Malaysia hails US-Iran deal as 'significant step'

Malaysia's Foreign Ministry on Monday welcomed the agreement between Washington and Tehran, describing it as a "significant step" toward de-escalation in the Middle East and a "structured pathway towards a comprehensive and lasting settlement" following months of regional conflict.

Kuala Lumpur's Position

In a statement issued early Monday, Kuala Lumpur expressed appreciation to Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye for their diplomatic efforts in facilitating the deal. The ministry also voiced support for further negotiations toward a final agreement, including maritime security arrangements, phased sanctions relief and other confidence-building initiatives.

Such measures are expected to "contribute to a durable cessation of hostilities, enhanced regional stability, the safeguarding of freedom of navigation along the Strait of Hormuz, and strengthening of the global economy and energy security," the statement said. "Malaysia remains unequivocal that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, diplomacy and mutual respect," it added, noting Kuala Lumpur's willingness to "support all constructive initiatives that contribute to the maintenance of international peace and security, as well as justice and prosperity."

Diplomatic Breakthrough

The statement followed an announcement by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier on Monday that Washington and Tehran had reached a peace agreement, with a signing ceremony scheduled for Friday in Switzerland. Both capitals later confirmed the development, with US President Donald Trump stating that the deal had been finalized and announcing plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and lift the US naval blockade.

Pakistan has been mediating between the two sides since securing a ceasefire on April 8, weeks after the United States and Israel launched military action against Iran on February 28. The war has killed thousands and disrupted global energy shipments through the strategic chokepoint.