BEIJING, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- China's Foreign Ministry has said actions that escalate tensions in Syria should be avoided.

"Given the rising momentum of a political resolution to the Syria issue, parties concerned should avoid taking actions that may escalate tensions in Syria," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said Monday.

Hua made the remarks at a routine briefing in response to a question regarding strikes launched by Israel on Syria.

Israel's military said Monday that it had struck Iranian targets in Syria, saying the move was retaliation for a rocket fired from Syria on Sunday. Earlier in the day, Damascus said it repelled an Israeli air attack targeting the country's south.

"China has always advocated that Syria's sovereign, independence, and territorial integrity should be respected and safeguarded," said Hua, calling on parties to play a constructive role in promoting a political resolution to the Syria issue and jointly maintain regional peace and stability.