US–Iran Talks Remain Deadlocked Amid Disputes Over Nuclear Programme and Strait of Hormuz

Negotiations between Iran and the United States over the ongoing West Asia conflict remain at an impasse, with no breakthrough in sight following multiple rounds of high-level discussions.

According to Iranian media reports, any progress in the talks hinges on Washington withdrawing what Tehran has described as “unreasonable demands.” Despite extended negotiations held in Islamabad, both sides failed to reach consensus on key strategic issues.

Speaking after several hours of deliberations, US Vice President JD Vance acknowledged the lack of progress, stating that the two sides were unable to arrive at a “satisfactory agreement.” He noted that the proposed terms were not acceptable to Iran, underscoring the continuing deadlock in the high-stakes diplomatic effort.

At the centre of the dispute are disagreements over Iran’s nuclear programme and control-related concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. These issues have emerged as critical sticking points, with reports indicating that the United States pushed for conditions that Iran has firmly rejected—conditions Tehran claims Washington failed to secure during the recent conflict.

Iranian state-affiliated media outlets, including Press TV and Fars News Agency, described the US position as comprising “excessive” and “ambitious” demands. Sources close to the Iranian delegation stated that Washington sought concessions across multiple fronts, including restrictions related to peaceful nuclear energy and strategic maritime considerations—terms Iran refused to accept.

Further reinforcing Tehran’s stance, Tasnim News Agency reported that there would be “no change” in the situation concerning the Strait of Hormuz unless the United States agrees to what Iran considers a reasonable deal.

Meanwhile, a report by Al Jazeera suggested that Washington may not have been fully committed to securing an agreement. Citing unnamed sources, the report alleged that the United States was “looking for an excuse” to disengage from negotiations, maintaining high expectations despite the stalemate.

Despite the current impasse, diplomatic efforts have not been entirely abandoned. Iranian media indicate that technical experts from both sides are continuing to review draft proposals in an attempt to identify possible areas of convergence. Pakistan, acting as mediator, is also engaged in efforts to bridge the gap between the two parties.

However, there is no clear timeline for the resumption of formal talks. Both delegations have stepped back to consult with their respective expert teams, and Iranian sources suggest that Tehran currently has no immediate plans for another round of negotiations.

Signalling a firm diplomatic posture, Iranian officials have emphasised that “the ball is in America’s court.” According to sources cited by Tasnim, Iran has already presented what it considers reasonable proposals and is awaiting a pragmatic response from Washington. The sources further asserted that the United States has miscalculated both during the conflict and in subsequent negotiations.

Tehran has also made it clear that it is under no pressure to expedite the process. “Iran is in no hurry,” a source stated, reinforcing the country’s measured approach as both sides continue to hold their ground.

Addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Vice President JD Vance reiterated Washington’s demand for a definitive and long-term commitment from Tehran. “We need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon—not just now, but in the long term,” he said, adding that the United States remains open to giving Iran time to respond to its latest proposal.

The developments come in the backdrop of Washington’s earlier announcement of a temporary pause in coordinated military actions with Israel, aimed at creating diplomatic space for negotiations.

With both sides entrenched in their positions, the future of the talks remains uncertain, and prospects for a near-term resolution appear increasingly remote.