High-stakes dialogue stalls over nuclear demands and regional security, but both sides signal talks may continue
New Delhi: A crucial round of high-level diplomacy between the United States and Iran concluded in Islamabad without a formal agreement, after nearly 21 hours of intense negotiations that nonetheless kept hopes of continued dialogue alive.
The talks, the most direct engagement between the two nations in decades, brought together senior leaders including J. D. Vance and Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, with Pakistan acting as a key intermediary.
At the heart of the deadlock were deep divisions over nuclear policy. Washington insisted on firm guarantees that Tehran would not pursue nuclear weapons, including curbs on uranium enrichment. Iran, however, maintained that its nuclear programme is a matter of sovereignty and resisted what it viewed as “excessive demands.”
“We made our best and final offer,” Vance said, indicating that the U.S. is awaiting Iran’s response. On the other side, Abbas Araghchi acknowledged that the two sides came close but cited “shifting goalposts” and unresolved sticking points.
The discussions also covered a potential ceasefire in Lebanon, the release of Iranian assets, and the future of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. However, disagreements persisted over regional influence and maritime control.
Despite the lack of a breakthrough, officials described the engagement as “constructive,” noting that technical discussions were held and draft proposals exchanged. Iran indicated that negotiations could resume after internal consultations.
The fragile ceasefire in the region remains intact for now, though fresh tensions, including U.S. moves in the Strait of Hormuz and continued Israeli strikes-pose risks to stability.
While no deal was reached, both sides stopped short of walking away, suggesting that diplomacy, though strained, is far from over.
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