Trump Extends Iran Ceasefire Following Direct Request From Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif

US President Donald Trump extends the Iran ceasefire by two weeks following a request from Pakistan. Blockade remains as Islamabad talks face delays.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 22, 2026, 3:22 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Times of Israel

A Diplomatic Lifeline Extended

In a significant pivot of American foreign policy, President Donald Trump has approved a request from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to prolong a two week truce with Iran. The ceasefire, which was facing an imminent expiration, now remains in effect as both nations attempt to deescalate a conflict that has gripped the region. According to Prime Minister Sharif, the decision represents a critical window for diplomacy, expressing his gratitude to the American president via a public statement on the social media platform X.

Stalled Negotiations in Islamabad

The diplomatic process has faced repeated logistical hurdles, with high level talks in Islamabad being rescheduled multiple times over the last forty eight hours. Originally slated for Tuesday and then Wednesday, the negotiations are currently on an indefinite hold. The delay is primarily attributed to a lack of communication from Tehran, as the U.S. and Pakistan wait for the Islamic Republic to respond to the latest American peace framework. According to official reports, the timing for a second round of comprehensive negotiations remains unconfirmed until Iran signals its willingness to engage.

Tehran Under Financial Pressure

Despite the temporary cessation of hostilities, the Trump administration continues to maintain a hardline stance regarding Iran's economic stability. President Trump has asserted that the Islamic Republic is currently collapsing financially, a condition he attributes to the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This economic pressure is framed by Washington as a primary catalyst for bringing a fractured Iranian leadership to the negotiating table. According to President Trump, the naval blockade currently in place will remain active until a unified and serious proposal is offered by Tehran.