Iran War: Trump Extends Ceasefire to Facilitate Talks

President Donald Trump announced he would prolong the ceasefire with Iran, aiming to provide the country more time to finalize a proposal and complete negotiations. The original agreement between the United States and Iran was set to expire on Wednesday evening, but Trump’s decision delays its conclusion. According to reports, this move was influenced by Pakistan’s request to allow Iranian leaders to consolidate their position before submitting a unified plan.

US-Military Actions and Regional Concerns

In a statement on Truth Social, Trump emphasized that his administration had instructed the military to maintain the blockade and stay prepared for potential action. The extended ceasefire, he said, would remain in effect until Iran’s proposal is presented and discussions are finalized, regardless of the outcome. This decision coincides with the White House pausing Vice President JD Vance’s planned trip to Islamabad for further talks, as Tehran has hesitated to engage in additional discussions.

“I’ve directed our Military to continue the Blockade and, in all other respects, remain ready and able. The Ceasefire will therefore be extended until their proposal is submitted and discussions are concluded,” Trump stated.

Israel’s Military Response and Hezbollah’s Role

Meanwhile, the Israeli military conducted an airstrike against a Hezbollah rocket launcher in southern Lebanon, accusing the Shiite group of violating the ceasefire by targeting troops. The attack followed Hezbollah’s recent involvement in the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, which began on March 2. Despite the truce, Israeli forces continue to engage Hezbollah in combat, focusing on destroying infrastructure in the region.

Hezbollah has rejected direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, which the latter claims seek to disarm the militant group and establish normalized relations. Lebanese authorities, however, argue the talks aim to end the Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon. Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally and Lebanon’s senior Shiite leader, warned that Israeli forces occupying southern areas would face resistance if they did not withdraw. “If they insist on remaining, they will face resistance, and our history bears witness to that,” Berri said.

Regional Impact and Condemnation

The ceasefire also faces challenges from the destruction of a Jesus statue in southern Lebanon, an incident that sparked global criticism. Two Israeli soldiers were disciplined after they destroyed the religious monument, captured in a widely shared image. The military investigation concluded that the act was part of ongoing operations targeting Hezbollah’s assets.

While the US official overseeing the situation noted Trump’s willingness to adjust his approach, the vice president’s second visit to Islamabad remains suspended. The official added that Trump retains the option to restart airstrikes if the ceasefire fails to hold. The New York Times first reported the extension of the ceasefire, highlighting its strategic significance in the broader Middle East context.

Additionally, a drone attack from Lebanon triggered sirens in two northern Israeli communities, underscoring the persistent tension. The US-mediated ceasefire, which began on Thursday, has been a temporary pause in the escalating conflict, but its effectiveness remains under scrutiny as both sides prepare for potential next steps.