TEHRAN, June 15, 2026 — Governments across the Middle East, Europe and beyond have welcomed a tentative agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending months of conflict that escalated into a broader regional war involving Israel and Lebanon. The announcement has sparked hopes for a lasting peace, renewed diplomatic engagement and the restoration of stability in one of the world's most strategically important regions.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that a deal with Iran had been completed, declaring on his Truth Social platform that the Strait of Hormuz would reopen and global shipping could resume normal operations.
"The deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete," Trump wrote. "Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow!"
The proposed agreement follows months of intense fighting that reportedly claimed thousands of lives, disrupted global energy markets and heightened fears of a wider regional conflict. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said discussions on broader issues, including sanctions relief, would continue during a planned 60-day ceasefire period.
Pakistani Prime Minister said the accord is expected to be formally signed in Switzerland on Friday, describing it as a major diplomatic breakthrough.
Gulf States Praise Diplomacy
Several Gulf nations welcomed the agreement and emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving regional disputes.
Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised both Washington and Tehran for choosing negotiations and peaceful engagement over continued military confrontation. Minister of State Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi expressed hope that the agreement would encourage broader efforts to address outstanding regional issues through constructive diplomacy.
Saudi Arabia also welcomed the understanding reached between the two sides, supporting the planned negotiations aimed at achieving a permanent settlement.
The United Arab Emirates called for full implementation of the agreement and an immediate halt to hostile actions, stressing that diplomacy and respect for international law remain essential to regional security. Kuwait similarly endorsed the memorandum of understanding and praised mediation efforts by Pakistan and Qatar.
Pakistan and Türkiye Back Peace Efforts
Sharif congratulated both countries for pursuing a diplomatic solution and thanked Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye for helping facilitate the agreement.
Turkish President described the accord as an important development for peace and tranquillity in the region, reaffirming Ankara's commitment to diplomacy and international law as the basis for lasting solutions.
Bangladesh also welcomed the agreement, expressing hope that it would be implemented in good faith and provide a sustainable path toward peace.
Mixed Reaction in Israel
The response from Israel was more cautious and, in some cases, openly critical.
Israeli Defence Minister stated that Israel would not withdraw from territory it currently occupies in Lebanon, arguing that security concerns remain paramount following the October 7 attacks.
Katz warned that Israel would respond forcefully to any future Iranian attacks and said these concerns had been communicated to both President Trump and senior U.S. officials.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister criticized the agreement, calling it detrimental to Israel and the wider international community. Smotrich argued that military pressure had significantly weakened Iran and insisted that efforts to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons must continue.
International Community Calls for Implementation
The international community broadly welcomed the development while emphasizing the need for strict implementation and verification.
United Nations Secretary-General described the agreement as a critical step toward a peaceful settlement of the conflict.
European Commission President stressed the importance of swift implementation and called for the restoration of unrestricted maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as vital for both regional stability and the global economy.
British Prime Minister welcomed the deal as a significant step toward ending the war and offered British support for mine-clearance operations if required. He also reiterated London's position that Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon.
French President urged the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and linked regional stability to the restoration of free maritime commerce. He also emphasized support for Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
German Chancellor said the agreement could contribute to a stronger global economy and a more secure Middle East, while Canadian Prime Minister highlighted the importance of ensuring safe passage through the Strait and addressing concerns surrounding Iran's nuclear programme.
A Fragile Opportunity for Peace
While many details of the agreement remain undisclosed and formal signing is still pending, the announcement has generated cautious optimism worldwide. Financial markets responded positively, with expectations that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could ease pressure on global energy supplies and reduce economic uncertainty.
Diplomats and analysts, however, warn that the success of the initiative will depend on the willingness of all parties to honor their commitments during the ceasefire period and engage in meaningful negotiations toward a comprehensive and lasting peace.
As preparations continue for Friday's expected signing ceremony in Switzerland, the world will be closely watching whether the tentative agreement can transform a devastating conflict into a durable diplomatic breakthrough.