Disagreements over Iran’s nuclear program and control of key oil routes lead to breakdown of Islamabad talks.
Apri 12, 2026: Negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad have reportedly collapsed due to major disagreements over Tehran’s nuclear program. The US delegation, led by JD Vance, demanded that Iran halt uranium enrichment, remove a significant quantity of enriched uranium, and provide assurances against restarting its nuclear activities. Iran, however, refused to accept these terms, maintaining that its program is strictly for peaceful purposes.
A key point of contention was the reported stockpile of enriched uranium, with concerns in Washington and Israel over the potential for weaponization. Reports suggesting that a portion of uranium remains unaccounted for further heightened mistrust between the two sides, making compromise increasingly difficult.
Adding to the deadlock were tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route. Iran’s insistence on maintaining control over the strait clashed with US concerns over free navigation and energy security. With both sides unwilling to уступ key demands, the talks—facilitated by Pakistan—ended without agreement, raising fears of renewed instability and escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.