African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has welcomed the US-Iran ceasefire announced through mediation involving Pakistan, describing it as a positive development that reflects a shared effort to reduce tensions and prevent further conflict.
In a statement dated April 8, 2026, he said the agreement aligns with the African Union Commission’s consistent calls for restraint and the peaceful settlement of disputes. He noted that the progress made so far reflects constructive engagement and cooperation among the parties involved.
Youssouf acknowledged the role played by key mediators, including Oman, Türkiye, and Egypt, saying their diplomatic efforts were central to reaching the ceasefire arrangement. He credited their continued engagement for helping bridge gaps between the parties.
“This ceasefire presents a critical opportunity to ease the suffering of populations affected both directly and indirectly,” he said, stressing the importance of maintaining dialogue and ensuring that diplomatic channels remain open as efforts continue to stabilize the situation.
He further pointed out that the effects of the conflict have not been limited to the immediate region, noting that “the repercussions have been felt globally, including across Africa, where disruptions to fuel supplies have driven inflation and increased the cost of basic commodities.”
According to him, the ceasefire offers an opportunity not only to de-escalate tensions but also to reduce economic pressure on countries affected by rising prices and supply chain challenges. He emphasized that stability in the region has direct implications for global markets and livelihoods.
The AUC Chairperson expressed support for the ongoing talks in Islamabad and called on all parties to sustain the momentum toward a lasting and comprehensive peace. He reiterated that diplomacy and dialogue remain the most viable approaches to resolving international disputes, in line with the Charter of the United Nations.
Youssouf urged continued cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure that the ceasefire translates into long-term peace, stability, and economic relief, particularly for African countries affected by the ripple effects of the conflict.
His remarks come after a two-week suspension of planned military action against Iran announced by US President Donald Trump following diplomatic engagements involving Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir.
The temporary pause is tied to Iran’s agreement to the “complete, immediate, and safe” reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply passes.
Trump described the arrangement as part of a “double-sided ceasefire,” noting that Washington had already “met and exceeded all Military objectives” and that discussions with Iran were progressing toward what he termed “a definitive Agreement concerning Longterm PEACE with Iran, and PEACE in the Middle East.”
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council later confirmed the ceasefire, presenting it as a strategic outcome and indicating that the United States had accepted Iran’s 10-point proposal as a basis for negotiations.
The proposal reportedly includes regulated access through the Strait of Hormuz and a halt to hostilities against elements associated with the so-called “axis of resistance.” Under the direction of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran is expected to engage in talks with the United States in Islamabad beginning Friday, April 10, with discussions scheduled to run for two weeks and subject to extension if both sides agree.
Although the ceasefire has opened a diplomatic window, Iranian authorities have indicated that it does not mark the end of the conflict. Both sides are expected to continue negotiations with the aim of formalizing broader agreements, including the possibility of a resolution supported by the United Nations Security Council.
The announcement has attracted global attention, with many countries and international bodies closely monitoring whether the temporary truce can evolve into a durable peace framework that addresses security concerns while easing economic pressures linked to the conflict.