Trump extends ceasefire, Iran remains defiant; two ships seized

TEHRAN: Despite the United States showing readiness to compromise to end the conflict, Iran remains firm in its stance. Following requests from mediating nations, US President Donald Trump has extended the ceasefire in Iran indefinitely. Trump stated that Iran could submit its proposals and the ceasefire would continue until discussions are finalised.

However, shortly after this announcement, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard seized two cargo ships, including a Greek vessel bound for India, in the Strait of Hormuz. Another attacked ship remains stranded in the region.

Iran’s anger stems from the fact that the US has not lifted sanctions on its ships and ports, despite extending the ceasefire. Iran responded by stating that as long as the US blocks Iranian ships in Hormuz, it will not allow any other vessels to pass through the strait. Iran further claimed that Trump’s extension of the ceasefire is not to restore peace, but a tactic to launch a surprise attack. The original Iran-US ceasefire, which began on April 8, was scheduled to end on Wednesday.