No breakthrough after 21-hour Iran–US Talks in Islamabad; Diplomacy hinges on ‘good faith’
ISLAMABAD: High-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran concluded after 21 hours in Pakistan’s capital without a breakthrough, as Washington presented what it called a “final and best offer” while Tehran stressed that any progress depends on “seriousness and good faith” and respect for its national interests.
‘Substantive Discussions’ but No Deal
Addressing the media, JD Vance confirmed that despite extensive engagement, the talks ended without agreement.
“The good news is that we’ve had a number of substantive discussions with the Iranians… the bad news is that we have not reached an agreement,” he said.
Vance noted that the United States had clearly outlined its “red lines,” but Iran did not accept the proposed terms. He added that the American delegation would return without a deal, while appreciating Pakistan’s role in facilitating the dialogue.
Iran Calls for ‘Seriousness and Good Faith’
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran remains committed to diplomacy but warned that trust and respect are essential for progress.
He emphasized that Iranian negotiators are working to safeguard national interests, adding that discussions covered key issues such as the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, war reparations, and a complete end to regional hostilities.
Baqaei urged the other side to avoid “excessive and unlawful demands,” stating that the outcome depends on genuine commitment to dialogue.
Trump: ‘US Wins Regardless’
Meanwhile, Donald Trump downplayed the importance of reaching a deal, claiming that the United States had already achieved its objectives.
“Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me… we’ve won,” he said, asserting that Washington had “defeated” Iran militarily.
Pakistan’s Mediation Efforts
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with the Iranian delegation, led by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating dialogue.
Sharif stressed that Islamabad would continue to play a mediating role to promote “regional and global peace and stability.” Senior officials, including Ishaq Dar and Asim Munir, also participated in the meeting.
Earlier, Vance had met Sharif at the start of the talks, with both sides expressing hope that the negotiations could lead to durable peace.
Economic and Strategic Dimensions
On the sidelines, Iran’s central bank chief Abdolnasser Hemmati held discussions with Ishaq Dar, highlighting the economic stakes tied to regional stability and cooperation.
Islamabad Turns Diplomatic Hub
Islamabad has transformed into a tightly secured diplomatic centre, hosting delegations and international media. Key venues include the Jinnah Convention Centre for press operations and the Serena Hotel where negotiations took place.
Security has been heightened across the capital, with extensive arrangements to ensure safe and smooth proceedings.
Talks Continue Amid Fragile Ceasefire
The negotiations follow a fragile ceasefire brokered through Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts after weeks of intense conflict involving the United States, Iran, and regional actors.
While discussions have now entered a second phase, major differences remain over sanctions, nuclear policy, regional security, and the terms of de-escalation.
Despite the lack of agreement, both sides signaled willingness to continue engagement—leaving the future of the talks dependent on whether mutual trust and compromise can be achieved.