TEHRAN/ISLAMABAD – Iranian state media has categorically denied that any delegation has traveled to Pakistan for a second round of peace talks with the United States, casting serious doubt on the future of diplomatic efforts as a two-week ceasefire nears its expiration .
The Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) stated on Tuesday that “no Iranian delegation has traveled to Islamabad – neither the main delegation nor any subsidiary group,” dismissing earlier media reports that talks were scheduled for April 22 as “untrue” .
The semi-official Tasnim news agency went further, describing Tehran’s refusal to participate in the Islamabad meeting as a “definitive” decision . According to Tasnim, Iranian officials communicated through Pakistani mediators that they would not attend “for multiple reasons,” adding that Tehran currently sees no prospects for future negotiations, viewing participation as a “waste of time” given that Washington allegedly “prevents the achievement of any acceptable agreement” .
The denial represents a significant setback to Pakistan’s diplomatic ambitions to act as a mediator in the crisis . Iranian officials pointed to a lack of confidence in the host nation, with security considerations remaining a top priority—an implicit criticism of Pakistan’s ability to ensure the safety of high-level participants .
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei emphasized that no plans or decisions have been made regarding upcoming negotiations, stating that Tehran cannot negotiate “under the shadow of threats” while the US naval blockade of Iranian ports continues .
Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance’s planned trip to Pakistan has been put on hold following Tehran’s lack of response to American proposals . President Donald Trump has indicated he is not in favor of extending the ceasefire without securing a longer-term deal, warning that failure to reach an agreement could lead to renewed military action .
