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.
Baghdad reaffirmed its support for diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis, stressing “the importance of full commitment to the ceasefire and refraining from any actions or escalations that could reintroduce tension to the regional scene.”
It also urged all sides to build on the truce by pursuing “serious and sustainable dialogue tracks that address the root causes of disputes and bolster mutual trust.”
The ministry said Iraq remains committed to a “balanced diplomatic approach” and to supporting initiatives that promote regional peace, emphasizing principles such as “respecting the sovereignty of states, good neighborliness, and non-interference in internal affairs.”
In Iraq, armed groups under the Islamic Resistance in Iraq also declared a two-week pause in attacks, aligning with the ceasefire. The group, which has carried out 831 attacks in 39 days, said the move could signal a temporary de-escalation, though uncertainty remains over full compliance and what follows after the truce ends.
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