US condemns 'terror attacks' on Israeli civilians

The United States on Tuesday condemned the latest round of deadly "terrorist attacks" on Israeli civilians by Palestinian attackers and called for calm.

Secretary of State John Kerry was reacting after two Israelis were killed when a gunman and two men with knives attacked passengers on a Jerusalem bus.

"The United States condemns in the strongest terms possible the terrorist attacks against Israeli civilians," Kerry told reporters.

"Naturally, we mourn the loss of any life, no matter who it is, but this violence and any incitement to violence has got to stop," he warned. 

"We continue to stress the importance of all - all - persons of responsibility to condemn the violence on either side, and to avoid provocative statements.

"I continue to urge all sides to take affirmative steps to restore calm and I will stay in very close touch with leaders in the region in the days ahead."