ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for agreeing to extend the ceasefire, calling the move an important opportunity for ongoing diplomatic efforts.
In a social media post, the prime minister said that he was thankful both on his own behalf and on behalf of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for President Trump’s “gracious acceptance” of their request to prolong the ceasefire.
He emphasized that the extension would allow diplomatic channels to remain active and give both sides more time to work toward a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
“With the trust and confidence reposed in us, Pakistan shall continue its earnest efforts for a negotiated settlement,” the prime minister stated.
Shehbaz Sharif also expressed hope that all parties involved would adhere to the ceasefire and use the opportunity to advance dialogue. He said he was optimistic that a comprehensive “peace deal” could be achieved during the second round of talks scheduled to take place in Islamabad.
The prime minister underlined that the upcoming discussions would be crucial in securing a permanent end to the conflict, urging continued commitment to peace from all sides.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump has announced a halt to planned military strikes on Iran, saying the decision was made following a request from Pakistan’s leadership.
In a message shared on social media, President Trump stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir asked the United States to “hold our attack on Country if Iran” until a consensus proposal from the Iranian leadership is presented. He said the request emphasized allowing space for diplomatic engagement.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote: “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.”
