“I firmly believe that the only viable path toward lasting stability, security, and prosperity in the Middle East lies in inclusive, constructive dialogue and mutual understanding among all parties,” President Barzani said on X.
Trump early Tuesday announced that a ceasefire was struck between Israel and Iran, set to unfold over 24 hours with a halt in Iranian military operations first, followed by Israel ceasing hostilities 12 hours later.
He later announced that the ceasefire had taken effect.
“I extend my appreciation to President Trump and other leaders for their commitment to diplomacy and peaceful resolution of conflicts at this critical time,” Barzani said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also announced that they had agreed to Trump’s ceasefire proposal, also adding that another “senior nuclear scientist” was killed by the Israeli strikes on Tehran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied a ceasefire agreement having been brokered, but said that Tehran will cease hostilities if Israel does so.
Tensions between Israel and Iran skyrocketed on June 13, when Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, killing a number of nuclear scientists and senior military commanders. In response, Tehran launched several waves of missile and drone attacks against Israeli targets.
At least 400 people have been killed by the Israeli strikes in Iran, according to Tehran’s health ministry, and 24 people have been killed in Iran’s retaliatory attacks, according to official Israeli figures.
