Peace talks between the United States and Iran began in Islamabad, Pakistan on Saturday, marking the first direct negotiations between the two countries since 1979 and the highest-level discussions since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iran’s parliamentary speaker, the talks aimed to end a six-week conflict that has resulted in thousands of deaths across the Middle East.
Negotiations lasted 21 hours but ultimately failed to produce an agreement, with Vance stating that Iranian negotiators did not accept US terms, despite what he described as a “flexible” approach. A key sticking point remained Iran’s nuclear program and control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US military deployed two destroyers through the strait to begin clearing mines, a move denied by Iran, who threatened a response to any further US naval presence.
The talks occurred amidst a fragile ceasefire, which has paused strikes but hasn’t resolved issues like the Strait of Hormuz or fighting in Lebanon. The US delegation is departing Islamabad after presenting a “final and best offer,” while technical experts from both sides were scheduled to exchange documents. Despite initial hopes for a “durable peace,” the parties remain far apart on key issues including sanctions.