ISTANBUL

A high-level Saudi official on Sunday denied US media reports about pressing Washington to launch a military strike against Iran, saying Riyadh is still backing efforts to reach a peaceful solution to the conflict between the two countries.

In comments carried by the Saudi-owned Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper, the official called US media reports about a change in the kingdom’s position on a possible US attack on Tehran as “untrue.”

"Saudi Arabia supports efforts to find a peaceful solution to all contentious issues between the US and Iran through dialogue and diplomatic means," the unnamed source said.

He stressed the kingdom’s rejection of using its airspace of territory for any military action against Iran.

The US news portal Axios earlier claimed that Riyadh has urged Washington to strike Tehran, warning that failure to attack could strengthen the Iranian regime.

On Tuesday, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, during a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reiterated the kingdom’s support for efforts aimed at resolving disputes through dialogue to ensure regional stability.

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump said in a social media post that a massive “armada” was heading toward Iran, while urging Tehran to enter negotiations immediately.

The statement fueled speculation about a possible US military strike, prompting strong reactions from Iranian officials as well as hectic diplomatic activity in the region.

Last June, Israel, with US backing, launched a 12-day war against Iran, prompting retaliatory drone and missile attacks from Tehran before Washington announced a ceasefire.

*Writing by Rania Abushamala in Istanbul.