Trump Extends Iran Ceasefire, Blockade

Donald Trump has unilaterally extended the ceasefire with Iran indefinitely, at the request of Pakistan, to allow for further peace talks. However, the United States will continue its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran considers an act of war. This decision comes as tentatively scheduled peace talks in Islamabad have stalled, with Iran refusing to attend, citing 'unacceptable actions' by the United States, including the seizure of Iranian commercial ships. Donald Trump has cited a 'seriously fractured' leadership in Iran, partly due to US-Israeli assassinations of Iranian leaders, as a reason for the extension. The conflict, which began on February 28 with US and Israel aerial bombardments of Iran, has spread to Lebanon, where Hezbollah has engaged in fighting with Israel. The war has led to thousands of casualties and the virtual closure of the Strait of Hormuz, causing oil prices to soar and raising fears of a global recession. Key sticking points in negotiations include Iran's nuclear enrichment program and the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the ceasefire extension, both sides remain rhetorically dug in, with Donald Trump previously threatening renewed bombing and Iran warning of 'new cards on the battlefield' if war resumes.