Global leaders welcome US-Iran two-week ceasefire, push for lasting peace

Countries across the globe have urged full commitment to a newly announced two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, describing it as a crucial opportunity to de-escalate tensions and pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East.

The truce, revealed by US President Donald Trump, is expected to open the door for formal negotiations scheduled to begin in Islamabad, Pakistan, with Islamabad also praised for its key role in facilitating dialogue.

A significant aspect of the agreement includes Iran’s decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route responsible for transporting roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Its reopening is expected to ease pressure on global energy markets and restore confidence in international trade flows.

In the Middle East, reactions have largely focused on the need for both sides to uphold the agreement.

Iraq welcomed the ceasefire but stressed that genuine commitment from both Washington and Tehran is essential to achieving a durable resolution, especially given Iraq’s own involvement in escalating tensions through clashes involving Iran-backed groups and US forces.

Similarly, Egypt described the truce as a valuable opportunity for diplomacy and constructive dialogue, calling for an end to military operations and respect for international navigation rights.

Cairo also highlighted the importance of addressing Gulf nations’ security concerns during upcoming negotiations.

Israel expressed conditional support for the development.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backed the US decision to suspend strikes on Iran, emphasizing the importance of neutralizing threats posed by Tehran. 

However, he clarified that the ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon, where Israeli forces remain engaged in conflict with Hezbollah.

Elsewhere in the region, Oman welcomed the announcement and called for intensified efforts to achieve a permanent end to hostilities.

At the international level, António Guterres urged all parties to respect the ceasefire, stressing that halting violence is critical to protecting civilians and reducing human suffering.

Global powers also reacted positively. Japan described the ceasefire as a “positive move,” while Indonesia emphasized the need to respect sovereignty and diplomacy.

Malaysia called the development a significant step toward restoring stability, urging all sides to act in good faith and avoid provocations that could destabilize the fragile situation.

In the Asia-Pacific, Australia warned of the broader economic consequences of prolonged conflict, particularly disruptions to energy supply and rising oil prices.

New Zealand echoed cautious optimism, noting that more work is needed to secure a lasting peace.

European leaders also welcomed the truce, with Germany calling for sustained diplomatic engagement to end the conflict permanently.

Meanwhile, Ukraine used the moment to urge similar decisive action in addressing its ongoing war with Russia.

Overall, the ceasefire has been widely seen as a critical window for diplomacy, with global leaders in urging restraint, dialogue, and a firm commitment to peace.