US President Donald Trump has announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran and the continuation of the blockade on Iranian ports, stating that the decision was made following an appeal from Pakistan’s leadership.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Iran’s government is facing severe internal divisions and, at the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, military strikes would be paused until Iranian leaders present a unified proposal.
He added that US forces have been instructed to maintain the blockade and remain fully prepared for all possible developments. According to Trump, the ceasefire will remain in place until negotiations produce a concrete outcome, regardless of the format.
Shehbaz Sharif Thanks Trump
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to President Trump for extending the ceasefire following Pakistan’s request. In a statement on X, he said both he and Field Marshal Asim Munir appreciated the decision, calling it important for continuing diplomatic efforts.
He also expressed hope that both sides would maintain the ceasefire and move towards a comprehensive peace agreement in the second round of talks in Islamabad.
JD Vance Pakistan Visit Cancelled
The White House confirmed that US Vice President JD Vance’s planned visit to Pakistan for peace talks has been cancelled. He was expected to arrive in Islamabad on Wednesday during his second planned trip this month.
A White House official said details regarding future engagements would be announced by the administration.
The cancellation comes after Trump’s earlier statement that Washington had agreed to Pakistan’s request to extend the ceasefire between the US and Tehran indefinitely.
Iran’s Response
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the blockade of Iranian ports as equivalent to war and a violation of the ceasefire, warning that Iran knows how to counter pressure and defend its interests.
Meanwhile, Iran has not given a clear indication about participating in the upcoming round of talks in Islamabad, while Pakistani officials say diplomatic contacts with all sides are ongoing to facilitate dialogue.
