Trump Extends Iran Ceasefire, Keeps US Naval Blockade in Place

Trump extends Iran ceasefire, keeps US blockade in place

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday, 20 April 2026, that the ceasefire with Iran, which was set to expire, will be extended to allow more time for negotiations. He said the truce will remain in effect until Tehran’s “seriously fractured” leadership presents a unified proposal.

The President revealed that the decision followed requests from Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who urged Washington to delay a planned military strike on Iran. Trump stated that the pause would provide Iranian leaders with the opportunity to consolidate their position and submit a formal proposal for talks.

While extending the ceasefire, Trump confirmed that US forces will maintain a naval blockade of Iranian ports and remain on standby. He emphasized that the military is “ready and able” should discussions fail to produce results.

The announcement underscores Washington’s dual approach of sustaining military pressure while leaving space for diplomatic engagement. Trump reiterated that the ceasefire will continue until Iran submits its proposal and negotiations are concluded “one way or the other.”