Wednesday 22 / April / 2026
Islamabad— Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to sustain negotiations between the United States and Iran after Washington extended a temporary ceasefire.
Just hours before the truce deadline expired, US President Donald Trump announced that the ceasefire would be prolonged until Iran submits a proposal aimed at ending the conflict. However, he confirmed issuing directives for the military to maintain the blockade on Iranian ports.
The White House also stated that Vice President JD Vance would not travel to Pakistan for a planned second round of peace talks, adding that any updates would be communicated officially.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the US decision, saying the extension would allow more time for diplomacy. Iran has yet to confirm its participation in the upcoming talks.
Meanwhile, Pakistan continues mediation efforts in its capital, Islamabad, aiming to bring both sides to the negotiating table. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged both countries to extend the ceasefire further and prioritize dialogue.
In a related development, the United States announced it will host a new round of talks between Israel and Lebanon on Thursday, seeking progress toward an agreement.
On the ground, Israeli forces continued military operations in southern Lebanon despite the truce that began on April 15. Airstrikes and artillery shelling targeted areas including Khiam, Mays al-Jabal, and Beit Leef, causing explosions and destruction of homes.
Lebanon’s National News Agency reported flares over the Jallahiya area in Khiam and a powerful explosion in the town. Additional strikes in Mays al-Jabal and demolitions in Beit Leef were also reported, along with damage to surrounding areas.
According to Lebanon’s Disaster Risk Management Unit, the number of displaced persons in shelters has reached 118,624, with 30,815 families affected. Since March 2, the death toll has risen to 2,454, while 7,658 people have been injured.
