Media: Internal power disputes in Iran blocked talks with US in Islamabad

Divisions within Iran’s leadership prevented a negotiating team from traveling to Islamabad for planned discussions with the United States, Iran International has learned.

Sources cited by Iran International say tensions between allies of President Masoud Pezeshkian and figures close to the office of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei led to the cancellation of the trip at the last moment.

According to individuals familiar with the situation, the delegation was prepared to depart when a message from Khamenei’s inner circle reportedly ruled out discussions on nuclear issues and criticised the foreign ministry team over earlier rounds of negotiations.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is said to have warned that, under such restrictions, participation in talks would be futile and would undermine any chance of progress.

The report follows earlier indications that a U.S. delegation led by Vice President JD Vance could travel to Islamabad for discussions. U.S. President Donald Trump has extended a ceasefire period to allow time for a possible Iranian proposal.

By Sabina Mammadli