Morning Briefing Europe

Trump Extends Iran Truce and Keeps Blockade as Talks Falter

Get caught up.

A ship is seen off the coast of Ras al-Khaimah, the day after the failure of US-Iran peace talks on April 13.Photographer: AFP/Getty Images

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Gabrielle Ng

April 22, 2026 at 6:25 AM UTC

Good morning. Donald Trump announced an indefinite ceasefire extension. Keir Starmer looks increasingly like he’s on his way out from Downing Street. And commodity traders are reaping billions from war. Listen to the day’s top stories.

Donald Trump declared he was extending a ceasefire with Iran indefinitely, even as plans for a fresh round of talks between the two countries fell apart. The US president said he’s keeping a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and that “there can never be a deal” without it. Meanwhile, the semi-official Tasnim news reported that Tehran has received “some sign” Washington is ready to break the blockade, without elaborating on timing. The UK and France convene in London to discuss how the vital shipping route can be kept open.