As the deadline for a fragile US-Iran ceasefire approaches, diplomatic uncertainty is growing over efforts to restart stalled nuclear talks.
US Vice President JD Vance’s planned visit to Pakistan, aimed at advancing negotiations, has been put on hold after Iran did not respond clearly to American proposals.
Officials told The New York Times that the trip has not been cancelled but is currently suspended and could be revived at short notice. Vance was expected to lead the US delegation to Islamabad ahead of talks scheduled for the day the ceasefire expires.
Iran has not confirmed its participation, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei saying a decision on sending a delegation is still pending. He also cited recent US actions, including the boarding of an Iranian oil tanker, as contributing to tensions.
Baghaei condemned the boarding of the tanker and earlier seizure of a cargo ship as “piracy at sea and state terrorism,” saying it raised doubts about Washington’s sincerity in negotiations. He added that continued pressure and actions against Iranian vessels reflected “contradictory behaviour” from the US.
According to The New York Times, two senior Iranian officials privately said a delegation, possibly led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, may travel if US Vice President JD Vance attends, reflecting continued mistrust in the negotiations.
US President Donald Trump told CNBC he still hopes for a “great deal” but ruled out extending the ceasefire beyond the April 22 deadline, warning that military action remains possible if needed.
He said the US is in a strong negotiating position and called recent naval actions successful, while accusing Iran of “numerous violations” of the ceasefire. Iranian spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said Iran does not want escalation but would respond strongly if attacked again.
Major differences remain over Iran’s nuclear programme, with the US seeking limits on enrichment while Iran insists it is peaceful and demands sanctions relief. Tensions have also risen over the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting oil flows and prompting countermeasures.
Pakistan continues mediation efforts and has tightened security in Islamabad ahead of possible talks, but Iran’s participation remains uncertain. As the deadline approaches, oil prices have risen and markets have weakened due to growing uncertainty.
