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Iran and the United States, are just two days away from the end of the two-week ceasefire
Tehran: Iran has denied reports that it will participate in a second round of talks with the United States in Pakistan, as tensions remain high ahead of an approaching ceasefire deadline in the Middle East.
The Iran’s State-run Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) dismissed claims of scheduled negotiations in Islamabad, calling such reports inaccurate and part of external pressure tactics.
The broadcaster said US’ shifting positions, repeated contradictions and what it described as “unrealistic demands” have slowed diplomatic progress, leaving prospects for meaningful engagement uncertain.
Iranian officials also criticised the ongoing US maritime actions, including what Tehran calls a blockade and the seizure of an Iranian vessel that attempted to evade American forces. The dispute over maritime enforcement has become a major sticking point, Iran warning it could retaliate if such incidents continue during the fragile ceasefire period.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has said he remains optimistic about reaching a deal, stating that a framework for agreement is already in place and negotiators are working to finalise details. The White House has indicated that senior US figures, including Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner, are expected to lead discussions tied to the diplomatic efforts.
Trump has also suggested that a broad outline of a potential agreement has been reached, though he acknowledged that the significant gaps remain between two sides.
The situation comes amid heightened regional tensions following earlier military escalation involving US and Israeli strikes on Iranian positions, which has complicated diplomatic efforts. Both sides continue to exchange accusations over responsibility for stalled negotiations, with Tehran accusing Washington of using pressure tactics, while the US maintains that Iran’s actions are undermining stability and trust.
With the ceasefire deadline approaching on April 22, uncertainty remains over whether diplomatic channels will resume in a structured format or if tensions will escalate further in the coming days.
Officials on both sides have yet to confirm any finalised meeting schedule and independent verification of the proposed Pakistan talks remains unavailable as conflicting statements continue to circulate through official and state-linked channels.
Analysts say the diplomatic impasse reflects deeper strategic mistrust, particularly over sanctions enforcement, maritime security and regional military posturing, making near term breakthroughs difficult despite public statements expressing cautious optimism.
For now, Iran and the US appear to be maintaining pressure while leaving the door open to negotiations, even as rhetoric intensifies and the regional ceasefire deadline draws closer.
