Tump privately sought Iran ceasefire since March 21, contradicting public stance

U.S. President Donald Trump privately pushed for a ceasefire with Iran as early as March 21, the Financial Times reported, citing sources familiar with diplomatic contacts.

According to the report, the Trump administration spent several weeks urging a truce in an effort to ease economic pressure linked to Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz. Washington considered using Pakistan as an intermediary.

Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir maintained contacts with Iranian officials, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, Vice President JD Vance and Trump himself, even after the U.S. president publicly threatened Iran earlier this week, the report said.

Five sources familiar with diplomatic channels said Trump had been seeking a ceasefire since March 21, when he first warned of potential strikes on Iranian power facilities.

The report contrasts with the White House’s public position that sustained military pressure forced Iran to seek negotiations.

“They are the ones asking for a deal, not me,” Trump said less than two weeks ago. “They want to make a deal.”

Talks between the United States and Iran are expected to take place in Islamabad on Friday, although Iran’s parliament speaker has accused the U.S. and Israel of violating the fragile truce.