Trump extends cease-fire, as Iran declares U.S. blockade ‘act of war’

In Short:
– Trump extends cease-fire with Iran and continues port blockade until unified proposal is received.
– Vice President Vance cancels trip to Pakistan for negotiations with Iran amid ongoing regional mediation.

U.S. President Trump announced an extension of the cease-fire with Iran and a continuation of the blockade of Iranian ports until a unified proposal is presented by its leadership.The announcement follows Vice President JD Vance’s decision to pause his trip to Pakistan aimed at negotiating with Iran regarding the war.

U.S. maintains position

U.S. forces also boarded an oil tanker in the Indo-Pacific, a first for actions related to the conflict outside the Middle East.

Trump stated that his aim is to eliminate the threat from Iran, even if it prolongs the war, saying he has “all the time in the world.”

Iran’s supreme leader’s official Telegram account issued threats against U.S. and Israeli forces.

Israel’s military reported the replacement of a religious icon destroyed by a soldier during a recent incident in Lebanon and has disciplined two involved soldiers.

Since the blockade began on April 13, U.S. forces have redirected 28 vessels.

Trump’s statement outlined that the Iranian government is substantially fractured and mentioned requests from Pakistan’s leadership for restraint during negotiations.

An end date for the cease-fire extension was not specified, although Trump previously indicated that the earlier two-week cease-fire was set to expire soon.

The announcement follows Vice President Vance’s decision to cancel his planned trip to negotiate directly with Iran in Islamabad.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing regional mediation led by Pakistan to facilitate discussions.