US-Iran ceasefire announced: Global reactions pour in as peace talks set for Islamabad; Strait of Hormuz reopens
US-Iran ceasefire: A temporary de-escalation in tensions between the United States and Iran has sparked cautious optimism across the world, as both sides agreed to a two-week ceasefire with formal peace talks scheduled to begin in Islamabad on Friday.
The truce, announced by Donald Trump on Tuesday, is expected to ease immediate hostilities in the region. As part of the agreement, Iran will also reopen the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route that carries nearly 20 percent of the world’s petroleum supply.
The ceasefire comes amid rising fears of prolonged conflict impacting global energy markets and regional stability. While the development is being seen as a significant diplomatic breakthrough, several countries have urged both nations to remain committed to dialogue and avoid further escalation.
Below is a snapshot of how nations have responded:
Iraq
Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the ceasefire but stressed that sustained peace would depend on strict adherence by both Washington and Tehran. The ministry underscored the importance of dialogue and cautioned against any actions that could reignite tensions. Iraq, which has witnessed repeated flare-ups involving US forces and Iran-backed groups, called for restraint on all sides.
Egypt
Egypt described the ceasefire as a crucial opportunity to prioritise diplomacy over conflict. Its foreign ministry highlighted the need to halt military operations completely and ensure freedom of international navigation. Cairo also indicated it would continue working alongside Pakistan and Turkiye to support regional stability, while emphasising the importance of addressing Gulf nations’ security concerns during upcoming talks.
Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backed the US decision to pause strikes, stating that efforts must continue to neutralise what he described as threats posed by Iran. However, he clarified that the ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon, where Israeli forces remain engaged in conflict with Hezbollah.
Oman
Oman welcomed the announcement and acknowledged Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue. Its foreign ministry called for intensified diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the crisis at its roots and achieving a permanent end to hostilities in the region.
United Nations
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to honour the ceasefire, stressing that it could pave the way for a broader and lasting peace. He also highlighted the urgent need to protect civilian lives and reduce humanitarian suffering, while appreciating the role of Pakistan and other mediators.
Japan
Japan termed the ceasefire a “positive move” and expressed hope that it would lead to a comprehensive agreement. Officials reiterated that de-escalation in the Middle East remains a key priority for Tokyo.
Indonesia
Indonesia called on both nations to respect each other’s sovereignty and pursue diplomacy. The country also urged an investigation into the deaths of its UN peacekeepers killed in recent violence in Lebanon.
Malaysia
Malaysia described the truce as a meaningful step toward restoring stability in the Middle East. It urged all parties to fully implement the agreement in good faith and avoid any actions that could disrupt fragile regional peace or impact global energy security.
Australia
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, welcomed the development and warned of the broader economic consequences of prolonged conflict. They noted that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz had already triggered significant shocks to global energy supplies.
New Zealand
Foreign Minister Winston Peters described the ceasefire as encouraging but emphasised that more work is needed to secure a durable peace. He pointed to the widespread impact the conflict has had beyond the Middle East.
Germany
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised the ceasefire and acknowledged Pakistan’s mediation efforts. He stressed that the focus must now shift to achieving a long-term resolution through diplomatic negotiations.
Ukraine
Ukraine welcomed the agreement and linked it to broader global conflicts. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called for similar decisive action to end the ongoing war with Russia, suggesting that strong diplomatic pressure can deliver results.
- With inputs from agencies
