Guterres said the deal, which includes a permanent ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, could help build momentum toward a broader and lasting resolution between the parties.

He urged all sides to “redouble their efforts” to achieve a comprehensive settlement, adding that the United Nations stands ready to support implementation of any future agreements.

The UN chief also expressed appreciation for the role played by several regional actors, including Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, saying their involvement was “constructive” in facilitating negotiations.

The statement came as global reactions to the agreement continued, with European leaders indicating readiness to lift sanctions on Iran in response to progress on its nuclear program, while emphasizing that Tehran must not obtain a nuclear weapon.

A joint statement by European countries including the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy said they were prepared to coordinate with the United States, Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency on verification measures linked to the deal.

Japan also welcomed the agreement, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressing hope for its steady implementation and calling for guaranteed free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait, a key global energy shipping route, is expected to reopen under the terms of the ceasefire, marking a significant development in regional maritime security and global oil flows.

For more than a decade, Narendra Modi has remained at the center of Indian politics, shaping national debates, influencing policy priorities, and redefining the contours of electoral campaigning.

His political journey from a modest upbringing in Gujarat to becoming India’s longest-serving non-Congress prime minister represents one of the most significant leadership stories in modern democratic history.Since first taking office as prime minister in May 2014, Modi has led the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) through multiple national elections and overseen a period of profound political transformation.

His continued prominence in public life has made him one of the most recognizable political figures globally and one of the most influential leaders India has produced in the post-independence era.Modi’s rise was neither sudden nor accidental.

Born in Vadnagar in Gujarat, he spent decades working within the organizational framework of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) before becoming a key strategist and political organizer for the BJP. His reputation as an effective administrator grew during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014, where he promoted industrial development, infrastructure expansion, and investment-driven growth.

By the time he entered the national stage in 2014, India was witnessing growing public demand for decisive leadership, economic development, and administrative efficiency. Modi positioned himself as a leader capable of delivering change, presenting a vision centered on governance, growth, and national confidence.

The BJP’s landslide victory that year marked a turning point in Indian politics.What has distinguished Modi from many of his predecessors is his ability to maintain a direct connection with voters across social, economic, and regional divides. Through mass rallies, digital outreach, radio broadcasts, and extensive travel, he has cultivated a public image that extends beyond traditional political structures.

Political analysts frequently point to this communication strategy as one of the principal reasons for his durability. Rather than relying solely on party machinery, Modi developed a personal rapport with supporters, turning elections into leadership-centered contests.

Another factor behind his longevity has been the BJP’s organizational strength. Under Modi’s leadership, the party expanded its electoral footprint into regions where it had historically struggled. State-level victories, grassroots mobilization, and a disciplined campaign structure helped transform the BJP into India’s dominant political force.

His tenure has also been marked by major policy initiatives. Programs aimed at expanding financial inclusion, increasing access to sanitation facilities, improving digital connectivity, and delivering welfare benefits directly to citizens have formed a central pillar of his governance model.

Supporters argue that these initiatives have improved state capacity and brought government services closer to ordinary citizens.Modi’s leadership has coincided with India’s emergence as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies.

During his years in office, India strengthened its position in global supply chains, expanded digital infrastructure, and increased its international profile through active diplomacy and participation in multilateral forums.On the world stage, Modi has cultivated relationships with leaders across ideological and geographic divides.

His engagements with the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Indo-Pacific region have reflected an effort to position India as a leading global power.Several international leaders have publicly acknowledged India’s growing influence during Modi’s tenure.

Former and current world leaders have often described him as a strong political mandate-holder capable of implementing long-term policy goals. International forums including the G20 have provided platforms where India’s voice has become increasingly prominent.

At home, Modi’s supporters frequently cite his work ethic, disciplined lifestyle, and focus on execution as qualities that distinguish his leadership. His political messaging often emphasizes national pride, cultural heritage, self-reliance, and development.

These themes have resonated with large segments of the electorate and helped sustain his popularity across multiple election cycles.Yet longevity in democratic politics also invites scrutiny. Modi’s years in office have been accompanied by intense political debate over economic decisions, social policies, institutional reforms, and questions relating to governance.

Critics have challenged aspects of his administration’s approach, while supporters argue that difficult decisions were necessary to pursue broader national objectives.This combination of strong support and strong criticism has, paradoxically, reinforced Modi’s centrality in Indian politics.

Few leaders in contemporary India have generated such sustained public engagement, ensuring that political discourse often revolves around his policies and leadership style.Beyond electoral success, Modi’s influence can be seen in how political campaigning itself has evolved.

Modern Indian elections increasingly emphasize leadership branding, digital communication, data-driven outreach, and direct voter engagement. Many political parties have adapted elements of the campaign model refined during the Modi era.His journey has also become a source of inspiration for many supporters who view his rise from humble beginnings as evidence of the opportunities available within India’s democratic system.

The narrative of perseverance, organizational dedication, and long-term political commitment has become a defining feature of his public image.Historians and political observers will ultimately debate the long-term impact of Modi’s tenure. However, there is little disagreement about the scale of his influence.

He has presided over a period in which India experienced major economic, technological, diplomatic, and political changes while remaining one of the most electorally successful leaders in the country’s history.

As India continues its development journey, Modi’s legacy will be assessed through multiple lenses: economic performance, governance reforms, social transformation, foreign policy achievements, and his ability to reshape the political landscape. Regardless of where those debates lead, his place among the most consequential leaders of modern India is already firmly established.

Speaking during a cabinet meeting in Seoul, Lee said the South Korean citizens had been detained without valid legal grounds and suggested the incident required a firm diplomatic response from his government.

Lee did not provide further details regarding the identities of the detained nationals or the circumstances surrounding the arrests.

The remarks marked one of the strongest public criticisms of Israel by the South Korean administration since escalating tensions in the Middle East triggered broader international scrutiny over maritime operations and regional security measures.

Lee also referred to international legal pressure facing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying many European countries appeared prepared to act on warrants issued by the International Criminal Court.
However, Lee said South Korea would make an independent assessment regarding any potential legal or diplomatic measures involving Israel.

The comments come amid heightened international debate over maritime interdictions, humanitarian flotillas and military operations linked to the conflict in Gaza and wider regional tensions involving Israel and its allies.

Neither Israeli officials nor South Korea’s foreign ministry immediately issued additional public statements regarding the detentions.

Lai will attend celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of Mswati III’s accession to the throne and his 58th birthday, according to spokesperson Karen Kuo. The visit will be Lai’s first overseas trip since November 2024.

Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory and opposes maintaining formal diplomatic ties with, now has official relations with only 12 countries, most of them smaller nations in Latin America, the Caribbean and the Pacific, including Belize and Tuvalu.

The visit to Eswatini, a landlocked country largely surrounded by South Africa, avoids the need for transit through the United States, a route often required for Taiwan’s diplomatic visits to Latin America and one that typically draws strong protest from Beijing.

Lai last traveled abroad in November 2024, when he visited the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Palau, transiting through Hawaii and the U.S. territory of Guam.Taiwan has maintained close ties with Eswatini, providing development assistance and humanitarian support.

In 2021, Taipei sent antiviral medication to aid King Mswati III’s recovery from COVID-19.The previous visit by a Taiwanese president to Eswatini took place in 2023, when former leader Tsai Ing-wen traveled to the kingdom.

Wang, on a two-day visit to the diplomatically isolated state his first since 2019 said the two countries should enhance communication on major international and regional issues while safeguarding their respective sovereignty and security interests, according to Chinese state media.

“China is willing to work with North Korea to maintain close communication and interaction, promote practical cooperation, and infuse new contemporary meaning into the traditional friendship,” Wang said, as reported by Xinhua.

The visit follows the resumption of transport links between the neighbors after pandemic-related disruptions, signaling a broader effort to restore economic and diplomatic engagement. China remains North Korea’s largest trading partner and a crucial source of economic and political support.

Wang’s trip comes amid renewed efforts by Donald Trump’s administration to revive high-level talks with Pyongyang, with discussions potentially leading to a summit later this year, including during a possible Trump visit to Beijing in May.

The meeting underscores Beijing’s continued role in shaping regional dynamics on the Korean Peninsula at a time of heightened diplomatic activity involving major powers.

U.S. President Donald Trump said the agreement followed mediation efforts led by Pakistan, adding he would suspend threats of military action if Iran upheld the ceasefire and ensured full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Islamabad would host talks between U.S. and Iranian delegations on Friday, describing both sides as constructively engaged. He expressed hope that the proposed “Islamabad Talks” would lead to sustainable peace.

China said it welcomed the ceasefire, with foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stating Beijing would continue efforts to restore stability in the Middle East.Iraq’s foreign ministry also supported the development, calling for “serious and sustainable dialogue” to address underlying disputes and build trust between the parties.

Turkiye backed the planned negotiations in Islamabad and stressed the importance of full implementation of the ceasefire on the ground, while Australia thanked mediators including Pakistan, Egypt, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia for their role in de-escalation efforts.

Egypt underscored the need to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity across the region, particularly for Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Jordan, warning against any violations that could threaten regional stability.

The United Nations welcomed the ceasefire, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging all parties to comply with international law and uphold the terms of the agreement to pave the way for comprehensive peace.Indonesia also called for respect for sovereignty and diplomacy, while Germany’s foreign minister described the truce as a critical first step toward avoiding further escalation.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the ceasefire would bring “a moment of relief” and confirmed plans to engage Gulf partners on ensuring the permanent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Financial markets responded positively to the announcement, with oil prices falling and global stocks rising after Iran agreed to allow safe passage through the key waterway, which carries a significant share of the world’s energy supplies.

Macron made the remarks at the start of a defense meeting with advisers and cabinet members, according to official statements.While endorsing the ceasefire as a step toward de-escalation, Macron emphasized that broader regional stability would require addressing tensions affecting Lebanon.

The French president did not provide further details on how Lebanon could be incorporated into the agreement, but underscored the urgency of the situation there in the context of ongoing regional developments.

France has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, and Macron’s comments reflect Paris’s continued focus on preventing spillover effects from wider conflicts.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular news briefing that China is willing to work with North Korea to enhance exchanges and advance what she described as “traditional friendly and cooperative relations” between the two neighbors.

The visit comes as Beijing signals continued engagement with Pyongyang amid a complex regional security environment, where diplomatic alignments remain under close scrutiny.

Mao did not provide further details on the itinerary or specific agenda of Wang’s visit, but reiterated China’s commitment to maintaining stable and constructive ties with North Korea.

China has historically been North Korea’s closest ally and largest trading partner, playing a key role in diplomatic efforts on the Korean Peninsula.

The latest visit reflects ongoing efforts by Beijing to sustain high-level dialogue and reinforce its influence in the region.

The exchange, held amid rising international scrutiny, reflected a broader effort to keep communication channels open and promote peaceful outcomes during times of geopolitical tension.

Belarus also deepened its diplomatic outreach, with President Alexander Lukashenko holding his second meeting in under three weeks with Venezuelan ambassador Jesus Rafael Salazar Velazquez.

The discussions signaled a willingness to strengthen ties and coordinate approaches to regional issues, reflecting a long-standing partnership built on cooperation and mutual respect.

Reports indicate that Maduro conveyed readiness to step aside under conditions of full legal amnesty for himself and his family.

The request underscores the complex legal and political considerations shaping Venezuela’s future and the international community’s role in facilitating lawful transitions of power.

Lukashenko emphasized in earlier meetings that Maduro would always be welcome in Belarus, encouraging continued dialogue on matters requiring mutual attention.

The diplomatic tone remained positive, signaling an openness to peaceful solutions and an emphasis on sovereignty, stability, and legal protections.

Putin’s call reiterated Russia’s view that Venezuela’s national interests and sovereignty must be safeguarded in the face of growing external pressure.

His remarks aligned with Moscow’s longstanding position that constructive diplomacy should guide international engagement rather than confrontation.

Meanwhile, the United States has continued to increase pressure on Maduro’s administration, maintaining its stance on the legitimacy of Venezuela’s leadership.

Washington has voiced its position firmly, but global observers continue to highlight the importance of lawful, measured, and diplomatic strategies over heightened tensions.

The situation comes as the U.S. undertakes a military build-up in the Caribbean, a move that has prompted calls from several quarters for restraint and respect for international law.

Analysts note that avoiding escalation is essential to preserving stability across the Western Hemisphere.

Russian officials expressed hope that diplomatic channels would remain active to prevent any slide toward conflict.

The emphasis was on responsible statecraft and the shared international interest in preventing unpredictable consequences.

Lukashenko’s outreach to both the Venezuelan government and the U.S. administration demonstrates a nuanced diplomatic balancing act.

Belarus has sought to strengthen its global ties, improve political dialogue, and create pathways for constructive negotiations that benefit regional and international stability.

Recent U.S. moves to ease certain sanctions on Belarus and appoint a special envoy for dialogue indicate a shift toward engagement over isolation.

This trend highlights the growing recognition that diplomatic solutions grounded in legal frameworks and mutual understanding can help pave the way for lasting peace.

The evolving dynamic between Russia, Belarus, Venezuela, and the United States underscores the importance of diplomacy as a cornerstone of global politics.

At a moment of heightened geopolitical focus, the priority shared by many nations remains the pursuit of lawful, peaceful, and cooperative outcomes that support regional security and international stability.

The remarks come at a moment when global attention remains focused on pathways toward a sustainable settlement that prevents further escalation and strengthens regional stability.

President Vladimir Putin, speaking ahead of his upcoming visit to New Delhi, said that Moscow expects a resolution that ensures its strategic goals in Donetsk and Luhansk.

At the same time, officials emphasized that discussions with multiple nations, including the United States and partners in Asia, are aimed at pursuing diplomatic channels that keep negotiations open.

Russian authorities maintain that the long conflict in eastern Ukraine began years before the full-scale escalation, shaped by tensions between Ukrainian forces and local groups.

Moscow continues to argue that its interests in Donbas are tied to security concerns and cultural ties, although Kyiv rejects any proposal involving territorial concessions.

Despite stark differences between the two sides, recent engagements with U.S. representatives have drawn international attention.

Putin received envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Moscow, calling the meeting productive and describing the dialogue as grounded in proposals earlier discussed with U.S. leadership.

Russian state media highlighted that Moscow has accepted some ideas put forward in ongoing diplomatic exchanges, framing the talks as an important step toward identifying areas of mutual understanding.

While details remain undisclosed, the acknowledgement of progress has been seen by analysts as a positive gesture toward keeping diplomatic avenues active.

Russia currently holds significant portions of Ukrainian territory, including full administrative control of Luhansk and most of Donetsk.

Ukrainian officials nonetheless insist that all regions recognized internationally as Ukrainian must remain under Kyiv’s sovereignty, expressing opposition to any form of territorial compromise.

Even with positions firmly held, observers note that the recent diplomatic activity suggests both sides acknowledge the importance of international mediation.

In particular, the involvement of global actors has helped sustain pressure for dialogue rather than prolonged military escalation.

International organizations continue to advocate for a negotiated outcome rooted in international law, regional security guarantees and humanitarian considerations.

The global community has consistently emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and maintaining the integrity of diplomatic platforms that encourage peaceful resolutions.

For Russia, the Donbas region holds political, historical and strategic significance, making it central to its stated goals.

However, the recent diplomatic tone suggests Moscow remains aware that long-term peace and regional stability will require the involvement of multiple nations and structured discussions.

Ukraine, meanwhile, continues to receive broad international support for its sovereignty as it defends the remaining parts of Donetsk still under its control.

Kyiv also maintains active diplomatic communication with partners to build consensus on a settlement that reinforces its territorial integrity.

As both sides navigate a complex geopolitical environment, global attention remains focused on preventing further military escalation.

Diplomats hope that sustained discussions, even amid disagreements, may eventually help bridge gaps and lead toward a roadmap addressing both security concerns and humanitarian priorities.

With heightened interest from global powers, including major states in Europe, Asia and North America, the coming months will likely see intensified diplomatic exchanges.

The hope among mediators is that continued dialogue will help reduce tensions and create meaningful steps toward a durable, internationally accepted agreement.