US-Iran peace talks collapse after 21-hour marathon in Pakistan

We need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon, and they will not seek the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve a nuclear weapon

JD Vance, US Vice President — Channel NewsAsia

The talks unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing regional tensions. Iran maintains a near-total blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20 percent of global oil passes, while Israeli operations continue in Lebanon despite the temporary ceasefire.

Iranian officials pushed back against American characterizations of the negotiations. Tehran's delegation accused Washington of making "unreasonable demands" and called for the US to accept Iran's rights while refraining from "maximalist and unlawful" positions.

Pakistan's role as mediator proved crucial but insufficient. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held separate meetings with both delegations, with some reports suggesting Islamabad attempted to extend negotiations by an additional day.

The failure leaves both sides facing difficult choices. Vance indicated the US presented its "final and best offer" before departing, while maintaining that diplomatic channels remain open. The two-week ceasefire that enabled these talks expires within days, raising questions about whether military operations will resume.

The collapse also exposes fundamental disagreements about what constitutes acceptable terms for peace. While the US demands comprehensive nuclear guarantees, Iran seeks sanctions relief and recognition of its regional influence.

What happens when the ceasefire expires remains the immediate test of whether this diplomatic failure leads to renewed conflict or creates space for alternative approaches.