Iranian delegation departs Islamabad as Iran says US talks end without breakthrough

ISLAMABAD: The Iranian delegation has departed after participating in high-level talks in Islamabad, with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir seeing them off on Sunday evening. The delegation included Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and the discussions reportedly lasted more than 31 hours.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the latest round of negotiations between Tehran and Washington ended without a breakthrough, despite what he described as constructive proposals from the Iranian side. He said Iran presented “forward-looking initiatives” to address key disputes, but added that the other side failed to build sufficient trust, resulting in a stalemate.

Ghalibaf further said that the United States now has a clearer understanding of Iran’s position and core principles, and said it is now up to Washington to decide whether it can take steps to restore confidence and advance the process.

He also expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s role in facilitating the talks, acknowledging Islamabad’s support and hosting efforts during the sensitive diplomatic engagement. No date has been set for the next round of negotiations, although Iran’s Foreign Office spokesperson said diplomatic efforts will continue.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Iran following the stalled talks, sharing an article on Truth Social that outlined a possible naval blockade strategy targeting Iran’s oil exports, including potential action in the Strait of Hormuz if no agreement is reached.

The development comes as tensions remain high after prolonged negotiations that have yet to produce a concrete deal, with both sides holding firm positions on key issues, including security and nuclear policy.