India Welcomes Ceasefire in West Asia, Stresses De-escalation and Free Navigation

India on Wednesday welcomed the recently announced ceasefire in West Asia, urging all parties to pursue de-escalation through sustained dialogue and diplomacy.

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed hope that the truce would help restore stability in the region following weeks of heightened tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.

The statement particularly highlighted the importance of unimpeded freedom of navigation and the smooth global flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for energy supplies and international trade.

“India welcomes the ceasefire,” the MEA noted, adding that “de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy” remain essential to resolving the conflict and preventing further disruption.

The development comes as a two-week ceasefire took effect, with reports indicating that Iran has agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a pause in military actions. Markets reacted positively, with Indian shares surging over 3 percent amid falling crude oil prices and eased shipping concerns.