'Hope this will lead to lasting peace', India's first statement on Iran-US ceasefire

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Indian government has issued its first official response following the ceasefire announcement between the United States and Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs welcomed the ceasefire, stating that it would create a positive environment for lasting peace in West Asia. In its statement, the ministry reiterated that dialogue, diplomacy, and de-escalation are the most effective ways to resolve the ongoing tensions in the region.

The Ministry of External Affairs also stated that the conflict has severely impacted civilians and disrupted global energy supplies and trade networks. India expressed hope that maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz will now return to normal and international trade will continue uninterrupted.

Relief for Indian sailors stranded in the Persian Gulf:

With the announcement of a ceasefire, the process of reopening the Strait of Hormuz has begun. According to the Indian government, 16 Indian ships are currently anchored in the Persian Gulf, carrying a total of 433 Indian sailors. These ships are now preparing to depart for their destinations once the situation normalizes. It is estimated that they may take anywhere from three days to a week to reach India.

Trump's announcement before the deadline:

US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire about an hour and a half before the deadline. He stated via social media that an agreement had been reached with Iran on key contentious issues and that the agreement would be finalized within the next two weeks. Trump claimed that Iran had agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Trump, the US has achieved its military objectives. He also stated that a 10-point proposal from Iran has been received, which provides a solid basis for further negotiations.