World reacts as U.S. and Iran agree two‑week ceasefire, opening space for diplomacy

World reacts as U.S. and Iran agree two‑week ceasefire, opening space for diplomacy
————————————
World leaders welcomed a two‑week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, agreed hours before escalation, and called for continued talks toward a lasting peace agreement.

More details in the following report:

The United States and Iran have agreed to a two‑week ceasefire following rising tensions in the Middle East, marking a temporary halt in hostilities and opening the way for peace negotiations, according to multiple international reports.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on April 7 that Washington would suspend bombing and attacks on Iran for two weeks, contingent on Tehran’s commitment to fully and safely reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz for commercial passage during the truce period. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Tehran’s acceptance, saying Iranian forces would also cease defensive operations while coordinating safe transit through the strait.

The agreement was facilitated by Pakistan, which mediated talks and is expected to host direct negotiations in Islamabad starting April 10 aimed at building a broader peace deal. Reports say Israel has also agreed to suspend its strikes as part of the arrangement.

International reactions ranged from cautious optimism to calls for broader inclusion in the ceasefire. The European Union welcomed the agreement and urged sustained diplomacy toward a lasting solution, emphasizing the need for all parties to honour ceasefire terms. France praised the deal but stressed it should extend to other conflict zones, including Lebanon, where Israeli officials clarified the current truce does not cover operations against Hezbollah.

Regional groups such as Iraq’s Islamic Resistance also announced a temporary suspension of their operations in line with the ceasefire, underscoring a broader de‑escalation effort.

Financial markets reacted positively, with oil prices falling and stocks rising on expectations of reduced risk and the potential reopening of energy flows in the Gulf.