Istanbul: A group of 17 countries on Monday welcomed the memorandum of understanding announced between the US and Iran, describing it as an opportunity to restore regional stability and support the global economy.
According to Anadolu Agency, a joint statement issued by the UK, France, Germany, and Italy highlighted the significance of the agreement, calling it a "moment of opportunity to restore regional stability and stabilize the global economy." The statement was subsequently endorsed by 13 additional countries.
The nations congratulated the US, Iran, and mediators, including Pakistan and Qatar, on what they described as a diplomatic breakthrough. The leaders emphasized the importance of concluding detailed negotiations and swiftly implementing the agreement, expressing their readiness to support the process.
The countries also urged the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, advocating for the restoration of "unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation."
The additional signatories to the statement were Japan, Canada, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Greek Cypriot Administration, the Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Latvia, Poland, and Portugal. These leaders committed to contributing to efforts, including a "strictly defensive and independent mission" to reassure commercial shipping and conduct mine-clearance operations, adhering to constitutional requirements.
The statement reiterated the stance that Iran "must never acquire a nuclear weapon" and expressed a willingness to collaborate with the US, Iran, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to achieve this goal.
The leaders also indicated their preparedness to lift relevant sanctions in response to "clear, verifiable steps" by Iran regarding its nuclear program. They pledged to work closely with the US, Iran, and regional partners to maintain momentum and secure a long-term diplomatic settlement.
The statement further reaffirmed support for Lebanon's stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, underscoring the importance of a robust ceasefire.
Regional tensions have heightened since late February after US and Israeli airstrikes in Iran resulted in over 3,000 casualties. Tehran retaliated with strikes on Gulf countries and Israel, alongside imposing restrictions on passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Washington and Tehran reached a temporary truce on April 8 through Pakistani mediation before announcing a framework agreement to end the conflict. The accord is anticipated to be formally signed in Switzerland on July 19.