President Trump announced on Tuesday an indefinite extension of the ceasefire with Iran, citing internal discord within the Iranian government as a key factor. The decision, made hours before the ceasefire was set to expire, avoids a potential resumption of hostilities and regional escalation. Trump stated that the extension was granted at the request of Pakistani mediators, including military chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“Based on the fact that the Government of Iran is seriously fractured...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,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
The ceasefire will continue until Iran submits a proposal and discussions conclude. Meanwhile, Trump directed the U.S. military to maintain its naval blockade on Iran's ports and remain prepared to resume military operations if necessary.
Internal Iranian Tensions Complicate Negotiations
Reports indicate that Iran's leadership is deeply divided over how to proceed. Civilian leaders, including parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, favor continued negotiations to extend the ceasefire and reach a deal. However, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Gen. Ahmad Vahidi and his deputies oppose concessions and negotiations while the U.S. naval blockade remains in place.
The recent U.S. seizure of an Iranian cargo ship in the Arabian Sea has further intensified these internal tensions, with IRGC commanders accusing Iranian negotiators of weakness. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is expected to provide a directive on Wednesday, which could determine the next steps in the negotiations.
This development underscores the fragility of diplomatic efforts and the challenges of maintaining leverage amid internal Iranian disputes. The Trump administration continues to emphasize readiness for military action if negotiations fail.