US President Trump extends Iran ceasefire, Strait of Hormuz blockade to continue
via Egypt Today1 min read
US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday an extension of the ceasefire with Iran, following a formal request from Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Pakistani leaders asked for a suspension of US military action against Iran to allow Iranian leadership and representatives time to present a unified proposal. President Trump stated that the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz will remain in effect, with US forces continuing on high alert. On Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said that while Tehran submitted a 10-point proposal to Pakistan, there are indications the United States lacks seriousness for diplomacy. Baghaei attributed instability in the Strait of Hormuz to American and Israeli aggression, stating the strait was secure before recent attacks. He called on the international community to hold the US and Israel accountable for endangering maritime security. Baghaei emphasized Iran's readiness to respond forcefully to further aggression and confirmed no plans for a second round of negotiations with the United States, describing American proposals as "unserious" and demands as "unrealistic," accusing Washington of violating ceasefire terms.
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Al Ahly has announced the departure of coach Jess Thorup by mutual consent, following a season that saw the Egyptian club finish below expectations. Thorup, 56, who was appointed in October on a two-and-a-half-year deal, signed a settlement agreement after receiving his full contractual dues. While he led Al Ahly to the Egyptian Super Cup title with a 2-0 victory over Zamalek, the team's performance declined in the latter part of the campaign. Al Ahly concluded the league in third place, missing out on qualification for next season’s African Champions League and instead securing a spot in the Confederation Cup. The club was also eliminated in the quarter-finals of the continent's premier club competition.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, commended Egypt's diplomatic efforts and its significant regional role, particularly in securing a ceasefire in Gaza. Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum SPIEF 2026, Zakharova highlighted Egypt's strength and influence in the Middle East. She affirmed Russia's openness to global cooperation, emphasizing the importance of the Arab region and the shared, long-standing special relationship between Moscow and Cairo. Zakharova noted that Egypt's policies align with the will of its people, fostering strong opportunities for international cooperation, an approach similar to Russia's.
Must ReadU.S. President Donald Trump stated that significant progress has been made in negotiations with Iran, with the primary goal being to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. A key provision of any future agreement would be the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic, which Trump described as crucial for regional stability. He expressed confidence that the U.S. will achieve its objectives with Iran, through negotiations or other methods. Trump also mentioned that he had previously rejected the option of deploying special forces to seize Iranian nuclear materials to avoid past U.S. administration scenarios. While not currently seeking a meeting with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Trump did not rule out such a meeting if a final agreement is reached.
Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad, Badr Abdelatty, met with members of Japan’s House of Representatives and House of Councillors, including the Egypt-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Association, during his visit to Tokyo. Minister Abdelatty highlighted the rapid development of Egyptian-Japanese relations since their elevation to a strategic partnership in 2023, noting increased high-level visits and cooperation. He emphasized the importance of parliamentary cooperation and expressed hope for reciprocal parliamentary visits, inviting the association to visit Egypt. Abdelatty also acknowledged Japan’s support for major development projects in Egypt, such as the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Egyptian-Japanese partnership in education, and the Cairo Metro Line 4 project. He reviewed economic reforms in Egypt, stressing the enhanced competitiveness of the national economy and encouraging Japanese companies to invest in promising opportunities, particularly in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. The meeting also included discussions on regional developments in the Middle East, including the Gaza Strip, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, and Egypt’s water security. Kuniko Inoguchi, a member of the Japan-Egypt Parliamentary Association, conveyed remarks on behalf of former Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso, praising the historical ties and strategic partnership between the two nations and affirming the association's commitment to strengthening bilate