US President Donald Trump has officially extended the deadline for a major military strike on Iran by two weeks, accepting a proposal put forward by Shehbaz Sharif.
The decision marks a significant shift in the ongoing US-Iran tensions, offering a diplomatic window to avoid escalation and pursue a ceasefire agreement.
Ceasefire Announced Amid Diplomatic Efforts
In a statement shared on social media, President Donald Trump confirmed that:
- Planned military action against Iran has been postponed for two weeks
- A temporary bilateral ceasefire will be implemented during this period
- The move aims to create space for peace negotiations and de-escalation
Trump said the decision followed direct discussions with Pakistani leadership, including Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir, who urged restraint and diplomacy.
Strait of Hormuz Reopening Set as Key Condition
The US President emphasized that the ceasefire is conditional upon Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz in a “complete, immediate, and secure manner.”
This strategic waterway is vital for global oil shipments, and its reopening is seen as essential to:
- Stabilize global energy markets
- Ensure safe passage for commercial shipping
- Reduce tensions across the Middle East region
Also Read: Iran accepts ceasefire, opens Strait of Hormuz for 2 weeks on Pakistan’s request
Progress Toward Long-Term US-Iran Peace Deal
President Donald Trump claimed that the United States has already achieved its key military objectives and that significant progress has been made toward a long-term peace agreement with Iran.
He noted that:
- Iran’s 10-point plan is being considered a viable basis for negotiations
- Most major disagreements between Washington and Tehran have been addressed
- The two-week extension will help finalize a comprehensive peace deal
Trump described the development as a step closer to resolving a longstanding geopolitical conflict.
Pakistan’s Role in Regional Diplomacy
Pakistan played a central role in de-escalating tensions. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally requested the US to delay military action to allow diplomacy to proceed.
He also urged Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks as a goodwill gesture, aimed at supporting negotiations and ensuring regional stability.
The involvement of Asim Munir further reinforced Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach, highlighting its growing role in international conflict mediation.
Hope for Lasting Peace in the Middle East
President Donald Trump expressed optimism that the current ceasefire could lead to lasting peace in the Middle East, calling it an “honor” to be close to resolving a long-standing issue affecting the region.
However, analysts note that the coming two weeks will be crucial in determining whether the ceasefire evolves into a formal and lasting agreement.
