New Delhi, April 22 -- US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (April 21) that he has directed the US military to extend the ceasefire with Iran and maintain a blockade while diplomatic efforts continue, according to a statement attributed to him.

Trump said the decision followed a request from Pakistan's leadership and cited internal divisions within Iran as a factor in pausing military action.

In his statement, Trump said the move came after appeals from senior Pakistani officials.

"Upon the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, of Pakistan, we have been asked to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran," Trump said.

He added that Iran's internal political situation also influenced the decision, des...