Uncertainty surrounded the proposed talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad on Friday (April 10), as there was no official confirmation on the arrival of delegations despite the scheduled start of dialogue.
The talks were announced earlier this week by Shehbaz Sharif following a two-week ceasefire agreement between Washington and Tehran. Pakistan had also waived visa requirements for officials and journalists attending the negotiations.
However, as the day arrived, officials cited security concerns and declined to provide details on the delegates’ movement, deepening uncertainty around the high-stakes meeting.
Confusion Over Iran Delegation, Statement Withdrawn
Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amir Moghadam, initially stated that a 10-member Iranian delegation would arrive in Islamabad for “serious talks.”
“Despite skepticism… the Iranian delegation arrives tonight in Islamabad for serious talks based on proposals by Iran,” he had posted. The statement, however, was later deleted as the regional situation worsened.
Iranian leadership also signalled hesitation. Officials indicated that continuing Israeli military actions in Lebanon could impact Tehran’s participation in the talks.
Ceasefire Under Pressure as Israel Strikes Lebanon
The fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran is facing its toughest test within days of being announced. Fresh Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have escalated tensions across the region.
Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would continue targeting Hezbollah positions until security is ensured, making it clear that Lebanon is not part of the ceasefire arrangement.
“Hezbollah will continue to be struck until our security is restored,” Netanyahu said, underlining Israel’s position.
In response, Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel, marking its first retaliation since the ceasefire announcement.
Strait of Hormuz Dispute Adds to Tensions
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump criticised Iran over restrictions on oil shipments through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
“Iran is doing a very poor job… of allowing oil to go through the Strait of Hormuz. That is not the agreement we have,” Trump said in a social media post.
Reports suggest Iran may be limiting vessel movement or imposing conditions, raising concerns over global oil supply routes.
Pakistan’s Role Questioned Amid Diplomatic Row
Pakistan, which positioned itself as a mediator, now faces diplomatic challenges. Remarks by Khawaja Asif criticising Israel triggered a sharp response from Israeli leadership.
Netanyahu called the comments “outrageous,” adding that such statements undermine Pakistan’s credibility as a neutral mediator.
Israel has also expressed skepticism about Islamabad’s role in facilitating peace talks.
Talks May Be Delayed as Crisis Deepens
Iran is reportedly reconsidering participation in the Islamabad talks unless Israeli strikes on Lebanon stop, adding another layer of uncertainty to the process.
At the same time, Israel has indicated willingness to hold separate negotiations with Lebanon, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
Despite preparations by Pakistan, the absence of confirmed delegations and escalating regional violence have cast serious doubt over whether the US-Iran dialogue will proceed as planned.
The situation remains fluid, with the ceasefire hanging in balance and diplomatic efforts at risk of collapse.
