'How Can We Trust You?': Iran’s Mistrust Of US, Tense Exchange Behind Islamabad Deadlock

Last Updated:April 14, 2026, 13:55 IST

Iran-US hold rare high level talks in Islamabad on nuclear program sanctions and Strait of Hormuz, no deal reached, mistrust persists, more negotiations set for Thursday.

After an intense round of negotiations in Islamabad, senior officials from Iran and the United States concluded their most significant direct talks in decades without reaching a deal, though discussions remain ongoing, according to multiple sources familiar with the process.

The peace talks, held at the Serena Hotel four days after a ceasefire announcement, marked the first face-to-face engagement between the two nations at such a high level since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution. Delegations were kept in separate sections of the venue, with Pakistani mediators shuttling between them to facilitate dialogue. Follow for live updates

Nuclear Dispute, Hormuz Control At Core

Key sticking points included Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route that Tehran has effectively restricted and Washington insists must be reopened.

The marathon talks stretched for about 21 hours under strict conditions, including a ban on mobile phones in the main meeting area. This forced participants, including US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf, to step out periodically to communicate with their respective governments.

At one stage, negotiators believed a breakthrough was within reach. One source described the sides as being “80% there," but unresolved issues quickly derailed momentum. Iranian officials characterized the atmosphere as tense and unyielding, despite efforts by Pakistan to ease friction, Reuters reported.

Mistrust Lingers Ahead Of Next Round

Still, there were moments of cautious optimism. By early Sunday, the mood had slightly improved, and extending the talks briefly seemed possible. However, deep divisions persisted, particularly over nuclear guarantees and mutual trust.

When discussions turned to assurances, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi sharply questioned US credibility, saying: “How can we trust you when, in the last Geneva meeting, you said the U.S. would not attack while diplomacy was underway?" sources told Reuters.

Meanwhile, Washington has maintained a firm stance that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons, while Tehran is seeking sweeping concessions, including sanctions removal, recognition of its nuclear rights, and guarantees against future military action.

As efforts continue to de-escalate the tensions, the two sides are again expected to meet for negotiate on Thursday.

News world 'How Can We Trust You?': Iran’s Mistrust Of US, Tense Exchange Behind Islamabad Deadlock

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