U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance announced that high-level negotiations between the United States and Iran concluded without an agreement after Iranian officials declined to accept U.S. terms. The talks took place in Islamabad and lasted approximately 21 hours, involving what Vance described as “substantive discussions.”
Speaking from the Serena Hotel, Vance stated that while efforts were serious and detailed, no deal was reached. He emphasized that the outcome was more unfavorable for Iran than for the United States, noting that the U.S. had clearly presented its “red lines” along with what it considered a final proposal. Despite this, Iranian representatives chose not to accept the terms.
Throughout the negotiations, Vance remained in close contact with Donald Trump, updating him multiple times. The U.S. delegation included key figures such as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, and coordinated with senior officials including Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth.
The primary objective of the discussions was to maintain a fragile ceasefire and prevent a wider regional conflict. A central U.S. demand was a firm commitment from Iran that it would not pursue nuclear weapons or develop the capability to do so quickly.
Meanwhile, President Trump adopted a more forceful tone, claiming that Iran’s military capabilities—including its navy, air force, and missile systems—had been significantly weakened, placing the country in a disadvantaged negotiating position.
The Iranian delegation reportedly included Abbas Araghchi and Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, though their official response to the proposal has not been publicly detailed. Despite the failed talks, diplomatic channels remain open, with the U.S. awaiting Iran’s decision on its “final” offer.