U.S. President Donald Trump has announced an extension of the fragile ceasefire with Iran, citing a direct request from Pakistan as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent a return to full-scale conflict.
The decision comes just as a two-week truce between Washington and Tehran was set to expire, with negotiations hanging in the balance. Trump said the ceasefire would remain in place until Iran submits a “unified proposal,” signaling a temporary pause in escalating tensions while talks remain unresolved.
Efforts to restart negotiations in Islamabad have faced uncertainty, with Iranian officials indicating no final decision has been made بشأن participation. The White House has also postponed Vice President JD Vance’s planned trip for the next round of discussions, highlighting the fragile state of diplomacy.
Despite extending the ceasefire, the U.S. is maintaining its military pressure, including a blockade of Iranian ports aimed at forcing Tehran to relinquish control over the Strait of Hormuz—a critical route for global oil and gas shipments. The standoff over the waterway remains a central issue in negotiations, with Iran demanding an end to the blockade before rejoining talks.
Tensions remain high, as both sides have issued stark warnings. Trump previously cautioned that military action could resume if no agreement is reached, while Iranian officials have suggested they possess “new cards on the battlefield.” The rhetoric underscores the risk of a rapid escalation if diplomacy collapses.
Pakistan has taken on a key mediating role, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and senior officials working intensively to bring both sides back to the negotiating table. Increased security measures have been implemented across Islamabad in anticipation of potential high-level meetings.
The conflict has already had significant global economic repercussions, particularly in energy markets. Oil prices have surged sharply since the outbreak of hostilities, driven largely by disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, through which a substantial portion of the world’s energy supply passes.
While the ceasefire extension offers a temporary reprieve, major differences remain unresolved, including Iran’s nuclear program, regional alliances, and control of key maritime routes. With both sides entrenched in their positions, the coming days are expected to be critical in determining whether diplomacy can prevail over renewed conflict.