Trump extends Iran ceasefire after request from Pakistan as talks remain uncertain
By Sabeeh Zanair :
United States President Donald Trump has extended the ceasefire with Iran following a request from Pakistan’s leadership, saying the truce would remain in place until Tehran submits a unified proposal for negotiations.
In a statement, Mr Trump said the decision came after appeals from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and army chief Asim Munir, adding that US forces would remain on alert while maintaining a naval blockade.
He said military preparedness would continue alongside the ceasefire, which he described as conditional on progress in diplomatic efforts.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the move, thanking the US president and expressing hope that both sides would use the extended truce to reach a lasting agreement. He said Pakistan would continue its role in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
The extension comes amid uncertainty over planned peace talks in Islamabad, with Iran yet to confirm whether it will participate in a second round of negotiations. Pakistan has been attempting to broker discussions as the deadline for the original ceasefire approached.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Islamabad remained in contact with Iranian authorities and was continuing efforts to secure their participation, stressing that a decision from Tehran was critical before the truce expired.
However, Iran’s foreign ministry indicated that no final decision had been taken, while also criticising recent US actions at sea, describing them as violations of international law.
Meanwhile, the planned departure of a US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance to Pakistan has been delayed due to additional policy discussions in Washington, according to US media reports.
Despite the delay, US officials have expressed confidence that talks will take place, while Iranian officials have signalled they are still considering participation.
Tensions remain high, with both sides exchanging accusations over ceasefire violations and maritime actions. US forces have continued enforcement operations linked to the blockade, while Iran has condemned the interception of vessels it says were operating lawfully.
The ceasefire, brokered earlier this month with Pakistan’s involvement, was intended to create space for diplomacy following weeks of escalation that raised concerns over regional stability and global energy supplies.
Officials in Islamabad say preparations for potential talks are continuing, but caution that the situation remains fluid as the deadline for negotiations approaches.
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