PM Shehbaz appreciates US decision to prolong Iran ceasefire, reaffirms Pakistan’s role in peace efforts

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed the United States’ decision to extend the ongoing ceasefire with Iran, acknowledging it as a positive step toward advancing diplomatic engagement.

In a statement shared on social media, the prime minister conveyed his appreciation to US President Donald Trump for agreeing to Pakistan’s appeal to prolong the ceasefire. He noted that the extension would provide valuable time for diplomatic initiatives to progress and for all parties to explore peaceful solutions.

Speaking on behalf of himself and the country’s leadership, including Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating dialogue and fostering a negotiated resolution to the tensions.

On my personal behalf and on behalf of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, I sincerely thank President Trump for graciously accepting our request to extend the ceasefire to allow ongoing diplomatic efforts to take their course.

With the trust and confidence reposed in, Pakistan…

— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 21, 2026

He expressed optimism that all sides involved would continue to respect the ceasefire and work toward achieving a lasting agreement. He also highlighted the importance of the upcoming second round of discussions scheduled in Islamabad, which aims to secure a permanent resolution to the conflict.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump indicated that the United States is prepared to maintain the ceasefire for an indefinite period to allow space for continued negotiations. However, uncertainty remains over whether Iran or Israel, a key US ally involved in the prolonged conflict, will fully support the extension.

In his remarks, Trump stated that the decision followed a request from Pakistani mediators, adding that military action against Iran would be paused until its leadership presents a unified proposal and diplomatic talks reach a clear outcome.