Iran Undecided on Talks With US As Trump Still Unwilling to Relax War Demands

Uncertainty deepened on Monday over the possibility of a second round of direct negotiations between the United States and Iran, as Tehran signalled it has yet to decide whether it will participate despite Pakistan’s preparations to host the talks.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry indicated that no final decision has been taken regarding attendance at the proposed negotiations. This has created confusion while the US delegation is expected to arrive in Islamabad later today.

Negotiations remain under consideration but Donald Trump’s demands appear to be over-excessive, according to the Iranians.

The situation deteriorated after the United States tried to cease an Iranian vessel near the Strait of Hormuz.

In response, Iran moved to shut access to the strategic shipping route over the weekend. It said the chokepoint will now only be opened if US naval forces withdraw restrictions from Iran’s ports in the region.

Iranian officials have increasingly questioned Washington’s commitment to diplomacy so far. Senior Iranian leadership has simultaneously maintained that negotiations may continue while the country remains prepared for confrontation if tensions escalate further.

Despite the uncertainty, Islamabad continues logistical and security arrangements for the potential meeting, reflecting Pakistan’s effort to facilitate dialogue between the long-standing rivals.

Iran has time and time again warned that security conditions in the Strait of Hormuz could remain unstable as long as US restrictions on its oil exports persist. Oil may get out of control again, if this persists.