Negotiations between Iran and the United States to resolve ongoing hostilities were halted early Sunday after over 14 hours of discussions in Islamabad, Pakistan. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, leading the American delegation, confirmed that no agreement had been reached, citing Iranian rejection of U.S. terms.
The Iranian government indicated that technical experts would continue to exchange documents on key issues, particularly the control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments that has been effectively blocked by Iran since the onset of the conflict. Despite the lack of agreement, Iran expressed a willingness to continue negotiations.
During the talks, President Donald Trump stated on Truth Social that the U.S. was “clearing out” the Strait, emphasizing its importance in negotiations. The Pentagon reported that U.S. Central Command forces began operations to clear mines in the Strait as part of efforts to ensure safe passage for maritime commerce.
These negotiations mark the first high-level discussions since the conflict escalated with a surprise U.S.-Israeli attack in February 2026. The U.S. and Iran had initially agreed to a two-week ceasefire to facilitate talks.
The U.S. delegation includes key figures such as special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, while Iran is represented by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf among others. Vance’s leadership is notable as he is perceived as a skeptic of the war, potentially making him a more acceptable negotiator for Iran.
Both nations have articulated distinct demands: Iran seeks the lifting of sanctions and control over the Strait, while the U.S. calls for curbs on Iran's nuclear capabilities and the reopening of the Strait, reflecting a complex negotiation landscape amid ongoing conflict and significant civilian casualties reported in both Iran and Lebanon.