US President Donald Trump said in a dramatic announcement that he was "extending the ceasefire" with Iran. The announcement came hours after the United States said it was imposing new sanctions on Tehran, and after Iran said its decision not to attend the next round of talks in Pakistan was final.
The full statement read: "Based on the fact that the Government of Iran is seriously fractured, not unexpectedly so and, upon the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, of Pakistan, we have been asked to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran until such time as their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal. I have therefore directed our Military to continue the Blockade and, in all other respects, remain ready and able, and will therefore extend the Ceasefire until such time as their proposal is submitted, and discussions are concluded, one way or the other."
Earlier, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran was considering taking part in talks with the United States in Pakistan, on condition that Washington abandon its policy of pressure and threats. According to the official, Iran rejects negotiations aimed at forcing its surrender. He added that Pakistan, which is serving as a mediator, is continuing efforts to persuade the United States to lift the naval blockade and release the Iranian container ship Touska, which was seized by US forces on Sunday along with its crew.
Separately, the United States imposed new sanctions on companies in Iran, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, including firms linked to the activities of the Iranian airline Mahan Air, as well as companies that, according to the United States, were involved in transferring equipment and materials related to military industries, including components used in the development of ballistic missiles. The measures also included Boeing 777 aircraft operated by Mahan Air.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded: "This move is part of the American policy of intensifying economic pressure on Iran through sanctions against entities involved in commercial, logistical and aviation activity tied to the regime.
"Imposing a blockade on Iran's ports is an act of war, and therefore constitutes a violation of the ceasefire. Attacking a civilian vessel and taking its crew hostage constitute an even graver violation. Iran knows how to circumvent restrictions, defend its interests and resist pressure."
