The US-Iran talks in Islamabad ended without agreement as a delegation led by JD Vance departed Pakistan, underscoring rising tensions and stalled negotiations. The failure raises uncertainty over future diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.
The US delegation left Islamabad without securing a deal, according to international media reports. Vice President Vance confirmed that no agreement had been reached during the high-stakes discussions.
Talks End Without Breakthrough
Briefing journalists at the Serena Hotel Islamabad before departure, Vance said Iran was unwilling to accept key US proposals. However, he did not specify which conditions were rejected.
“We made our red lines clear and outlined where we could be flexible, but they did not accept the terms,” he said, signaling a firm US stance during negotiations.
US Leaves ‘Final Offer’ on Table
Despite the lack of agreement, Vance stopped short of declaring the talks a failure. He said the United States had left behind what he described as its “final and best offer” for Iran to consider. “This is a very clear proposal. Now it is up to Iran to decide whether to accept it,” he added, suggesting that diplomatic channels remain open.
High-Level Engagements During Talks
Throughout the negotiations, Vance held multiple phone conversations with US President Donald Trump, indicating close coordination at the highest level.
The US team also included special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Iran Maintains Firm Position
On the Iranian side, senior figures including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi took part in the discussions. Their resistance to US proposals highlights deep divisions between the two sides, particularly on sensitive political and strategic issues.
Uncertainty Looms Over Future Talks
The inconclusive outcome adds to growing uncertainty around US-Iran relations, with both sides appearing entrenched in their positions. While diplomacy has not fully collapsed, the failure to reach even a preliminary agreement suggests that tensions could intensify if no compromise is found in the coming weeks.