The 10 non-permanent members of the UN Security Council have issued a joint statement condemning the "current cycle of violence" in the Middle East.

Japan is among the members. On Thursday, the group issued the statement and called for an immediate end to all hostilities.

The council has repeatedly held emergency meetings since late last month, due to rising tensions in the region. But it has been unable to issue a resolution or respond collectively, owing to disagreements among the Security Council's five permanent veto-wielding powers.

The statement called on the parties to respect their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law.

The non-permanent members urged the parties to protect civilians. They also said that a diplomatic solution is the only appropriate way forward.

The statement also expressed full support for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. On Wednesday, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said his country has declared the UN chief persona non grata and barred him from entering Israel.