Iran and the United States failed to reach an agreement on Sunday to end the ongoing war in the Middle East, despite intensive diplomatic efforts held in Islamabad. Although the talks ended without a deal, there was no immediate return to fighting, and global leaders quickly called on both sides to continue pursuing diplomacy.
JD Vance, who led the American delegation, left Pakistan following what was described as the highest-level US-Iran engagement since the Iranian Revolution. He stated that Washington had presented its “final and best offer,” urging Tehran to respond. Vance added that the US had made a clear proposal and now awaited Iran’s decision.
On the other side, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that Iran had put forward constructive ideas but claimed the US side failed to build trust, resulting in a breakdown in negotiations.
Reports indicated that key disagreements included control over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s right to continue uranium enrichment under any potential agreement. These unresolved issues ultimately prevented a breakthrough.
As the talks concluded, international reactions emphasized the importance of continued dialogue. Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar, whose country hosted and mediated the discussions, stressed the need for both parties to uphold the ceasefire and remain engaged in negotiations. He reaffirmed that Pakistan would continue to facilitate diplomatic contact between the two sides.
The European Union also urged sustained diplomacy, praising Pakistan’s mediation role and confirming its willingness to support further efforts toward peace. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed readiness to help mediate a political solution.
UK and Australian officials echoed similar sentiments, describing the lack of progress as disappointing but stressing that negotiations should continue.
Although the Islamabad talks ended without an agreement, the international community broadly agreed that diplomacy remains the only viable path forward to prevent further escalation in the region.
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