ISLAMABAD: U.S. Vice President JD Vance said negotiations between American and Iranian officials in Pakistan have been put on hold because the visiting Iranian delegation lacked authority to finalize any agreement. He explained that the team must refer back to Iran’s leadership for approval before moving forward.
In a TV interview, Vance stressed that Washington has already set out its terms and expectations. “We’ve made clear that we absolutely need to see the nuclear material come out of the country of Iran…the ball is in the Iranians’ court because we put a lot on the table,” he told reporters.
“We’ve made clear that we absolutely need to see the nuclear material come out of the country of Iran…the ball is in the Iranians’ court because we put a lot on the table.” — VP Vance pic.twitter.com/s4Ki2HqL4U
— Vice President JD Vance (@VP) April 14, 2026
He added that progress now hinges on Tehran’s response.
Meanwhile, according to Pakistani officials speaking to the Associated Press, the initial round of U.S.-Iran talks in Islamabad was part of a broader diplomatic process, suggesting further engagement may follow once Iran signals its position.
This pause underscores the delicate nature of the negotiations, with Washington pressing for concrete steps on Iran’s nuclear program while regional actors like Pakistan facilitate dialogue.
US, Iran likely to resume talks in Islamabad after inconclusive first round
