US Extends Iran Ceasefire, Keeps Strait of Hormuz Blockade
President Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran, citing a request from Pakistani officials and the need for a unified proposal from Tehran. The US will continue its naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing tensions and fluctuations in global oil prices.
Substrate placeholder — needs reviewstated that the US is extending its ceasefire with Iran following a request from Pakistani officials. The extension allows time for Iran to present a unified proposal for discussions. Trump directed the US military to maintain the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz during this period.
Multiple sources reported that the decision comes as peace talks in Islamabad remain on hold.
UN ambassador told media outlets that Tehran is ready to negotiate once the US lifts the naval blockade. The ambassador described the blockade as a violation of the ceasefire. An Iranian oil tanker entered Iran’s territorial waters under naval protection, defying the US blockade.
Iran's military warned of powerful attacks on predetermined targets in response to repeated US threats. Some reports indicated prices edged lower, falling below $90 per barrel, while others noted prices rising over 3% for the day. Global markets for jet fuel faced severe disruptions due to the US-Iran conflict, with airlines cutting flights amid surging fuel costs.
Asia-Pacific stocks began mostly lower, with the ASX 200 down 0.5% and Nikkei 225 down 0.2%, amid the paused peace talks and continued blockade.
Involvement President Trump said Saudi Arabia is assisting the US in the Strait of Hormuz. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for the reopening of the strait, emphasizing its importance for common interests. Iran's April 2026 crude oil exports remained elevated despite the blockade. Traffic in the Strait of Hormuz continues to be disrupted, with multiple vessels bypassing restrictions.
The extension follows Trump's assertion that Iran is collapsing financially and desires the strait open. Iran warned of new battlefield strategies, raising concerns that the fragile truce could collapse. The conflict has highlighted global dependence on oil and gas imports, shaping US foreign policy.
The war has exposed energy rivalries, particularly affecting Europe. US officials noted that Trump's suspension of a maritime law during the conflict eased oil shipments across the country, with intentions to maintain this policy. Global oil markets remain on edge due to the ongoing confrontation in the Arabian Sea.
