Global leaders praise Islamabad’s diplomatic push for US-Iran ceasefire

In a message on X, the prime minister invited delegations from both countries to Islamabad on April 10 for further negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent settlement.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced early Wednesday that the United States and Iran had agreed to an immediate two-week ceasefire, offering temporary relief after weeks of rising tensions in the Middle East. The truce was brokered with Pakistan’s mediation, positioning Islamabad at the center of global diplomatic efforts.

In a message on X, the prime minister invited delegations from both countries to Islamabad on April 10 for further negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent settlement. Over recent weeks, Pakistan hosted consultations with regional countries, maintained back-channel contacts between Tehran and Washington, and coordinated closely with China to promote de-escalation and protect vital infrastructure.

The announcement drew widespread international reaction, with many leaders welcoming the ceasefire and praising Pakistan’s role.

United States

At the United Nations, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the agreement and urged all sides to respect international law and the ceasefire terms to move toward lasting peace.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia appreciated the truce and expressed hope for a broader and sustainable settlement. The Kingdom also acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, in helping secure the pause in fighting.

Egypt

Egypt described the ceasefire as a crucial opportunity for dialogue and diplomacy, while Turkiye called on all parties to fully implement the agreement. Qatar and Kuwait emphasized the importance of respecting the ceasefire and ensuring stability in the Gulf, particularly the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Oman

Oman praised Pakistan’s efforts in bringing about the truce and stressed the need to address the root causes of the crisis. Iraq also welcomed the move and called for serious and sustainable dialogue between Washington and Tehran.

China

China’s foreign ministry welcomed the development and said Beijing would continue working to restore peace in the region.

European state

European leaders reacted positively as well. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the deal as a step back from the brink and said it created space for diplomacy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also welcomed the truce, calling it much-needed de-escalation.

Germany

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul thanked Pakistan for its role, while Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed that diplomacy must now lead to a lasting end to the conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also welcomed the agreement, calling it a moment of relief and urging continued negotiations.

Spain

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez emphasized the need for diplomacy and international law, while Portugal described the ceasefire as a decisive first step toward a sustainable solution.

Malaysia

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Pakistan’s “tireless and courageous diplomacy,” urging that the temporary truce be transformed into a comprehensive peace deal covering the wider region.

Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy supported the ceasefire and reiterated Kyiv’s call for peace in its own conflict. New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese both welcomed the de-escalation and commended Pakistan’s mediation efforts.

Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also praised Pakistan’s diplomatic initiative, expressing hope that the ceasefire would contribute to global trade and economic stability.

The two-week ceasefire is seen as a crucial window for diplomacy. While leaders across the world have welcomed the breakthrough, many stressed that sustained dialogue and firm commitment from all sides will be essential to achieve a lasting and comprehensive peace.