ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed the extension of the ceasefire, expressing hope that continued diplomatic engagement will lead to a lasting peace agreement between the concerned sides.
In a statement issued on X, he said, “I sincerely thank President Trump for graciously accepting our request to extend the ceasefire to allow ongoing diplomatic efforts to take their course.”
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
The statement further emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to peace efforts, saying that with trust and confidence placed in the country, it would continue its “earnest efforts for a negotiated settlement of the conflict.”
“I sincerely hope that both sides will continue to observe the ceasefire and be able to conclude a comprehensive ‘Peace Deal’ during the second round of talks scheduled at Islamabad for a permanent end to the conflict.”
Iran ceasefire prolonged on Shehbaz, Asim Munir request: Trump
U.S. President Donald J. Trump has said that a planned military action against Iran has been put on hold following diplomatic intervention from Pakistan’s top leadership.
In a statement, Trump said the decision came after what he described as a request from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir, urging Washington to allow space for a unified proposal from Iranian authorities.
He stated that Iran’s government was “seriously fractured” and said the United States had been asked to delay any attack until Tehran’s leadership and representatives present a consolidated position.
Trump further said he had directed U.S. forces to maintain a blockade posture while remaining “ready and able,” and confirmed that the ceasefire-like pause would continue until further diplomatic discussions are concluded.
The statement comes amid heightened regional tensions, though no official confirmation has been issued by Pakistani or Iranian authorities.
