Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Apr 22: Amid heightened tensions with Iran, US President Donald Trump has announced an extension of the ongoing ceasefire, citing diplomatic considerations and a request from Pakistan.

Trump said the halt on attacks against Iran would continue until Tehran presents a concrete proposal and negotiations are concluded. However, he made it clear that the blockade of Iranian ports will remain in force and that the US military has been directed to stay on high alert.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that the decision followed inputs from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir. He added that the US would maintain military readiness while awaiting a unified proposal from Iran’s leadership.

Turning to the strategic Strait of Hormuz, Trump claimed that Iran prefers the key shipping route to remain open due to the significant revenue it generates. He alleged that Tehran’s statements suggesting otherwise were aimed at “saving face” in light of the ongoing US blockade.

According to Trump, Iran would be reluctant to reach a deal with Washington if the waterway remained operational, arguing that the blockade has increased pressure on the Iranian economy.

The initial two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran expired on Wednesday. Earlier, Trump had indicated reluctance to extend the truce, urging swift progress in negotiations. However, in a last-minute decision, he opted to prolong the ceasefire to allow more time for diplomacy.

Despite the extension, uncertainty looms over the second round of talks, with negotiations between the two sides yet to resume and no clear timeline established.