Saudi Arabia reiterates support for de-escalation after US-Iran ceasefire violations

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its support for de-escalation and continued negotiations after renewed exchanges between the United States and Iran marked the most serious violation of the ceasefire since it took effect on April 8.Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister for Public Diplomacy Rayed Krimly said in a post on X that the Kingdom continues to support efforts aimed at calming tensions and advancing negotiations.“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its position supporting de-escalation, avoiding escalation, and supporting negotiations and the efforts being made regarding them,” Qarmali said. He warned of media reports attributed to unnamed sources — some of whom claim to be Saudi — suggesting otherwise.The remarks came after Washington and Tehran exchanged accusations over ceasefire violations.US Central Command said Iranian forces opened fire toward three U.S. warships, while Iranian authorities accused the United States of violating the truce by targeting an Iranian oil tanker and another vessel, as well as carrying out airstrikes on civilian areas in Qeshm Island, Bandar Khamir and Sirik near the Strait of Hormuz.U.S. President Donald Trump said negotiations with Tehran are continuing despite the latest hostilities.“We are still negotiating with the Iranians,” Trump told reporters.The developments came after Washington reportedly presented an initial proposal aimed at formally ending the conflict without immediately addressing key U.S. demands regarding Iran’s nuclear program, with those issues expected to be discussed in a later phase.Iran said it has not yet made a decision on the proposal and is still reviewing it.