U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has reaffirmed Washington’s call for de-escalation following Israel’s recent retaliatory strike against Iran.

“We are also very adamant that we must see de-escalation in the region going forward, and that will be our focus,” she told reporters, noting she had just discussed the matter with President Joe Biden and their national security aides. “Of course, we maintain the importance of supporting Israel’s right to defend itself.”

The Democratic presidential nominee cited U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to the region this week as part of Washington’s ongoing efforts to end the conflict in Gaza and Lebanon.

“We must get the hostages out and work toward a two-state solution, and we do believe strongly that as it relates to Lebanon and the region, that part of the strength of our work is the diplomatic work we will do to reach that end,” she added.

When asked about the response from Arab allies to Israel’s counter-strike, Harris noted that they, too, are calling for de-escalation.