Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif posted on X a plea to President Trump to extend the Tuesday 8 p.m. deadline on Iran, framing the request in Trump‑style language and tagging the president and senior advisers. Behind the tweet, a senior administration source confirmed the White House had already reviewed and signed off the message before it went live, indicating coordinated diplomatic effort.

Trump had warned he would unleash overwhelming force unless Tehran reopened the Strait of Hormuz, a stance that spooked oil markets and raised shipping insurance premiums. Pakistan, fearing regional spill‑over, sought to act as a mediator. The pre‑approved draft, labeled “Draft – Pakistan’s PM Message on X,” was posted without a disclaimer, prompting speculation that the president himself drafted the text.

Within hours Trump announced a two‑week cease‑fire with Iran, effectively buying time for back‑channel talks. The episode reveals how public social‑media appeals can mask intensive behind‑the‑scenes coordination, a factor investors watch when geopolitical risks threaten energy prices. Energy traders noted a dip in Brent futures as cease‑fire news eased supply anxiety.