Our Bureau
New Delhi
India has officially welcomed the recently brokered ceasefire between Iran and Israel, marking a critical pause in hostilities after a 12-day conflict that sent shockwaves across the Middle East and global markets. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) commended the pivotal roles played by the United States and Qatar in mediating the agreement, emphasizing that there is “no alternative to dialogue and diplomacy” to resolve such complex regional disputes.
The MEA’s statement highlighted India’s close monitoring of overnight developments, including US military action targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and Iran’s retaliatory strikes on American bases in Qatar. While expressing deep concern for the broader prospects of regional security and stability, the ministry lauded the diplomatic efforts that led to the ceasefire as a positive step forward. “We welcome reports of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel and the role played by the US and Qatar in bringing it about,” the MEA said.
The ceasefire, announced by US President Donald Trump, came after both nations threatened new attacks, underscoring the fragility of peace in the region. Israel confirmed its agreement to the truce shortly after Trump’s announcement, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stating that all operational objectives had been met. Iran, for its part, also accepted the ceasefire, though both sides warned of swift retaliation should the agreement be violated.
India reiterated its commitment to supporting peacebuilding efforts in the region, stating: “India stands ready to play its part in these efforts and hopes that all concerned parties will work towards sustained peace and stability.” The statement also stressed that military escalation serves no productive purpose in resolving the multiple conflicts that plague the Middle East.
The truce has been met with cautious optimism by the international community, which remains wary of return to hostilities. The ceasefire also brought relief to global markets, with oil prices falling and stock markets rallying as fears of a wider conflict subsided.
