Pakistan Urges Trump to Delay Iran Deadline Amid Push for Ceasefire
Pakistan has appealed to Donald Trump to extend his deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress in diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for a two-week extension, urging all sides to allow negotiations to continue. He also asked Iran to reopen the vital shipping route during the same period as a «goodwill gesture».
Sharif said diplomatic efforts were «progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully,» with the potential to deliver meaningful results if given more time.
The request came just hours before Trump’s deadline, after the US president warned of severe consequences if Iran fails to comply. Tehran has effectively halted maritime traffic through the strait, responsible for about 20% of global oil and gas flows, in response to ongoing US-Israeli strikes.
Pakistan also proposed a temporary two-week ceasefire across the region to create space for negotiations, as fighting continues to escalate.
The White House said Trump had been informed of the proposal and would respond, while Iranian officials signaled they were reviewing the request.
Despite rising tensions and continued military exchanges across the region, Islamabad has positioned itself as a key mediator, insisting that diplomatic channels remain open until the last moment.
