Will Washington and Tehran meet soon? Ceasefire talks delayed as key disputes block progress

Ceasefire talks remain uncertain as deep divisions between the US and Iran over key regional and strategic issues continue to block progress despite ongoing diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan.

On April 21, the Pakistani Prime Minister and Chief of the Defence Forces, General Asim Munir, reached out to the US administration and asked for an extension of the ceasefire. However, both sides continue to remain significantly divided, Al Jazeera reports.

The main point of contention is Washington’s decision to impose a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz as well as on Iranian ports. Issues related to Lebanon, including reported ceasefire violations, are also unresolved, alongside disagreements over uranium enrichment.

Pakistan has indicated its readiness to host the US negotiating team, a position it has maintained over the past week.

As of last night, there was still no confirmation from Iran regarding participation in talks scheduled in Islamabad.

It is considered unlikely that the Iranian delegation will attend unless the US takes further steps toward lifting restrictions on Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz.

Intensive diplomatic activity is continuing behind the scenes.

The Pakistani Prime Minister has expressed gratitude to President Trump for extending the ceasefire, yet the gap between the parties remains substantial, and the timing of any potential negotiations remains uncertain.

US Vice President JD Vance was expected to travel to Islamabad, but his visit has now been postponed.

Attention is now focused on Tehran, and on whether sufficient progress will be made to bring Iran back to the negotiating table.

By Jeyhun Aghazada