European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called the truce “a step back from the edge” and a chance to halt attacks and return to diplomacy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the agreement brought “much-needed de-escalation”.
French President Emmanuel Macron said the ceasefire was a positive signal, but added that the situation in Lebanon remained critical and should be covered by any broader deal.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also described the move as “a moment of relief”, while saying diplomatic efforts were needed to turn the pause into a lasting solution and ensure the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Israel backed Washington’s decision, but said the ceasefire did not cover operations in Lebanon and depended on Iran meeting conditions. The Israeli military has nevertheless halted operations against Iran, and U.S.-Iran talks are expected to begin in the coming days, according to reports.
In Asia and the Middle East, leaders largely called for more negotiations. China said it supported efforts toward a lasting peace, while Saudi Arabia expressed hope for “comprehensive and durable stabilization”. Oman urged serious talks between Tehran and Washington and offered support for regional security.
Not all reactions were favorable. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the world had come dangerously close to catastrophe and should not “applaud those who first set the world on fire”. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also welcomed the ceasefire, but criticized the U.S. president’s harsh rhetoric.
(jh)
Source: Polish Radio