The Kabul Tribune (KT) – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has welcomed the two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, calling it a “much-needed de-escalation.” She thanked Pakistan for its role in mediation and stressed that negotiations must continue to achieve a long-term solution. She also said the European Union will continue coordinating with international partners to support ongoing peace efforts.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the ceasefire as “a step back from the brink” after weeks of escalation. She said it offers an important opportunity to reduce tensions, reopen key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, and create space for diplomacy. Kallas added that the root causes of the conflict remain unresolved and said the EU stands ready to support further mediation and regional dialogue.
Meanwhile, Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong also welcomed the ceasefire between the United States, Israel, and Iran. They said Australia has long called for de-escalation and warned that the conflict has disrupted global energy supplies and increased fuel prices, partly due to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Australia emphasized the need to maintain the ceasefire, restore safe maritime trade routes, and continue diplomatic engagement. It also thanked countries including Pakistan, Egypt, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia for their efforts in facilitating negotiations, and urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians.
Both the European Union and Australia said the ceasefire is a positive but fragile step forward, and emphasized the importance of continued diplomacy to achieve a lasting peace.