RIYADH: The Saudi government on Tuesday called for regional deescalation in the ongoing war between US and Israel on one side and Iran on the other, backing Pakistani mediation efforts to help bring the conflict to a resolution.
“The Cabinet reviewed current regional developments, stressing the need for deescalation and supporting Pakistani mediation and diplomatic efforts to reach a political solution that spares the region further tension and instability,” the Saudi Press Agency reported.
“The Cabinet reiterated the importance of restoring the freedom of international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz to its normal state as it was before Feb. 28, ensuring the safe and unhindered passage of ships,” the report said.
The Cabinet session in Jeddah was chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The conflict has reignited this week after attacks by Iran rocked a ceasefire that began on April 8.
On Monday, the UAE and Oman said Iran had fired drones and missiles toward their territory.
The crown prince briefed ministers about his call with President of the UAE Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Prince Mohammed “condemned the Iranian attacks targeting the UAE and affirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for the UAE in its defense of its security and stability,” SPA said.
The US also said they had destroyed six Iranian boats on Monday.
Iran said it had struck a US frigate in the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed to shipping since the war began on Feb. 28, drastically impacting energy shipping causing oil and gas prices to soar.
The escalation follows the US President Donald Trump’s announcement that the US military will help stranded ships traverse the Hormuz.
