The statement said, June 17 -- The G7 leaders, who are currently meeting in Canada, backed Israel in the ongoing conflict and levelled its rival Iran as the principal source of regional instability and terror.

"We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East."

"In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel," the statement said.

"We also affirm the importance of the protection of civilians," the statement said.

Slamming Iran, the G7 said: "Iran is the principal source of regional instability and terror. We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon."

The statement said: "We urge that the ...