Iran has refused to hold a second round of talks with the U.S. — Sky News
The Iranian government has refused to participate in the second round of peace talks with the United States, which were scheduled to take place in Islamabad.
This was reported by Sky News.
Iranian authorities cited Washington’s “excessive demands” and the ongoing naval blockade of Iranian ports—which they consider a direct violation of the terms of the current ceasefire—as the reasons for their decision.
The situation escalated after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new phase of diplomatic efforts.
He appointed Vice President J.D. Vance to lead the U.S. delegation, which was scheduled to arrive in Pakistan on Monday, April 20.
However, the Iranian side stated through the state-run IRNA news agency that it currently sees no “bright prospects” for dialogue.
Among the reasons for the refusal, Tehran cited the White House’s unrealistic expectations, the constant shifting of positions by American negotiators, and contradictory statements by the U.S. leadership.
Washington’s public rhetoric has further intensified the conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump had previously issued a harsh ultimatum, promising to “take out” key Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, if the country did not agree to the proposed deal.
Iran rejected Trump’s statements about transferring uranium to the U.S. and accused him of manipulation
U.S. President Donald Trump also announced progress in negotiations with Iran, under which Washington would allegedly receive all of Tehran’s enriched uranium without any financial payments.
Additionally, Israel agreed to a 10-day ceasefire with Lebanon and announced the start of a move toward a diplomatic settlement; however, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the war against Hezbollah is not yet over and military operations will continue.
Additionally, Iran announced new rules for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which is one of the world’s key oil supply routes. Commercial vessels will now be able to transit only with permission from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.
U.S. stock markets opened higher following a sharp drop in oil prices. Investors reacted positively to the news that Iran had reopened the Strait of Hormuz.
Additionally, the U.S. does not plan to lift its naval blockade of Iran, even despite Tehran’s statements regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The restrictions will remain in place until the parties conclude negotiations and sign an agreement.
