BRUSSELS

Belgium on Monday welcomed international efforts to calm tensions in the Middle East following a decision by US President Donald Trump to pause for five days strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure amid reported diplomatic progress.

In a written statement to Anadolu, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot said de-escalation must remain the top priority as the region faces heightened uncertainty after weeks of conflict.

"In these geopolitical times, the only certainty is uncertainty. If negotiations are indeed taking place behind the scenes, that would be a positive development," Prevot said.

He stressed that diplomacy remains the only viable path forward, welcoming mediation and dialogue efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

"De-escalation is an absolute priority. Belgium welcomes the efforts of Oman and other regional partners to calm tensions. Every initiative that brings us closer to stability deserves our support," he added.

Trump's announcement came after what he described as "very good and productive" talks with Tehran, prompting a temporary halt to planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure.

The move follows weeks of escalating hostilities that began on Feb. 28, when US and Israeli strikes targeted sites in Iran, triggering retaliatory drone and missile attacks by Tehran against Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military assets.