Trump extends ceasefire with Iran at Pakistan’s request, maintains naval blockade

U.S. President Donald Trump is reversing course on an expiring ceasefire and has agreed to give Iran more time to come up with a proposal for peace.

The move comes after Trump cast doubt on extending the two-week truce, which was set to end tomorrow. The president posted on social media that he agreed to the extension at the request of Pakistan, which was scheduled to host a second round of talks between the White House and officials from Tehran.

“We have been asked to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran until such time as their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Last-minute ceasefire negotiations appeared to have hit the skids earlier today after Iran had yet to commit to the sit-down in Pakistan. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and his team at the White House were scheduled to depart Washington but decided to put the trip on hold.

Despite the extension, Trump says the U.S. military will continue its blockade of Iranian ports along the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. This continued military action contributed to the uncertainty surrounding the peace talks.

Disruptions along the strait have curtailed global oil supplies, creating an energy crisis and soaring prices. Earlier today, countries within the European Union said they are widening sanctions against Iran over the ongoing blockades.

“On Iran, ministers were clear that the freedom of navigation is non-negotiable,” said Kaja Kallas, EU Foreign Policy Chief. “Daily U-turns, whether the Strait of Hormuz is open or closed, are reckless. Transit through the strait must remain free of charge.”

Kallas added that Europe will play its part in restoring the free flow of energy and trade once the conditions allow. “Our Aspides naval mission is the quickest way to protect shipping in the region, and I’ve asked ministers to make more assets available,” she said.

Iran’s foreign ministry has yet to officially reply to Trump’s latest comments. However, Iranian officials previously stated they would only take part in discussions if the talks were to yield positive results.

WATCH MORE: Trump says Iran ceasefire ‘unlikely’ to be extended as talks stall