Egypt says US–Iran deal could be a ‘turning point’ for Middle East peace

Egypt welcomed Monday an agreement announced by the United States and Iran to end the Middle East war, saying it could be a "turning point" for peace in the region.

The US and Iran said they reached a deal to end the war on all fronts including Lebanon, and to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz, though they offered little indication on the thorny question of Tehran's nuclear programme.

"Egypt welcomes the agreement reached between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, considering it a highly significant development that will restore security and stability at both the regional and international levels," Cairo's foreign ministry said.

Egypt, it said, "hopes that this agreement will constitute a major turning point toward strengthening mutual trust, laying new foundations for cooperation, creating a supportive environment for peace and advancing diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing remaining regional issues".