JOHANNESBURG, Feb. 28 (Xinhua) -- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Saturday expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions in the Middle East and called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and intensify diplomatic efforts.

In a statement issued by the South African Presidency, Ramaphosa said the developments pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security, with far-reaching humanitarian, diplomatic and economic consequences.

He called on all parties to act in accordance with international law, international humanitarian law, and the principles of the United Nations Charter, and reiterated his call for intensified diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and create space for meaningful negotiations.

"We urge the international community, including multilateral institutions and regional partners, to redouble efforts aimed at promoting mediation and peaceful resolution," Ramaphosa said.

He emphasized that the experience has repeatedly demonstrated that "there can be no military solution to fundamentally political problems that can and should be resolved diplomatically."

"As a nation that has emerged from conflict through dialogue and reconciliation, South Africa remains steadfast in its belief that peace is not only possible, but imperative for the shared future of the Middle East and the world," he added.

On Saturday morning, Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Tehran and several other Iranian cities. Iran responded with missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and U.S. bases across the region. ■