ISLAMABAD: High-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran concluded without a breakthrough after nearly 21 hours of talks in Islamabad, casting uncertainty over a fragile two-week ceasefire.
US Vice President JD Vance confirmed on Sunday that his delegation was heading back to Washington empty-handed, warning that the failure to reach an agreement would ultimately hurt Iran more than the United States.
“We’ve made our red lines very clear,” Vance said, emphasizing that Washington is seeking a firm commitment from Tehran not to pursue nuclear weapons or the capability to rapidly develop them. He described this objective as central to the agenda of President Donald Trump.
Iranian officials, however, pushed back. The semi-official Tasnim news agency blamed “excessive” US demands for the deadlock, although Tehran signaled that dialogue may continue at a technical level through document exchanges.
The Islamabad meeting marked a rare moment being the first direct engagement between the two nations in over a decade and the most senior-level talks since the Iranian Revolution.
Tensions Around Strategic Waterway
A major sticking point remains the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global corridor handling roughly 20% of the world’s energy supply. While US officials said military preparations were underway to secure the passage and clear potential mines, Iranian media denied any American naval movement in the area.
Tehran is reportedly demanding control over the strait, along with war reparations, access to frozen financial assets abroad, and a broader regional ceasefire including in Lebanon. Washington has rejected claims that it agreed to release Iranian funds held overseas.
Delegations and Atmosphere
The US team included envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, while Iran was represented by senior figures such as Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Abbas Araqchi.
Sources described the talks as tense and unpredictable, with fluctuating moods on both sides. The Iranian delegation arrived in mourning attire, referencing casualties from recent conflict incidents, further underscoring the emotional weight surrounding the discussions.
Despite the stalemate, diplomatic channels remain partially open. However, with key disagreements unresolved particularly over nuclear restrictions and control of strategic routes the risk of renewed escalation remains high.
The outcome also leaves global markets on edge, as continued instability around the Strait of Hormuz could further disrupt oil supplies and drive up prices worldwide.
