WASHINGTON/ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – Donald Trump has announced an extension of the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, saying the decision came after a request from Pakistan’s leadership, including Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir.
Read also: Trump signals return to Pakistan for US-Iran talks as ceasefire efforts continue
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the move was intended to give Iran more time to present a “unified proposal” and allow negotiations to proceed. He added that while the ceasefire would continue, US forces have been directed to maintain the blockade and remain fully prepared.
The announcement comes amid uncertainty over Iran’s participation in upcoming talks in Islamabad. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran has not yet decided whether it will attend negotiations with the US in Pakistan.
Baghaei criticised recent US actions against Iranian vessels, describing them as “piracy” and questioning Washington’s commitment to diplomacy. His remarks followed reports that US forces boarded a sanctioned tanker and seized another Iranian-flagged ship allegedly attempting to bypass the blockade.
Meanwhile, Pakistan continues diplomatic efforts to bring both sides to the table. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Islamabad is still awaiting a formal response from Tehran regarding its participation in the second round of talks.
He stressed that a timely decision from Iran is crucial, particularly as the ceasefire deadline approached.
Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged both Washington and Tehran to extend the ceasefire and prioritise dialogue. During a meeting with US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker, Dar reiterated that diplomacy remains the only viable path to lasting regional peace.
US officials, in turn, acknowledged Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue and supporting efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the region.
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