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Iran has issued its first official response after a temporary 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah came into effect on April 16. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei welcomed the truce, calling it the result of sustained diplomatic efforts by Tehran. Describing the development as a victory for the “axis of resistance,” Baqaei said the halt in Israeli operations against Lebanon is part of a broader ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States, facilitated through mediation by Pakistan. He emphasized that Iran had consistently pushed for a region-wide ceasefire, including in Lebanon, during negotiations with international and regional stakeholders. Baqaei added that following the Islamabad talks, Tehran actively pursued this objective with seriousness, underlining its diplomatic commitment to de-escalation in West Asia.