India backs US-Iran ceasefire, calls it step towards lasting peace

April 8, 2026

New Delhi: India on Wednesday welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would lead to lasting peace in West Asia.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasised the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to end the conflict. It noted that the ongoing tensions have caused suffering to people and disrupted global energy supply and trade.

Concern over energy and trade disruption
The MEA said, “We welcome the ceasefire reached and hope that it will lead to a lasting peace in West Asia. De-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy are essential to bring an early end to the conflict.”

It further highlighted the need for uninterrupted global trade, stating that freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz must be ensured for smooth commerce.

Trump announces conditional pause
The statement came after US President Donald Trump announced a conditional two-week pause on planned military strikes against Iran. The decision was linked to Iran agreeing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing peace negotiations.

Trump said the move was based on progress in talks, adding that military objectives had been achieved and a long-term agreement was close. He also revealed that the US had received a “10-point proposal” from Iran as a basis for negotiations.

Iran signals willingness to cooperate
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi indicated that Tehran would halt its operations if attacks against Iran stop.

He stated that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz could be ensured for two weeks in coordination with Iranian armed forces, subject to technical considerations.

The ceasefire remains conditional and is seen as a significant step toward reducing tensions in the region.