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Diplomacy · Energy · Geopolitics · Iran
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged U.S. President Donald Trump to extend his Iran deadline by two weeks, a request Iran is "positively reviewing" while the White House confirms Trump is aware and a response is pending, aiming to allow diplomacy amid escalating regional tensions.
Pakistan called for a temporary ceasefire and Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as a goodwill gesture. Indirect talks between Tehran and Washington continue through mediators, despite Trump's stark warning on Truth Social that "a whole civilization will die tonight" and IRGC threats of escalation beyond the Middle East, targeting U.S. infrastructure and disrupting oil/gas supplies.
Qatar warned the situation approaches a point where it "get out of control." Vice President JD Vance stated the U.S.-led campaign nears its objectives, acknowledging slow negotiations. According to a report in The New York Times, Iran submitted a de-escalation proposal, including guarantees against further attacks and relief from sanctions, in exchange for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and imposing transit fees.
Two Israeli officials told CNN that Israel prepared an updated list of potential targets, including energy and infrastructure sites, if negotiations fail. The outcome of Pakistan's request remains unclear as Trump's deadline approaches.
