Islamabad US-Iran Talks: Hours before the deadline for the end of the US-Iran ceasefire, Tehran reportedly put an end to the suspense over its participation in the high-stakes Islamabad talks, saying it would not send its delegation on Wednesday. Rejecting Pakistan's request, Iran denied that any delegation had travelled to Islamabad for the second round of peace talks with the United States aimed at achieving a complete end to the hostilities in West Asia. The development is a major blow to Pakistan's diplomatic ambitions to be a peace broker in the Middle East.
Iran's state news outlet, IRNA, citing diplomatic sources, reported that no delegation from Iran has been dispatched to Islamabad "so far", dismissing recent reports.
The source further clarified that neither official nor unofficial information has even been received regarding Iranian involvement in the Islamabad talks, as reported by IRNA.
Why Does Iran Not Want To Attend Peace Talks In Pakistan?
The source highlighted a stinging lack of confidence in the host nation, emphasising that security considerations remain a top priority for any potential delegation--a subtle indictment of Pakistan's ability to guarantee the safety of high-level participants. This revelation from Tehran directly contradicts the narrative being pushed by the Pakistani government. While Islamabad has attempted to portray itself as a central mediator in the West Asian crisis, Iranian officials have maintained a firm stance: Tehran will not engage in negotiations under threats. Tehran is also angry over US President Donald Trump's continuous threats and seizure of its oil tanker by the US military.
The denial follows a series of increasingly frantic statements from Pakistan's Information and Broadcasting Minister, Attaullah Tarar, who admitted on X that a "formal response from the Iranian side about confirmation of delegation to attend Islamabad Peace Talks is still awaited."
Despite the clear snub from Iran, Tarar attempted to maintain a facade of ongoing diplomacy, noting that Pakistan remains in "constant touch with Iranians."
Vance's Departure To Pakistan Delayed: Reports
On the other side, US Vice President JD Vance's visit to Islamabad has been put on hold after Tehran failed to respond to American negotiating positions, the New York Times reported. Vance was scheduled to depart on Tuesday morning for Islamabad.
The trip could be back on at a moment's notice if Iran's negotiators respond in a way that Trump deems acceptable. US officials are also looking for a clear signal that Iran's negotiators have been fully empowered to reach an agreement, the report said.
The Washington Post attributed the delay to "additional policy meetings" involving Vance at the White House. Trump accused Iran of violating the ceasefire "numerous times" in a post on Truth Social early Tuesday.
(With Agencies Inputs)