Iraq welcomes US-Iran agreement to halt military operations

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday it welcomed a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran to halt military operations, calling the deal a step toward regional stability. The ministry said the agreement would strengthen stability and open new avenues for cooperation, and reiterated Iraq's standing opposition to violence and its support for dialogue and diplomatic means to resolve disputes. The ministry also praised mediation efforts by Pakistan and Qatar, saying it had closely followed the talks that led to the suspension of military operations. It expressed hope that the agreement would end the conflict on a permanent basis and said Iraq would continue to strengthen ties with countries affected by the crisis. The development follows a framework agreement announced by Washington and Tehran through Pakistani mediation. The deal covers the suspension of military operations, the scheduling of further talks and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Iraq said the easing of military tension could create ground for negotiations on Iran's nuclear program and other outstanding issues.