Shehbaz Sharif Appeals to Trump and Iran to Extend Deadlines for Peace Efforts

Islamabad-(Mudassar Iqbal/Web Desk)- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged all parties in the ongoing Middle East conflict to observe a temporary two-week ceasefire to allow diplomatic efforts to reach a peaceful resolution.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister stated that diplomatic negotiations are progressing steadily and have strong potential to produce substantive results in the near future. He requested President Donald Trump to extend his current deadline by two weeks to facilitate these efforts.

Diplomatic efforts for peaceful settlement of the ongoing war in the Middle East are progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully with the potential to lead to substantive results in near future. To allow diplomacy to run its course, I earnestly request President Trump to extend…

— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 7, 2026

PM Shehbaz also appealed to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for the same period as a goodwill gesture. He emphasized that such measures would create a window for diplomacy to achieve a conclusive end to the hostilities and support long-term regional peace and stability.

The Prime Minister’s message underscores Pakistan’s commitment to fostering dialogue, encouraging restraint, and supporting all efforts aimed at de-escalation and constructive negotiations in the Middle East.

Earlier,

 In Riyadh, reports have emerged claiming that Al Jubail—the kingdom’s largest
industrial hub—was targeted by missiles and drones allegedly launched from Iran. The strikes were said to focus on key petrochemical and energy installations, though these claims remain unverified. The reported attack has heightened regional anxiety, further intensifying the already strained situation involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. As one of the Middle East’s most critical industrial
zones, any disruption in Al Jubail could significantly impact global energy
supplies, regional stability, and diplomatic relations. Al Jubail is home to more than 150 industrial facilities and plays a central role in Saudi Arabia’s economy.

Trump warns ‘whole civilisation will die’ in Iran if deal ultimatum expires

The hub contributes between 7% and 12% of the nation’s GDP and attracts nearly half of its
total foreign direct investment, underlining its strategic importance. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that air defense systems successfully intercepted seven ballistic missiles aimed at the eastern region. However, falling debris reportedly landed near sensitive energy infrastructure. Authorities stated that damage assessments are still underway, and more detailed updates will follow. The escalation comes after reported strikes on Iranian infrastructure e, including bridges and power plants, amid ongoing tensions over control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Tehran has responded Strongly, warning it could target energy assets in other countries and calling on citizens to stage symbolic demonstrations by forming “human chains” around key facilities in protest against what it describes
as U.S. aggression Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a phone conversation with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, focusing on the escalating regional tensions.City & Local Guides

The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for Saudi Arabia following the attack on the Jubail oil facility, strongly condemning the assault. He assured the Crown Prince that Pakistan’s government and people will remain united with their Saudi counterparts, just as Saudi Arabia has historically supported Pakistan during challenging times.