I welcome the understanding reached between the United States and Iran towards ending hostilities, and the announcement that a memorandum of understanding will be signed in the coming days. I commend the mediation efforts that brought the parties to this point, especially those undertaken by Pakistan. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping must now be treated as a matter of the highest urgency. The strait is a critical artery for global energy security and international trade. Prolonged disruption would serve no one. Malaysia urges all parties to act in good faith, proceed without delay and translate this understanding into a durable peace settlement. At this delicate moment, all parties and external actors must refrain from any action that could derail diplomacy and renew hostilities. Malaysia stands ready to support efforts towards a just and lasting peace, and calls on the international community to sustain this momentum. ANWAR IBRAHIM Photo: Reuters