Japan's top diplomat has defended Israel's right to protect itself in the ongoing conflict against Palestinian militants. She also expressed hope that the situation will calm down as soon as possible.

Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, who is on a tour of Southeast Asian nations, spoke with her Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen by telephone early on Friday morning, Japan time.

Kamikawa said she unequivocally condemns what she called terrorist attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian militants.

Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist group that controls the Gaza Strip, unleashed deadly surprise attacks on Israel on Saturday.

Kamikawa said it is natural for Israel to have the right to safeguard itself and its citizens in accordance with international law because the indiscriminate attacks by the militants were unjustifiable.

Kamikawa asked Cohen to cooperate in ensuring the safety of Japanese people in Israel. Cohen responded that his country is ready to give necessary support to them.

The ministers also agreed to closely communicate to stabilize the region.

Ahead of the talks, the Japanese foreign minister held a phone conversation with her Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry on Thursday evening, Japan time.

The diplomats agreed to maintain their close cooperation to calm the fighting between Israel and Palestinians. Egypt has influence in the Middle East, and has mediated ceasefires between Israel and Palestinian militants in the past.