14-Hour US-Iran Negotiations in Pakistan Temporarily Halted, Both Sides Still at Odds

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, ISLAMABAD — Talks between the United States and Iran have been temporarily halted. The two sides have yet to reach common ground after a 14-hour marathon negotiation in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Sunday (12/4/2026).

The Iranian government stated that the dialogue will continue. However, several fundamental differences still loom large.

“Negotiations will continue despite some differences remaining,” the Iranian government stated via social media.

This meeting marks a rare moment. It is the first direct contact between the two countries in more than a decade. It is also the highest-level dialogue since the 1979 Iranian Islamic Revolution.

The outcome of the talks is deemed crucial. The fate of the two-week ceasefire depends on this agreement. So does the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for approximately 20% of global energy supplies.

The war, which has lasted six weeks between Washington and Tehran, has triggered a surge in world oil prices. Thousands of lives have reportedly been lost.

High-level delegations attended this meeting. From the US side, Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner were present.

They met with Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.