Iraqi president welcomes ceasefire, calls for sustained diplomatic dialogue

BAGHDAD — President Abdul Latif Rashid welcomed the ceasefire between the United States and Iran on Wednesday, describing it as “an important development that can contribute to reducing tensions in the region” and calling for it to be used to advance lasting diplomatic solutions.

“We welcome the announcement of a ceasefire between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Rashid said, adding that the step should be used to “enhance constructive diplomatic dialogue” and adopt “wisdom, understanding and peaceful means to resolve disputes, rather than resorting to force.”

Rashid said Iraq, “based on its regional role,” is committed to supporting international efforts and contributing to the success of negotiations between Iran and the United States, stressing that the region “is in urgent need of combined regional and international efforts to consolidate the foundations of peace, safeguard state sovereignty, and ensure a secure and prosperous future for its peoples.”

The ceasefire is a temporary two-week agreement that includes steps toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz and is expected to be followed by negotiations mediated by Pakistan. Iraq was among the most acutely affected countries during the five-week conflict, losing access to its main southern export terminals, seeing Iranian gas supplies cut off and enduring repeated strikes on military installations, diplomatic missions and civilian infrastructure.