The second round of direct talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad, scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, may not take place, the actions and statements of officials and institutions from both sides show.
The talks have not been officially declared to have failed completely, but the atmosphere around them is currently in a state of uncertainty and de facto stagnation.
Tehran officially refused to confirm its participation in the second round of talks, stating that it will not negotiate under the “shadow of threats“ and while the US naval blockade continues.
The visit of US Vice President J.D. Vance to Pakistan, who was supposed to lead the negotiations, was officially suspended by the White House due to the lack of a response from the Iranian side.
President Donald Trump announced today that the US is extending a temporary ceasefire with Iran until Tehran presents its own proposal for negotiations and until the discussions are finally concluded.
Pakistani authorities are continuing active diplomatic efforts at the “last minute” to save the negotiation process and bring both sides back to the negotiating table in Islamabad.
Although a US delegation was sent to Pakistan, the negotiations did not start as planned due to Iran's refusal to participate under the current conditions. However, the extended ceasefire leaves an “open window” for a possible resumption of talks in the coming days.