The Argentine government expressed "deep concern" over the escalating violence in Gaza since the beginning of this month, a government statement said on Wednesday.

The government "expresses its most explicit rejection of the attacks against Palestinian civilians, which have killed dozens including children," the statement said.

"The Argentine government calls on Israel to refrain from any military action, which worsens the security situation and humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip," it said.

Israeli tanks attacked a residential neighborhood in Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza early on Wednesday, killing at least 18 people, including eight children.

In the same statement, the Argentine government also called on Palestinian militants to stop attacks on the Israeli civilians.

"Argentina reiterates its strongest condemnation of all violent acts and hopes that Israelis and Palestinians will take the steps necessary to allow a return to the path of dialogue and negotiation, in order to reach a just and definitive peace," it added.

Source: Xinhua