Negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad have concluded without a lasting agreement to end the ongoing conflict. The talks, which lasted 21 hours, were confirmed by US Vice President Jay D. Vance during a press conference in the Pakistani capital.
Vance stated that while the discussions included substantial dialogue, they ultimately did not yield a consensus. He remarked, “This is bad news for Iran, and we are returning to the United States without an agreement.” The Vice President noted that the Iranian delegation rejected the flexible terms proposed by the US.
“We approached these talks with a sincere willingness to negotiate and make every effort to reach an agreement,” Vance explained. However, he expressed disappointment at the lack of progress, emphasizing that the core issue was Iran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear program.
He further elaborated, stating, “The question is whether we can see a fundamental commitment from Iran not to develop nuclear weapons, not just now or in two years, but in the long term. We have not seen that yet, but we hope to.” Vance did not indicate what the next steps would be following the unsuccessful negotiations, although he mentioned that Iran could still reconsider the US offer.
The failure to secure an agreement raises concerns about the stability of ceasefire arrangements, particularly regarding Iran’s commitment to opening the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for global energy supplies. Iranian state news agency Tasnim characterized the US demands as obstacles to a mutual framework and agreement.
In related developments, the US had previously set a 10-day ultimatum for Iran to cease attacks on energy infrastructure, which expired on April 6. Following a lack of progress, President Trump extended the deadline by 20 hours to April 7. Reports indicated that discussions were ongoing among the US, Iran, and regional mediators about a potential 45-day ceasefire that could pave the way for a resolution.
Trump faced a critical decision to either follow through on threats to destroy Iranian infrastructure or extend the deadline to allow for further negotiations. He had previously threatened to target bridges and power plants in Iran, warning of severe repercussions for the Iranian regime.
On April 6, Iran presented a separate 10-point plan to the US and Israel for halting hostilities through Pakistan. Following this, on April 8, Trump announced a two-week suspension of bombings against Iran, describing it as a significant step towards peace.
Vance’s delegation, which included special representatives, was sent to Islamabad to engage in these talks. Iranian representatives, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, were also present.
The backdrop of these negotiations includes a series of military operations initiated by Israel and the US against Iran, with the US accusing Iran of supporting militant groups across the region. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of their respective positions.
The recent talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad ended without an agreement to cease hostilities, raising concerns about future negotiations and regional stability. Both sides remain at an impasse, particularly over Iran's nuclear ambitions.