Trump Extends US-Iran Ceasefire by Only 3-5 Days as Talks Resume Within 36-72 Hours

Gate News message, April 22 — U.S. President Donald Trump has agreed to extend the U.S.-Iran ceasefire for only 3 to 5 days, rather than the long-term arrangement previously anticipated by markets, to secure a final negotiation window. Pakistan indicated that a second round of talks could restart within 36 to 72 hours, though Iran's official response through Tasnim News Agency stated it has "not yet decided" whether to participate in Friday's talks.

Negotiations face significant obstacles due to Iran's fractured internal power structure. The hardline faction, represented by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), openly opposes the civilian government on key issues and has even rejected existing negotiation outcomes. Additionally, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has remained silent on the matter, leaving negotiations without a final decision-making authority.

U.S. assessments indicate that while diplomatic channels may still yield an agreement, military options could return to the agenda if Iran fails to reach a unified position within the deadline. Washington is currently leveraging a potential blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as its primary negotiating leverage, maintaining pressure on Iran to return to the table.

Analysts suggest the "short-term ceasefire plus high-pressure negotiations" strategy reflects the White House's intent to exit Middle East conflicts quickly, though Iran's internal disorder may become the largest source of uncertainty for breakthrough or collapse of talks.