United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran to allow more time for negotiations, while maintaining a US naval blockade of the country’s ports.
Trump disclosed the decision in a post on his social media platform, stating that the ceasefire would remain in place until Iran presents a proposal aimed at resolving the conflict.
He, however, directed the US military to continue enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports, signalling that Washington’s pressure campaign would remain active despite the truce.
The extension came only hours before the ceasefire was expected to expire.
It also followed confirmation from the White House that US Vice President JD Vance would not travel to Pakistan for what had been expected to be a second round of peace talks.
“The trip to Pakistan will not be happening today. Any further updates on in-person meetings will be announced by the White House,” a White House official said in a statement.
Trump attributed the delay in negotiations partly to internal divisions within Iran’s leadership.
He also said the request to extend the truce came from Pakistan’s leadership, including Asim Munir, the country’s army chief, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“Based on the fact that the government of Iran is seriously fractured, not unexpectedly so and, upon the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, of Pakistan, we have been asked to hold our attack on the country of Iran until their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Despite the ceasefire extension, Trump confirmed that the US naval blockade along Iran’s coastline in the Strait of Hormuz would remain in place.
He said US forces would continue to enforce the blockade while remaining ready for further military action if necessary.
According to Trump, the ceasefire would remain active until Iran submits its proposal and discussions are concluded.
