 ministers said, “We express our resolve in particular to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities to save lives and protect critical infrastructure.”

JIJI Press