The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday welcomed the recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would lead to lasting peace in West Asia.
In an official statement, the ministry stressed the importance of de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy to end the ongoing conflict.
The MEA noted that the conflict had caused significant suffering and disrupted global energy supplies and trade networks.
In an official statement, posted on X, MEA emphasised the need to ensure uninterrupted navigation and smooth flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
Statement on the recent development in West Asia ⬇️
🔗 https://t.co/WwFCi4kXHg pic.twitter.com/wmsF4YUb7j
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 8, 2026
Trump announces ceasefire
Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension of military strikes on Iran, describing it as a “double-sided ceasefire”.
He said the decision was based on progress in negotiations and a proposal put forward by Iran that could lead to a long-term agreement.
Pakistan’s role in mediation
Trump said the decision followed discussions with Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir, who urged a pause in military action, the ANI reported.
The ceasefire is also linked to Iran ensuring safe and open passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran responds
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Iran would halt its military operations if attacks against it stopped.
He added that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be allowed for two weeks in coordination with the country’s armed forces.
Further negotiations are expected to take place in Islamabad, with the Iranian delegation led by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and the US side led by Vice-President JD Vance.
The talks aim to reach a long-term agreement and reduce tensions in the region.
Israel to continue attacks in Lebanon
Israel has supported US President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend military strikes against Iran for two weeks, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, reported the PTI.
The pause is conditional on Iran opening the Strait of Hormuz and stopping attacks on the United States, Israel and other countries in the region.
The statement said Israel supports US efforts to ensure that Iran no longer poses a nuclear, missile or terror threat to the region and beyond.
It added that the United States has reaffirmed its commitment to these goals during upcoming negotiations.
Lebanon not included in ceasefire
However, Israel made it clear that the ceasefire does not apply to its operations in Lebanon, according to the PTI.
The government said military action against Hezbollah will continue, particularly in southern Lebanon and other strongholds, to prevent attacks on northern Israel.
The two-week ceasefire was proposed by Pakistan and accepted by both sides.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council confirmed it would enter negotiations with the US in Islamabad to resolve ongoing tensions.
(with ANI and PTI inputs)
