Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko has called for restraint from all parties following attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas against Israel.

Kamikawa told reporters on Sunday that she strongly condemns the launch of a number of rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel by Hamas and other Palestinian militants. She said these have caused significant damage to innocent civilians.

She also noted that many people are reported to have been abducted by Hamas and others, and called for their early release.

Kamikawa also expressed serious concerns about attacks by the Israeli military resulting in a number of deaths and injuries in Gaza.

She urged all parties concerned to exercise maximum restraint in order to avoid further damage and casualties.

The foreign minister added that Japan will make efforts to swiftly calm the situation by working with both the Israeli and Palestinian sides as well as the international community.