ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Iraq’s foreign ministry on Wednesday welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, calling it a positive step toward easing tensions after weeks of escalating conflict.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq expresses its welcome of the announcement of a ceasefire between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the ministry said, adding it “values this development, which is expected to contribute to reducing tensions, enhancing prospects for de-escalation, and consolidating security and stability in the region.”
The statement follows an announcement by US President Donald Trump early Wednesday that Washington had agreed to a two-week ceasefire with Tehran, mediated by Pakistan. “I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks. This will be a double sided CEASEFIRE!” Trump said, adding that a “10 point proposal from Iran” offers a “workable basis” for negotiations.
Iran confirmed the truce, with talks set to begin in Islamabad on Friday, just hours before a US deadline tied to reopening the Strait of Hormuz was due to expire.