ISLAMABAD/TEHRAN April 24, 2026 — Iran’s state media has flatly rejected reports of an imminent second round of direct negotiations with the United States in Pakistan, accusing Washington of making “excessive demands,” shifting positions, and continuing a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz that Tehran views as a violation of the fragile ceasefire.
The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) stated that claims of fresh talks in Islamabad are “false and baseless,” adding that the United States is engaging in a “blame game” and using media pressure to mask its unrealistic expectations.
“Any claim about a new round of talks between Iran and the United States in Pakistan is completely untrue,” IRNA reported, quoting an informed Iranian source. The agency cited ongoing U.S. naval actions in the strategic waterway as a major obstacle to progress.
Despite the denial, U.S. officials confirmed they are dispatching high-level envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Islamabad for negotiations, with Pakistan acting as mediator. The move comes amid heightened regional tensions and uncertainty over the durability of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire.
Pakistani authorities have not commented publicly on the reported meetings, but Islamabad has positioned itself as a neutral venue for back-channel diplomacy between the two adversaries.
The contradictory signals highlight the deep mistrust between Washington and Tehran. Iranian officials have repeatedly insisted that any future talks must respect Iran’s sovereignty and address what they call American “contradictory statements” and “unrealistic expectations.”
Analysts say the public denial may be part of a negotiating tactic, allowing both sides to manage domestic expectations while indirect contacts continue. However, the presence of a U.S. naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments — has further complicated efforts to de-escalate.
Energy markets remain on edge, with any breakdown in diplomacy risking renewed volatility in oil prices.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments as envoys arrive in Islamabad and both capitals issue further statements.
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