Washington: U.S President Donald Trump has announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran for an unspecified period, providing additional room for diplomatic engagement, while Tehran has yet to issue an immediate official response.
The decision effectively delays the conclusion of the earlier two-week truce. Trump stated that the extension came following a request from mediator Pakistan, adding that Iran’s leadership required more time to formulate and present a proposal.
Despite the extension, Trump said the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports — a key point of contention for Tehran — would remain in place. In a post on Truth Social, he claimed Iran is interested in keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to maintain significant daily revenue, warning that access to the route could be at risk if tensions continue.
He also reiterated that continued pressure on the strategic waterway, through which a large portion of global oil and gas passes, is necessary for any potential agreement.
Trump further suggested that earlier appeals had been made for Iran to reopen the strait, but warned that any compromise could undermine negotiations. He added that U.S. military readiness would be maintained alongside the extended ceasefire.
There was earlier confusion regarding the ceasefire deadline, with Pakistan indicating one time frame and Iran suggesting another. The deadline passed without reported clashes, although Iran has not formally confirmed the extension.
The development has added uncertainty to ongoing peace efforts being facilitated in Islamabad, with reports indicating that a planned visit by U.S. Vice President JD Vance has been postponed pending Iran’s response.
In Islamabad, security measures were tightened as diplomatic activity continued behind the scenes. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the extension, thanking President Trump and reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to supporting dialogue and peaceful resolution.
Pakistan has been playing a mediating role, urging both sides to continue engagement and extend the ceasefire to allow diplomatic talks to progress. Officials in Islamabad remain in contact with both Washington and Tehran as efforts continue to bring the parties back to the negotiating table.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials have indicated that no final decision has been made regarding participation in further talks, citing concerns over recent regional developments.
The ceasefire remains fragile, with both sides continuing to exchange accusations, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding long-term stability in the region.
