Islamabad talks between US and Iran end without breakthrough as truce uncertain

The failure of the first round of negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad raises questions about their fate in the coming days, particularly regarding the two-week truce agreed upon by both sides, which began on Wednesday, April 8.

So, what do we know about the Islamabad negotiations so far? And will the truce hold?

Despite the differing American and Iranian statements regarding the results of the first round, neither side has indicated a withdrawal from the negotiations as a whole, suggesting that the failure may be limited to the initial round held yesterday, Saturday, which lasted 21 hours in Islamabad, amid Pakistani efforts to convene subsequent rounds.

Pakistan’s foreign minister on Sunday called on Washington and Tehran to continue adhering to the ceasefire agreement despite the failure of their negotiations.

In a brief statement broadcast by official media, Ishaq Dar said, “It is essential that both sides maintain their commitment to the ceasefire,” adding that “Pakistan has been and will continue to play its role in facilitating engagement and dialogue between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States in the coming days.”

Commenting on the failure of the negotiations, the site “Axios” stated: “Between the lines, no one expected a final agreement to be reached on Saturday, but the American side had hoped to gain enough momentum to continue the negotiations, even if it required extending the ceasefire.”

"A final American offer"

Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance did not close the door on negotiations between the two countries, presenting a “final offer” to Iran before departing Islamabad. He said, “The U.S. delegation, after 21 hours of talks in the Pakistani capital, is leaving after presenting our final and best offer. We will see if the Iranians accept it.”

Vance’s statements suggested that he is still giving Iran sufficient time to consider the offer presented by the United States.

Iran: No agreement from one round

Following Vance’s remarks, the Iranian Foreign Ministry stated that “the path of diplomacy remains open and is a constant means of safeguarding our national interests,” adding that “communications and consultations will continue between Iran, Pakistan, and our other friends in the region.”

This comes after the Iranian Foreign Ministry confirmed that “we did not expect to reach an agreement in just one round.”

Location of Islamabad negotiations (AFP).

Islamabad talks between US and Iran end without breakthrough as truce uncertain

Islamabad talks between US and Iran end without breakthrough as truce uncertain

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