TOKYO - Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Monday urged Iran to seek a "diplomatic solution" amid an escalation in the Middle East conflict following U.S. and Israeli strikes targeting Tehran, while her government began its evacuation operation for nationals.

At a parliamentary committee meeting, Takaichi demanded Iran stop any actions that "destabilize the region" including its development of nuclear weapons, which she said is "absolutely unacceptable," as well as its attacks on surrounding countries.

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