DILI, 19 June 2026 (TATOLI) — President José Ramos-Horta welcomed the agreement reached between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, describing it as a major diplomatic achievement that could help ease regional tensions and strengthen global economic stability.
In a statement issued in Dili on Friday, the Timorese head of state said the accord represented a significant breakthrough in efforts to address a conflict that has long posed risks to peace and security in the Gulf region.
“I welcome the agreement reached between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran. This accord represents a significant diplomatic breakthrough, opening a constructive path toward resolving a conflict that has long threatened regional stability and weighed heavily on the global economy,” Ramos-Horta said.
The Nobel Peace Prize laureate expressed hope that the agreement would contribute to restoring free and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes, while reinforcing the principle of sovereign equality among nations.
“I express my hope that this agreement will restore the principles of free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, while reaffirming the sovereign equality of all nations — a cornerstone of international law and peaceful coexistence,” he said.
Ramos-Horta also praised the countries that helped mediate the agreement, commending their persistence and commitment to diplomacy throughout the negotiations. “I commend the mediator nations for their unwavering patience, diplomacy, and steadfast dedication. Their tireless efforts have proven that dialogue, not confrontation, is the surest road to lasting solutions,” he said.
“I urge both parties to honor their commitments in good faith and to approach any future challenges with the same spirit of mutual respect and constructive engagement that made this accord achievable,” he said.
Ramos-Horta further called on the international community, including mediator countries and multilateral institutions, to remain actively involved in supporting the agreement’s implementation.
Beyond the agreement, the Timorese leader appealed for an end to hostilities across the broader Middle East, including attacks affecting Gulf countries, Lebanon, Syria and Gaza, while reiterating support for Palestinian statehood.
“All attacks against the Gulf countries must cease completely. Israel must cease all attacks against Lebanon, desist from encroaching on Lebanese sovereign territory, end all attacks against Syria, end once and for all attacks against Gaza, desist from attempts at reoccupying Gaza, desist from its 80 years of denying Palestinian reality and the rights of Palestinians to an independent, sovereign Palestine,” Ramos-Horta said.
He concluded by expressing hope that the agreement would contribute to lasting peace both in the Gulf and beyond. “May this agreement serve as a beacon of hope for lasting peace in the Gulf region and around the world,” he said.
TATOLI
