US President Donald Trump said on Monday that the current ceasefire with Iran is unlikely to be extended beyond its scheduled expiry later this week, warning that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until a new agreement is reached.
Speaking in a phone interview reported by Bloomberg, Trump said the truce, which he announced on April 7, is set to expire on Wednesday evening Washington time.
“It’s Wednesday evening,” Trump said, adding that it was “highly unlikely” he would extend the ceasefire if talks remain unresolved.
He also made clear that the strategic Strait of Hormuz would stay shut despite pressure to reopen the key global shipping route. “They want me to open it. The Iranians desperately want it opened. I’m not opening it until a deal is signed,” he said.
Oil prices rose after the US maintained its blockade of the strait and the US Navy seized an Iranian-flagged vessel, according to the report.
Trump said Vice President JD Vance is expected to travel to Pakistan to resume negotiations, with talks likely to begin on Tuesday.
“I’m not going to be rushed into making a bad deal. We’ve got all the time in the world,” Trump said, adding that he could attend discussions in person if needed, though he suggested it may not be necessary.
He also warned that fighting could resume if negotiations fail. “If there’s no deal, I would certainly expect,” he said.
Iran is reviewing a US proposal delivered during a visit by Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir, according to Iranian media, indicating that diplomatic efforts are ongoing despite rising tensions.