Saudi Arabia Discusses Gulf Escalation With Iran and Pakistan to Contain Tensions

Saudi Arabia is seeking to contain mounting tension in the Persian Gulf through separate calls with Iran and Pakistan, as the war between Iran and the United States continues to center on the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan spoke by phone with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi about the latest regional developments and efforts to maintain security and stability in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry said in a brief statement.

Bin Farhan also discussed the crisis with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Pakistan has acted as a mediator between Tehran and Washington. Their conversation covered efforts to contain the crisis and promote peaceful solutions through dialogue and negotiation, with the stated aim of reducing tensions and preserving regional security. The two ministers also reviewed bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

The calls came as the Persian Gulf remained marked by open escalation between Iran and the United States. The Strait of Hormuz has emerged as the main focus of the war, with new attacks reported in recent hours.

Iran has maintained pressure on the maritime passage, demanding permission for vessels to cross and attacking ships it says use unauthorized routes. The United States has maintained a cordon around Iranian ports and vessels and has sought to restore part of maritime traffic through a southern route near Oman. The Gulf has again borne much of the impact since a July truce between Iran and the United States broke down, with Iranian attacks or interceptions reported in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan.