US President Donald Trump stated that extending the two-week ceasefire with Iran is “highly unlikely” if a deal is not reached before it expires this week. Trump mentioned that the Strait of Hormuz would stay blocked until a peace agreement is finalized. He emphasized that he would not open the strait until a deal is signed, leading to a rise in oil prices due to Washington’s blockade and the US Navy seizing an Iranian-flagged ship.
Trump affirmed that he would not rush into a bad deal, indicating that the truce, announced on April 7, would end on Wednesday evening US Eastern Time. If no deal is reached, Trump expressed expectations of strikes resuming immediately afterward. In a phone call with PBS News, Trump warned that if the ceasefire ends, there could be increased military actions.
Regarding negotiations, Trump mentioned the possibility of Iranian negotiators participating in talks in Islamabad. He also stated that Vice President JD Vance is expected to lead the second round of negotiations with Iranian officials in Pakistan. Trump expressed willingness to meet with senior Iranian leaders if a breakthrough occurs but indicated that his presence at the talks might not be necessary.
US forces have redirected 27 ships to or from Iranian ports as of Monday morning, according to the US Central Command.
