WASHINGTON: Iran has reportedly declined to participate in negotiations with the United States in Islamabad, dealing a setback to regional diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan.
According to a report by The Washington Post, Iran has formally informed mediators that it is not willing to meet US officials in Pakistan’s capital in the coming days. The report adds that Tehran considers the US-proposed 15-point ceasefire plan unacceptable.
Diplomatic efforts involving Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt appear to have stalled after this development. However, mediators are still محاولة trying to revive talks, with alternative venues such as Doha (Qatar) and Istanbul (Turkey) under consideration.
Sources cited in the report indicate that Iran had earlier set key conditions for ending the conflict. These reportedly include compensation for war damages, the removal of US military bases from the Middle East, and guarantees against future attacks.
Previously, former US President Donald Trump had claimed that Iran had requested a ceasefire, a statement that was denied by Tehran. Reports also suggest that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has been discussed as a possible condition for progress.
Despite the current deadlock, diplomatic channels remain active as regional players continue efforts to bring both sides back to the negotiating table.
