The leaders of the Group of Seven nations have condemned the drone and missile attack that Iran conducted against Israel. Tehran says it carried out the assault in response to a strike on its "diplomatic premises" in Syria on April 1.

The leaders held an online meeting on Sunday. Italy, which currently holds the rotating G7 chair, issued a leaders' statement afterwards.

The document states that the leaders "unequivocally condemn in the strongest terms Iran's direct and unprecedented attack against Israel."

The statement says that the leaders express their "full solidarity and support to Israel and its people" and reaffirm their "commitment towards its security."

The statement adds, "With its actions, Iran has further stepped toward the destabilization of the region and risks provoking an uncontrollable regional escalation."

It says the leaders "will continue to work to stabilize the situation and avoid further escalation."

The statement demands that "Iran and its proxies cease their attacks." It notes that the leaders "stand ready to take further measures now and in response to further destabilizing initiatives."

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio said during the meeting that his government is deeply concerned about the Iranian attack and strongly condemns it. He said the assault could further exacerbate the situation in the Middle East.

Kishida stressed that the international community as a whole should urge the relevant parties to calm the situation and exercise restraint, in order to prevent tensions from rising further.

He called on the G7 to lead discussions toward that end. The prime minister said that Japan will take a range of diplomatic steps.

Kishida added that Japan wants to work with other G7 countries to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals in the Middle East, and to evacuate them if necessary.