Cairo [Egypt], April 8 (ANI): Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, describing the development as a source of relief for millions worldwide.

Highlighting the humanitarian and strategic significance of the truce, the President expressed hope that the move would lead to a durable resolution for the region.

In a post on X, President el-Sisi shared his personal reflections on the early morning announcement.

https://x.com/AlsisiOfficial/status/2041801249109000675?s=20

'I followed, in the early hours of this morning, the announcement of reaching a ceasefire agreement between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran. This news has undoubtedly brought relief to the hearts of millions of peace-loving people across all corners of the earth,' the Egyptian leader stated.

Looking toward the future of the diplomatic process, el-Sisi expressed his aspirations for the temporary pause to evolve into a lasting peace.

He further added, 'I pray to God--Almighty and Exalted--that this positive development will be crowned with a permanent agreement to halt the war in the region, restore security and stability therein, and achieve the aspirations of its peoples for development, progress, and prosperity.'

While supporting the path toward peace, the President underscored Egypt's unwavering commitment to its regional allies.

He reaffirmed Cairo's 'full and unconditional support for the sister countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, as well as Jordan and Iraq, during these delicate circumstances,' while emphasising the importance that any forthcoming agreement 'take into account their legitimate security concerns and requirements.'

The Egyptian President also took the opportunity to acknowledge the role of the American leadership in facilitating the truce.

He noted that Egypt 'values President Trump's decision to heed the voice of reason and uphold the values of humanity and peace,' while calling on all involved parties to engage seriously in negotiations to achieve 'peaceful coexistence among the peoples of the region and the world.'

Reaffirming Egypt's long-term regional role, el-Sisi stated that the leadership, government, and people would remain a steadfast pillar of support for the security and prosperity of their brothers in the Gulf states, Iraq, and Jordan.

He pledged to 'continue to exert every sincere and dedicated effort aimed at ending conflicts and establishing just and comprehensive peace in our region and across the entire world.'

This diplomatic outreach from Cairo follows a significant breakthrough by US President Donald Trump, who suspended the 'bombing and attack' campaign on Iran.

Announcing a two-week, double-sided ceasefire, Trump stated that a 10-point proposal from Iran was 'workable' and would serve as the ground to negotiate a permanent deal, particularly as the US has already achieved most of its military objectives.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump revealed that the suspension was prompted by mediation from Pakistan.

'Based on conversations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir of Pakistan, and wherein they requested that I hold off the destructive force being sent tonight to Iran, and subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks. This will be a double-sided CEASEFIRE!' Trump stated.

The US President noted that Iran had agreed to almost all the various points of past contention, allowing time for a permanent agreement to be finalised.

Responding to this overture, the Iranian side accepted the peace initiative, agreeing to safe passage via the Strait of Hormuz and a pause in military operations.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi confirmed on X that Iran would cease its military operations, provided it was not attacked.

Araghchi declared on behalf of Iran's Supreme National Security Council that if attacks are halted, their 'Powerful Armed Forces will cease their defensive operations.'

He confirmed that, for a period of two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be possible via coordination with Iran's Armed Forces.

This de-escalation sets the stage for formal diplomacy, with talks between the Iranian side, led by Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and the US delegation, led by Vice-President JD Vance, scheduled for Friday in Islamabad. (ANI)