Planeloads of negotiators and too little time: US and Iran’s 21 hours of talks

High-level US and Iranian delegations met in Islamabad for 21 hours of negotiations aimed at resolving a 20-year dispute over Iran's nuclear program, complicated by new issues like control of the Strait of Hormuz and US compensation for its attack on Iran. Iran sent a large negotiating team, including members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, while the US delegation was led by Vice President JD Vance, who consulted with Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu during the talks. Despite the extensive representation, the talks failed to achieve a breakthrough. Experts suggest that the limited time frame and potentially unrealistic US expectations hindered progress on complex issues that previously took years to negotiate. The US statement about Iran accepting "our terms" was criticized for revealing an uncompromising stance.

The United States and Iran concluded high-level talks in Islamabad, Pakistan on April 12, 2026, without reaching a peace deal. The 21-hour meeting, the highest-level between the two countries since 1979, ended with US Vice President JD Vance stating that Iran refused to accept US terms, specifically regarding a commitment to not develop nuclear weapons or the means to do so quickly. Iran's Foreign Ministry indicated that a deal was not expected at the first meeting. The US delegation, led by Vance, emphasized the need for a fundamental commitment from Iran on nuclear proliferation, while the talks also reportedly addressed issues related to the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the lack of immediate agreement, further negotiations may continue remotely.

After 21 hours of negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan, the United States and Iran failed to reach an agreement. US Vice-President J.D. Vance stated that the US did not see a commitment from Iran to halt nuclear weapons development, and that Iran had rejected the US's final offer. Vance did not respond to questions about potential renewed conflict. Iran blamed the failure on "excessive demands" from the US, claiming they prevented a common agreement. The talks aimed to address concerns regarding Iran's nuclear program and US security interests, but ultimately concluded without a resolution.

US-Iran peace talks in Pakistan have collapsed, raising concerns about a prolonged energy shock and rising oil prices. US Vice President JD Vance blamed Iran's nuclear program for the failure, while Iranian sources cited "excessive" demands from Washington. The breakdown in negotiations is expected to cause oil prices to rise to around $98 a barrel when trading resumes, with analysts predicting prices could remain above $100 a barrel in the second quarter. The conflict began on February 28th with US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran. Former President Trump stated that the US would blockade the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran claims to control, following the failed talks.

High-level talks between the U.S. and Iran, involving Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf, aim to bridge significant distrust and disagreements. These indirect negotiations, primarily mediated by Oman, follow previous unsuccessful efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal after the U.S. withdrew. Iran prefers Vance due to his formal position and perceived skepticism towards military action, contrasting with previous U.S. envoys seen as too close to Israel. The talks face challenges including deep-seated distrust, especially after recent military escalations, and differing negotiating styles. Direct conversations have occurred, but Iranian hardliners limit negotiators, seeking to avoid hostile exchanges.

A high-level Iranian delegation, including Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Araghchi, arrived in Islamabad on Saturday for direct talks with the US. These negotiations mark the first direct engagement between the two nations since hostilities began six weeks prior. The talks aim to solidify a fragile two-week ceasefire and ultimately end the conflict. Despite expressing "goodwill," Ghalibaf emphasized Iran's deep mistrust of the US, citing past betrayals and broken promises during previous negotiations. He stated that while Iran seeks a genuine agreement that secures its rights, it remains wary of potential US deceit and is prepared to rely on its own capabilities.

US Vice President JD Vance has been dispatched to Islamabad to negotiate a peace deal with Iran, marking his first major assignment amid ongoing US-Israeli military action. Vance's task is to solidify a ceasefire and negotiate the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran, emboldened by its control of the strait, demands the release of blocked assets as a precondition for negotiations. The success of these talks, the highest-level meeting since 1979, could significantly impact Vance's political future, particularly his potential 2028 presidential run. The negotiations face uncertainty due to recent Israeli strikes and disagreements over Lebanon's inclusion in the ceasefire, setting the stage for potentially difficult and protracted discussions.

US officials claim Iran is unable to locate and remove mines it laid in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supply. This inability is hindering negotiations between the US and Iran in Islamabad aimed at ending the war. The US demands the strait's immediate opening as a condition for sustaining the current ceasefire, while Iran's Foreign Minister alluded to "technical limitations" in demining. Iran mined the strait last month following a declaration of war by the US and Israel, disrupting maritime traffic. The US lacks precise knowledge of the mines' locations, and neither country currently possesses the capacity for rapid demining, further complicating the situation and threatening to derail truce talks.

Following a U.S.-Israeli strike in Tehran on March 8, 2026, and subsequent conflict, the world faces an unsettled Middle East and strained global alliances. While Iran's government remains, it now possesses new economic leverage. The U.S. and Israel, both scheduled for elections this year, may face voters dissatisfied with the war's outcome. NATO is under increased pressure, and Gulf Arab states contend with a more powerful Iran. As a tenuous ceasefire holds, the U.S. and Iran are set to begin talks in Pakistan this weekend. Despite claiming "immense achievements," Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledges uncompleted goals, including dismantling Iran's missile and nuclear programs and instigating an uprising against the Iranian government.

Tensions within NATO have risen due to Donald Trump's criticism of the alliance, sparked by perceived disloyalty and insufficient support in addressing the Iran conflict and the Strait of Hormuz closure. Trump has accused NATO members of inadequate defense spending, escalating fears of a potential US withdrawal. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met with Trump in Washington to address these concerns, but the meeting reportedly did not go well. Despite Trump's harsh rhetoric on social media, he has not explicitly stated an intention to withdraw the US from the alliance. Rutte has acknowledged European nations' past shortcomings in meeting defense spending targets while emphasizing the importance of the alliance.

Former US envoys involved in the JCPOA nuclear agreement say the recent US-Israeli attack on Iran and Iran's subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz have strengthened Iran's position in nuclear negotiations. These envoys argue that Iran's ability to close the strait, a vital economic waterway, provides them with a powerful deterrent, potentially lessening the perceived need for a nuclear weapon. They believe this new leverage makes it more difficult for the US to pressure Iran to limit its nuclear program. A US delegation, led by JD Vance, is scheduled to meet with Iranian negotiators in Islamabad, Pakistan, to discuss the situation. The US seeks a resolution, but lacks a clear plan for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

In April 2026, the US and Iran initiated direct negotiations in Pakistan, aiming to resolve the ongoing conflict between them. The talks, focusing on Iran's 10-point proposal, address substantive issues that could prove challenging to resolve. The potential for a wider conflict underscores the urgency of these negotiations. UpFront's Redi Tlhabi interviewed Seyed Hossein Mousavian, former Iranian Ambassador to Germany, and Alan Eyre, a former US negotiator for the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, to discuss the prospects for peace. The discussions explore whether these direct negotiations can shift the trajectory away from further escalation and towards a peaceful resolution.

Ceasefire talks between the U.S. and Iran are planned in Pakistan, mediated by Pakistani officials, but face significant obstacles due to a lack of trust and conflicting demands. The U.S., under President Trump, seeks an exit from the war due to upcoming events like a state visit, a summit, and midterm elections. Iran, despite its defiance, has suffered substantial damage and needs to regroup. Key issues include Trump's 15-point plan, perceived as a surrender document, and Iran's 10-point plan, containing previously rejected demands. A critical immediate concern is reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran's closure of is impacting the global economy. The success of the talks hinges on finding common ground to maintain the ceasefire and prevent a return to war.

The six Gulf Arab monarchies are apprehensive about ongoing US-Iran negotiations in Pakistan, fearing that any resulting peace agreement could compromise their security and economic diversification efforts. This concern stems from past attacks by Iranian drones and missiles, coupled with the recent failure of their UN Security Council bid to secure defensive measures for the Strait of Hormuz due to vetoes from China and Russia. Gulf states feel sidelined in the negotiations, relying on information from Washington and Islamabad. Officials and commentators in the UAE and Kuwait have voiced concerns about being excluded from the process, fearing the potential consequences for their long-term stability and economic goals.

A rift within NATO has deepened due to disagreements over the US-led war on Iran, raising concerns about the alliance's future. Analysts suggest that the lack of support from NATO allies has strained the relationship with the US, with some fearing a potential break. While formally withdrawing the US from NATO requires Congressional approval, President Trump could undermine the alliance by refusing to defend allies or withdrawing US troops from Europe. Experts believe that the current crisis has exposed fundamental questions about NATO's ability to endure, particularly if the US reduces its commitment. The situation is described as closer to a breaking point than ever before, prompting serious doubts about the long-term viability of the transatlantic alliance.

Following a US-Israel war on Iran, Gulf states are reassessing their security strategies due to an emboldened Iran and battered economies. Gulf nations aim to diversify security partnerships, potentially including countries like Turkey and Pakistan, moving away from sole reliance on the US. A key point of contention remains Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade route, which will be a focus in upcoming US-Iran talks. Despite successfully intercepting many Iranian missiles during the conflict, Gulf states are divided on future relations with Iran, ranging from hawkish stances to hopes for renewed ties. Saudi Arabia and Iran have initiated contact to de-escalate tensions, highlighting the need to insulate the region from perpetual conflict and rebuild economic foundations.

On day 42 of US-Israeli attacks, a fragile US-Iran ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan, is in effect but strained by disputes. Israeli attacks in Lebanon, resulting in significant casualties, prompted Lebanon to declare a day of mourning and drew condemnation from Iran, who views the strikes as a violation of the ceasefire. Despite the tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has ordered direct negotiations with Lebanon. The US intends to maintain its military presence around Iran until a comprehensive agreement is fully implemented. Meanwhile, Iran is experiencing internal upheaval, including rallies honoring the assassinated Ali Khamenei and the death of Kamal Kharrazi. Iran is reportedly leveraging its position in the Strait of Hormuz to push for sanctions relief and reintegration into the global economy.

Amid ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon, US-Iran ceasefire talks are threatened. The attacks, which occurred on Wednesday, killed at least 300 people and injured over 1,150. Talks are scheduled to take place in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Saturday, with US Vice President JD Vance attending. Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that "time is running out" due to Israel's continued actions. The purpose of the talks is to establish a ceasefire between the US and Iran.

Following a meeting at the White House, President Trump criticized NATO for allegedly failing to support the U.S. during the Iran war. In a Truth Social post, Trump questioned NATO's reliability. The meeting with Secretary General Mark Rutte aimed to persuade Trump to remain in the alliance amidst his threats to withdraw. Trump believes NATO members didn't adequately assist the U.S. during Operation Epic Fury. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated Trump feels NATO "failed" when "tested." Rutte defended NATO's support, citing European nations' assistance with basing, logistics, and overflights. He also credited Trump's leadership for degrading Iran's nuclear capabilities and stated NATO members do not see the war in Iran as illegal.

British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper will advocate for Lebanon's inclusion in the US-Iran ceasefire agreement, following a two-week pause in conflict announced by the US. This comes after Israel intensified its bombing campaign in Lebanon, resulting in numerous casualties, while the US Vice-President stated Lebanon was not part of the ceasefire deal with Iran. Cooper will emphasize the need to prevent a return to conflict, ensure no further Iranian threats to its neighbors, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran closed in response to US and Israeli attacks. The closure of this crucial waterway has impacted global fuel and fertilizer prices, affecting economies worldwide. Cooper will address City leaders, stressing the importance of keeping the shipping route open for global trade.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is facing a new challenge in managing relations with U.S. President Donald Trump, this time stemming from the U.S.-Israel war on Iran. Trump has criticized NATO allies as "cowards" and questioned the alliance's value, citing a lack of support when Iran disrupted trade through the Strait of Hormuz. He has also suggested the U.S. might withdraw from NATO, a threat he previously made in 2018. Rutte, known as a "Trump whisperer," met with Trump on Wednesday to address these concerns. Rutte acknowledged Trump's disappointment with some NATO allies, emphasizing the importance of keeping the U.S. engaged in the alliance, particularly in supporting Ukraine. Rutte's role is crucial in maintaining transatlantic relations amidst Trump's criticisms.

A ceasefire in the Iran conflict is in jeopardy due to disagreements over its scope and alleged violations. While Iran and mediator Pakistan claim the ceasefire includes Lebanon, Israel and the US disagree. Israel has intensified its attacks in Lebanon, resulting in significant casualties, while Iran has halted oil tanker passage, citing Israeli breaches of the truce. The UN has condemned the scale of Israel's attacks. Separately, in the US, a man linked to the JDL 613 Brotherhood has been charged with plotting to firebomb a pro-Palestine activist's home. The group is known for its leaders' support of violence against Palestinians.

On day 41 of the Iran war, Lebanon declared a national day of mourning following Israeli attacks that killed at least 254 people. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is seeking diplomatic intervention to halt the violence. While a ceasefire mediated by Pakistan was believed to include Lebanon, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Vice President JD Vance stated it does not. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi insists the ceasefire covers Lebanon, warning of continued war if attacks persist. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian demands a halt to Israeli attacks in Lebanon as part of Iran's ceasefire conditions. However, a US official stated that Iran's publicly released 10-point ceasefire plan differs from the agreement made with the White House.

On April 9, 2026, a ceasefire was brokered to end the US-Israel war on Iran and Israel's attacks on Lebanon. The conflict, which lasted 42 days, prompted mourning in Lebanon due to Israeli raids. Details of the ceasefire, including Iran's 10-point peace plan and the parties involved in talks held in Islamabad, Pakistan, were being reported. Pakistan played a key role in brokering the truce. The live news coverage of these events, including key developments from Day 42 of the war, has now concluded.

Petrol and diesel prices have risen again due to concerns about the US-Iran ceasefire's stability. Initial drops in oil prices after the ceasefire announcement were reversed on Thursday amid doubts fueled by Israeli strikes on Lebanon and Iranian warnings. The Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, remains a point of contention, further impacting prices. Brent crude rose 3.2% to $97.94 a barrel, reflecting market anxiety. Since the war began on February 28th, wholesale oil prices have increased by 35%, leading to higher costs at the pump, with average petrol prices at 158.03p a litre and diesel at 191.11p on Thursday in the UK. While one motoring group anticipates price drops if the ceasefire holds, another warns against expecting significant reductions soon.

Pakistan played a crucial role in brokering a ceasefire between the US/Israel and Iran after escalating tensions threatened to engulf the region. Prime Minister Sharif expressed pessimism about peace prospects before the agreement. Army Chief Asim Munir leveraged his relationships with both the US and Iran to mediate. The situation was critical for Pakistan due to its economic vulnerabilities, defense pact with Saudi Arabia, and internal security concerns. While the US claimed Iran initiated the ceasefire request, Pakistani officials suggest both sides desired an end to the conflict. Pakistan viewed the successful mediation as a significant diplomatic achievement, averting a potentially disastrous regional war.

The White House has reaffirmed that the U.S. continues to reject uranium enrichment within Iran, maintaining President Trump's "red line" stance. This comes as Vice President JD Vance is set to lead a U.S. team in negotiations with Iran in Pakistan on Saturday. A spokesperson for Trump stated that the initial 10-point proposal from Iran, which included uranium enrichment rights, was rejected. While Iran insists its enrichment program is for peaceful purposes, the U.S. has historically pushed for dismantling Iran's nuclear program. This announcement follows a recently announced two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, brokered after over a month of conflict.

President Trump is scheduled to meet with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte in Washington on Wednesday amid tensions over the Iran war. Trump had previously floated the idea of the U.S. potentially withdrawing from NATO after member countries did not heed his call to assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran had effectively shut down. The meeting occurs after the U.S. and Iran reached a two-week ceasefire agreement, including the reopening of the Strait. The plan for reopening the strait is expected to be a central focus of the meeting. Congress passed a law in 2023 requiring congressional approval for any U.S. withdrawal from NATO, an alliance Trump has long criticized.

Following a ceasefire announcement mediated by Pakistan, a sense of relief mixed with skepticism has settled over Tehran on April 8, 2026, after weeks of bombardment by the US and Israel. While some normalcy returns to the city, with increased traffic and resumed flights in Israel, concerns remain about the ceasefire's durability. Negotiations for a lasting agreement are scheduled to begin in Islamabad on Friday. However, attacks on Iranian oil facilities and retaliatory strikes by Iran against Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have occurred after the ceasefire was announced. Despite the ongoing tensions, all parties involved are claiming victory, but Iran has stated it is ready to resume military operations if attacked again.

A fragile ceasefire in the Iran conflict is in jeopardy as of Wednesday, with both sides disagreeing on its terms. Iran and Pakistan claim the agreement includes Lebanon, while Israel denies this and has intensified its attacks there, killing at least 254 people. In response to Israel's actions and U.S. demands regarding uranium enrichment, Iran has halted oil tanker passage through the Strait of Hormuz, citing a ceasefire breach. The U.S. denies the closure and insists the strait must reopen, while acknowledging a potential misunderstanding regarding Lebanon's inclusion in the ceasefire. Despite the tensions, the U.S. expresses continued hope for the agreement's success.

A two-week ceasefire between the US, Israel, and Iran began on April 8, 2026, halting 40 days of attacks that risked a wider conflict. Brokered by Pakistan, the truce follows intense exchanges of strikes and threats that disrupted global shipping. Iran has agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while the US and Israel will halt attacks on Iran. Despite the agreement, the scope remains uncertain, with disagreements over its extension to Lebanon and reports of violations. Negotiations are scheduled to begin in Islamabad to potentially establish a more lasting arrangement.

The Trump administration is signaling a potential withdrawal from NATO following disagreements over the US and Israel's war on Iran. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that NATO "failed" the US by not contributing military forces beyond defensive measures. This comes after President Trump reportedly discussed withdrawing from the transatlantic alliance. Leavitt indicated Trump would have a "frank" discussion with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who confirmed the meeting was "frank and open" and acknowledged Trump's disappointment, though he noted NATO allies offered support through logistics and base access. Despite Rutte's support for Trump, the possibility of reduced US support for NATO is being considered.

Shortly after the US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain reported missile and drone attacks. The UAE stated its air defenses were actively intercepting incoming missiles and drones originating from Iran. Kuwait reported its army intercepted Iranian drones targeting vital oil facilities, power stations, and water desalination plants, resulting in infrastructure damage. Bahrain's Ministry of Interior reported injuries and property damage from shrapnel due to intercepted Iranian drones. The attacks occurred hours after the ceasefire announcement, raising questions about the stability of the agreement.

Pakistan is mediating backchannel talks between the US and Iran to de-escalate tensions amid a potential devastating war escalation in April 2026. The US, under President Trump, has threatened military action if Iran doesn't reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has responded with warnings of retaliation. Despite the escalating rhetoric and attacks on both sides, indirect engagement is occurring, with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading the US diplomatic push. These efforts aim to prevent further conflict and potential destruction, with Trump acknowledging the ongoing negotiations while expressing dissatisfaction with the progress.

Amid ongoing conflict, the US and Iran remain far from a peace deal due to a lack of trust and a reliable guarantor. President Trump issued another ultimatum to Iran, threatening severe consequences if a deal isn't reached by Tuesday. Pakistan is attempting to mediate a truce between the two nations, with discussions reaching a critical stage. While the US, Iran, and Pakistan have each proposed solutions to end the conflict, analysts warn that the absence of a strong guarantor could render any agreement ineffective. The article highlights the challenges in achieving a lasting peace between the US and Iran.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly delayed deadlines for Iran to make a deal or open the Strait of Hormuz. The latest deadline was pushed from Monday to Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Trump warned that if Iran doesn't capitulate by the new deadline of 8 p.m., they would face severe consequences, including the destruction of infrastructure. Iran rejected the latest ceasefire proposal. The President has oscillated between heated threats, announced delays, and proclamations that negotiations were going well. The U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned the U.S. about attacks.

Following President Trump's escalating threats against Iran, including explicit language and warnings of potential war crimes, Democrats are calling for his removal from office. Over 20 Democratic members of Congress have urged the cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment, deeming Trump unfit for office due to concerns about his mental stability and erratic behavior. These concerns were amplified by Trump's social media posts and speeches regarding Iran. Former Republican representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also joined the call for the 25th Amendment. While Democrats are vocalizing their alarm, Republicans have remained largely silent on the matter. The calls for Trump's removal highlight deep divisions and concerns regarding his leadership and handling of international relations.

Amidst escalating US and Israeli attacks on Tehran and a looming deadline set by President Trump to open the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has proposed a 10-point peace plan to end the war. The plan, conveyed through Pakistan, calls for a permanent end to hostilities, safe passage through the Strait, lifting of sanctions, and reconstruction. While details of the 10 clauses remain unpublished, the conflict has spread to the Gulf region and Lebanon. Trump acknowledged the proposal as a "significant step" but deemed it "not good enough." The US president had threatened to target Iranian infrastructure until Tehran agreed to end the war and open the Strait, a crucial passage for global oil and gas supplies.