The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven nations have released a joint statement following reports of an Israeli strike against Iran. They urge all parties to exercise self-restraint.

The ministers wrapped up talks on the southern Italian island of Capri on Friday.

The statement says, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation."

It also says, "We stand ready to adopt further sanctions or take other measures, now and in response to further destabilizing initiatives."

Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko says the G7 countries stand united.
She says, "We agreed to make every diplomatic effort, including those against Israel and Iran, to prevent the situation from further escalating and deteriorating."

The G7 statement also referred to the conflict in the Gaza Strip, saying, "Hamas must release all hostages immediately and unconditionally."

And the ministers reiterate their call on Russia to immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw from Ukraine.

The statement adds, "We express our resolve in particular to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities to save lives and protect critical infrastructure."