US-Iran talks still unconfirmed as Wednesday ceasefire deadline nears

Hopes for renewed diplomacy between the United States and Iran remain uncertain, with both sides yet to confirm participation in proposed talks in Islamabad as a two-week ceasefire approaches its Wednesday deadline. The ambiguity comes amid escalating tensions at sea and sharp rhetoric from leaders, raising concerns that the window for a peaceful breakthrough may be closing.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has called for the release of the Iranian cargo vessel seized by the US Navy on Sunday, as well as “its sailors, crew and their families.” Iran has vowed to retaliate for the seizure.

However, officials on both sides have sent mixed messages, leaving the status of talks unclear.

US President Donald Trump has denied facing pressure to reach an agreement, though he indicated that a delegation led by Vice President JD Vance may travel to Pakistan “soon.”

On the Iranian side, officials have struck a more cautious tone. A foreign ministry spokesperson said there are “no plans” for another round of talks, even as President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the need for diplomacy to reduce tensions.

Vice President JD Vance and top US officials are expected to leave for Pakistan today ahead of a potential second round of negotiations on the war with Iran, according to sources.

The diplomatic uncertainty unfolds against a volatile backdrop in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route. The United States continues to enforce a naval blockade, and a recent incident involving the seizure of an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel has further inflamed tensions. Both sides accuse each other of violating a two-week ceasefire agreement that is set to expire shortly.

Iranian officials have responded strongly to what they describe as escalating US aggression. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf rejected negotiations “under the shadow of threats,” warning that pressure tactics would not force concessions. Similarly, First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref signaled that continued restrictions on Iran’s oil exports could have wider consequences for global energy stability.

Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain active behind the scenes. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Pakistan’s Mohammad Ishaq Dar have held multiple discussions in recent days, focusing on the ceasefire and the possibility of renewed negotiations.

Despite the tensions, there are faint signs of willingness to continue dialogue. US officials maintain that a potential agreement is within reach, though details remain unclear. At the same time, Iranian leaders have expressed skepticism toward public statements made by Washington, particularly after claims that key provisions had already been agreed upon.