The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed efforts to “support de-escalation and negotiations” after the United States (U.S.) and Iran launched strikes across the Strait of Hormuz overnight.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia maintains its position supporting de-escalation and negotiation efforts,” Rayed Krimly, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy, posted on X on Friday.

According to CNN, the US and Iran traded fire in the key waterway late Thursday, after accusing each other of firing on vessels transiting the strait. 

Trump told reporters the ceasefire deal was still holding, insisting Tehran had agreed not to develop nuclear weapons.

CNN also reports that Iran’s attacks during the conflict have mostly targeted the UAE.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, warned on Friday morning that, “If you see a lion’s teeth exposed, do not assume the lion is smiling.”

According to Iran’s state-affiliated Tasnim news agency, it was “in response to recent movements in the Persian Gulf region.”

(CNN)