U.S. President Donald Trump has prolonged the temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran, indicating that the halt in hostilities will stay in effect until ongoing diplomatic efforts are concluded.
The truce, originally scheduled to last two weeks and expire on Tuesday night, will now remain in place while Iran prepares and submits its proposal, and both sides work through negotiations.
Trump confirmed the extension on April 21, 2026, via his Truth Social platform.
According to the U.S. leader, the decision came after an appeal from Pakistan, which has taken on a mediating role in the discussions.
A Unified Stance
Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reportedly urged Washington to hold off on military action to give Iranian authorities time to present a unified stance.
Even with the ceasefire extension, the U.S. is not easing its strategic posture. American forces will continue their presence in the region, including maintaining the naval blockade at the Strait of Hormuz.
Troops stationed in the area remain on alert and operational.
Diplomatic engagement is expected to continue, with preparations underway for another round of direct talks.
No Negotiations
Vice President JD Vance is set to lead the American delegation and is anticipated to travel to Islamabad.
He is expected to be joined by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner.
However, uncertainty surrounds Iran’s participation. Officials in Tehran have insisted they will not enter negotiations while under military pressure or facing restrictions such as the ongoing blockade.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has already accused Washington of undermining the ceasefire.
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He claimed U.S. forces intercepted an Iranian vessel attempting to pass through the waterway, describing the move as a violation of international law and raising concerns about the sincerity of U.S. diplomatic intentions.