South African President Cyril Ramaphosa speaks while addressing diplomats who had presented letters of credence as new heads of missions accredited to South Africa at the presidential guest house in Pretoria, South Africa, April 8, 2026. (GCIS/Handout via Xinhua)

JOHANNESBURG, April 8 (Xinhua) -- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday welcomed a ceasefire arrangement on the Iran conflict, saying it is a vital step toward regional stability.

Ramaphosa made the remarks at the presidential guest house in Pretoria on Wednesday morning while addressing diplomats who had presented letters of credence as new heads of missions accredited to South Africa.

The conflict broke out on Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel launched joint airstrikes targeting Iranian infrastructure and leadership. Iran responded with retaliatory missile and drone attacks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Following mediation efforts by countries such as Pakistan, a two-week ceasefire was announced late Tuesday.

"We note the current initiatives and ongoing efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive end to the conflict in the Middle East. We welcome the announcement of a ceasefire and are hopeful that it will lay the basis for a permanent resolution," Ramaphosa said.

"South Africa once again calls for dialogue and mediation to prevent further loss of life and destruction of property, and to ensure a just, sustainable and lasting peace. We further call on all countries to respect international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations," the president said.

He noted that South Africa advocates for a global order defined by peace and friendship among all nations of the world, urging countries to unite against "racism, colonialism, subjugation and all forms of oppression and intolerance."

"We strive to ensure that global peace and security are secured through dialogue and negotiation, not through force of arms," the president said, calling on all parties to respect international law and national sovereignty. ■

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa speaks while addressing diplomats who had presented letters of credence as new heads of missions accredited to South Africa at the presidential guest house in Pretoria, South Africa, April 8, 2026. (GCIS/Handout via Xinhua)