US President Donald Trump announced an indefinite extension of the United States’ ceasefire with Iran, pausing potential military strikes despite recent threats to resume bombing.
Trump noted that the decision followed a request from Pakistan to allow Tehran’s "seriously fractured" leadership additional time to finalise a unified diplomatic proposal.
While the aerial offensive is on hold, the president confirmed that the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz remains in full effect, stating he has directed the military to "remain ready and able" until discussions are concluded.
The reversal follows a period of heightened tension, coming just hours after the president suggested to CNBC that he was reluctant to extend the pause.
Tensions remain high on the ground; reports indicate Vice President JD Vance’s scheduled visit to Pakistan has been cancelled, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has denounced the ongoing blockade as an "act of war".
Despite intense lobbying from regional mediators, including Egypt and Turkey, to lift the maritime restrictions as a gesture of good faith, Washington has yet to signal a de-escalation of its "maximum pressure" tactics at sea.