Iran Unlikely to Join US Talks in Pakistan

Iran is not planning to take part in upcoming talks with the United States in Pakistan, state media reported, signalling fresh uncertainty over diplomatic efforts as a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East nears its end.

Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, citing official sources, said there are currently no plans for Tehran to attend the next round of negotiations. Other state-linked agencies also indicated that the environment for dialogue remains unfavourable, pointing to unresolved tensions with Washington.

A key sticking point is the ongoing US naval blockade on Iranian ports, which Tehran has repeatedly criticised as unacceptable. Iranian officials have insisted that lifting the blockade is a precondition for meaningful negotiations, while describing US demands as unrealistic.

Tensions escalated further after a US naval vessel intercepted and seized an Iranian-flagged ship that allegedly attempted to bypass the blockade. Tehran has warned of a possible response, raising concerns over renewed confrontation.

The diplomatic impasse comes just days before the expiry of a two-week ceasefire that followed earlier military strikes in the region. So far, only one brief round of talks has been held in Islamabad, which ended without a breakthrough.

Meanwhile, global energy markets have reacted sharply to the uncertainty, with benchmark oil prices rising significantly amid fears of prolonged disruption in supply routes.

The situation has been further complicated by developments around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane for global energy supplies. Iran has alternated between reopening and restricting access to the waterway, while warning that unauthorised vessels could face action.

Despite preparations in Islamabad for another round of negotiations, including heightened security, the prospects for progress remain unclear as both sides continue to hold firm positions on key issues, including sanctions, nuclear activities and regional security.