Iran has dismissed the ceasefire extension proposed by US President Donald Trump and once again shut down the vital trade route of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump, in a statement on Truth Social, directed the military to uphold the blockade and extend the ceasefire until further discussions are held.
An Iranian news outlet revealed that an advisor to Iranian Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf believes Trump’s ceasefire extension is a tactic to delay for a potential surprise attack, stating that the side facing defeat cannot dictate terms. The advisor emphasized that it is now time for Iran to take proactive measures.
Contrary to reports, Iranian state media confirmed that Iran did not seek an extension of the ceasefire. The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran began on February 28 with joint strikes on Iranian sites, leading to retaliatory actions by Iran, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil trade.
While a temporary ceasefire exists from the US perspective, a lasting resolution remains elusive. The US has enforced a blockade on Iranian ports in the strait to pressure negotiations and reopen the passage. Iran, as per Iranian state media, vows to keep the strait closed as long as the naval blockade persists, prepared to use force to break the blockade if necessary.
The White House announced a delay in US Vice President JD Vance’s trip to Pakistan in light of Trump’s ceasefire extension and pending proposal from Iran. No further details were provided regarding potential in-person meetings scheduled for the following day.