Lucknow, April 8 (IANS) As US President Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension of planned military strikes on Iran, and Tehran indicated its willingness to reopen the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, signalling a possible easing of tensions, Shia leaders on Wednesday claimed that global powers like the United States and Israel have been forced to step back.

Speaking to IANS, General Secretary of the All India Shia Personal Law Board, Maulana Yasoob Abbas, said, “Today, ‘haq’ has prevailed after 40 days. If we look at history, there have been times when Islam was attacked, yet it emerged victorious. Even now, Iran has prevailed.”

He further stated, “Iran has asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz and drawn a line, bringing global attention together. Today, superpowers like America and Israel have been forced to bow. Just yesterday, Donald Trump was saying that Iran’s civilisation would be destroyed, but within 24 hours, a ceasefire has been announced. I congratulate all Muslims and members of the Shia community on this development.”

Chairman of the Shia Markazi Chand Committee, Syed Saif Abbas Naqvi, also praised the people of Iran.

He said, “We congratulate the brave people of Iran. When Trump threatened to destroy the country, the people came out onto the streets to protect key infrastructure such as bridges and power stations.”

“They stood firm, showing that they are not afraid of death and will prevail. As I have said earlier, Israel and the United States initiated aggression, but Iran did not back down. Ultimately, Trump was compelled to withdraw,” he added.

Meanwhile, Israel also expressed support for the United States decision to suspend military action against Iran, while clarifying that the proposed two-week ceasefire arrangement does not extend to Lebanon.

Earlier in the day, Iran indicated its willingness to halt its military response provided that attacks against it are stopped, while also announcing a temporary opening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz for a period of two weeks.

In a statement, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the development comes at a time when ceasefire negotiations are currently underway, signalling a possible de-escalation in ongoing tensions.

–IANS

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