Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon, describing it as a significant step toward reducing tensions and restoring calm in the region.

According to Press Information Department, the President emphasized that Pakistan places high importance on regional stability and believes that sustainable peace can be achieved through dialogue, respect for sovereignty, and adherence to international law. He stated that the ceasefire presents an opportunity to progress toward lasting peace.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the President noted that Pakistan remains engaged with regional and international stakeholders to ease tensions between the United States and Iran, recognizing that lasting peace in West Asia depends on addressing the broader conflict drivers. He added that Pakistan will continue to support initiatives that advance de-escalation and a comprehensive peace across the region.

The President cautioned that the current momentum towards de-escalation is fragile, noting that the broader understanding underpinning the ongoing cessation of hostilities between the United States and Iran envisaged restraint, including in Lebanon, which was later violated by Israel. He observed that any deviation from this spirit risks increasing tensions and stressed the importance of restraint and responsible conduct by all parties at this crucial juncture.