• Pakistan's PM requests a two-week extension on a deadline for Iran negotiations.
• Sharif emphasizes progress in diplomatic efforts for peace in the Middle East.
• He urges Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz as a goodwill gesture during talks.

As the deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump approaches, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged him to extend the timeline for negotiations regarding Iran. Sharif emphasized that "diplomatic efforts for peaceful settlement of the ongoing war in the Middle East are progressing steadily," and called for a two-week extension to "allow diplomacy to run its course." This plea comes just hours before Trump's deadline to initiate significant strikes against Iran, particularly targeting its critical infrastructure, according to Channel News Asia, Al Jazeera, and Middle East Eye.

In his appeal, Sharif also called for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for the same duration, framing it as a goodwill gesture. The Strait is a vital waterway that has effectively been closed amid rising tensions exacerbated by U.S.-Israeli actions against Iran. Sharif's request highlights Pakistan's role as a mediator in the conflict, potentially paving the way for further negotiations to reduce hostilities, as articulated by the Prime Minister in a post on social media, according to The Hill and Channel News Asia.

Trump's administration has warned of severe repercussions if Iran does not comply with demands, insisting that "a whole civilization will die" unless Iran opens the Strait and comes to terms before the set deadline. The rhetoric has heightened fears of imminent military action, and U.S. officials acknowledge Pakistan's proposal, indicating that a response from the U.S. is forthcoming. This escalatory situation underlines the delicate balance of diplomacy at play, noted by multiple sources, including Middle East Eye and Al Jazeera.

Overall, the developments reflect intense ongoing diplomatic efforts not only by Pakistan but also highlight the potential for broader geopolitical ramifications should hostilities escalate. Reports indicate that Iran is considering Pakistan's request positively, with the parties seemingly engaged in a critical moment for peace talks amid heightened tensions, as reported by The Hill.