ADDIS ABABA- The African Union on Wednesday welcomed the ceasefire in the US-Israeli war on Iran, highlighting its economic fallout across Africa and calling for sustained dialogue to secure lasting peace.

In a statement, the bloc said the truce, announced by Pakistan’s prime minister, aligns with its consistent calls for restraint and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

“The ceasefire presents a critical opportunity to ease the suffering of populations affected both directly and indirectly,” AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said, adding that “sustained dialogue and inclusive diplomacy will be essential to consolidating these gains.”

The continental bloc pointed to broader global repercussions of the conflict, noting that disruptions to fuel supplies have driven inflation and increased the cost of basic commodities, including in African economies already under strain.

It expressed full support for ongoing talks in Islamabad and commended mediation efforts by Oman, Türkiye, and Egypt, whose diplomatic engagement helped secure the agreement and advance prospects for a comprehensive peace.

The ceasefire follows an escalation in hostilities in the Middle East stemming from the US-Israel war on Iran, which began on Feb. 28 and has lasted about six weeks, raising fears of a wider regional conflict and disrupting global energy markets.

Pakistan’s role in announcing the truce, along with ongoing diplomatic efforts, has opened a window for further negotiations, though the bloc stressed that maintaining momentum will be critical.

The AU reiterated that diplomacy remains the only viable path to resolving international crises and urged all parties to commit to dialogue to prevent further instability.

Source: AA