Iran Blames US After Islamabad Talks Collapse; Tensions Escalate

Iran has accused the United States of preventing a near-final agreement after marathon negotiations in Islamabad ended without a deal.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said discussions had come close to producing a breakthrough understanding, referred to as the ‘Islamabad MoU’, following 21 hours of high-level engagement. He stated that Tehran had participated with the intention of ending the conflict but claimed the talks collapsed due to shifting demands and what he described as hardline tactics.

Araghchi noted that the negotiations marked the most direct contact between the two countries in nearly five decades, underlining both their significance and the disappointment surrounding their outcome.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed the sentiment, while maintaining that diplomacy remains possible. He said progress could still be achieved if Washington adopts a more balanced approach and respects Iran’s position.

The diplomatic setback coincided with a sharp escalation on the ground.

The US Central Command announced that it would enforce a wide-ranging maritime blockade targeting vessels linked to Iranian ports from April 13, following orders from President Donald Trump.

US officials said the measures would apply to shipping across the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, though transit through the Strait of Hormuz for non-Iranian routes would remain open.

Mariners must follow official guidance and stay in contact with US naval authorities.

Washington maintains that negotiations stalled primarily over Iran’s nuclear programme, despite reported progress on other issues.

The developments have further strained relations, leaving the prospect of a diplomatic resolution uncertain.

Also Read: IRGC Warns Of Severe Consequences Over Strait Of Hormuz Tensions