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Tuesday, April 21, 2026

‘Fractured Government’ And Pakistan’s 'Request': What Made Trump Extend Iran Ceasefire

Pakistan appears to have played a pivotal role in persuading US President Donald Trump to extend the ceasefire with Iran, a move that came just hours before the truce was set to expire. Announcing the decision on Wednesday, Trump said the ceasefire would remain in place until Iran presents a unified proposal. He attributed the shift to a “request” from Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, urging Washington to hold off on potential military action and allow diplomatic efforts to continue. <h2>Sudden Shift After Hardline Signals</h2> The announcement marked a sharp turnaround. Only hours earlier, Trump had indicated he was unwilling to prolong the ceasefire. In an interview with CNBC, he said, “I don’t want to do that. We don’t have that much time,” when asked about a possible extension. He had also issued fresh warnings to Tehran, stating he expected to be “bombing” if negotiations failed and the ceasefire lapsed without resolution. Against that backdrop, the decision to pause hostilities has drawn attention to what influenced the change. <h2>Pakistan’s Role in De-escalation</h2> While Trump did not elaborate in detail, he cited two key factors in his public remarks: concerns over what he described as a “seriously fractured” Iranian government, and Islamabad’s appeal to give diplomacy more time. Following the announcement, Sharif thanked Trump for accepting Pakistan’s request. “With the trust and confidence reposed in, Pakistan shall continue its earnest efforts for negotiated settlement of conflict,” he said, also confirming that a second round of talks would be hosted in Pakistan, though no date was disclosed. <h2>Iran Responds with Skepticism</h2> The development, however, has not been universally welcomed. An adviser to Iran’s parliamentary speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, reportedly dismissed the ceasefire extension, calling it a possible tactic to enable a “surprise attack”. The adviser also urged a military response to the ongoing US blockade of Iranian ports, according to Reuters, underscoring continued tensions despite the temporary pause.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/fractured-government-pakistan-request-what-made-trump-extend-us-iran-ceasefire-israel-iran-war-1837905

Trump Makes Big Announcement, Extends Ceasefire Until Iran Sends Proposal

US President Donald Trump has announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran while ordering the military to maintain its blockade, citing a request from Pakistan’s leadership and ongoing uncertainty within Tehran’s government. The move signals a temporary pause in escalation as Washington awaits a unified proposal from Iranian authorities, even as military readiness remains high and diplomatic progress appears fragile. <h2>Ceasefire Extended, Pressure Maintained</h2> In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed a request from Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging restraint to allow Iran time to consolidate its position. He described Iran’s government as “seriously fractured” and said the United States would hold off on planned attacks until Iranian representatives present a coherent proposal. Despite the pause, Trump made clear that pressure on Tehran would not ease. He confirmed that US forces have been instructed to continue the blockade and remain fully prepared for any outcome. The extension of the ceasefire is therefore conditional and tied directly to diplomatic progress, with Washington signalling it is ready to escalate if talks collapse. <h2>Mixed Signals On Diplomacy</h2> The latest announcement contrasts with Trump’s earlier remarks indicating reluctance to prolong the ceasefire beyond Wednesday. In an interview with CNBC, he warned that Iran had “no choice” but to reach an agreement, adding that failure to do so would weaken its position. He also stressed that US forces had used the pause to replenish supplies and stand ready for renewed operations. “We’re ready to go. The military is raring to go,” he said. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts appear increasingly uncertain. A planned visit by US Vice President JD Vance to Pakistan for peace talks has been put on hold after Iran failed to respond to US proposals, according to an official familiar with the matter. However, the trip could be reinstated at short notice if there is a breakthrough.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-war-news-live-trump-makes-big-announcement-extends-ceasefire-until-iran-sends-proposal-1837897

Vance's departure to Pakistan for Iran peace talks put on hold: reports

Washington, Apr 21 (PTI): US Vice President JD Vance's visit to Islamabad, for peace talks with Iran to end the seven-week war, has been put on hold after Tehran failed to respond to American negotiating positions, local media reported on Tuesday.Vance was scheduled to depart Tuesday morning for Islamabad, where talks were set to resume on Wednesday, the same day the fragile cease-fire between the United States and Iran is set to expire. Without an Iranian response, the diplomatic process is effectively paused, though the trip has not been cancelled, a US official was quoted as saying in a New York Times report.The trip could be back on at a moment's notice if Iran's negotiators respond in a way that President Donald Trump deems acceptable. US officials are also looking for a clear signal that Iran's negotiators have been fully empowered to reach an agreement, the report said.The Washington Post attributed the delay to additional policy meetings involving Vance at the White House.Trump accused Iran of violating the ceasefire numerous times in a post on Truth Social early Tuesday. In a separate interview with CNBC, he said the United States is going to end up with a great deal from the negotiations. I think they have no choice. We've taken out their navy, we've taken out their air force, we've taken out their leaders, Trump said.When asked whether the US would resume bombing if a deal is not reached by Wednesday, Trump said that he expects to be bombing, because that is a better attitude to go in with. He added that the military is raring to go.As of midday Tuesday (US time), Vance and White House envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were still in Washington, Axios reported. A US government plane scheduled to take Witkoff and Kushner from Miami to Islamabad via Europe on Tuesday morning never departed — instead taking off around noon for Washington.Trump has said that if the ceasefire ends without an agreement, he is prepared to resume attacking Iran. "I expect to be bombing because I think that's a better attitude to go in with, he told CNBC's 'Squawk Box'.When asked if he would extend the ceasefire with Iran to allow time for the peace talks to reach a deal to end the war, Trump said, Well, I don't want to do that. “They have to negotiate. And, you know, the one thing I'll say is this: Iran can get themselves on a very good footing. If they make a deal, they can make themselves into a strong nation again, a wonderful nation again,” he added. The President said he thinks the US is going to end up with a great deal with Iran to end the weeks-long war."I think they have no choice, Trump said when asked about his expectations from the second round of negotiations with Iran."We've taken out their navy, we've taken out their air force, we've taken out their leaders, he said.We've taken out their leaders, frankly, which does complicate things in one way, but these leaders are much more rational, Trump said. It is regime change, no matter what you want to call it, which is not something I said I was going to do, but I've done it indirectly. The first round of the US-Iran talks held on 11 and 12 April failed to produce the desired results for the parties, leading to a flurry of activities by host Pakistan to cool tempers and raise hopes for another round of dialogue. PTI SKU RD RD(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/vance-s-departure-to-pakistan-for-iran-peace-talks-put-on-hold-reports-1837894

UK Clears Law To Ban Smoking For People Born After 2008

Edited by: Roshni Majumdar Children who do not reach the age of 18 before January 1, 2027 will never be permitted to buy cigarettes or tobacco products in the UK, once a new law that has now completely cleared parliament gets royal assent from King Charles III. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill cleared its final parliamentary hurdle on Monday, when the House of Lords signed off on the last minor amendments to a bill in the pipeline since 2024, early in the current Labour government's tenure. Only one other country, the Maldives, currently has a similar "generational smoking ban" in place. The very first country to do so, New Zealand, swiftly overturned the law following a change in government in 2023. <h2>What are the new rules for smoking and vaping and where will they apply?</h2> The rules will apply in all four of the UK's constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. They were developed in conjunction with the devolved parliaments in Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh. A selection of the core changes and provisions follow: <ul> <li>Technically, the new law will raise the legal age requirement in the UK for buying cigarettes, cigars or tobacco, which is currently 18, by one year in every subsequent year, starting on January 1, 2027</li> <li>This will effectively mean that people born on or after January 1, 2009 will never be eligible to buy them</li> <li>Retailers will face financial penalties for selling the products to those not entitled to them</li> <li>The government will also be empowered to impose a new registration system for smoking and vaping products entering the country, seeking to improve oversight</li> <li>The bill will expand the UK's indoor smoking ban to a series of outdoor public spaces, for instance in children's playgrounds, outside schools and hospitals</li> <li>Most indoor spaces that are designated smoke-free will become vape-free as well</li> <li>Smoking in designated areas outside pubs and bars and other hospitality settings will remain permissible</li> <li>Smoking and vaping will remain legal in people's homes</li> <li>Vaping will become illegal in cars if someone under the age of 18 is inside, to match existing rules on smoking</li> <li>Advertising for smoking and vaping products will be banned</li> <li>People aged 18 or older will remain eligible to purchase vaping products, but some items targeted at younger consumers like disposable vapes have already been outlawed as part of the program</li> </ul> <h2>What did House of Lords members say as the bill completed its journey through parliament?</h2> Monday's session in the House of Lords provided the final green light to a series of minor technical changes, designed to remove errors and flaws identified within the bill, in order to finalize a bill that had already cleared all three readings in both the upper and lower houses of parliament. As a result, even the opposition lawmakers who had opposed the idea did not resist the passage of the six amendments. Baroness Gillian Merron, of the ruling Labour Party and part of the Department of Health and Social Care, spoke in favor of the law changes at "the end of the Bill's journey through our Parliament." "It is a landmark Bill, my lords, it will create a smoke-free generation. It is, in fact, the biggest public health intervention in a generation and I can assure all noble Lords that it will save lives. I commend it to the House," Merron said. Michael Morris, or Baron Naseby, a Conservative member of the Lords, reiterated some of his objections to the plans, including to planned standard fines of 200 pounds (roughly €230 or $270) for retailers found to have breached age restrictions or sold to proxy buyers. "It does upset a great many people in that industry, that the government has not listened to the strong representations from the retailers, and particularly those who have knowledge of this partiuclar industry," Baron Naseby said. He said he believed a time would come when those "who believe that this idea in its whole is totally out of date in relation to what is happening in the world" would come to be vindicated, saying: "What we really need is a proper understanding of how we educate people not to take up smoking." Royal assent, King Charles III's signature and the last stage in the process making it law, is a formality in almost any circumstance in the UK; the Bill has already featured in one of the so-called "King's speeches" at the opening of parliament setting out some of the government's legislative priorities. Disclaimer: This report first appeared on Deutsche Welle, and has been republished on ABP Live as part of a special arrangement. Apart from the headline, no changes have been made in the report by ABP Live.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/uk-clears-law-to-ban-smoking-for-people-born-after-2008-1837886

Monday, April 20, 2026

Tim Cook To Step Down As Apple CEO After 15 Years; John Ternus Named New Chief Executive

Apple CEO Tim Cook will step down from his role later this year, marking the end of a 15-year tenure at the helm of the technology giant. The company confirmed that Cook will transition to the position of executive chairman of Apple’s board after stepping down as chief executive on September 1. The move paves the way for John Ternus, Apple’s current head of hardware engineering, to take over as CEO. A veteran at the company, Ternus has spent 25 years at Apple and has played a central role in shaping many of its flagship products. Cook, who succeeded co-founder Steve Jobs in 2011 following Jobs’ resignation due to health reasons, will remain in the CEO role through the summer. During this period, he will work closely with Ternus to ensure a smooth leadership transition. After stepping down, Cook is expected to continue contributing to the company, including engaging with policymakers globally. The decision follows months of speculation about succession planning at Apple. Reflecting on his tenure, Cook described leading the company as “the greatest privilege of my life”. <h2>Cook Reflects on ‘Greatest Privilege’ as CEO</h2> “It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be the CEO of Apple and to have been trusted to lead such an extraordinary company. I love Apple with all of my being, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with a team of such ingenious, innovative, creative, and deeply caring people,” he said in a statement. Under Cook’s leadership, Apple reached several historic milestones. In 2018, it became the first publicly listed company to achieve a market valuation of $1 trillion (£740 billion). The company is now valued at $4 trillion. Cook also expressed strong confidence in his successor, describing Ternus as a “visionary” leader. “He has the mind of an engineer, the soul of an innovator and the heart to lead with integrity and honour. He is without question the right person to lead Apple into the future,” Cook added. <h2>Ternus Tapped to Lead Apple’s Next Phase of Innovation</h2> Ternus, who has worked at Apple for a quarter of a century, has been involved in nearly every major product the company has launched. His contributions span multiple generations of the iPad and iPhone, as well as the introduction of AirPods and the Apple Watch. He also played a key role in overseeing the transition of Mac computers to Apple’s in-house silicon. His rise to the top job gained momentum last year after the departure of long-time executive and chief operating officer Jeff Williams, according to the BBC. Having also worked under Steve Jobs, Ternus acknowledged Cook’s influence on his career, calling him a mentor. “I am profoundly grateful for this opportunity to carry Apple’s mission forward,” Ternus said. “I am filled with optimism about what we can achieve in the years to come.”

source https://news.abplive.com/technology/tim-cook-steps-down-as-apple-ceo-after-15-years-john-ternus-named-new-apple-ceo-1837693

Trump Claims ‘Big Win’ In Iran War As Ceasefire Deadline Ends Tomorrow: 'Under No Pressure...'

US President Donald Trump has said he is “winning” the ongoing conflict with Iran “by a lot”, even as a fragile two-week ceasefire approaches its scheduled end. His remarks come amid mounting uncertainty over whether diplomatic efforts can prevent a renewed escalation. Highlighting what he described as heavy losses suffered by Iran, Trump also confirmed that the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would remain in place until a final agreement is reached. He added that such a deal could come together “relatively quickly”. <h2>Trump Dismisses Pressure, Promises Stronger Deal</h2> The US president pushed back against suggestions that he was under pressure to secure an agreement, criticising Democrats for allegedly undermining Washington’s position during the conflict. “I read the Fake News saying that I am under ‘pressure’ to make a Deal. THIS IS NOT TRUE! I am under no pressure whatsoever, although, it will all happen, relatively quickly!” Trump wrote on Truth Social, insisting that time was not working against him. He also argued that any new agreement with Iran would surpass the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the landmark international nuclear deal reached under a previous administration. <h2>Ceasefire Violations Cloud Talks</h2> As the ceasefire deadline of Wednesday, April 22, draws closer, the outlook remains unclear. Questions linger over whether both sides can return to meaningful negotiations, particularly with a fresh round of talks expected in Islamabad. A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Monday that Tehran is considering participation in the Pakistan-hosted discussions. The development follows efforts by Islamabad to address the US blockade of Iranian ports, which has been a significant hurdle in restarting dialogue. However, the official cautioned that no final decision has been made. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi also pointed to what he described as ongoing US violations of the ceasefire as a key barrier to diplomatic progress. In a telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Araqchi said Iran is still weighing its options and has yet to determine its next move. Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf accused Trump of intensifying pressure on Tehran through continued blockade measures and alleged ceasefire breaches. In a post on X, he said Iran would not engage in negotiations under threat. Adding to the uncertainty, Bloomberg reported that Trump considers it “highly unlikely” that the truce will be extended. He also confirmed US participation in the Islamabad talks, noting that Vice President JD Vance is expected to travel there soon.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/iran-us-ceasefire-trump-claims-big-win-as-ceasefire-deadline-nears-says-under-no-pressure-1837692

Trump Warns ‘Bombs Will Fall’ If Iran Ceasefire Collapses; Islamabad Talks Uncertain

Uncertainty continues to surround the proposed second round of talks between United States and Iran in Islamabad, even as diplomatic and military signals grow increasingly contradictory. Reports suggest a US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance is preparing to travel to Pakistan, though some accounts indicate he remains in Washington. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has maintained a firm stance, even as he hints at focusing on post-conflict recovery. The mixed signals have heightened uncertainty around whether talks will proceed as planned. <h2>Trump’s Warning</h2> Tensions escalated further after US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning, stating that if the ceasefire with Iran collapses, “a lot of bombs” could follow. He reiterated that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains Washington’s primary objective. At the same time, Trump struck a more conciliatory tone on diplomacy, indicating willingness to engage directly with Iranian leaders if progress is made during the Islamabad talks. The US delegation is expected to include key figures such as envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner, reflecting the significance of the proposed engagement. <h2>Iran’s Firm Stand</h2> Tehran, however, has publicly expressed deep distrust towards the US. Pezeshkian emphasised that any dialogue would only be meaningful if commitments are honoured, criticising what he described as inconsistent and non-constructive behaviour from Washington. He reiterated that Iran would not yield to pressure, signalling a cautious and conditional approach to negotiations. <h2>Global Concern Grows</h2> Amid rising tensions, global powers have stepped in to urge de-escalation. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for normalisation of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, stressing the need for diplomatic resolution. Meanwhile, UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, during talks with Japan’s Toshimitsu Motegi in Tokyo, underscored the importance of reopening the vital maritime route and adhering to international maritime law.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-war-news-live-update-trump-warns-bombs-will-fall-if-iran-ceasefire-collapses-islamabad-talks-uncertain-1837682