Saudi Arabia backs Pakistan’s mediation and urges restraint over US-Iran tensions

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Tuesday called for restraint and de-escalation amid rising tensions in the Gulf, while backing Pakistan’s mediation efforts aimed at securing a political settlement between Iran and the United States.

In a statement posted on X, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said the kingdom was concerned about the current military escalation in the region and urged support for Pakistan’s diplomatic role.

Saudi Arabia calls for de-escalation, restraint, and support for Pakistani mediation and diplomatic efforts to reach a political solution that prevents the region from sliding into further tension and instability, which would not serve the interests of the region and the world.

The ministry also called for maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to return to conditions that existed before the conflict.

calls for ensuring the safe and secure passage of vessels without restriction

The Saudi statement came after a fresh deterioration in the Gulf situation on Monday. The United Arab Emirates accused Iran of firing 15 missiles and four drones at its territory. Tehran, meanwhile, said it had fired warning shots after US destroyers operating near the Strait of Hormuz did not respond to initial alerts.

Regional tensions have remained high since the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran on Feb. 28. Those attacks were followed by Iranian retaliation against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, as well as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but talks later held in Islamabad did not result in a durable agreement. The truce was subsequently extended by US President Donald Trump without a specified deadline.

Concern over shipping route

In its statement, Riyadh linked its appeal for restraint with concern over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a key regional waterway. The ministry said safe passage for vessels should be guaranteed and restrictions removed.

The Saudi position adds to regional focus on Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement as efforts continue to prevent further escalation and revive a political track between Washington and Tehran.

The statement did not announce any new initiative beyond support for mediation and calls for de-escalation, but it underscored Saudi Arabia’s concern that continued military escalation could deepen instability in the region and beyond.

The latest developments follow weeks of strain after the April 8 ceasefire, with the broader confrontation remaining unresolved despite mediation efforts and the extension of the truce.