UN Secretary-General Applauds US-Iran Ceasefire, Urges Compliance with International Law
Synopsis
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, UN chief Antonio Guterres has welcomed the US-Iran ceasefire, urging all parties to adhere to international law. The two-week pause, announced by President Trump, aims to facilitate peace in West Asia amid rising tensions. Will this lead to lasting stability?
Key Takeaways
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has welcomed the ceasefire announcement.
The ceasefire lasts for two weeks and is conditional.
US President Donald Trump announced the pause prior to a key deadline.
Iran's Foreign Minister indicated a willingness to cease operations if attacks are halted.
Coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces will ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
New York, April 8 (NationPress) The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, expressed his approval on Wednesday regarding the declaration of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran. He urged all involved parties in the ongoing conflict in West Asia to adhere to their responsibilities under international law and to respect the ceasefire terms.
Guterres emphasized the urgent need to halt hostilities to "protect the lives of individuals and alleviate human suffering." He acknowledged the efforts of countries that played a role in facilitating this ceasefire.
As per the statement, Guterres' Personal Envoy, Jean Arnault, is currently in the region to assist in the pursuit of enduring peace.
This statement from Guterres followed an announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump, who revealed a conditional two-week pause in military actions associated with the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This news brought relief to many around the globe.
The announcement was made just 90 minutes before the self-imposed deadline of 8 PM EST, set by Trump, for Iran to negotiate a deal following backchannel discussions.
In a post on Truth Social on Tuesday (local time), Trump stated he would “suspend” military escalations for two weeks, provided Iran agrees to open the crucial shipping route.
Trump articulated, “We have already met and exceeded all military objectives and are making significant progress towards a definitive agreement for long-term peace with Iran and stability in the Middle East.”
He mentioned that the U.S. had received a “10-point proposal from Iran,” which serves as a “workable basis for negotiations.”
Trump noted that “nearly all past points of contention” had been resolved, and this two-week pause would facilitate the finalization of the agreement.
The ceasefire is subject to conditions, with Trump stating it relies on Iran's commitment to the “total, immediate, and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz.”
Iran showed tentative signs of acceptance, with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi indicating that Tehran would cease operations if the attacks stop.
“If attacks against Iran are halted, our Powerful Armed Forces will stop their defensive actions,” he stated.
“During these two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be achievable through coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces, keeping in mind technical limitations,” he added.
A White House official confirmed that Israel has also consented to the two-week pause, although specific details remain unclear.
Point of View
It's imperative that all involved parties adhere to the agreements made to ensure lasting peace and security.
NationPress
11 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the US-Iran ceasefire?
The ceasefire announced by the US and Iran is set to last for two weeks.
What conditions are tied to the ceasefire?
The ceasefire is conditional upon Iran agreeing to the complete, immediate, and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Who is Antonio Guterres?
Antonio Guterres is the Secretary-General of the United Nations, advocating for peace and compliance with international law.
What role did backchannel diplomacy play?
Backchannel diplomacy facilitated negotiations leading to the ceasefire announcement just before the deadline set by President Trump.
What has Iran's response been to the ceasefire?
Iran has shown tentative acceptance of the ceasefire, indicating a willingness to halt operations if attacks stop.
