Malaysia today urged the United Nations, particularly the UN Security Council, to take immediate resolute action over what it described as irresponsible military action by Israel against innocent civilians in Gaza.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman said Malaysia condemned in the strongest terms the continuing Israeli military assaults and air strikes on Gaza, which have killed a Palestinian leader and caused seven other deaths, including of two children.

"Malaysia urges all parties involved to stop any provocative action, remain calm and exercise restrain to avoid greater damage and loss of life, especially among the civilian population in the Gaza Strip," he said in a statement.

Malaysia also demanded that Israel immediately cease its military aggression towards the Palestinian people, he added.