European Union and Group of Seven leaders have called for preventing a further escalation of the situation in the Middle East following Iran's retaliatory strikes on Israel.

In a joint statement, the G7 leaders emphasized the need to avoid further escalation, calling on the parties to refrain from actions aimed at exacerbating tension in the region.

The statement said the G7 leaders pledged to continue providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population.

European Council President Charles Michel on social media said everything must be done to prevent further regional escalation and more bloodshed must be avoided.