South Korea Welcomes Ceasefire Agreement Between Iran and the US

Seoul (ANTARA) - The South Korean Foreign Ministry stated on Wednesday that the South Korean government welcomes the ceasefire agreement reached between the United States (US) and Iran. The agreement also serves as a momentum for resuming navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry also appreciated the mediation efforts of relevant countries, including Pakistan. South Korea hopes that negotiations between the US and Iran can soon reach a consensus and that peace and stability in the Middle East can be restored as soon as possible. In addition, the East Asian country also hopes that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz can be resumed quickly and safely for all ships, including South Korean vessels. Seoul will continue to communicate and consult with relevant countries to achieve that goal. Less than two hours before the deadline set by US President Donald Trump, Iran and the US finally reached an agreement to implement a ceasefire for two weeks and will hold negotiations in Pakistan. Previously, Trump on Tuesday (7/4) announced that he had agreed to “stop bombing and attacks against Iran for two weeks.” That decision “depends on” Iran’s agreement to fully, immediately, and safely reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Trump wrote on social media. From the Iranian side, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said his country would halt “defensive operations” if the opposing side also stops attacks. Araghchi also promised safe shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz during the two-week ceasefire under “coordination” with Iran’s armed forces. He also conveyed that the Iranian delegation would hold talks with the US side in Islamabad, Pakistan.