Iran has rejected new peace talks with the United States, according to its state news agency IRNA. This announcement comes mere hours after U.S. President Donald Trump stated he was dispatching envoys to Pakistan for negotiations, with a stark warning of military action if terms were not met.
IRNA cited "excessive demands, unrealistic expectations, constant shifts in stance, repeated contradictions, and the ongoing naval blockade" as reasons for Iran's refusal. The White House has not yet responded to the rejection.
The situation remains critical with shipping still blocked in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. delegation was reportedly to be led by Vice President JD Vance, envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner. Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, had previously indicated progress but significant differences remained.
Iran had announced it would reopen the vital waterway but reversed the decision after the U.S. declined to lift a blockade of Iranian ports. Trump responded by stating Iran had violated the ceasefire agreement.
Pakistan has been mediating the peace efforts. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, who reportedly thanked Pakistan for its mediation, without mentioning the rejected talks.
Thousands have been killed in the conflict, which has severely impacted global energy supplies. Two LPG tankers were reportedly turned back from the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces.
Pakistan appeared to be preparing for the arrival of the U.S. delegation, with increased security measures in Islamabad.