The Associated Press, citing unnamed sources, reported that the United States and Iran have agreed "in principle" to extend a two-week ceasefire, which is scheduled to expire next Wednesday, to allow for further diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict. This potential extension aims to facilitate the resumption of talks between the two nations. However, Iran's foreign ministry has denied these reports, stating that any speculation about extending the ceasefire is unconfirmed and that consultations are proceeding solely through Pakistani mediators. This development occurs as the U.S. military announced it has "completely halted" Iran's maritime trade due to a naval blockade around the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil and LNG transit route that Iran had largely closed. Despite the heightened tensions, both countries have expressed openness to diplomacy, with President Trump indicating the war is nearing an end and President Pezeshkian reiterating Iran's stance against war and willingness to negotiate.