Source Hindustan Times
Islamabad: Pakistan has stated that it is still awaiting Iran’s formal response regarding participation in the next round of peace talks with the United States, as diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict face growing uncertainty.
The proposed negotiations, expected to take place in Islamabad, are part of a broader attempt to extend a fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. While the United States has confirmed its willingness to attend, Iran has yet to provide a definitive answer, raising doubts about whether the talks will proceed as planned.
Officials in Pakistan, which has been acting as a key mediator, indicated that preparations are underway, but emphasized that meaningful progress depends on Iran’s participation. The delay comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations, with both sides accusing each other of violating ceasefire conditions.
Recent developments have further complicated the situation. Iran has expressed concerns over actions by the United States, including a naval blockade and the seizure of an Iranian-linked vessel near the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has described these moves as breaches of the ceasefire and has signaled reluctance to engage in talks under such circumstances.
Earlier rounds of negotiations in Islamabad failed to produce a breakthrough, despite marathon discussions lasting several hours. The talks ended without an agreement, leaving the ceasefire as the only barrier preventing a renewed escalation of hostilities.
Meanwhile, global attention remains focused on the outcome of these diplomatic efforts, as the conflict has already impacted international oil markets and regional stability. Analysts warn that failure to resume dialogue could lead to a sharp escalation in military activity, with far-reaching economic and geopolitical consequences.
As the ceasefire deadline approaches, Pakistan continues to urge both sides to return to the negotiating table, stressing that dialogue remains the only viable path to de-escalation and long-term peace.
