Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday appealed to Donald Trump to grant a two-week extension to the deadline imposed on Iran to lift its blockade of Gulf oil routes, warning that more time is needed for diplomacy to succeed.
In a message posted on X, Sharif said Pakistan was making a sincere request to both sides to step back from escalation. He urged Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks as a goodwill gesture, while asking the United States to delay any military action during the same period.
The U.S. deadline requires Iran to end the blockade by Wednesday or face potential strikes targeting key infrastructure, including bridges and power plants. The ultimatum has intensified tensions across the region and raised fears of a wider conflict.
Sharif called on “all warring parties” to observe a temporary ceasefire, stressing that ongoing diplomatic efforts were gaining momentum and could produce meaningful results in the near future. He emphasised that dialogue remained the only viable path to a lasting resolution.
Pakistan has been actively mediating between Washington and Tehran, facilitating the exchange of proposals. However, progress remains fragile. Recent Iranian attacks on Saudi industrial facilities have further complicated negotiations and increased the risk of talks collapsing.
There was no immediate response from Washington to Pakistan’s appeal, leaving uncertainty over whether the deadline will be extended or enforced.
