Cabinet hails PM Shehbaz, Gen Munir as Pakistan marks 'Day of Gratitude' after US-Iran ceasefire

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday chaired a key federal cabinet meeting, where members celebrated Pakistan’s diplomatic gains following the US-Iran ceasefire, applauding the premier’s leadership and serving sweets during the session.

The cabinet decided to observe a “day of gratitude” and urged the nation to offer prayers for the success of ongoing peace negotiations. Members also paid tribute to Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir—recently elevated as Field Marshal—for his role in advancing regional stability. Congratulations were also extended to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar for his diplomatic efforts.

Addressing the meeting, the prime minister said Pakistan’s stature on the global stage had significantly risen due to its proactive role in facilitating dialogue. He praised the coordinated efforts of the civil and military leadership, particularly Field Marshal Munir and Dar, in helping create conditions conducive to the ceasefire.

Shehbaz noted that the first phase of the ceasefire between the United States and Iran had been successfully implemented and expressed optimism about the next round of negotiations scheduled for Friday. He voiced confidence that the upcoming talks in Islamabad would yield further progress toward a comprehensive and lasting settlement.

Earlier in the day, the prime minister announced that Washington and Tehran, along with their allies, had agreed to an immediate ceasefire “everywhere, including Lebanon,” marking a major step toward de-escalation in a volatile region. In a post on X, he invited delegations from both countries to Islamabad on April 10, 2026, for negotiations aimed at resolving all outstanding issues.

Expressing optimism, Shehbaz said the Islamabad talks could become a “significant milestone” in achieving durable peace, adding that both sides had demonstrated “remarkable wisdom and understanding” in pursuing stability through dialogue.

US President Donald Trump also endorsed the ceasefire shortly before his deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of severe consequences otherwise. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the development as “a big day for world peace,” stating that both Iran and the international community were eager for de-escalation.

He further indicated that the United States would assist in ensuring smooth maritime traffic through the critical Gulf route, underlining the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for global energy supplies.

The developments reflect Pakistan’s growing diplomatic engagement and recognition as a mediator, as Islamabad positions itself at the centre of efforts to bring lasting peace to the Middle East.