Trump Extends Iran Ceasefire Following Pakistan Mediation Efforts |
US President Donald Trump has announced an extension of the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, saying it will remain in place until Tehran presents a “unified proposal” and negotiations reach a conclusion. However, he confirmed that a naval blockade on Iranian ports will continue.
In a statement on his Truth Social platform, Trump said the decision followed requests from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, amid concerns over Iran’s internal divisions. He added that US forces would remain “ready and able” while awaiting further diplomatic progress.
The announcement came as the original Pakistan-brokered ceasefire, agreed on 8 April, approached its expiry. Pakistani officials had earlier indicated that the truce was set to end on 22 April. Despite Trump previously signalling he would not extend the ceasefire, he reversed his position on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the extension, thanking the US president and expressing hope that both sides would move towards a comprehensive peace agreement during a second round of talks expected in Islamabad. He said Pakistan would continue its efforts to facilitate a negotiated settlement.
On my personal behalf and on behalf of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, I sincerely thank President Trump for graciously accepting our request to extend the ceasefire to allow ongoing diplomatic efforts to take their course. With the trust and confidence reposed in, Pakistan… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 21, 2026
On my personal behalf and on behalf of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, I sincerely thank President Trump for graciously accepting our request to extend the ceasefire to allow ongoing diplomatic efforts to take their course. With the trust and confidence reposed in, Pakistan…
However, uncertainty persists over the planned talks. A White House official confirmed that US Vice President JD Vance’s scheduled visit to Pakistan would “not be happening today”, without providing further details.
Iran has not yet issued an official response to the extension. Its foreign ministry spokesperson said earlier that Tehran had not decided whether to participate in the Islamabad talks, accusing Washington of contradictory actions and questioning its commitment to diplomacy.
Tensions remain high, with the United States maintaining pressure through naval operations and sanctions enforcement against Iranian-linked vessels. Iran has described recent US maritime actions as “piracy” and “state terrorism”, while continuing to criticise the blockade of its ports and restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The diplomatic process remains fragile as both sides accuse each other of undermining the ceasefire.