US Extends Ceasefire with Iran Amid Ongoing Strait of Hormuz Blockade

US President Donald Trump has announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran to allow Tehran more time to present a unified peace proposal.

The extension was declared on April 21, 2026, without a specific deadline, signaling an open-ended pause in hostilities.

Trump confirmed that while the ceasefire is extended, the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz will continue.

The blockade restricts Iran's access to its ports and remains a significant point of tension.

Iran has not immediately responded to the ceasefire extension.

However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the blockade as an "act of war" and a violation of the ceasefire, emphasizing Iran's resolve to defend its interests.

The ceasefire extension follows requests from Pakistani mediators, including Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who urged the US to delay attacks to facilitate negotiations.

Vice-President JD Vance reportedly canceled a planned trip to Pakistan for a second round of peace talks amid uncertainty over Iran's participation.

Trump's decision marks a reversal from his earlier stance, when he had threatened attacks on Iran's civilian infrastructure and expressed skepticism about extending the truce.

He cited fractures within Iran's government as a factor in granting more time for a peace proposal.

The US military remains on alert, prepared to resume operations if negotiations fail.

Trump stated that the military will "continue the Blockade and, in all other respects, remain ready and able" until discussions conclude.

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