Iranโs foreign ministry spokesperson announced Tuesday that Tehran has not yet decided whether to join the second round of direct talks with the United States in Islamabad. Esmaeil Baghaei told Iranian state television that officials continue to weigh their options amid fresh tensions.
However, he condemned recent US moves against two Iranian vessels as โpiracy at sea and state terrorism.โ Baghaei questioned Washingtonโs true commitment to negotiations. He demanded clearer signals before any delegation travels.
Pakistan Pushes for Dialogue Amid Tight Deadline
Pakistanโs Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed that Islamabad still awaits Tehranโs formal reply. He noted the country keeps close contact with Iranian leaders. He said it works hard to secure their participation.
The current two-week ceasefire ends early Wednesday morning. So Iranโs decision carries heavy weight. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar urged both sides to extend the truce during talks with the US chargรฉ dโaffaires. He stressed that dialogue offers the only path to lasting regional stability.
Separately, US President Donald Trump voiced strong confidence in reaching a major agreement. He told CNBC the United States holds a powerful position. He said it sees no need to prolong the ceasefire.
Trump warned that America stands ready to resume strikes if talks collapse quickly. The first round of historic negotiations in Islamabad earlier this month ended without a deal. However, it preserved the fragile truce.
Pakistan now acts as the main facilitator after months of shuttle diplomacy. As tensions rise over port blockades and navigation rights in the Strait of Hormuz, officials in Islamabad hope both capitals choose diplomacy over conflict.
