Islamabad: The US and Iran have agreed to extend a 60-day ceasefire under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding as the agreement approaches its expiration on August 17, according to Pakistani government sources. Both nations have communicated their consent to the mediators to prolong the ceasefire period, though discussions continue regarding the duration of the extension.

According to Anadolu Agency, the ceasefire, initially brokered by Pakistan in April, led to a memorandum of understanding signed on June 17, which initiated negotiations towards a comprehensive agreement. Despite initial progress, these talks have encountered obstacles due to disagreements over security guarantees and the freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. This crucial waterway serves as a strategic route for global energy supplies and trade.

The period between July 8 and July 24 saw heightened tensions with military exchanges between the US and Iran. Washington conducted attacks on Iranian targets, prompting Tehran to retaliate by targeting what it identified as US military facilities and equipment in several Arab nations, including Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait.