Twenty-one hours of back and forth leave US and Iran far apart
Twenty-one hours of back and forth leave US and Iran far apart
After an extended 21-hour diplomatic session in Islamabad, US Vice-President JD Vance departed without securing a major breakthrough in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict with Iran. The negotiations, held in the Pakistani capital, showcased a high-level exchange but left the two nations still miles apart on critical issues. A US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, noted that no consensus was reached regarding Iran’s enriched uranium, highlighting the persistent challenges in the talks.
Sticking Points Remain
Key unresolved topics include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without toll fees—a top focus for President Donald Trump—and Iran’s pledge to halt financial support for groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas. Vance presented Tehran with a final proposal on Saturday, though details were not disclosed. Despite the deadlock, the official described the dialogue as “tough but friendly,” with both sides sharing constructive ideas.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian asserted that an agreement with the US would be achievable “if the American government abandons its totalitarianism and respects the rights of the Iranian nation.”
Meanwhile, Trump expressed frustration over the lack of progress, vowing to implement a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz “effective immediately” to push Iran toward a deal. The US military announced plans to halt all maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports starting Monday.
High-Stakes Mission
The negotiations tested Vance’s diplomatic skills, as he led a team representing Trump’s administration. Tasked with winding down the six-week war that has disrupted the Middle East and driven oil prices upward, Vance faced a challenging mission. Trump’s inconsistent messaging on the conflict from the outset added complexity to his role.
Trump joked in early April that he would hold Vance accountable if talks failed, while taking credit if both sides reached an agreement.
Vance, known for his anti-interventionist views, has reportedly expressed doubts about the military campaign in private discussions with Trump. His public support for the war contrasts with private reservations, underscoring the tension within the administration.
Political Dynamics
Observers closely followed the talks for insights into Vance’s potential foreign policy approach should he run for president in 2028. During the negotiations, Trump was in Miami, Florida, watching a UFC match alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio, another possible 2028 contender. As the two-week truce deadline approaches this month, the prospect of a breakthrough appears dimmer than ever.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary speaker who led the delegation, remained composed in the face of Trump’s aggressive stance. In a statement upon returning home, he declared, “If you fight, we will fight; if you come forward with logic, we will respond with logic.” He added, “We will not submit to any threat. If they test our resolve once more, we will teach them an even greater lesson.”
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