South Asia

Pakistan ready for multi-day US-Iran talks, but Tehran unsure about joining

Published: 13:16, 20 April 2026

Pakistan is preparing to host a new round of high-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran, but uncertainty over Tehran’s participation has cast doubt on whether the talks will proceed as planned.

Officials familiar with the process say Islamabad is ready to facilitate multi-day discussions aimed at extending a fragile ceasefire and laying the groundwork for a broader peace agreement. Unlike the initial meeting held earlier this month, the upcoming round is expected to continue until both sides reach a preliminary understanding, potentially in the form of a memorandum of understanding that could prolong the truce by up to 60 days.
However, Iran has yet to confirm whether it will send a delegation, following a sharp escalation in tensions over the past 24 hours. The uncertainty comes as the current ceasefire approaches its expiration, raising fears of renewed hostilities across the region.
US President Donald Trump said American representatives were en route to Pakistan for the talks, but coupled the announcement with renewed warnings of military action. He accused Iran of violating the ceasefire after reported incidents in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian vessels allegedly targeted international shipping, including European cargo ships.
Trump reiterated that Washington had presented a “fair” deal and warned that failure to accept it could result in strikes on Iran’s energy and infrastructure facilities. His remarks have heightened concerns among diplomats that hardline rhetoric may undermine already fragile negotiations.
Tensions escalated further when the US Navy, including the guided missile destroyer USS Spruance, intercepted an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel in the Gulf of Oman. US forces reportedly boarded the ship after disabling it, claiming it was linked to sanctioned activities.
Tehran condemned the move as “piracy,” warning it could derail diplomatic efforts. Analysts say the combination of military incidents and political pressure has made the path to dialogue increasingly uncertain, despite Pakistan’s efforts to act as a neutral mediator.